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To obtain a CDL, you will be required to pass a vehicle inspection test. The vehicle inspection test, formerly known as pre-trip, is a skills test to see if you identify which features and equipment on the test vehicle should be inspected before driving. During the test, you will be asked to do an inspection of your vehicle. You will be expected to show your knowledge of the inspection process and you will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. During the CDL inspection test, DMV does not allow the use of testing aids, other than the vehicle inspection guide in the Montana CDL Manual. To prepare for the test, study the following sections of the CDL manual: Driving Safely and the Vehicle Inspection Test. If you do not pass the CDL inspection test, the other skills tests will be postponed.
1.
Which of the following is checked in a pre-trip inspection?
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Steering wheel
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Wiper blades
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Mirrors and windshield
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All of the above.
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2.
During the driving test, when asked to make a lane change you should:
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make the lane change before using proper signals.
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make the change immediately without looking.
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make the necessary traffic checks first and use proper signals before changing lanes.
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None of the above.
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3.
If the coolant container is not part of the pressurized system:
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you should never remove the radiator cap or any part of the pressurized system until the system has cooled.
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you can safely remove the cap and add coolant even when the engine is hot.
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you should remove the container cap and wait until the system has cooled.
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None of the above.
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4.
Key suspension system parts include:
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Bearing plates
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Lock rings
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Tie rod
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All of the above.
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5.
When checking the condition of wheels and rims during the pre-trip inspection, make sure that:
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the end of the kingpin is even with the top of the fifth wheel.
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no more than two lug nuts are missing.
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no studs, spacers, clamps, or lugs are missing, bent, or broken.
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All of the above.
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6.
When you inspect the front of your vehicle as part of the walk around inspection, you check all of the following EXCEPT:
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the condition of the steering system.
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the air pressure gauge.
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the condition of your front axle.
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the condition of the windshield.
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7.
During the road test, you will be expected to do all of the following EXCEPT:
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maintain a safe following distance.
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make regular traffic checks.
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wear your safety belt.
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temporarily exceed the posted speed limit when passing other vehicles.
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8.
Check that the ____ belt is securely mounted, and adjusts, latches properly.
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engine
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steering
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air compressor
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safety
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9.
If you are looking for puddles on the ground and dripping fluids on the underside of the engine and transmission, you are checking for:
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Coolant level
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Leaks
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Oil level
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None of the above.
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10.
Name some exhaust system parts.
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Main spring, axle and font axle hanger
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Drag link, spindle and gear box
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Pitman arm, hydraulic fluid reservoir and tie rod
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Mufflers, mounting brackets and vertical stacks
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Frequently Asked Questions
The age requirements to obtain a class D driver's license in Montana are established by the three-steps of the Graduated Driver License program:
Step 1 - Non-commercial learner permit (NCLP)
- If you are 14 ½ years old and enrolled in a state-approved traffic education program, you can apply for a Driver Ed Learning Permit.
- If you have not attended driver training, you can apply for the instruction permit at 15 years old.
Step 2 - First-year restricted license
- You must be 15 and have completed an approved traffic education program, or you must be 16 years old to get a restricted license.
Step 3 - Full privilege driver license
- After one year or when turning 18, whichever comes first, you can obtain a full driver's license.
You can schedule the DMV written test at any Montana driver license office. Find the nearest office and make an appointment, specifying that it is for a written test. Alternatively, appointments can be arranged by calling the Customer Care Center during regular business hours.
On the day of your appointment, ensure you bring these documents:
- Two proofs of identity (either two primary documents, or one primary and one secondary document).
- Proof of residency.
- Proof of authorized presence in the U.S.
- Parental consent (if you are under 18).
Proof of your Social Security Number is not required, but you should know it as it may be verified during your appointment.
You need to read the Montana Driver's Handbook. The exam covers various topics, including road signs, parallel parking, turning, passing a vehicle, yielding the right of way, etc. Remember that you cannot use driver's manuals or personal notes, so study the manual carefully and use our free practice tests.
For new drivers in Montana, restrictions vary.
With a learner permit:
- You may drive only under the supervision of a licensed parent/guardian or adult.
- Seatbelts are mandatory for both the driver and passenger.
- A clean record for six months is required to apply for a restricted license.
With a first-year restricted license:
- Sealbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
- You cannot drive alone between 11:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m., except for emergencies, farm-related activities, school/church/work activities, and specific parent-authorized purposes.
- You can transport only one passenger under 18 for the first six months, except for family members. After six months, a maximum of three passengers is allowed unless accompanied by a licensed driver who is 18 or older.
Your permit is valid for one year. This ensures you have enough time to practice driving and fulfill the necessary requirements before the road test.
You can take the DMV written test only once per day. If you are under 18, you must wait one week before another attempt, while if you are over 18, you may return the next business day. If you find the exam difficult, sign up for DMV Premium, which offers numerous resources and practice tests to improve your preparation.