Vehicle Inspection and Pre-Trip Procedures
Vehicle Inspection and Pre-Trip Procedures
This domain tests whether you can prove a passenger-carrying CMV is safe before anyone boards. The exam expects a systematic exterior and interior inspection, not just a walk-around.
Core rules
- Check the exterior: tires, wheels, lights, mirrors, windshield, wipers, horn, exhaust, steering, suspension, and brake components.
- Check the interior passenger items: seats and seat belts, aisle clear, standee line visible, doors operate, emergency exits open and close, exit alarms work, and windows/escape hatches are unobstructed.
- Verify required emergency equipment: fire extinguisher properly charged and mounted, first aid kit, warning reflectors/fuses, and a spare fuse if required.
- Test air brake pressure buildup and leakage, low-pressure warning, and parking/spring brakes. Confirm the brake-door interlock prevents movement with the door open if equipped.
- If a wheelchair lift or tie-down is fitted, inspect and cycle it.
Worked example
A driver finds the rear emergency door opens but the alarm does not sound. The correct action is to remove the bus from service until repaired. The alarm is part of the emergency-exit warning system; a silent exit can let a passenger leave unnoticed while the bus is moving.
Traps
Treating pre-trip as only the engine and tires. Skipping emergency exits, aisle clearance, and the standee line. Accepting a minor defect because the trip is short. Failing to document a defect and notify the carrier.