nj pre trip inspection checklist

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New Jersey CDL Pre-Trip Checklist Vehicle Inspection (Walk-Around) Skills Test

First of three new jersey cdl skills tests - the new jersey cdl vehicle checklist inspection skills test must be passed prior to being allowed to continue., there are three parts to the new jersey cdl skills test.

• First Part: New Jersey CDL PreTrip Inspection on THIS page . . .
• Second Part: New Jersey CDL Basic Vehicle Control
• Third Part: New Jersey CDL Road Test

New Jersey CDL Pre Trip Inspection Diagram

Vehicle Pre-Trip Checklist Inspection - New Jersey CDL Skills Tests:

Quick study guide to new jersey cdl pre-trip inspection.

• Engine Compartment
• Cab Check and Engine Start
• Brake Check
• External Cab

1. New Jersey CDL Engine Compartment Pre-Trip Inspection

• Look for puddles on the ground that would indicate a leak.
• Look for dripping fluids on the underside of the engine and transmission.
• Inspect hoses for "good" condition and leaks.
• Indicate the location of dipstick.
• Make sure the oil level is within safe operating range and above the refill mark.
• a) Checking the reservoir sight glass, or
• b) Removing the radiator cap if the engine is not hot and visually checking the coolant level.
• Indicate the location of the power steering fluid dipstick.
• Confirm that there is an adequate power steering fluid level that is above the refill mark.
• power steering belt
• water pump belt
• alternator belt
• air compressor belt

2. New Jersey CDL Cab Check and Engine Start - Pre-Trip Inspection

• Manual Transmissions:
• Depress the clutch.
• Place the gearshift lever in neutral.
• Start the engine and then slowly release the clutch.
• Automatic Transmissions:
• Confirm the vehicle is in �park� and start the engine.
• Confirm that the oil pressure gauge is functioning.
• Make sure that the pressure gauge shows increasing or normal oil pressure, otherwise that the warning light goes off.
• If equipped with an oil temperature gauge, it should begin to gradually rise to a normal operating range.
• Confirm that the temperature gauge is working.
• The temperature gauge should begin to climb to the normal operating range.
• The gauges should show the alternator and/or generator charging; otherwise the warning light should be set off.
• Check for proper operation and acceptable readings on the air and vacuum gauges.
• The speedometer should not be obscured or obviously broken.
• Mirrors should be clean and adjusted properly from the inside.
• Windshield should be clean with no illegal stickers, obstructions, or damage to the glass.
• Three red reflective triangles.
• One properly charged and rated fire extinguisher.
• Spare electrical fuses.
• Power steering equipped vehicles: With the engine running, play should not exceed 10 degrees (or about two inches on a 20-inch wheel) before the front left wheel barely moves when you turn the steering wheel back and forth.
• Non-power steering vehicles: Play should not exceed 10 degrees (or about two inches on a 20-inch wheel) when you turn the steering wheel back and forth.
• Check that the wiper arms and blades are not damaged and operate smoothly.
• Windshield washers must operate correctly if the vehicle is equipped.
• Left turn signal
• Right turn signal
• 4-way emergency flashers
• High beam headlight
• Check that air horn and/or electric horn are operational.
• Test that the heater and defroster works.
• Check that the safety belt is securely mounted, adjusts, and latches properly.
• Clearance lights (red on rear, amber elsewhere)
• Headlights (high and low beams)
• Turn signals
• 4-way flashers
• Brake lights
• Red reflectors (on rear) and amber reflectors (elsewhere)

3. New Jersey CDL Brake Check Pre-Trip Inspection

• Apply parking brake only and shift into a lower gear. Gently pull against the brake by releasing the clutch, and it should hold the vehicle.
• With the engine running, apply the foot brake and hold for five seconds. The pedal should not move (lose pressure) during those five seconds.
• If equipped with a hydraulic brake reserve system, with the key in the off position, depress the brake pedal and listen for the sound of the reserve system electric motor turning on.
• Check that the warning buzzer and light is off.
• Check the proper operation of the foot brake by moving the vehicle forward slowly at about 5 mph and applying the brake firmly.
• With a fully-charged air system, typically at 120 psi, turn the engine off, chock the wheels, release (push in) the parking brake button and trailer air supply button (for combination vehicles) and time the air pressure drop. After the initial drop, the rate of pressure loss should not be more than 2 psi per minute for single vehicles and no more than 3 psi per minute for combination vehicles
• Release (push in) the parking brake and trailer air supply button (for combination vehicles), and apply pressure to the foot brake. After the initial drop in pressure, the rate of pressure loss should be no more than 3 psi per minute for single vehicles and no more than 4 psi per minute for combination vehicles.
• Turn the key to the on position. Rapidly depress and release the foot brake to reduce air tank pressure. The low air pressure warning signal must come on before the pressure drops below 60 psi.
• Continue to rapidly apply and release the service brake pedal further reducing air pressure. The trailer air supply button (for combination vehicles) and parking brake button should pop out when the pressure falls to usually between 20 to 40 psi. This should activate the spring brakes.
• While the engine is operating at 1800 RPM, the pressure should rise from 85 to 100 psi within 45 seconds in dual air systems.
• With normal air pressure, release the parking brake and trailer air supply button (for combination vehicles), move the vehicle forward slowly at about 5 mph and apply the brakes firmly using the brake pedal. Test for any pulling to any one side or delayed stopping action.

4. New Jersey CDL External Cab | Truck | Bus Pre-Trip Inspection

• Check that the steering box is mounted securely and is not leaking.
• Check for damage to power steering hoses and power steering fluid leaks.
• Check that connecting links, arms, and rods from the steering box to the wheels are not worn and cracked.
• Check that the joints and sockets are not loose or worn and that there are no missing nuts, bolts, or cotter keys.
• Check for shifted, cracked, broken, or even missing leaf springs.
• Check for broken and distorted coil springs.
• If equipped, check the air ride suspension for damage and leaks.
• Look for cracked or broken spring hangers, missing or damaged bushings, and broken, loose, or missing bolts, U-bolts or other axle mounting parts.
• Confirm that the shock absorbers are secure and that there are no leaks.
• Look for missing, loose or broken parts.
• The angle between the adjuster arm and push rod should be not less than 90 degrees when the brakes are applied and when the brakes are released a little over 90 degrees.
• When pulled by hand, the brake rod should not move more than one inch with the brakes released.
• Check that brake chambers are not dented, cracked, or leaking and that they are mounted securely.
• Check for worn, cracked or leaking hoses, lines, and couplings.
• Check for dents, cracks or holes, and loose or missing bolts.
• Brake linings and pads should not be worn thin.
• Where visible, check that a reasonable amount of brake lining is showing.
• Check for damaged or bent rims. Rims cannot have welding repairs.
• Tread depth: need a minimum tread depth of 4/32 on steering axle tires, 2/32 on all other tires.
• Tire condition: Check that tread is evenly worn and without cuts or damage to tread or sidewalls. Valve caps and stems should not be missing, broken, or damaged.
• Tire inflation: Check for proper inflation with a tire gauge or by striking tires with a mallet.
• Check that hub oil/grease seals and axle seals are not leaking.
• Check for any missing lug nuts, cracks, distortions, and for signs of looseness such as rust trails or shiny threads.
• Check for cracked or distorted bolt holes.
• Spacers should not be bent, damaged, or rusted through.
• Spacers should be centered evenly.
• Check doors for any damage and that they open and close properly.
• Hinges should be secure with seals intact.
• Mirrors and mirror brackets should be mounted securely.
• Check for secure tanks, tight caps, and that the tanks or lines don�t leak.
• Check to see that batteries are secure, for tight cable connections, and that cell caps are present.
• Check for signs of excessive corrosion.
• Battery box and cover/door must be secure.
• The drive shaft should not be bent or cracked.
• Couplings should be secure.
• Check system for rust or carbon soot as they are signs of damage or leaks.
• System should be secure and connected tightly.
• Check the longitudinal frame members, cross members, box, and floor for cracks, broken welds, holes or other damage.
• If equipped with mud flaps or splash guards, check that they are mounted securely and not damaged.
• Doors and hinges must open, close, and latch properly from the outside, and should not be damaged.
• Check that any ties, straps, chains, and binders are secure.
• If equipped with a cargo lift, it must be fully retracted and latched securely, and should not be leaking, damaged or missing any parts.
• Check that electrical lines and air hoses are not cut, chafed, spliced, or worn, the steel braid should not show through its outer lining.
• Make sure the lines and hoses are not tangled or dragging against tractor parts.
• Make sure the catwalk is securely bolted to tractor frame.
• Check for loose or missing mounting brackets, clamps, bolts, or nuts. The fifth wheel and the slide mounting must be solidly attached.
• Other types of coupling systems should be inspected for missing or broken components.
• Check that the locking jaws fully close around the kingpin
• On other types of coupling systems the locking mechanism should not have missing or broken parts and should lock securely.
• The platform structure supporting the fifth wheel skid plate should be free of cracks or breaks.
• If equipped with a release arm, check that it engaged and that the safety latch is in place.
• The kingpin should not be bent.
• The visible part of the apron should not be bent, cracked, or broken.
• The trailer should be laying flat on the fifth wheel skid plate without any gap.
• Locking pins should be fully engaged.
• The fifth wheel should be positioned so the tractor frame will not strike the landing gear or the tractor.

5. New Jersey CDL Trailer Pre-Trip Inspection

• The trailer air connectors should be sealed and in good condition.
• Glad hands should be locked in place and free of damage or air leaks.
• The trailer electrical plug should be firmly seated and locked in place.
• If equipped with a header board, check to see that it is secure, damage-free and strong enough to contain cargo.
• If equipped with a canvas or tarp carrier, it should be mounted and fastened securely.
• Check the front area of enclosed trailers for cracks, bulges or holes.
• The landing gear must be fully raised. Check that it has no missing parts with a non-damaged support frame and that the crank handle is secure.
• Check for air or hydraulic leaks if power operated.
• Check that doors are not damaged and that they open, close, and latch properly from the outside.
• Ties, straps, chains, and binders should be secure.
• Any cargo lifts should be checked for leaking, damaged or missing parts, and should be fully retracted and latched securely.
• The frame, cross members, box, and floor should be checked for holes, cracks, broken welds or other damage.
• If equipped, make sure that the release arm is secured and that the locking pins are locked in place.
• Suspension System
• Doors, Ties and Lift
• Splash Guards

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Pre-Trip Inspection Study Guide

Our Pre-Trip Inspection Study Guide has everything you need to prepare for the Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Exam . Our study guide will cover the pre-trip inspection terminology as well as a thorough list of all of the parts you will be inspecting on the vehicle. For each part you will be inspecting there will also be a list of items you will be checking for. Our study guide is broken down into the following sections:

• What You Need to Know About Pre-Trip Inspection

Pre-Trip Inspection Practice Questions

• Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist

Pre-Trip Inspection Videos

Pre-trip inspection printable resources, what you need to know about the pre-trip inspection.

The Pre-Trip Inspection is a thorough inspection of the vehicle and all of its major systems. Inspecting the vehicle before driving each day is a Federal requirement and normally takes about 15 minutes. It must be logged in your logbook as "on duty not driving."

You will have to do thorough safety inspections of the coupling system, the vehicle lights, engine compartment, tires and brakes, the chassis, the fuel tanks, and an in-cab inspection.

The following information is a brief summary of Daniel's Complete Pre-Trip Inspection taken from our oustanding free PDF download:

Engine Compartment

You will be checking the engine compartment for any sort of leaks. You will also be checking to see if all components are properly mounted and secured. None of the mounts must be cracked, bent, or broken.

You will be checking all hoses to make sure they aren't leaking, frayed, or sliced and the fluid levels including the oil level, the coolant, and the power steering fluid.

You must check the components like the water pump, the power steering pump, and the alternator to make sure nothing is leaking, the belts are not frayed, and that everything is properly mounted and secured.

From inside the engine compartment you will also find the steering system, the front suspension system, and the front brake system. All components of these systems must be properly mounted and secured without anything being cracked, bent, or broken. Finally you will be checking the tires, rims, and axle seals to make sure the tires are properly inflated, the rim isn't bent or cracked, and the axle seals are not leaking.

Fuel Tank And Battery Area

You will be standing along the side of the tractor doing a series of checks on the mirrors, fuel tanks, batteries, exhaust system, and more. You will check to make sure nothing is bent, cracked, broken, or leaking.

Check the mirrors, door hinges, door handle to make sure nothing is cracked, bent, or broken. Check to make sure there is no fuel leaking and that the fuel cap is secured and the gasket is not missing.

Check the exhaust system to make sure nothing is cracked, bent, or broken. Check the driveshaft, cat walk, and steps to make sure nothing is cracked, bent, or broken.

Check the frame and crossmembers for structural integrity. Check the air lines going to the trailer to make sure they're properly connected and that there are no abrasions, bulges, or cuts. Make sure the gaskets are present.

Check the suspension system and brakes on the drive axles, making sure nothing is cracked, bent, or broken. Make sure the brake linings are the proper thickness and that the air bags and properly inflated. Inspect the brake chambers, slack adjusters, and pushrods are properly mounted and secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. With the brakes released and pulled by hand, the Push Rod should not move more than 1 inch.

Check the rims, tires, and axle seals of the drive tires for proper inflation, no leaks around the seal, and the lugs are all present and secured.

Coupling System

You will be standing where the tractor and trailer are connected and you'll start by checking the electrical line and air lines to make sure they're properly mounted and secure at both ends. No abrasions, bulges or cuts. Not leaking air. Make sure the electrical line has no wires exposed. Check the gladhands to make sure the seals are in good condition, no cracks or signs of dry rotting. Not leaking air.

Check the skid plate of the fifth wheel and the apron of the trailer to make sure there is no debris and nothing is cracked, bent, or broken. Make sure the fifth wheel is properly greased. Also make sure there is no gap in between the fifth wheel and the trailer apron once the tractor and trailer are coupled. Make sure the kingpin of the trailer is properly mounted and not cracked, bent, or broken and that the locking jaws of the fifth wheel are properly secured when the tractor and trailer are coupled.

Check the mounting bolts where the fifth wheel attaches to the tractor frame. Make sure there are no missing bolts and that everything is secured properly. Check the locking pin if you having a sliding fifth wheel to make sure it's properly locked into place.

Make sure that there is the proper clearance space between the tractor mudflap and the trailer landing gear so that they don’t hit each other when making a turn.

You will start inspecting the trailer at the head board, which is the front wall of the trailer. Make sure there are no holes or missing rivets. Check the landing gear to make sure it is properly mounted and secure. Not cracked, bent, or broken. Make sure the fully raised and the handle is secure in the cradle when the tractor and trailer are coupled.

Check the frame and crossmembers under the trailer to make sure they're not cracked, bent, or broken. Check the tandem frame and release pins to make sure the frame is in good condition and the release handle and locking pins are in the fully locked position.

You will check the entire suspension and brake system for the trailer tandems the same way you did for the drive axles of the tractor. You will also make sure the mudflaps are properly secured. For dual tires check to see that there is proper space between the tires and there is nothing stuck between the tires.

Check the rear door and hinges to make sure they are properly mounted and nothing is cracked, bent, or broken. Make sure the door seals are not worn, torn, or dry rotted.

Light Check

You will be checking all of the lights and reflectors on both the tractor and the trailer. Check the reflectors and reflective tape to make sure they are properly mounted and secure, not cracked, bent, or broken, and clean and illuminated. Check that you have the proper color of amber to the front and sides, and red to the rear.

Start by turning on your marker lights and headlights. Now walk around the entire truck and trailer and point out the lights. Give the function of the light and the location. You should then ask your examiner to help you check your five functions.

While you're sitting in the drivers seat, the examiner will stand to the front of the truck, then behind the trailer. He will then check your Turn Signals, Four Way Flashers and Brake Lights. You must do each function at every location.

The five locations that you must check your lights:

• Front of the Truck
• Both sides of the Truck
• Rear of the Truck
• Both sides of the Trailer
• Rear of the Trailer

The Five Functions you are checking for:

• Left Turn Signal
• Right Turn Signal
• Four Way Flashers
• High Beams/Low Beams
• Brake Lights

In-Cab Inspection

The in-cab inspection and air brake check will cover the various gauges and systems inside the cab along with several tests to make sure you air brake system is working properly.

You will start by checking the following:

• Seat Belt- Properly Mounted and Secure. Not ripped or frayed Adjusts and latches properly.
• Fire Extinguisher- Properly Mounted and Secure. Fully charged
• Three Red Reflective Triangles- My three red reflective triangles are GIVE LOCATION
• Spare Electrical Fuses- My spare electrical fuses are GIVE LOCATION
• Volmeter, Oil Pressure Gauge, Water Temperature Gauge, and Air Pressure Gauge all show proper operation
• City horn and air horn functioning properly
• The windshield and mirrors are clean, no cracks or breaks, no obstructions. The mirrors are in proper adjustment.
• Windshield Wipers and Washers - Demonstrate that the washers work by spraying the windshield. The Wipers are: Properly Mounted and Secure and operate smoothly. The blades aren't cracked or dry rotten.
• Heater and Defroster - Demonstrate that both the Heater and Defroster are working properly.
• Lighting Indicators - Left Turn, Right Turn, Four Way Flashers, and High Beams.

Trailer Parking Brakes - Set the Trailer Brake, release the tractor brake, and then tug lightly on the trailer.

Tractor Parking Brakes- Then set the Tractor Brake, release the trailer brake, and then tug lightly on the tractor.

Service Brake Check - Release both Tractor and Trailer Brakes. Now drive at idle speed. Apply the Service Brake to make sure you come to a complete stop, and that it doesn't pull to the left or right when applying the brakes.

Air Brake Test

The air brake test will consist of a leakdown test to make sure your air brakes aren't leaking air and losing pressure. It will also test the warning lights and buzzer to make sure the driver gets the proper warning if the air pressure drops too low.

There are three stages to an Air Brake Test

#1: Applied Pressure Test

#2: Warning Light and Buzzer

#3 Tractor/Trailer Protection Valve Pop Out

Applied Pressure Test: Build the air pressure to governor cut out. Put the truck in the lowest gear. Then turn off the engine Immediately turn the engine back on. Push in both the tractor and trailer valves. (This will release the parking brakes.) Push and hold the Brake pedal fully. Allow the gauges to stabilize. Announce the gauges have stabilized and the Primary and Secondary PSI. With the Brakes fully pressed, you should not lose more than 4 PSI in one minute. Announce that you are listening for air leaks during that minute.

Warning Light and Buzzer Test: Pump down on the Brake pedal until the warning light and buzzer comes on, at or before 60 PSI.

Tractor/Trailer Protection Valve Pop Out Test: Pump down on the brake pedal until both the tractor and trailer protection valves pop out. They should both pop out between 40 and 20 PSI.

We have a ton of Pre-Trip Inspection Practice Questions along with the answers and a complete scoring system in our Free Online CDL Practice Tests :

The Engine Compartment Section will include questions about checking the oil level and coolant levels, inspecting belt-driven engine components (like the water pump, alternator, and air compressor), and the safety devices required in the cab. There will also be questions regarding the windshield wipers and free play in the steering wheel.

The Lights And Brakes Section will include questions about dashboard indicator lights, inspecting the parking brakes, and doing a leakdown test on the air brakes. It will also include questions about the low air pressure warning signal and testing your air horn and city horn.

The Suspension And Steering Section will include questions about the tractor protection valve, inspecting the steering box, and inspecting many suspension system parts. It will also include questions about welds being present on tire rims and the minimum tread depth required on steering axle tires.

The Tires And Coupling Devices Section will include questions about shiny trails or rusty threads on lug nuts, inspecting the battery box and cover, and inspecting electrical lines. It will also contain questions about inspecting the coupling devices and the fifth wheel skid plate.

The Emergency Equipment And Fifth Wheel Section will include questions about additional emergeny equipment required by school buses, inspecting the gap between the kingpin apron and the fifth wheel skid plate, and the landing gear securement. It will also contain questions about inspecting driver mirrors and the trailer frame.

Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist - Class A

Our pre-trip inspection checklist covers every part of the truck from front to back, both inside and outside of the truck. It covers the air brakes, suspension parts, steering components, wheels and rims, fuel tanks, batteries, lights, and more. It also covers the air brake tug test and checks for everything under the hood including alternator, water pump, fuel pump, fluids, and more.

This is a super handy checklist to study anytime you have a few minutes to spare:

Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist - Free Word Document Download (Editable Version)

Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist - Free PDF Download (Print Version)

Pre-Trip Inspection Video By Apex CDL Institute

Jeff from Apex Institute does an in-depth explanation of the entire pre-trip inspection process. This video is loaded with tips that go beyond the CDL test to help drivers really understand how to identify problems.

Pretrip Inspection Self-Test By CDL College

The Pretrip Inspection Self-Test By CDL College is really unique. It's a silent video which will show you the part you're inspecting and then gives you a few seconds to figure out what you should be checking for before giving you the answer. Definitely check this one out. Great for practicing before the CDL exam.

Pre-Trip Inspection Video By Averitt Express

This is a complete back to front pre-trip inspection of a truck and trailer by Averitt mainentance associate Kevin Breeding. This thorough pre-trip inspection covers all inportant points of inside the cab, lights, engine, the tractor itself and the trailer.

We have included two print versions of the pre-trip inspection process from Daniel. The first is the entire pre-trip inspection and the second is an abbreviated checklist for the inspection.

• PDF: Daniel's Pre-trip Inspection (Print Version)
• PDF: Daniel's Pre-trip Inspection Checklist (Print Version)

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FREE New Jersey CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Practice Test 2024 | NJ

Excited to take your pre-trip inspection endorsement test? Don’t take it without taking our free New Jersey CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Practice Test first! The pre-trip inspection endorsement test is important to drivers because it certifies their inspection abilities when it comes to commercial vehicles. To help you prepare for the endorsement test, we have written 30 challenging questions – all taken from the New Jersey CDL Handbook . The regular endorsement test is also drawn from the New Jersey CDL Handbook .

What should you NOT check at the rear of a trailer during a pre-trip inspection? Why should you put the starter switch key in your pocket during the pre-trip inspection? These are the types of questions that you will find on this practice test. All questions are multiple choice with four possible answers. Each question also comes with an answer explanation. Our practice test is a great way to get familiar with the format of the real test and with the types of questions that are asked on the real test before you visit the DMV. This practice test can save you from having to pay retake fees and make multiple visits to the DMV by preparing you to pass quickly and easily. As you study, you can take this practice test an unlimited number of times. We recommend reading each of the answer explanations to further your understanding of the material. We have also included a progress tracker so that you know how you are doing as you proceed through the test. Take the test now to check – and improve – your pre-inspection knowledge.

New Jersey CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Overview:

Get the latest (2024) official NJ CDL Manual.

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• NJ Pretrip CDL Practice Test - 1

FREE 2024 New Jersey (NJ) Pretrip Practice Test 1

2024 nj pretrip information.

The pretrip exam is an oral exam that you will need to pass after you have taken all of your CDL written tests, and are at the exam station for your pretrip, skills, and road test exams. During the pretip exam you will need to verbally check components to make sure that the vehicle is safe for operation. In some states there can be over 100 items to check on a tractor trailer.

The exam doesn’t stop at just listing the components, you will have to name the item by its proper name and say at least 3-5 things you would check that item for. Don’t’ forget to mention what you are going to check the 3-5 things for as well. This is a very detailed exam on the vehicle and its parts be ready.

As an example, the air compressor would need checked, we are going to check belts (if not gear driven), air lines, and securement of the air compressor. Because we mentioned belts (if not gear driven) we have to check for play in the belt, check it for wear, and crack. Moving on the air lines, need to be secure, no breaks or cracks, and no leaks. Finally check all bolts, nuts, and securement pieces to make sure none are loose or missing.

Based on the 2024 NJ CDL Driver's Manual

Questions appearing on this cdl practice test:, when doing the pre-trip, you should tell the examiner each item you are checking and 2-3 things you check each item for., should you do an overview of your vehicle as you approach it (including looking for leaks, leaning, or excessive damage), when checking the lights at the front of the vehicle what should you check for, when checking the windshield, what should you be looking for, when opening the hood, you should check, checking the mirrors on the outside of the vehicle you should check for, in the engine compartment there are four fluids you must check, they are, in the engine compartment there are four major belt or gear driven components. what are they, what should you check each of the fluids in the engine compartment for, what are the main components of the steering controls found in the engine compartment, what should you check the steering linkage for, which of the following does not get checked in the engine compartment, which of the following is not an engine compartment belt, the leaf springs, shocks, u-bolts, shackles, and air bags are part of what system, hoses in the engine compartment should be checked for, the engine belts should be checked for, brake lines should be checked for, air chambers are, air chambers should be checked for, the slack adjuster is part of the braking system, what is the maximum play allowed with the brakes off, brake pads should be checked for, brake drums, brake drums (or discs) must not have cracks longer than:, tire tread depth depends on the axel. the depth should be no less than ______ for the steer axel, and _____ for any other axel., retreaded tires can be on any axel., tires should be checked for, you should check rims for dents, cracks, illegal welds, valve stem, and that they are tight and secure., all rims have a spacer., lug nuts (that hold the rim to the axle) should be checked for, the hub oil seal should be, differences between the steer axel and the rest of the axles are: tread depth, spacers or budding rims, space between the tires, torsion bars, and air bags., you can leave the hood open when moving on with the pre-trip., more new jersey cdl practice test: ( indicates current test), general knowledge practice test 1, general knowledge practice test 2, general knowledge practice test 3, general knowledge practice test 4, general knowledge practice test 5, general knowledge practice test 6, general knowledge practice test 7, general knowledge practice test 8, haz mat practice test 1, haz mat practice test 2, haz mat practice test 3, haz mat practice test 4, school bus practice test 1, school bus practice test 2, school bus practice test 3, school bus practice test 4, passenger vehicles practice test 1, passenger vehicles practice test 2, passenger vehicles practice test 3, passenger vehicles practice test 4, air brakes practice test 1, air brakes practice test 2, air brakes practice test 3, air brakes practice test 4, combination vehicles practice test 1, combination vehicles practice test 2, combination vehicles practice test 3, combination vehicles practice test 4, combination vehicles practice test 5, double/triple trailers practice test 1, double/triple trailers practice test 2, double/triple trailers practice test 3, tanker vehicles practice test 1, tanker vehicles practice test 2, tanker vehicles practice test 3, pre-trip inspection practice test 1, pre-trip inspection practice test 2, pre-trip inspection practice test 3, new jersey free pretrip videos, engine compartment pretrip inspection, inside cab pretrip inspection, rear of tractor pretrip inspection, exterior light pretrip inspection, complete trailer pretrip inspection.

License: #22094S

Ext 1 - Car Driving Ext 2 - Trucks & Buses

CDL Pre-Trip Inspection in Clayton, New Jersey

At Mike’s Driving School in Clayton, New Jersey, we provide students with comprehensive preparation to earn a Class A or Class B Commercial Driver License (CDL). An important component of the CDL test is the pre-trip inspection. In our CDL courses, you will be able to practice the inspection process, as well as study the inspection checklist in our classroom component.

Available CDL Courses

Mike’s Driving School offers several CDL school courses for prospective drivers, including:

• Class A CDL: Advanced Class A with Forklift
• Class B CDL: Advanced Class B Straight Truck with Forklift
• Class A Refresher: Advanced Class A Refresher
• Class B Passenger Endorsement: Advanced Class B with Passenger

Courses are typically offered from Monday through Friday during the day. However, we do offer some weekend and evening classes for students whose schedules do not allow them to attend weekday classes.

CDL Required Qualifications

To apply for a CDL through the NJ Motor Vehicle Commission , a driver must:

• Be a United States citizen or lawful permanent resident in the United States
• Be at least 18 years of age
• Hold a Class D driver’s license in NJ
• Meet minimum requirements for physical fitness
• Be able to recognize red, green, and amber colors
• Have at least 20/40 vision
• Complete an Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) course from an approved provider

All applicants must complete a self-certification. You may be required to submit documentation from a medical examiner.

Preparing for the CDL Tests

Anyone applying for a CDL in the State of NJ must complete both a knowledge test and a skills test. Once you pass the knowledge test, you can take your skills test (also known as the road test) 14 days later by appointment. The skills test consists of three parts:

• Basic skills
• Road skills

The CDL courses at Mike’s Driving School prepare students for all aspects of the knowledge and skills tests, with practical training as well as classroom study.

Steps of a Pre-Trip Inspection

Each of our CDL courses combines classroom instruction with hands-on practice in our training yard and out on the road. Students will learn how to properly perform a pre-trip inspection on a Class A or B vehicle, depending on their course of study. Our instructors will provide in-depth instruction on the steps of a pre-trip inspection:

• Step 1: Review the most recent vehicle inspection report.
• Step 2: Check the engine compartment.
• Step 3: Start the engine and inspect the inside of the cab.
• Step 4: Turn off the engine and check the lights.
• Step 5: Do a walk-around inspection outside the vehicle.
• Step 6: Check the truck’s signal lights.
• Step 7: Start the engine, test the brake system, and check for hydraulic leaks.

Each step in this process includes a detailed checklist of all the equipment and controls that you will need to inspect and test. Students will be able to practice pre-trip inspections under the guidance of experienced instructors and will have access to the CDL manual to study for their exams.

Financial Aid and Job Placement Assistance

Mike’s Driving School has been training commercial drivers for nearly three decades and is committed to helping students become responsible professionals in the trucking and transportation industries. To help students succeed, we offer financial assistance to those who qualify. Our financial aid partnerships include:

• Education benefits for veterans through the S. Department of Veterans Affairs
• One-Stop Career Centers of NJ
• Tuition assistance and reimbursement programs through major carriers

Students also benefit from free job placement assistance, referrals to job openings , help with interview preparation, and networking opportunities. Past graduates of Mike’s Driving School have gone on to careers with leading carriers including Coca-Cola, U.S. Xpress Inc., and Werner. Our staff members stay in touch with students after graduation to ensure they have continued career support.

Get in Touch With Mike’s Driving School Today

Are you ready to take the next step in your career? The CDL courses at Mike’s Driving School are taught by industry professionals who can help you thoroughly prepare for the CDL knowledge and road tests, including CDL inspection. CDL classes are offered at Mike’s Driving School’s campus in Clayton, NJ . To learn more or enroll in an upcoming course, contact us today.

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Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist

Ensure safe journeys with our comprehensive Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist. This free PDF template covers all critical aspects of pre-trip inspections for vehicles, empowering drivers to identify potential issues, perform thorough inspections, and ensure the safety of passengers and cargo.

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• Create unlimited, customized checklists
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• Works seamlessly with or without internet
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What is a Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist?

A Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist is a systematic tool used by drivers to assess the safety conditions of vehicles before embarking on a journey. It includes a series of checkpoints designed to inspect various aspects of the vehicle, such as brakes, tires, lights, fluids, and more. Regular pre-trip inspections are essential for preventing breakdowns, ensuring roadworthiness, and promoting safe travel.

Key Areas to Inspect in a Pre-Trip Inspection:

• Tires: Check tire condition, pressure, and tread depth.
• Brakes: Inspect brake functionality and fluid levels.
• Lights and Signals: Verify the proper operation of headlights, taillights, turn signals, and hazard lights.
• Fluid Levels: Check engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and washer fluid levels.
• Belts and Hoses: Inspect belts and hoses for wear and damage.
• Windshield and Wipers: Ensure the windshield is free from cracks and that wipers function correctly.
• Safety Equipment: Verify the presence and condition of safety equipment, such as reflective triangles and fire extinguishers.

Common Pre-Trip Inspection Findings:

Frequent issues found during pre-trip inspections include:

• Underinflated Tires: Tires with insufficient air pressure, leading to reduced fuel efficiency and tire wear.
• Brake Wear: Worn-out brake pads or low brake fluid levels.
• Malfunctioning Lights: Inoperative or dim headlights, brake lights, or turn signals.

Pre-Trip Inspection Best Practices:

• Scheduled Inspections: Conduct pre-trip inspections before each journey and after long breaks.
• Checklist Adherence: Follow the pre-trip inspection checklist meticulously to avoid overlooking critical components.
• Driver Training: Train drivers on conducting thorough pre-trip inspections and reporting any issues.
• Documentation: Document pre-trip inspection results and any maintenance performed.
• Reporting Deficiencies: Promptly report any vehicle deficiencies to the appropriate maintenance personnel.

Safetymint for your Pre-Trip Inspections:

Streamline your pre-trip inspections with Safetymint, our advanced inspection software . Safetymint simplifies the inspection process, making it easy for drivers to conduct and document pre-trip inspections efficiently. Our cloud-based platform ensures data security and stability, making it the ideal solution for all your inspection needs. Try Safetymint free for 14 days and enhance your vehicle safety protocols.

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Disclaimer: The Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist provided by Safetymint is intended for general informational purposes only. Each vehicle may have specific inspection requirements based on make, model, and regulations. Users of this template are encouraged to review and customize the checklist to align with their specific vehicles, environment, and safety regulations.

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• NJ CDL Pretrip Videos
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FREE 2024 New Jersey (NJ) Inside Cab Inspection Pretrip

2024 nj inside cab inspection pretrip.

Based on the 2024 NJ CDL Driver's Manual

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Official Site of The State of New Jersey

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School Bus Inspections

225 e. state street, trenton, nj 08666-177, phone: 609-777-4186, email: [email protected].

225 E. State Street Trenton, NJ 08666-680 Phone: 609-777-4186 Email: [email protected]

• School buses
• Small school vehicles
• Dual-purpose vehicles
• Summer camp vehicles registered in the state
• General questions can be emailed to [email protected]

Initial inspection

Initial inspections are required prior to issuance of license plates and registration. All school vehicles must be inspected by the MVC School Bus Inspection Unit.

To apply for S1 or S2 license plates and registration for the first time:

• Title your vehicle at any Motor Vehicle Agency.
• Contact the School Bus Inspection Unit at (609) 633-9473 to schedule an inspection. Established school bus companies and school districts can contact their assigned inspection teams.
• After passing inspection, take Form SS-14 "Authorization to Issue School Bus License Plates" to any Motor Vehicle Agency to purchase license plates and registration.

Biannual inspection

Vehicles registered for school transportation are inspected twice a year. View a sample inspection checklist [213k pdf].

If you cannot make your scheduled inspection, you must notify the School Bus Inspection Unit in writing at least 24 hours prior to the inspection. Fax all notifications to (609) 984-9532

Any vehicle used to transport school children must comply with the inspection requirements, certified by displaying the MVC issued inspection sticker. If you do not display the sticker, your vehicle is subject to penalties and fines.

Use the related links on the right to find more information about school buses in New Jersey's Administrative Code.

Accident reporting

You must report an accident involving a School Bus within 72 hours to the School Bus Inspection Unit (609) 633-9473.

New Jersey Administrative Code (N.J.A.C) School Bus Regulations [pdf]

• General School Bus Regulations 13:20-30.1
• Out of Service Information 13:20-31.1
• Specially Equipped Buses 13:20-49.1
• Information for buses manufactured from 1993 to 2005 13:20-49A.1
• Information for buses manufactured from January 1, 2006 and thereafter 13:20-50.1
• Small School Vehicles 13:20-51.1
• Insurance Requirements 13:20-52.1
• Alternatively Fueled Vehicles 13:20-53.1

Record Inspections

Driver record inspections incorporated into the vehicle inspection process may be performed during terminal inspections, through the course of an accident investigation, or as part of an ad hoc audit.

School Bus Certification Driver Roster

Related Links

• Free Practice Tests

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Getting a CDL

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CDL Types & Permits

Endorsements & Restrictions

CDL Exam Preparation

Written exams

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• Skills test
• Pre-trip inspection
• TSA background check
• Retake policy

CDL Maintenance

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