SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/cdl-check-mirrors-regularly

How often does the CDL manual say to check your mirrors?

Check mirrors regularly, and more often in special situations.

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  1. Only before changing lanes
  2. Regularly, and more often in special situations ✔
  3. Only when backing up

Why: Traffic beside and behind you keeps changing. Check your mirrors regularly, and more often for lane changes, turns, merges and tight maneuvers.

Huh, didn't know that: Every truck has blind spots that mirrors cannot show, so watch for vehicles moving into them.

The dad joke
Why do truck mirrors tell secrets? They always reflect on what is behind you.
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References

Answer: Regularly, and more often in special situations. Traffic beside and behind you keeps changing. Check your mirrors regularly, and more often for lane changes, turns, merges and tight maneuvers.

  1. California Commercial Driver Handbook (AAMVA model manual) www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/file/california-commercial-driver-handbook-pdf
    Check your mirrors regularly. Check more often in special situations.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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