CLP - Commercial Learner's Permit Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection Questions and Answers

Question 1

When inspecting the tires on a commercial motor vehicle, what is the minimum required tread depth for the steering axle tires?

Accepted Answer

4/32 inch

Answer

2/32 inch

Answer

3/32 inch

Answer

6/32 inch

Question 2

A driver is performing an in-cab inspection and notices that the oil pressure gauge is not rising to the normal operating range after starting the engine. What is the most appropriate action to take?

Accepted Answer

Shut off the engine immediately and report the issue.

Answer

Drive the vehicle for a few miles to see if the pressure builds up.

Answer

Assume the gauge is faulty and continue with the inspection.

Answer

Rev the engine to a high RPM to increase the oil pressure.

Question 3

During a walk-around inspection of the suspension system, which of the following would be an immediate safety concern that must be addressed before driving?

Accepted Answer

A cracked or broken leaf spring.

Answer

A slightly dirty shock absorber.

Answer

Minor surface rust on the U-bolts.

Answer

A small scuff mark on an airbag.

Question 4

Which of the following pieces of emergency equipment is NOT required to be on every commercial motor vehicle according to FMCSA regulations?

Accepted Answer

A nine-item first-aid kit.

Answer

A properly charged and rated fire extinguisher.

Answer

Three red reflective triangles.

Answer

Spare electrical fuses (unless the vehicle uses circuit breakers).

Question 5

While inspecting the fuel tank area, you observe a small, damp spot on the ground directly under the tank and a strong smell of diesel. What should you do?

Accepted Answer

Identify the source of the leak and report the defect immediately; do not operate the vehicle.

Answer

Note it on the inspection report and check it again at the end of the day.

Answer

Wipe the area clean and continue the trip, as minor seepage is normal.

Answer

Ignore it, as it is likely just condensation from the tank.

Question 6

When inspecting the steering system, what is the maximum amount of play that is generally acceptable on a 20-inch steering wheel?

Accepted Answer

Approximately 10 degrees or 2 inches of movement.

Answer

Approximately 5 degrees or 1 inch of movement.

Answer

Approximately 15 degrees or 3 inches of movement.

Answer

Approximately 20 degrees or 4 inches of movement.