Cab and visibility
Locate the controls, warning indicators, emergency equipment, mirrors, wipers, and horn.
Hands-on test preparation
California CDL pre-trip inspection & skills guide
A study companion for vehicle inspection, basic controls, and the road test. These are practical skills, not another knowledge-test endorsement. This guide does not replace required training or supervised vehicle practice.
First, confirm your test format
California DMV lists modernized skills testing at select locations. Before practicing a course, confirm which format your testing location uses; do not combine the two exercise sets.
1. Vehicle inspection
Brake system
Identify your vehicle’s brake system. The applicable air or hydraulic check must be explained and demonstrated correctly; otherwise, the inspection test is an automatic failure.
Exterior and running gear
Use the checklist to organize lights, fluid levels, leaks, steering, tires, suspension, and frame checks.
Your vehicle configuration
Include the applicable coupling and trailer checks, or passenger and school-bus equipment. Use the appropriate official checklist, not this study outline, during the test.
Modernized inspection checklist
The DMV checklist may be used and checked off during the test. Do not add advance notes or other writing.
For the standard format, use the inspection guide in the main handbook.
2. Basic vehicle controls
Modernized skills test
Use the modernized supplement for inspection and basic controls. Its four exercises differ from the standard handbook set.
- Forward stop
- Straight-line backing
- Forward offset tracking
- Reverse offset backing
Standard skills test
The main handbook describes a subset of six possible exercises, not a requirement to perform all six. Use the instructions for your appointment.
- Straight-line backing
- Offset backing right or left
- Parallel parking on either side
- Alley docking
Explain the condition, not just the name
For each item, identify it and explain what you are checking. Follow the vehicle manufacturer’s brake-system procedures. The inspection exam is not a substitute for a complete operational inspection.
Secure the vehicle before getting out
Set the parking brakes and select Neutral before exiting. Maintain three points of contact facing the vehicle; for a bus, face forward and hold the handrail. Ask the examiner when instructions are unclear.
Learn the scoring for your exercise
Direction changes, boundary contact, looks, and final position affect scoring. Allowances vary by exercise; do not assume one allowance applies to every maneuver.
3. Road-test preparation
Study turns, intersections, lane changes, highway driving, roadside stops, curves, railroad crossings, and clearance signs. Practice regular traffic and mirror checks, timely signals, smooth braking, and lane position with your instructor. School-bus applicants also have a student loading and unloading task.
The DMV road test is conducted in English. Wear your seat belt and obey traffic laws throughout; a knowledge-quiz score does not demonstrate safe vehicle handling.
Sources checked September 10, 2026. Independent study material; not affiliated with California DMV. Follow your examiner’s instructions and the current official material for your vehicle and testing location.