1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
  • 0 Incorrect (4 allowed to pass)
  • 0 Correct
Restart
 
 
 
 
 
Advertisement
Explore free tests
  • Updated for March 2025
  • Based on 2025 IA commercial driver's license manual

IA CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Practice Test 2025

To obtain a Iowa Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP), you must pass the state CDL General Knowledge Exam. The CLP will allow you to practice driving under supervision for 180 days. Then, to obtain a Iowa CDL, you must pass the Pre-Trip Inspection Test, which is a federal requirement (49 CFR § 392.7 and 49 CFR § 396.13). This portion is one of three parts that must be passed in Iowa’s CDL skills exam (the other two are the basic control skills test and the road test). Designed to ensure that drivers can recognize and evaluate the condition of their vehicle’s components, failing even one part of the skills test results in a total test failure. Failing the Knowledge Exam means delaying your CLP by at least one day, as you’ll have to reschedule and likely pay a retest fee. Our Iowa Pre-Trip Inspection Practice Tests are your key to passing the General Knowledge Test on your first attempt.

The Iowa General Knowledge Exam and Pre-Trip Inspection Test evaluate your ability to inspect engine components, brakes, suspension, and lights, among other items. During the pre-trip inspection test, you will be required to point to and explain each part’s function and why it must be checked. Examiners must determine that you can properly ensure your vehicle is in safe operating condition. Without passing, you will not be granted a CDL, and you cannot drive commercially. While a CLP allows you to drive with supervision, obtaining a full CDL is necessary for independent commercial driving.

For both the Iowa CDL General Knowledge Exam and the CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Test, you’ll need to familiarize yourself with Iowa’s inspection procedure, which is a systematic pre-trip vehicle check. To ensure road safety and compliance, the inspection includes reviewing past inspections, inspecting the engine compartment, checking in-cab controls and gauges, verifying lights, conducting a full walk-around inspection, testing signal lights, and assessing the brake system.

The 20 multiple-choice-question practice test is based on the most recent Iowa CDL manual (Iowa CDL Handbook 2025) and assesses your knowledge of pre-trip inspections. A detailed explanation is provided after each response to speed learning and help you pass the official knowledge test on your first attempt.

We have additional practice tests to prepare you for other parts of the General Knowledge Test. Check them out!

  • Perfect for first-time and renewal CDL/CLP applicants, and those adding endorsements
This test is a Premium member exclusive. You'll get

All 650 exam-like questions specific to Iowa

Interactive learning with AI personal tutor

Unique 360° Virtual Road Simulations

Get your money back if you don’t pass

About this test

6 min to complete
Available in EN and ES
Verified by Steven Litvintchouk, M.S., Chief Educational Researcher, Member of ACES. See our detailed commitment to accuracy and quality in our practice tests.

What to expect on the actual IA DOT exam

20

questions

16

correct answers to pass

80%

passing score

Are you in another state?

Your go-to, trusted source

Experience the Driving-Tests difference
Since our foundation in 2010, Driving-Tests.org has led the way in online driver's education, with over a decade of experience. Our dedicated experts, bringing together more than 50 years of collective expertise, have established us as the largest non-governmental organization in the U.S. solely focused on driver education. We go beyond the official manuals, offering unique interactive experiences and support like audio guides and an AI Assistant, to cater to different learning styles and needs.
Helping hundreds of thousands to ace their tests, our resources have earned a 4.7-star rating from over 14,500 reviews. Our goal is to make your path to becoming a confident driver as straightforward and effective as possible.
 (4  allowed to pass)
Restart test
Ask AI Coach
Ask DMV Genie AI
new
    Calculating your test results Your test results are ready
    Pass the First Time - Guaranteed

    Before you view your test results, discover how you can pass faster with Premium:

    • Real Exam-Like Iowa Questions
      Get all exam-like questions seen on the real test
    • Money-Back Guarantee
      If you don't pass, it costs you nothing
    • 99.06% Pass Rate vs. 49% Average
      Most Premium users pass on their first try

    Trusted by 1.15 Million drivers

    Learn More & Guarantee My Pass Continue to my results
    Opens in a new tab — your results are saved
    Try Driving-Tests Premium

    Pass the knowledge test the first time, guaranteed.