SD CDL - South Dakota Commercial Drivers License Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection Questions and Answers

Question 1

During the in-cab portion of the pre-trip inspection, what is the minimum required tread depth for the front steering axle tires?

Accepted Answer

4/32 inch

Answer

Federal and state regulations require a minimum tread depth of 4/32 of an inch on all steering axle tires to ensure proper grip and handling. Drive and trailer tires require a minimum of 2/32 inch.

Question 2

A driver performing a pre-trip inspection on a vehicle with air brakes notices that the low-pressure warning light and buzzer activate. At or before what pressure must this warning occur?

Accepted Answer

55 PSI

Answer

According to the standardized CDL air brake check procedure, the low air pressure warning devices (light and/or buzzer) must activate at or before the pressure drops to 55 PSI to provide the driver with adequate warning of a potential braking system failure.

Question 3

Which of the following items is NOT a required piece of emergency equipment that must be checked during a pre-trip inspection?

Accepted Answer

A first-aid kit

Answer

While a first-aid kit is highly recommended, federal regulations specifically mandate that a commercial motor vehicle must be equipped with a fire extinguisher, spare fuses (if applicable), and warning devices for stopped vehicles (such as three reflective triangles).

Question 4

When inspecting the steering system, what is the maximum amount of acceptable play or 'slack' in a 20-inch steering wheel?

Accepted Answer

2 inches

Answer

The acceptable limit for steering wheel play is 10 degrees, which translates to approximately 2 inches of movement at the rim of a 20-inch steering wheel. Exceeding this amount could indicate worn steering components and is considered unsafe.

Question 5

A driver is about to begin their pre-trip inspection for the day. Before inspecting any components, what is the very first step they must legally take according to 49 CFR 396.13?

Accepted Answer

Review the previous driver's Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR).

Answer

Federal regulation 49 CFR 396.13 explicitly requires a driver to review the last DVIR prepared for the vehicle. They must be satisfied that any listed safety-related defects have been repaired before operating the vehicle.

SD CDL - South Dakota Commercial Drivers License Practice Test

SD CDL - South Dakota Commercial Drivers License Practice Test

SD CDL - South Dakota Commercial Drivers License Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection Questions and Answers