Texas CDL Side and Rear Inspection

Move from the front side area toward the rear without skipping axles or repeating randomly. Maintain awareness of traffic and the examiner. Look under and above the vehicle where required without placing yourself in an unsafe position.

Inspect tire condition, inflation appearance, tread area, valve stems, rims, lug nuts, and hub seals. Dual tires need proper spacing and no lodged debris. Look for grease or oil leakage and signs of looseness, overheating, cracks, or illegal damage.

Check springs, mounts, hangers, torque rods, shocks, air bags, brake hoses, chambers, slack adjusters where applicable, linings or pads, drums or rotors, and mounting hardware. Components must be secure, compatible across the axle, and free from disqualifying damage or contamination.

Inspect fuel and DEF tanks, battery boxes, steps, doors, mirrors, reflectors, frame, exhaust, and cargo securement. Caps and doors must be closed, supports secure, and no hazardous leak present. Passenger or school-bus vehicles require their assigned exterior items.

Check doors, hinges, latches, splash guards, rear lights, reflectors, conspicuity markings, license plate area, and cargo or lift equipment. The rear must be closed and secure unless the test instruction requires another condition.

On combinations, inspect air and electrical lines, frame and catwalk clearance, fifth wheel, kingpin engagement, release handle, landing gear, and trailer apron. Confirm there is no improper gap and enough clearance for turns before movement.