PTI is universal?

Ya, that's pretty much it, with one exception. It says trailer axles 1, or 2. There's a lot of trucks out there with trailers that have more than 2 axles. Just change it as needed. The only place I recall having an actual check list to be filled out, is the "pre trip" in Canada. In the US, I've never actually filled out a list. Not that a company couldn't require it though, but that's what you need for your CDL exam.

 

http://www.thetruckersreport.com/tr...ivers/131546-proper-pre-trip-for-newbies.html

 

There is no standard list since there's no standard truck. Try to inspect the truck I drive that's 85' and has no fifth wheel. You can take the list and modify it to your truck and should be safe as long as you cover every item.

 

Well said GasHauler, The purpose of the PTI, is this truck safe to drive, so check accordingly, brakes,tires,lights,etc...

 

The Vermont testing is different than the testing in neighboring New Hampshire. Consequently, the local school prepares people differently for the test depending on what state they will take it in.
In Vt you take about 10-15 min to do the PTI, and its pretty general. There are 70 things the instructor makes sure you check, or "mention." For instance, you explain that with the brakes released (and wheels blocked) the play isn't more than allowed, but you don't get down there and pull on it. Then you explain that you would "inspect the opposite side as you did this one".

NH requires the testee to get right under the truck and actually check those brakes. PTI takes 3 times as long on their test

Likewise with the skills part of the test. VT has you perform an alley dock. You get 3 attempts with 2 pull-ups. That's it.

NH tests you on several backing maneuvers. You may be asked to Alley dock. offset park, Parallel park or straight line.

So, if you read a driver's CDL manual from 2 different states they are most likely very similar as most are published by the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators, and have virtually identical passages. However, it's worth finding out what your state tests on because they aren't the same.