CDL VEHICLE INSPECTION TEST WASHINGTON

View instructions
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 Washington 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. During the vehicle inspection test, as you approach the vehicle you should (among other things):
look under the vehicle for fuel leaks.
check the area around the vehicle for low hanging wires.
All of the above.
2. When inspecting your vehicle for suspension system defects, look for:
cracked or broken spring hangers.
leaking shock absorbers.
All of the above.
3. What should you do to test your hydraulic brakes for leaks?
Pump the brake pedal five times, then apply pressure for three seconds.
Hold the brake pedal down for five seconds, then pump it three times.
Pump the brake pedal three times, then apply pressure to the pedal and hold for five seconds.
4. Check that the ____ belt is securely mounted, and adjusts, latches properly.
air compressor
engine
safety
5. When starting your vehicle, oil pressure should come up to normal:
in about a minute.
within seconds.
in about two minutes.
6. Vehicle inspections should be done routinely _______ operating the vehicle.
while
after
before
7. During the vehicle inspection, when asked to check the oil level you should:
indicate where the dipstick is located.
make sure the engine is off.
All of the above.
8. During the vehicle inspection, make sure that the _____ is in the engaged position and that the safety latch is in place.
release arm
apron
locking jaw
9. Which of the following is NOT a tire problem to look for during the vehicle inspection?
Radial and bias-ply tires used together
All the tires are made by the same manufacturer
Recapped tires on the front of a school bus
10. During the vehicle inspection, when checking the tires you should:
ensure that valve caps are missing.
ensure that the tread is evenly worn.
check for the minimum tread depth (4/32 on all tires).
 
Page 1 of 2
Next page
NOT SURE YOU WILL PASS? GET CDL PREMIUM NOW! - Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions

You must be at least 15 ½ years old to apply for a learner permit in Washington. However, if you're enrolled in an approved driver-training course, you can pre-apply at 15. For an intermediate driver license, you must be between 16 and 18 and hold the permit for six months. Once you turn 18, you can get a standard driver license.

First of all you must pre-apply online to obtain a Washington driver's license number. After completing the process, you can schedule an appointment for the DMV written test at the nearest Washington driver’s license office or at a driver training school. 

You need to bring these documents to a driver's license office:
  • One or two proofs of identity to show your name and date of birth. 
  • Proof of Social Security Number.
  • Proof of address.
  • Parental Authorization Affidavit form signed by your parent in front of a notary public (if you're a minor and they can't come with you).
Check the list of acceptable documents here.

The DMV written test in Washington is offered in English and Spanish. It is advisable to have a basic understanding of English since road signs are always in English. 

The DMV written test is based on the Washington Driver's Handbook. You can find the manual in other languages here. Read each section and test your preparation with our free practice tests.

The Washington DMV written test comprises 40 questions. It is designed to evaluate your knowledge of general driving laws, safe driving practices, and road signs. Take your time during the exam to fully understand each question before answering. 

To pass the exam, you need a score of 80% or higher. You should get at least 32 questions right, and you're allowed to miss up to 8 questions out of the total 40. Stay focused and take the time to read the questions thoroughly.
When driving with a learner permit, you must be accompanied by a licensed driver in the front passenger seat who has at least 5 years of driving experience. Once you obtain an intermediate license, different driving restrictions apply:
  • You are not allowed to drive between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. unless for agricultural work or if you're accompanied by a parent, guardian, or a licensed driver who is at least 25 years old. After one year without penalties, this restriction no longer applies. 
  • For the first six months, you cannot transport any passengers under 20, except for siblings. After this period, you can drive with no more than three passengers under 20, unless they are family members.
  • You cannot use a wireless device when driving, except in emergency situations.

The Washington learner permit is valid for one year initially. You have the option to renew it twice, paying a fee. You can renew your permit either online or by scheduling an appointment at a Washington driver's license office. It's important to note that your passing knowledge test score remains valid for two years. After this period, you must retake the DMV test to obtain another instruction permit.
If you fail your DMV written test in Washington, you might need to wait before trying again. Driving schools have their own rules about when you can retake the exam and whether you have to pay another fee. Sign up for DMV Premium to maximize the chance of passing on your first attempt.

WA CDL Inspection Test

Number of questions: 20
Correct answers to pass:16
Passing score:80%
Share This Online CDL Test
Rate this CDL Inspection Test
4.6 out of 5
based on 357 votes