Light Checks

Light Checks

Step One: Dash Light Indicators

Test that dash indicators work when corresponding lights are turned on:

• Left turn signal.
• Right turn signal.
• Four-way emergency flashers.
• High beam headlight.
• ABS Indicator light--when starting the engine, check the dashboard to ensure the ABS lighting indicator illuminates and then promptly turns off. If the ABS lighting indicator remains illuminated, the ABS is not functioning properly and needs to be serviced.
• Check the ABS Light on the rear driver’s side of the trailer. If the ABS light remains illuminated, the ABS is NOT functioning properly and needs to be serviced.

Step Two: Check that all external lights and reflective equipment are clean and functional.

The Examiner can assist you by inspecting the lights as you point them out.

You are responsible for telling the examiner exactly which lights you want him/her to inspect. The examiner cannot “cue” or assist you in remembering which lights you must inspect.

Check:

1. Clearance lights (red on rear, amber elsewhere).
2. Headlights- High Beams
3. Headlights- Low Beams
4. Left Turn signals.
5. Right Turn Signals
6. Four-way flashers.
7. Taillights.
8. Brake lights.

Note: Checks of brake, turn signal and four-way flasher functions must be done separately.

Clearance and rear identification lights mark the “overall width” of the design dimension of the widest part of the vehicle, exclusive of the signal lamps, marker lamps, outside rearview mirrors, flexible fender extension and mud flaps. Clearance and identification lamps are required on most buses, trucks and trailers that are 80 inches or more in overall width. Red light on rear corners of vehicle and/or trailer(s).

Step Three: Check reflectors & DOT reflective tape:

Reflectors and/or reflector tape allow other traffic to see the side outline of the vehicle and/or trailer(s). Check to make sure:

• All reflectors are clean, not missing or broken and are of proper color (red on rear, amber elsewhere).
• DOT reflector tape is present, affixed securely to the vehicle/trailer and clean.