Table of Contents
Are you a CDL holder? Then you need to know about the CDL Class A in Cab Inspection. It is a part of the CDL road test that requires you to demonstrate your knowledge and skills of inspecting the inside of the cab and the air brake system of a Class A commercial motor vehicle or Class A CMV such as tractor-trailers, flatbeds, tankers, livestock carriers, and buses.
A CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) Class A in-cab inspection is a procedure that a CDL holder must perform before starting a trip in a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) that requires a Class A license.
This inspection is essential to ensure the safety and proper operation of the vehicle. Find in this article a basic checklist for an in-cab inspection for a Class A CDL
To Do a CDL Class A in Cab Inspection, use this checklist:
- Start with Documentation
- Adjust the Seat, Mirrors, Seat Belt and Steering Wheel
- Test the Horn, Lights and Signals, Dashboard Controls and Gauges, Air Brakes, Brake Pedals and Emergency Breaks
- Check out the Windshield and Windows, Windshield Wipers and Washers, Transmission and Shifter, Clutch and Accelerator Pedals, Steering and Suspension
- Examine the Emergency Equipment
- Carry Out Tire Inspection
- Ensure You and All passengers Fasten Your Seatbelts
Ready? Let’s begin!
1. Start with Documentation
To carry out a CDL Class A in Cab Inspection, begin with documentation
This demands that you:
- Ensure you have your CDL and any required endorsements.
- Verify that the vehicle registration, insurance, and any other necessary paperwork are in the vehicle.
- Check your dashboard paperwork. Make sure any necessary paperwork (trip logs, bills of lading, etc.) is readily accessible.
2. Adjust the Seat, Mirrors, Seat Belt and Steering Wheel
To perform a CDL Class A in-Cab Inspection, set the seat, mirrors, seat belts and steering wheel.
That’s pretty easy! Just:
- Adjust the driver’s seat to a comfortable and safe driving position.
- Check that all mirrors (rearview, side, and convex mirrors) are clean
- Adjust your mirrors properly to give you a clear view around the vehicle.
- Ensure the seat belt is in good working condition and fasten it securely.
- Check the steering wheel for any unusual play or looseness.
>>>MORE: How To Get a CDL Class A
3. Test the Horn, Lights and Signals, Dashboard Controls and Gauges, Air Brakes, Brake Pedals and Emergency Breaks
To do an in-cab CDL Class A inspection, check if the horn, lights and signals, dashboard controls and gauges, air brakes, brake pedals and emergency brakes are working well.
A simple way to do this is to:
- Test the horn to make sure it works.
- Test all exterior lights (headlights, turn signals, brake lights, and hazard lights).
- Ensure that the dashboard indicator lights are working and that there are no warning lights illuminated.
- Check that all dashboard controls (air conditioning, heater, defroster, etc.) are functioning correctly.
- Monitor gauges for engine temperature, oil pressure, and other critical parameters.
- If your vehicle has air brakes, ensure that the air pressure is within the correct operating range.
- Test the brake pedal for proper brake function and responsiveness.
- Test the emergency or parking brake to ensure it holds the vehicle in place.
4. Check out the Windshield and Windows, Windshield Wipers and Washers, Transmission and Shifter, Clutch and Accelerator Pedals, Steering and Suspension
To conduct an in-cab CDL Class A inspection, ensure the windshield and windows, windshield wipers and washers, transmission and shifter, clutch and accelerator pedals, steering and suspension are in good condition.
This requires that you:
- Clean the windshield and windows for good visibility, and inspect for any cracks, chips, or obstructions.
- Verify that the wipers are in good condition and functioning correctly.
- Ensure the washer fluid reservoir is filled.
- Check the transmission and shifter to ensure they are operating smoothly.
- Ensure the clutch and accelerator pedals are working properly.
- Check the steering and suspension for any visible issues or irregularities.
5. Examine the Emergency Equipment
To do an in-cab CDL Class A inspection, ensure that adequate emergency equipment is present and in good working condition.
Inspecting and ensuring that your emergency equipment is in proper working order is crucial for safety when operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV). Here’s a list of emergency equipment to check before every trip:
Fire Extinguisher
- Verify that the fire extinguisher is in place, secure, and charged.
- Check the pressure gauge to ensure it’s within the recommended range.
- Ensure the safety pin is intact and the nozzle is clear of obstructions.
Warning Triangles or Reflective Devices
- Ensure that you have the required number of warning triangles (usually three).
- Check that they are in good condition with reflective surfaces.
- Place them at the specified distances behind the vehicle when stopped on the roadside.
Spare Fuses and Bulbs
- Keep a set of spare fuses and bulbs for the vehicle’s lighting systems.
- Ensure they are the correct types and ratings for your vehicle.
First Aid Kit
- Make sure your first aid kit is stocked with essential medical supplies.
- Check that the kit is not an expired one, and all items are in good condition.
Reflective Vest
- Verify that you have a high-visibility reflective vest.
- Ensure it’s easily accessible in the cab.
Emergency Phone Numbers and Contact Information
- Keep a list of emergency contact numbers, including your company’s dispatch and emergency services.
Hazardous Material Documentation (if applicable)
- If transporting hazardous materials, ensure you have the necessary paperwork, placards, and emergency response information.
Emergency Escape Tool
- Some drivers keep an emergency escape tool, which can be used to break glass or cut seatbelts in case of an accident.
Jumper Cables
- Have a set of jumper cables for jump-starting the vehicle in case of a dead battery.
Tire Chains
- Ensure that you have appropriate tire chains in good condition if you’ll be driving in areas where it’s a requirement during adverse weather.
Blankets or Warm Clothing
- Consider keeping blankets or warm clothing in the cab, especially for cold weather conditions.
Portable Flashlight
- Have a working flashlight with spare batteries for emergencies that occur in the dark.
Additional Tools
- Carry basic tools like a wrench, pliers, and a screwdriver for minor repairs or adjustments.
6. Carry Out Tire Inspection
To conduct a CDL Class A in-cab inspection, don’t forget to inspect all your tires.
Tire inspection is a critical part of ensuring the safety and efficiency of a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) to prevent accidents and breakdowns. Here’s a detailed guide on how to inspect tires on a commercial vehicle:
>>>GET SMARTER: Commercial Driver’s License Pre-Trip Inspection
Visual Inspection
Tread Depth
Measure the tread depth of each tire using a tread depth gauge. Ensure the tread depth is above the legal minimum (varies by jurisdiction).
Tire Condition
Inspect the tires for cuts, punctures, bulges, cracks, and other visible damage. Pay special attention to the sidewalls.
Tire Inflation
Check tire pressure using a tire pressure gauge. Maintain proper inflation levels as specified in the vehicle’s manual or on the tire sidewall.
Tire Wear
Look for uneven or irregular tire wear, which can indicate alignment or balance issues. Check for feathering or cupping on the tread.
Valve Stems
Inspect valve stems for damage or leaks.
Hub Oil Seals
Check for oil leaks around the hub oil seals, as this can lead to tire damage.
Lug Nuts
Ensure all lug nuts are present, tight, and properly torqued. Look for signs of rust or loose wheel components.
Wheel Fasteners
Inspect wheel fasteners for signs of rust, distortion, or other defects.
Wheel Alignment
Observe the tire’s alignment to see if it’s properly aligned with the wheel and axles.
Spacers or Adapters (if equipped)
Check for proper installation and condition.
Valve Caps
Ensure that all valve stems have valve caps to prevent debris from entering and affecting tire pressure.
Check for the Proper Size and Type
- Confirm that all tires are the correct size and type for the vehicle and load
- Verify that they meet any specific requirements, such as load rating or speed rating.
Ensure Proper Tire Rotation
Tires should be rotated regularly as per the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure even wear.
Check for Balance
If you notice uneven tire wear or vibration at certain speeds, it may indicate that the tires need to be balanced.
Check for Balance
If you notice uneven tire wear or vibration at certain speeds, it may indicate that the tires need to be balanced.
Inspect the Spare Tire
If your CMV carries a spare tire, ensure that it’s in good condition, properly inflated, and mounted securely.
7. Ensure You and All passengers Fasten Your Seatbelts
To do a CDL Class A in-cab inspection, make sure all passengers fasten their seat belts if you’re not driving solo. Of course, don’t forget to always fasten your seatbelt too.
Recap
When performing a CDL Class A in-cab inspection, begin with the paperwork; then, check the horn, lights and signals; dashboard controls and gauges; air brakes; brake pedals; emergency breaks; and adjust the seat, mirrors, seat belt and steering wheel. Examine the emergency equipment, inspect the tires, make sure you and all passengers wear seatbelts and check the windscreen, windows, wipers, washers, transmission, clutch, accelerator pedals, steering and suspension.