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- Updated for May 2025
- Based on 2025 DC commercial driver's license manual
DC CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Practice Test 2025
In District of Columbia, passing the CDL General Knowledge Exam and the CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Test are mandatory steps before obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). These tests ensure that commercial drivers can correctly evaluate critical vehicle components for the purpose of preventing mechanical failures while driving. Failing the pre-trip inspection test means waiting at least one day before retesting and paying an additional fee. Our District of Columbia CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Practice Tests are designed to cover all of these necessary topics to ensure you can pass your General Knowledge exam on the first attempt. Under federal law (49 CFR § 392.7 and 49 CFR § 396.13), this pre-trip inspection is required as part of the three-part CDL skills exam, which includes the basic control skills test and road test.
The General Knowledge Exam must be passed for a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). Then you must hold the CLP and pass each of the three parts of the Skills Test for a CDL. The District of Columbia CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Test requires you to demonstrate your knowledge and hands-on inspection skills by identifying and explaining essential vehicle parts. Without a CDL, you cannot drive commercially, though you may still hold a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) for 180 days until it expires. While a CLP allows you to drive with supervision, obtaining a full CDL is necessary for independent commercial driving.
District of Columbia’s Seven-Step Inspection Method involves thoroughly checking the vehicle’s engine compartment, cab controls, lights, tires, brakes, suspension, and cargo securement. This knowledge is foundational to the Knowledge Exam and the CDL Pre-Trip Inspection. In addition to the portion of the General Knowledge test covering these materials, you must also physically point to, touch, and name each component during your Pre-Trip Inspection test and explain why it is being inspected. Your examiner will need to see that you can ensure that all parts are in good working condition and free of defects.
The District of Columbia CDL Pre-trip Practice Test is based on the most recent District of Columbia CDL manual (District of Columbia CDL Handbook) and contains 20 multiple-choice questions to assess your knowledge of pre-trip inspections. It includes detailed explanations, which speed learning and help you pass the official knowledge test on your first attempt.
Check out our different practice tests to help prepare you for the other parts of your upcoming exams.
- Perfect for first-time and renewal CDL/CLP applicants, and those adding endorsements
- Triple-checked for accuracy
About this test
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