CDL VEHICLE INSPECTION TEST NEW MEXICO

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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 New Mexico 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. When taking the road test, you will be evaluated on your use of turn signals. You should do all of the following except:
Use your turn signals properly.
Activate your turn signals when required.
Activate your turn signals upon completion of a turn or lane change.
2. When approaching a vehicle as part of a pre-trip inspection, the driver should look under the vehicle for all of the following except:
Windshield wiper fluid
Grease
Coolant
3. If you find anything unsafe during the pre-trip inspection, you are required to:
write it in your inspection report.
drive cautiously until it is fixed.
get it fixed before driving.
4. Doing a vehicle inspection is very important. Why?
A defect found during an inspection could save you problems later.
Federal and state regulations require that drivers inspect their vehicle.
All of the above.
5. When checking the condition of the visible parts during your pre-trip inspection, make sure that the _________ are secured against rubbing, snagging or wearing.
air lines and electrical wiring
tailboards
reflectors
6. When inspecting your vehicle, before checking the engine compartment be sure that:
the fire extinguisher is properly charged and rated.
all lights are working.
the parking brakes are on and/or wheels chocked.
7. During the vehicle inspection test, when asked to check the power steering fluid you should:
check for adequate power steering fluid level.
indicate where power steering fluid dipstick is located.
All of the above.
8. Which of the following are key steering system parts?
Leaf spring, torque rod, front axle hanger
Lug nuts, rims, tire
Tie rod, drag link, spindle
9. If loose or missing, _______ may cause movement between the frame and fifth wheel assembly.
mounting bolts
locking pins
electric connectors
10. Broken suspension parts can be very dangerous. When inspecting your vehicle for suspension system defects, look for:
Spring hangers that allow movement of axle from proper position.
Broken leaves in a multi-leaf spring.
All of the above.
 
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Frequently Asked Questions

If you are under 18, you must follow the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) Program. Here are the three phases of the program and the required age: 
  • For an instructional permit, you must be at least 15 years old.
  • For a provisional license, you must be 15 ½ years old and have held the permit for six months.
  • For a full license, you must hold the provisional license for 12 months.
If you are between 18 and 24, you can obtain your driver’s license (class D) after passing the required tests and completing the None for the Road - DWI Awareness Program.

You have the option of taking the MVD written test at a New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) location or a contracted driver education provider. Contact your driving school or schedule an appointment online at a MVD branch, choosing the date and time that suits you best. It's important to note that appointments can be scheduled up to 30 days in advance.

Bring the following documents:
  • One proof of identification number (for REAL ID drivers' license).
  • One proof of identity and age.
  • Two proofs of New Mexico residency.
  • Proof of being enrolled in a state-approved driver education program (for minors).
  • Proof that you have completed the None for the Road course, a self-taught DWI course (if you are between 18 and 24 years old, or if you are 25 or above convicted of DUI). 
If you are under 18, you and your parent/guardian must sign the application at the MVD office.

The MVD written test in New Mexico is offered in various languages, including English, Spanish, Tagalog, Italian, German, French, Vietnamese, and Chinese. Although language options are provided, it is advisable to have a basic understanding of English since road signs are always in English.

To prepare for the MVD written test, read the New Mexico Driver's Handbook. Study road signs, parallel parking, turning, passing a vehicle, yielding the right of way, etc. Test your knowledge with our free practice tests or sign up for DMV Premium to access additional resources. Once you are satisfied with your score, you are ready for the exam.

The New Mexico MVD written test comprises 25 questions. It is designed to evaluate your knowledge of road rules, safe driving practices, and traffic signs. You should study the manual carefully to ensure your success on the first attempt.

You must answer at least 18 questions correctly, and you can miss up to 7 questions to pass the MVD written test. The minimum score required to succeed in the exam is 70%. Take your time during the exam to make sure you understand the questions well.

When holding an instructional permit in New Mexico, new drivers must be accompanied by an approved driving instructor seated beside them or by an adult who is 21 years or older with a driver's license for at least 3 years. Upon obtaining a provisional license, drivers can drive alone, except between midnight and 5 a.m., unless:
  • under the supervision of a driver aged 21 or older. 
  • for family or medical emergencies.
  • for work/school/religious activities.

In New Mexico, an instruction permit is valid for 4 years and can be renewed by the MVD. This ensures you have enough time to practice driving and fulfill the necessary requirements before the road test.
If you do not pass your MVD written test on the first attempt, you have the opportunity to retake the test on the same day. However, if you do not succeed on the second try, you have to wait one week before making another attempt. In the event of a third unsuccessful attempt, a waiting period of six months is required before you can retake the exam.

NM CDL Inspection Test

Number of questions: 20
Correct answers to pass:16
Passing score:80%
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