CDL · Inspecting Combination Vehicles

During the pre-trip of a combination vehicle, which item requires inspection at the trailer's rear?

Correct answer

Rear doors (sealed and latched correctly if cargo doors); ICC bumper (rear underride guard) condition; rear clearance lights and brake/turn/reverse lights; reflective tape; license plate and light; mud flaps; any visible damage to the rear frame

  1. A Only the rear doors and lights
  2. B Rear doors (sealed and latched correctly if cargo doors); ICC bumper (rear underride guard) condition; rear clearance lights and brake/turn/reverse lights; reflective tape; license plate and light; mud flaps; any visible damage to the rear frame
  3. C Only the brake lights
  4. D Rear of trailer requires no specific inspection

Why this is the answer

TRAILER REAR INSPECTION covers: DOORS: Sealed, latched, and in a configuration that allows them to open safely when needed — doors left unlatched can swing open at speed; UNDERRIDE GUARD (ICC bumper): Must be structurally sound — protects other vehicles from going under the trailer in a rear collision; LIGHTS: All rear lights required — brake lights, turn signals, clearance lights, marker lights, license plate light; REFLECTIVE TAPE: Required conspicuity tape on trailers — check it's present and undamaged; DAMAGE: Any visible structural damage, cracks, or missing components get documented on the DVIR.
Source: FMCSA CDL Manual Chapter 11, Pre-Trip Inspection, Trailer Rear

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