MI CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Practice Test 2025

To obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP), you must first pass the Michigan CDL General Knowledge Exam, which includes questions about pre-trip inspections. Our Michigan CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Practice Test is designed to cover all necessary topics and ensure you pass the knowledge exam on your first attempt. Additionally, before obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), all applicants must pass a Michigan Pre-Trip Inspection Test as part of the CDL skills exam. This test ensures drivers can identify and check critical vehicle components to prevent breakdowns and accidents on the road. Failure to pass means you cannot obtain your CDL, prohibiting you from driving commercially. According to the Michigan CDL manual, you’ll only need to retake the failed part, and “you will receive credit for any segment you passed.” However, that credit expires on the date your CLP expires.

The skills test is divided into three parts: the pre-trip inspection, the basic control skills test, and the road test. The federally mandated pre-trip inspection test (federal regulations 49 CFR § 392.7 and 49 CFR § 396.13) and the other parts of the test are required for a CDL. Though you may still hold a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) for 180 days (and it can be renewed once), obtaining a full CDL is necessary for independent commercial driving.

You’ll need to familiarize yourself with Michigan’s Seven-Step Inspection Method for both the Michigan CDL General Knowledge Exam and the CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Test. This method thoroughly checks the vehicle’s engine compartment, cab controls, lights, tires, brakes, suspension, and cargo securement. In addition to the General Knowledge test, you must physically point to, touch, and name each component during your pre-trip inspection test and explain why it is being inspected. Your examiner must verify that you can determine whether all parts are in good working condition and defect-free.

The practice test is based on the most recent Michigan CDL manual (Michigan CDL Handbook 2025) and contains 20 multiple-choice questions to assess your knowledge of pre-trip inspections. Each response that you provide elicits detailed explanations, speeding learning and ensuring you pass the official knowledge test on your first attempt.

Check out our additional practice tests to help fully prepare you for other parts of your upcoming exams.