ELDT - Entry Level Driver Training Pre- and Post-Trip Inspections Questions and Answers 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: According to FMCSA regulations, when must a driver prepare a Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR)?
- Only when a defect is found on a property-carrying vehicle. (Correct answer)
- Before starting every trip, regardless of vehicle type.
- At the end of every trip, for all commercial vehicles.
- Once per week, if no defects are noted.
Correct answer: Only when a defect is found on a property-carrying vehicle.
FMCSA regulation 49 CFR 396.11 requires drivers of property-carrying CMVs to complete a DVIR only if a defect or deficiency is discovered. For passenger-carrying vehicles, a DVIR must be completed daily, regardless of whether defects are found.
Question 2: During an in-cab pre-trip inspection, what is the maximum allowable free play for a 20-inch steering wheel?
- 4 inches
- 3 inches
- 2 inches (Correct answer)
- 1 inch
Correct answer: 2 inches
The generally accepted standard for steering wheel free play is no more than 10% of the steering wheel's diameter. For a standard 20-inch steering wheel, this equates to a maximum of 2 inches of movement before the steering mechanism engages.
Question 3: A driver is performing a pre-trip inspection on the front axle. What is the minimum legal tread depth for the steer tires?
- 2/32 inch
- 4/32 inch (Correct answer)
- 6/32 inch
- 1/32 inch
Correct answer: 4/32 inch
According to federal regulations, the minimum allowable tread depth for steer axle tires is 4/32 of an inch. Drive and trailer tires must have a minimum of 2/32 of an inch.
Question 4: Which of the following items is NOT required to be checked as part of the post-trip inspection report mandated by 49 CFR 396.11?
- Service brakes
- Steering mechanism
- Cleanliness of the cabin (Correct answer)
- Wheels and rims
Correct answer: Cleanliness of the cabin
FMCSA regulation 49 CFR 396.11 specifies the parts and accessories that must be inspected, including brakes, steering, lights, tires, horn, wipers, mirrors, coupling devices, wheels/rims, and emergency equipment. While a clean cab is good practice, it is not a federally mandated item on the post-trip DVIR.
Question 5: During a post-trip inspection, a driver discovers a cracked leaf spring on their tractor. What is the appropriate next step?
- Note the defect on the Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR). (Correct answer)
- Continue driving and report it at the end of the week.
- Attempt to repair the spring themselves before the next shift.
- Ignore the defect as it does not affect immediate operation.
Correct answer: Note the defect on the Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR).
The purpose of a post-trip inspection is to identify and report any defects that may have developed during the day. Any identified safety-critical defects, such as a cracked leaf spring, must be documented on the DVIR so the motor carrier can perform the necessary repairs before the vehicle is operated again.
Question 6: What is the primary purpose of conducting a pre-trip inspection?
- To satisfy the requirements of the shipping company.
- To ensure the vehicle is clean and presentable.
- To identify and address any potential mechanical or safety issues before operating the vehicle. (Correct answer)
- To warm up the engine and vehicle components before driving.
Correct answer: To identify and address any potential mechanical or safety issues before operating the vehicle.
The pre-trip inspection is a critical safety measure required by the FMCSA to confirm that a commercial vehicle is safe to operate. Its main purpose is to find and fix any problems that could cause a breakdown or an accident before the trip begins.
ELDT - Entry Level Driver Training Pre- and Post-Trip Inspections Questions and Answers 1
According to FMCSA regulations, when must a driver prepare a Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR)?