General CDL Questions & Answers
132. If you have an engine fire, you should
Turn off the engine as soon as possible. (To keep an engine fire from spreading, you should turn off the vehicle's engine as soon as possible. Do not open the hood if you don't have to.)
106. When driving on a wet road, you should reduce your speed by
About one-third. (Reduce your speed when traveling on surfaces that provide reduced traction. Reduce your speed by about one-third when driving on a wet road.)
126. You must put out emergency warning devices within ____ of stopping on the side of the road.
10 minutes (If you must stop on the shoulder of a road, put out your emergency warning devices within 10 minutes of stopping. When pulling off the road to stop, be sure to turn on your four-way emergency flashers.)
99. If you must stop on the side of a highway, how far behind your vehicle should warning devices be placed?
10, 100, and 200 feet (When stopping your CMV on the side of a highway, warning devices must be placed 10 feet, 100 feet, and 200 feet behind the vehicle.)
100. Scan the road ____ ahead of your vehicle.
12 to 15 seconds (Good drivers scan the road at least 12 to 15 seconds ahead of their vehicles. Looking ahead will allow you to identify and react to hazards before meeting them. Be sure to specifically look for vehicles that are coming onto the highway, entering into your lane, or turning.)
120. In hot weather, spots on the pavement where tar is bleeding
Are very slippery. (Tar in road pavement often rises to the surface of the road, or "bleeds," in very hot weather. Watch for such areas because they can be very slippery.)
146. An open automobile window in cold weather may indicate that the driver is
Driving impaired. (It is important to observe other drivers' behaviors and identify clues that indicate when person could be driving impaired. Drivers who have had too much to drink, are sleepy, are on drugs, or are ill can present hazards to other drivers. A person driving with their window open in cold weather may be impaired.)
115. When testing a parking brake, the vehicle should
Be placed in a low gear while the driver attempts to pull forward. (To test a parking brake, you should fasten your safety belt, set the parking brake for the power unit, release the trailer parking brake (if applicable), place the vehicle in low gear, and attempt to pull forward against the parking brake. If the parking brake does not hold while you are attempting to pull forward against it, the brake is faulty and must be fixed.)
102. You should check and adjust your mirrors
Before driving. (Be sure to check your mirrors before beginning a drive. Your posture may change day to day and your mirrors may need to be adjusted.)
130. When driving a vehicle equipped with an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), you should
Brake as you would in a vehicle not equipped with ABS. (When driving a tractor-trailer combination that is equipped with an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), you should brake in the same manner that you would if the vehicle was not equipped with ABS.)
139. Over-the-counter medication
Can affect a person's ability to drive safely. (Prescription and over-the-counter medications may have side effects that can impair a person's ability to drive safely. It is illegal to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or any other controlled substance, including some over-the-counter medications.)
128. If an aggressive driver confronts you, you should not
Challenge them. (When confronted with an aggressive driver, your first priority should be to get out of their way. Do not provoke the driver by making eye contact, trying to race, or refusing to move out of your traffic lane. Additionally, ignore any gestures that are intended to provoke you.)
96. When backing up, follow a turning trailer by
Changing the direction of the steering wheel. (When backing with a trailer, begin by turning the steering wheel in the direction opposite of the turn. Once the trailer starts to turn, reverse the direction of the steering wheel to follow the trailer.)
142. If you realize you may be running late to your destination, you should
Deal with it and drive at a safe speed. (To reduce the risk of developing aggressive driving behavior, you should take measures to manage your stress. One strategy to do this is to simply take a deep breath and accept your circumstances if you realize you will be late to your destination.)
147. While driving, you should
Develop plans to get out of any dangerous situation that could arise. (While driving, you should consistently check the road ahead for hazards. Develop a plan to deal with any hazards that could arise.)
149. How many daily hours of sleep does an adult need to maintain alertness?
Eight to nine hours. (Being properly rested is essential to the safe operation of a CMV. To maintain alertness, most people need eight to nine hours of sleep per night.)
140. If you are driving at a reduced speed in a construction zone when you spot a construction worker near the road, you should
Further reduce your speed. (Always decrease your speed when traveling through a construction area. Slow down even further if there are workers on or near the roadway.)
124. What should you do if your vehicle gets stuck on railroad tracks?
Get out of the vehicle and call for assistance. (If your CMV gets stuck on railroad tracks, you should immediately leave the vehicle and get away from the tracks. Check the signposts or signal housing at the crossing for emergency contact information and call 911, or another appropriate emergency number.)
112. Leaking shock absorbers
Indicate a potentially dangerous defect. (The suspension system keeps a vehicle's axles in place. Damaged suspension parts, such as leaking shock absorbers, may be potentially dangerous defects on a vehicle.)
110. If you are turning left at an intersection where there are two available turn lanes
It is best to use the right lane. (You may have to swing right to safely make a left turn. If there are two left turn lanes available at an intersection, you should always begin your turn in the rightmost lane.)
113. Texting while driving is especially dangerous because
It is both a mental and physical distraction. (Texting while driving is particularly dangerous because it is both a mental and physical distraction to the driver. In addition to diverting a driver's mental attention away from the road, texting requires a person to remove at least one hand from the vehicle's controls.)
145. What is the purpose of a vehicle inspection report?
It tells the motor carrier about problems that may need to be fixed. (A vehicle inspection report allows a driver to inform the motor carrier of issues that could affect the safe operation of a vehicle. If required, the driver should fill out a vehicle inspection report after every day of driving. They should make note of any issues that could affect the safety of the vehicle or that could lead to a mechanical breakdown.)
127. How could you reduce your stress while driving?
Listen to calming music (Being under stress can lead to aggressive driving, which is dangerous. Playing calming music can help you become more relaxed if you are feeling stressed while driving.)
133. If an approaching driver is using their high beam headlights, you should
Look to the right side of your lane until the vehicle has passed. (If a vehicle is coming toward you while using its high beam headlights, glance away from the headlights and toward the right side of the road until the vehicle has passed. This will keep you from being blinded by the lights.)
144. A person working on a disabled vehicle on the shoulder of a road
May be focused on the repair and not paying attention to roadway traffic. (Be cautious when driving near people who are working on disabled vehicles. The task will likely consume their attention, so they may not be aware of traffic or other hazards on the road.)
125. To avoid a hazard, you
May need to swerve your vehicle out of the way. (Stopping is not always the best way to avoid a hazard. If there is not enough space for you to stop to avoid coming into contact with the hazard, swerving out of the way may be your safest option.)
143. Joggers who are wearing headsets
May not be aware of what is happening around them. (Be careful around pedestrians, joggers, and cyclists who are wearing headphones. They may not be able to clearly hear surrounding traffic and may not be aware that you are there.)
109. Dual tires should
Not come into contact with one another. (When inspecting a vehicle, you should verify that your dual tires do not come into contact with one another, or with any other part of the vehicle.)
122. When approaching a railroad crossing, you should
Not rely solely on warning signals to indicate if a train is approaching. (You should not rely solely upon the presence of warning signals, gates, or flaggers to alert you to the approach of a train. Be especially alert to approaching trains at crossings that are not controlled by gates or signals. At any railroad crossing, you should operate under the assumption that a train is coming.)
141. If a vehicle is carrying hazardous cargo, placards must be placed
On the front, rear, and sides of the vehicle. (Placards must be placed on the front, the rear, and both sides of a vehicle carrying hazardous cargo. They must be readable from any direction.)
108. You should maintain at least ____ of following distance per every 10 feet of your vehicle when you are traveling more slowly than 40 mph.
One second. (At speeds below 40 mph, you should allow at least one second of following distance for every 10 feet of your vehicle. Follow the same formula when traveling at faster speeds, then add one additional second to your following distance. Remember that larger vehicles require more space to stop than smaller vehicles.)
107. When driving on packed snow, you should reduce your speed by
One-half or more. (Reduce your speed when traveling on surfaces that provide reduced traction. Reduce your speed by one-half or more when traveling on packed snow.)
103. When adjusting your mirrors before a trip
Part of your vehicle should be visible in the mirrors. (When properly adjusted, your mirrors should each display some part of your vehicle. Being able to see your own vehicle in your mirrors will give you a point of reference when judging the positions of other objects.)
116. If driving a vehicle with a manual transmission, you can prevent your vehicle from rolling backward when starting from a stop by
Partly engaging the clutch before removing your foot from the brake pedal. (To prevent rolling backward when starting from a stop, you should partly engage the clutch before removing your foot from the brake. Apply the parking brake whenever necessary to prevent your vehicle from rolling back.)
150. The radiator cap
Should not be removed when the coolant is hot. (Never remove the radiator cap or any part of the pressurized cooling system until it has cooled. Opening the cap while the system is too hot could release steam and boiling water that could severely burn you. If the radiator cap is cool to the touch, the system is likely cool enough for you to open the cap.)
136. When entering a foggy area, you should
Slow down. (Always slow down before entering a foggy area. Use low beam headlights, avoid passing others, and avoid stopping on the side of the roadway. It is safest to completely avoid driving under foggy conditions, if possible.)
119. A truck should be parked
So that it can be pulled forward to leave the space. (Because you can't see everything behind you, backing is always dangerous and should be avoided whenever possible. Choose parking spaces from which you can pull forward when you leave.)
137. When using a fire extinguisher on a fire, you should
Stand as far away from the fire as possible. (When using a fire extinguisher, you should stand as far away from the fire as possible. Aim the extinguisher at the base of the fire, not at the flames. If you are not sure which kind of extinguisher should be used on a fire, particularly a hazardous materials fire, you should wait for the firefighters to arrive and allow them to extinguish it.)
129. If a tire fails, you should
Stay off the brakes. (Braking after a tire fails can result in a loss of control. Stay off your brakes, if possible, until your vehicle has slowed considerably.)
148. If an aggressive driver is involved in a crash on the road ahead of you, you should
Stop after the crash scene and report the driver's aggressive behavior to the police. (If you observe a crash involving an aggressive driver, you should stop a safe distance from the crash scene, wait for police to arrive, and inform them of the aggressive behavior you witnessed.)
101. In an emergency, if you must leave the roadway to drive on the shoulder, you should
Stop safely before returning to the road, if possible. (If a hazard requires you to drive onto the shoulder of a road, you should try to keep one set of wheels on the pavement to maintain better control of your vehicle. If possible, stay on the shoulder until your vehicle has come to a complete stop, then pull back onto the road when it is safe to do so.)
104. To warn drivers behind you that you will be slowing down, you should
Tap your brake pedal a few times to illuminate your brake lights. (To let drivers behind you know that you plan to slow down, lightly tap your brake pedal a few times to flash your brake lights. It is important to communicate your intentions to other drivers.)
114. When checking your vehicle's lights before driving
The engine should be turned off. (To check your vehicle's lights before a trip, you should set the parking brake, turn off the engine, remove the key from the ignition, and take the key with you. Turn on your low beam headlights and four-way flashers. Get out of the vehicle to make sure the lights are working properly.)
117. In cool weather, as the temperature begins to rise and ice begins to melt
The road will become even more slippery. (As the temperature begins to rise and ice on the road begins to melt, the road surface will often become even more slippery. Water from the slight melting will sit on top of the ice, decreasing the available traction even more. Always decrease your speed and drive with caution when traveling on slippery surfaces.)
88. When starting the engine of a truck with a trailer, you can tell that your vehicle's ABS is not working if
The yellow light on the left rear of the trailer stays on. (When turning on your vehicle's engine, the lights on the dash should come on and then turn off. If the ABS malfunction light stays on, the system is not working properly. In the case of a truck with a trailer, if the yellow light on the left rear of the trailer stays on once the engine has been started, the system is not working properly.)
131. After an accident, flares should be used with caution because
There may be fuel spilled on the ground that could catch fire. (A common cause of vehicle fires in the aftermath of an accident is the improper use of flares near spilled fuel. Use flares with caution.)
97. The most important reason to inspect your vehicle before a trip is
To ensure safety. (The most important reason to inspect your vehicle before a trip is to ensure the safety of yourself and others on the road. Safety inspections before every trip are required by state and federal laws.)
134. When trying to put out an electrical fire, you should
Use a B:C extinguisher. (B:C fire extinguishers are designed to work on electrical fires and burning liquids. Don't pour water on an electrical fire.)
118. When backing, it is best to
Use a helper, if possible. (If you must drive in reverse, you should back up slowly and use the mirrors on both sides of your vehicle. Use a helper to monitor your blind spots whenever possible. You and the helper should agree on a signal for "stop.")
105. When it is difficult to see and you are traveling near other drivers, you should
Use low beam lights. (Use your low beam headlights when traveling near other drivers at times when it is difficult to see, such as at dawn, at dusk, or in poor weather conditions. Using the high beam setting under certain conditions could make it difficult for other drivers to see.)
135. If you're not sure what to do to extinguish a fire in your vehicle, you should
Wait for the firefighters. (If you are not sure which kind of extinguisher should be used on a fire in your vehicle, particularly a hazardous materials fire, you should wait for the firefighters to arrive and allow them to extinguish it. )
138. The only way to sober up after consuming alcohol is to
Wait. (Most alcohol is removed from the body by the liver, which processes alcohol at a fixed rate. Despite popular belief, techniques like drinking black coffee or taking a cold shower will not accelerate this process. The only thing you can do to become sober after drinking is allow your body the time it needs to eliminate the alcohol from your system.)
123. When using your mirrors, you should frequently look at your tires to
Watch for tire fires. (Check your tires regularly when looking in your mirrors. This helps ensure that you will notice a tire fire, if one should happen. Tire fires may occur when a tire is under-inflated, if dual tires are touching, or if the tires are otherwise overheated.)
111. Slow down and be extra careful
When approaching a work zone. (Slow down and be especially careful when driving in and around work zones, in places where the pavement drops off sharply at the edge of the road, when foreign objects are present on the road, and on freeway on- and off-ramps.)
98. If you remain in neutral for too long while switching gears
You may have trouble putting the vehicle into the next gear. (If you remain in neutral for too long while switching gears, you may have difficulty putting the vehicle into the next gear. If this happens, do not try to force the gear shift. Instead, return to neutral, release the clutch, increase the engine speed to match the road speed, and try again.)
121. When near a railroad crossing
You may not hear a train, even if one is approaching. (You should never assume that you will hear an approaching train. The train operator may fail to sound the horn, or the use of a train's horn may be prohibited in a specific area. Even if the train does sound its horn, noise from inside your own vehicle may prevent you from hearing the train until it is dangerously close.)
42. It is illegal to operate a CMV with a minimum blood alcohol content (BAC) of
0.04 percent. (Operating a CMV with a minimum blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.04 percent is illegal and will result in loss of license for at least one year for a first offense. If you operate a CMV with any detectable amount of alcohol in your system while remaining below the legal limit of 0.04 percent, you will be put out-of-service for at least 24 hours.)
75. A tread depth of ____ should be in every major groove of a tire that is not in the front of a commercial motor vehicle.
2/32 of an inch (For safe operation, a commercial motor vehicle needs a tread depth of 4/32 of an inch in every major groove on the front tires, and a tread depth of 2/32 of an inch on other tires.)
73. A tread depth of ____ should be in every major groove of a front tire.
4/32 of an inch (For safe operation, a commercial motor vehicle needs a tread depth of 4/32 of an inch in every major groove on the front tires, and a tread depth of 2/32 of an inch on other tires.)
87. A pre-trip inspection should include
A check of the engine oil level. (When examining the engine compartment during a pre-trip inspection, you should check the engine oil level, the radiator coolant level, and the condition of the hoses.)
56. Black ice is
A thin layer of ice on the road. (Black ice is a layer of ice that is thin and clear enough for the road to be visible through it. The surface will look like a wet road. Always be alert to black ice if the road looks wet when the temperature is below freezing.)
32. When a combination vehicle goes around a corner
The front and rear wheels move in different paths. (When a vehicle goes around a corner, the rear wheels follow a different path than the front wheels. This is called off-tracking. This effect is especially pronounced on vehicles with trailers.)
48. Move over laws require
All vehicles to vacate the lane closest to an emergency vehicle that is stopped with its lights flashing. (If an emergency vehicle with its lights on is stopped on the side of the road, move over laws require drivers to vacate the lane directly next to the vehicle, if possible. If a driver cannot move over safely, they must slow down and proceed with caution.)
21. When loading cargo weight should be placed
As low as possible. (A vehicle is vulnerable to tipping over if its center of gravity is too high. To prevent this, you should distribute the weight of your cargo evenly and as low as possible.)
38. A second conviction of operating a CMV with a minimum blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.04 percent will result in
The loss of your CDL for life. (It is illegal to operate a CMV if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.04 percent or higher. A first offense will result in the loss of your CDL for one year. A second offense will result in the loss of your CDL for life.)
62. When conducting a pre-drive inspection
The previous inspection report should be reviewed, if applicable. (The first step of a vehicle inspection is to review the last vehicle inspection report. Only sign the report if noted defects are certified to have been repaired.)
59. When making a turn, when should you cancel your turn signal?
After the turn is completed. (When turning or changing lanes, you should signal early and signal continuously. Cancel your turn signal once the turn or lane change is complete.)
93. In very hot weather, tires should be checked regularly because
Air pressure may increase with the temperature. (Air expands as it gets warmer, so the air pressure in your tires could reach dangerously high levels while being used in very hot weather. If this happens, stop and let your tires cool. Do not let air out of the tires, as this could result in the pressure dropping to an unsafe level once the tires cool down.)
6. During the steering box portion of the vehicle inspection test, you should not
Assume all cotter keys are present. (Before a trip, ensure that the steering box is securely mounted. Check for missing nuts, bolts, and cotter keys. Be sure that there are no power steering fluid leaks and that there is no damage to power steering hoses.)
72. When passing another vehicle, you should
Assume the other driver doesn't see you. (It is always safest to assume that other drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians don't see you. Be prepared for the possibility that they may suddenly move into your path. It may be safe to lightly tap your horn or flash your lights as you pass.)
66. You will often have to drive your vehicle under bridges and overpasses. If approaching such an opening, you should
Assume the posted clearance height is inaccurate. (Do not assume that posted height clearances are accurate. If the road was repaved after the sign was posted, or if there is packed snow on the ground, the actual height of the opening may be different than what is indicated. If you are not confident that your vehicle will be able to safely clear an upcoming bridge or overpass, you should slow down and find another path, if possible.)
34. The trailer hand valve should
Be used only to test the trailer brakes. (The trailer hand valve works the trailer brakes but should only be used when testing them. Using it while driving could create a skid. Never use the trailer hand valve while parking because doing so may release the air pressure from the braking system, releasing the brakes that are holding the vehicle in place.)
63. In low temperatures, bridges usually freeze
Before other parts of the roadway. (In low temperatures, bridges usually freeze before other road surfaces. When driving in cold weather, especially when weather conditions have been wet, use special caution on bridges and overpasses.)
23. Cargo being transported should be checked
Before the trip and again within the first 50 miles of the trip. (Cargo should be inspected before beginning a trip, within the first 50 miles of the trip, and every three hours or 150 miles traveled thereafter. Cargo should be inspected every time the driver stops to take a break. The driver of a truck transporting cargo is responsible for the cargo being safely secured throughout the trip.)
14. If you need to travel down a hill, you should switch into a lower gear
Before you start moving downhill. (Always downshift before beginning to drive downhill. Forcing an automatic transmission into a lower gear at a high speed could damage the transmission and also lead to a loss of ability to engine brake. Drive at a speed that will allow you to control your vehicle without overusing your brakes. When determining a safe speed to drive, you should take into account the steepness of the grade, the length of the grade, the weight of your vehicle, road conditions, and weather conditions.)
80. A broken exhaust system
Can allow poisonous fumes to enter the cabin. (A broken exhaust system can let poisonous fumes into a vehicle's cab or sleeper berth. Be sure to inspect your exhaust system for any loose, broken, or missing parts.)
83. Distracted driving
Can be avoided by not engaging in complex conversations while driving. (To reduce the risk of distraction, do not engage in complex or emotionally intense conversations while driving. Pre-programming radio stations before your trip and avoiding eating, drinking, or smoking while at the wheel can also help you avoid becoming distracted while driving. Remember that mental distractions that take your attention away from the task of driving can be just as dangerous as physical distractions.)
69. How do ice cream trucks become hazardous to other drivers?
Children often run toward an ice cream truck without looking for other traffic. (Ice cream trucks can create hazardous conditions for other drivers because they attract children. Children often do not notice or pay attention to other vehicles on the roadway when running to or from ice cream trucks.)
4. One function of the emergency air line is to
Control the emergency brakes. (The emergency air line (also known as the supply line) has two functions. The first is to supply air to the trailer air tanks, and the second is to control the emergency brakes on combination vehicles.)
9. Accelerating roughly is
Discouraged, as it may cause damage to the vehicle. (When accelerating, speed up smoothly and gradually so your vehicle does not jerk. Rough acceleration can cause mechanical damage.)
12. Most heavy vehicles require ____ to change gears.
Double clutching (Most heavy vehicles with manual transmissions require double clutching to change gears. A driver should release the accelerator, push in the clutch, and shift into neutral at the same time. After releasing the clutch and allowing the vehicle to change to the necessary speed, the driver should push in the clutch, shift gears, then simultaneously release the clutch and accelerate.)
57. Before entering a curve, you should
Downshift. (Always downshift before entering a curve. Decreasing your speed before entering the curve will allow you to maintain better control over the vehicle throughout the curve.)
76. If driving so slowly that you could impede other drivers, you should
Drive while using your four-way flashers. (If you must drive so slowly that you will impede the flow of traffic, you should turn on your four-way flashers to alert drivers behind you (as long as local laws allow the use of flashers).)
13. The two indicators that determine when you should upshift are
Engine speed and road speed. (There are two indicators that determine when you need to shift into a higher gear. One indicator is the engine speed (rpm). You should read your vehicle's manual to learn its rpm range and shift up when you reach the top of that range. The other indicator is road speed (mph). You should learn which speeds each gear can accommodate, then keep an eye on the speedometer and shift up as needed.)
55. What is road rage?
Operating a motor vehicle with the intent of doing harm to others. (Aggressive driving is defined as operating a motor vehicle in a selfish, bold, or pushy manner. Road rage is defined as operating a motor vehicle with the intent of doing harm to others, or the intent of physically assaulting another driver or their vehicle.)
11. If you must drive in reverse, it is helpful to
First exit the truck and walk the path to look for obstacles. (If you must drive in reverse, you should first walk around the vehicle to check for hazards in your path of travel. Make frequent use of the mirrors on both sides of your vehicle while backing. Always back up as slowly as possible.)
65. If a vehicle is equipped with power steering, the hoses should be checked
For leaks. (When inspecting a vehicle with power steering, you should inspect the hoses, pumps, and fluid levels. Specifically check the hoses for leaks.)
7. During a vehicle inspection, ensure that the landing gear is
Fully raised. (When inspecting a trailer during a vehicle inspection test, ensure that its landing gear has no missing parts and that it is fully raised. The crank handle should be secure and the support frame should not be damaged.)
77. If driving through flowing water or a large puddle, you should
Gently apply the brakes. (It is best to avoid driving through large puddles or moving water. If there is no way to avoid driving through water, you should slow down, shift into a low gear, and gently apply the brakes. Pressing linings against the brake drums or discs will keep water, mud, silt, and sand from getting inside the brake mechanisms.)
74. One way to prevent drowsiness while driving is to
Get adequate sleep the night before the trip. (Driving while fatigued can be extremely dangerous. Strategies for preventing drowsiness while driving include getting a full night's sleep before a trip; having someone ride with you; scheduling trips for times during which you are normally awake; and avoiding medications that may cause drowsiness. Exercising regularly can increase your energy levels and make you less likely to become tired while driving.)
61. If you identify a distracted driver on the road, you should
Give them plenty of room. (If you encounter a distracted driver, make sure to give them plenty of room. Be very careful if you pass their vehicle because the driver may be unaware of your presence and drift into your lane.)
64. If being tailgated, you should
Increase the amount of space between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you. (If you are being tailgated, you should increase the distance between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead of you. This reduces the need for you to make sudden changes in speed or direction while making it easier for the tailgater to pass your vehicle.)
53. A stopped bus
Is a concern, whether passengers are visible or not. (Always drive cautiously around a stopped bus. Passengers may cross in front of or behind it, and the bus may prevent them from seeing your vehicle.)
67. A ramp's posted speed limit
Is suitable for some vehicles, but may be too fast for a large CMV. (Posted speed limits on exit and entrance ramps often show speeds that are safe to be driven by cars. However, these speed limits may be too fast for large or heavily-loaded vehicles and CMV drivers will likely need to slow down to a speed below the posted limit.)
17. How does doubling your speed from 20 mph to 40 mph affect your vehicle's braking distance?
It quadruples. (Increasing your vehicle's speed will increase your vehicle's striking power and braking distance. Doubling your vehicle's speed from 20 to 40 mph will multiply its braking distance by four.)
20. When loading cargo it is important to
Know the weight capacity rating of the suspension system. (It is a driver's responsibility to make sure their vehicle is not overloaded. They must be aware of legal weight limits and the maximum weight that their vehicle is rated to carry, including the weight capacity rating of the suspension system.)
58. When driving, it is important to
Look to the front, sides, and rear of your vehicle. (For safe driving, it is essential that you are aware of what is happening on all sides of your vehicle. In addition to watching the road ahead, you should frequently check your mirrors to monitor the road to the sides and to the rear of your vehicle.)
5. What is the penalty for operating a CMV that is placarded for hazardous materials while you are under the influence of alcohol?
Losing your CDL for three years. (Operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) while under the influence of alcohol will normally result in the loss of one's CDL for at least one year. If an operator is under the influence of alcohol while operating a CMV that is placarded for hazardous materials, this increases to at least three years.)
47. When performing a pre-trip inspection and looking into the fifth wheel gap, you should
Make sure the locking jaws are fully closed around the kingpin. (When inspecting a trailer coupling, you should make sure the fifth wheel locking jaws are closed around the shank of the kingpin, not the head of the kingpin.)
33. When coupling a trailer
Make sure to couple matching glad hands. (When coupling, make sure you couple matching glad hands. They are often color-coded to help drivers avoid mistakes. Typically, blue is used for service lines and red is used for emergency lines.)
8. When inspecting a power steering-equipped vehicle, you should be sure that
The fluid is at the proper level. (When inspecting a vehicle equipped with power steering, check the hoses, pumps, and fluid level. Be sure to check for and repair leaks before operating the vehicle.)
22. Loading cargo onto a vehicle
May be done by a person other than the driver, but the driver is responsible for the safety of the cargo. (Even if someone else loads cargo onto a vehicle, the driver is responsible for properly inspecting the cargo, ensuring that it is properly loaded and secured, and ensuring that it does not obscure their view or access to emergency equipment.)
52. A cardboard box on the roadway
May contain a heavy object that could damage your vehicle. (Any foreign object on the road is potentially dangerous. For example, something seemingly harmless, such as a cardboard box or paper sack, could contain a hard or heavy object that could do serious damage to a vehicle.)
50. If unable to tell if the road is becoming icy and slippery, a driver
May open their window and feel the front of the side mirror for ice. (If you think the road surface may be becoming icy but you are not certain, you can open your window and feel the front of the side mirror, mirror support, or antenna. If ice has formed on any of these items, the road is likely becoming icy as well.)
27. A truck may need to be under the legal maximum weight limit when being driven
On a mountainous road. (Under some driving conditions, it may not be safe to operate a vehicle at its full legal maximum weight. Keep this in mind when driving in poor weather or on mountainous roadways.)
68. Parked delivery trucks may be hazardous because
People are often in a hurry when exiting such trucks and may not look for other vehicles. (Passing parked delivery or postal trucks can be dangerous because the driver may be in a hurry and pull into traffic without warning, or may they suddenly step out of the vehicle without checking for other traffic.)
28. Too little weight on a steering axle can result in
Poor traction. (The weight of cargo in a vehicle needs to be balanced appropriately so that it does not interfere with the vehicle's safe handling. For example, if cargo is placed too far to the rear of a vehicle, the front axle will be under-weighted and the front wheels may not have enough traction for the driver to steer safely.)
26. Bracing is used to
Prevent items from moving in a trailer. (Blocking and bracing are used to prevent cargo from shifting in transit. Blocking is used in the front, in the back, and on the sides of a piece of cargo to prevent movement. Bracing prevents movement by reaching from the upper portion of a piece of cargo to the floor and sides of the cargo compartment.)
18. Texting while driving a CMV is
Prohibited. (Texting while driving a commercial motor vehicle is both illegal and dangerous. Manually entering text into or reading text from any electronic device is considered texting.)
90. How can you check for a leak in hydraulic brakes?
Pump the brake pedal three times, then hold down the pedal for five seconds. If the pedal moves, there may be a problem. (Check hydraulic brakes by pumping the brake pedal three times before applying firm pressure to the pedal for five seconds. The pedal should not move. If it does, there may be a leak or some other problem in the braking system.)
94. When stopping a manual transmission vehicle, you should
Push the clutch in when the engine is close to idle. (When stopping, apply gradual pressure to the brake pedal and stop smoothly. If stopping a manual transmission vehicle, push the clutch in when the engine is close to idle.)
35. If a trailer begins to skid, the driver should
Release the brakes. (If your trailer starts to skid while you are braking, you should release the brakes and allow them to begin to regain traction. Once its wheels have regained their grip on the road, the trailer will begin to straighten out and follow the tractor.)
49. Emergency equipment in a vehicle is
Required. (During a pre-trip inspection, you should check for emergency equipment, including spare electrical fuses; three red reflective triangles, six fuses, or three liquid burning flares; and at least one properly charged and rated fire extinguisher.)
39. While still below the legal limit, a driver operating a CMV with a detectable amount of alcohol in their system will
Result in an out-of-service order for 24 hours. (If you are found to have any detectable amount of alcohol in your system while operating a CMV but your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is still below the legal limit of 0.04 percent, you will be put out-of-service for 24 hours. It is both illegal and dangerous to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.)
3. Air pressure in the ____ air line is controlled by either the foot brake or trailer hand brake.
Service (Air pressure in the service air line is controlled by either the foot brake or trailer hand brake. The service air line is also known as the control line or signal line. This line is connected to relay valves, which allow the trailer brakes to be applied more quickly than would otherwise be possible.)
71. One way to avoid becoming an aggressive driver is to
Set realistic expectations regarding travel time. (To help avoid frustration, which can lead to aggressive driving behavior, you should begin a trip with realistic expectations about your travel time. Plan ahead to allow time for potential traffic delays. Other strategies to help prevent aggressive driving behavior include driving an appropriate speed and keeping a reasonable following distance; avoiding making gestures at other drivers; and keeping your hands on the steering wheel.)
82. A pre-trip inspection
Should be done in the same way every time. (A pre-trip vehicle inspection should be done in the same way every time. Consistency will help a driver learn all of the proper steps and decrease the possibility of the driver forgetting to inspect something.)
54. Headlights
Should be on the high beam setting whenever possible. (To improve visibility, you should use high beam headlights at night where it is safe and legal to do so. However, the glare from high beam lights can blind other drivers. You should dim your lights to their low beam setting when driving within 500 feet of an approaching vehicle.)
31. When carrying a sealed load, the driver
Should ensure the weight of the cargo does not violate weight limits. (While a driver cannot inspect sealed loads, they can still ensure that the load does not exceed gross weight and axle weight limits.)
81. What are placards?
Signs placed on a vehicle to identify cargo hazards. (Placards are diamond-shaped warning signs that are placed on the outside of vehicles carrying hazardous materials. Placards are used to identify the specific hazard classes of the cargo being carried.)
79. What is the best way to stop if your brakes fail while you are driving downhill?
Steer onto an escape ramp. (If your brakes fail on a downgrade, you will need to quickly find something outside that can stop your vehicle. An escape ramp is the best option. If no escape ramp is available, use the least hazardous available option, such as driving into an open field or side road that flattens out or turns uphill.)
19. If a driver begins to feel fatigued while driving they should
Stop and rest. (If you begin to feel drowsy while driving, the only safe response is to safely leave the road and get some sleep. Using artificial stimulants can be dangerous because they may cause extreme fatigue when they begin to wear off.)
1. Who is responsible for inspecting a vehicle's cargo?
The Driver (It is a driver's responsibility to inspect their cargo; recognize overloading or poorly balanced weight; know that the cargo is properly secured and not obscuring their view; and know that the cargo does not restrict access to emergency equipment. The driver is always responsible for their cargo, even if they were not the one who initially loaded and secured the cargo.)
10. When stopping
The brake pedal should be pressed down gradually. (Press the brake pedal down smoothly and gradually every time you slow or stop. The amount of brake pressure you need to apply depends on the speed of your vehicle and how quickly you need to stop.)
86. What is reaction distance?
The distance you will travel between realizing you must brake and when you physically hit the brakes. (Your vehicle's stopping distance can be calculated by adding together your perception distance, your reaction distance, and your vehicle's braking distance. Reaction distance is the distance traveled between the moment you mentally perceive a hazard and the moment you physically hit the brakes.)
92. When backing with a trailer, turning toward the driver's side is encouraged because
The driver will have the best possible view. (When driving in reverse, it is always recommended that a driver backs their vehicle toward its left side. This will allow the driver the best possible view of the rear of their vehicle.)
51. What happens when a vehicle hydroplanes?
The tires lose contact with the road. (On a wet road, it is possible for a vehicle's tires to lose traction with the road surface and begin to glide along on the layer of water. This is referred to as hydroplaning. Hydroplaning can occur at speeds as low as 30 mph.)
84. If a driver has stopped on the road and is placing triangles to warn other motorists
The triangles should be held between the driver and oncoming traffic. (For your own safety, when placing reflective warning triangles, you should carry them between your body and the oncoming traffic.)
78. If one-fourth of the leaves in a leaf spring are missing when a vehicle is inspected
The vehicle will be put out-of-service until it is fixed. (When inspecting a vehicle's suspension, you should look for broken or missing leaves in the leaf springs. Any defect of this kind is dangerous. If one-fourth or more of the leaves are missing from any leaf spring, the vehicle must be put out-of-service.)
29. Dry bulk tanks require special care because
They have high centers of gravity. (Driving with a dry bulk tank requires special care, both because dry bulk tanks have high centers of gravity and because their loads often shift in transit. Be especially careful when taking turns and curves while operating such a vehicle.)
24. If transporting 30 feet of cargo on a flatbed trailer, you should use a minimum of ____ to restrain the cargo.
Three tie-downs (When transporting cargo on a flatbed trailer, you should use at least one tie-down for every 10 feet of cargo. Any cargo, no matter how small, should be restrained by a minimum of two tie-downs.)
30. You should cover cargo
To protect the cargo from weather. (You should cover your cargo to protect people from the cargo if it spills, as well as to protect the cargo from the weather.)
85. When approaching a vehicle for a pre-trip inspection, a driver should look under the vehicle
To see if there are any fresh fluids on the ground. (When approaching your vehicle before an inspection, make note of its general condition and ensure that it is not damaged or leaning. Look under the vehicle for fresh leaks of oil, grease, or fuel. Check around the vehicle for hazards to movement, such as people, other vehicles, or low-hanging wires or tree limbs.)
37. The "crack-the-whip" effect can
Turn over a trailer. (Trailers can overturn as a result of the "crack-the-whip" effect. The last trailer in a combination is the most prone to tip over due to this effect. Drivers should be aware of the rearward amplification of their specific vehicles and drive accordingly.)
95. When backing with a trailer, you should begin by
Turning the steering wheel in the direction opposite of the turn. (When backing with a trailer, begin by turning the steering wheel in the direction opposite of the turn. Once the trailer starts to turn, reverse the direction of the steering wheel to follow the trailer.)
60. The maximum amount of play that is safe on a 20-inch steering wheel is
Two inches. (A steering wheel with play of more than 10 degrees may be defective. On a 20-inch wheel, this is equal to about two inches of movement at the rim of the wheel.)
25. You should always use at least ____ to secure cargo on a flatbed trailer.
Two tie-downs (When transporting cargo on a flatbed trailer, you should use at least one tie-down for every 10 feet of cargo. Any cargo, no matter how small, should be restrained by a minimum of two tie-downs.)
16. When parked on the side of the road, you should
Use your four-way flashers. (Always turn on your four-way emergency flashers if you must park on the side of the road. This is especially important when traveling at night.)
91. When passing a row of parked vehicles, a driver should
Watch for signs of a person exiting a vehicle. (You should be cautious when passing parked vehicles. A person may step out of a parked vehicle or out from between parked vehicles without looking for oncoming traffic. A driver may begin moving their vehicle before realizing you are there.)
2. Large combination vehicles take the longest amount of time to stop
When Empty (Large combination vehicles take longer to stop when they are empty than when they are loaded. The decreased weight causes a vehicle's wheels to have decreased traction on the surface of the road.)
15. For safety purposes, when should you turn off a retarder?
When the roadways are slippery. (Retarders are mechanisms in some vehicles that help slow a vehicle and reduce the need for braking. However, using a retarder may cause wheels to skid when they have poor traction. Turn off retarders when traveling under wet, snowy, or icy conditions.)
45. If convicted of a traffic violation, you must inform your employer
Within 30 days. (If you are convicted of any kind of traffic violation in any type of vehicle, you must notify your employer within 30 days of the incident. You must also inform your motor vehicle licensing agency within 30 days if the incident happened in another jurisdiction. This rule does not apply to parking infractions.)
89. When starting an engine, oil pressure should come up to a normal level
Within seconds. (Look at your truck's gauges when starting the engine. The oil pressure in an engine should come up to a normal level within seconds of the vehicle's engine being started.)
41. While operating a CMV
You are always required to wear a safety belt. (A safety belt is your best defense in the event of a collision. You must always wear a safety belt while operating a CMV.)
46. While driving a CMV
You may not hold a cell phone to make a call. (While driving a CMV, you may not make voice calls if you need to hold your phone or press more than one button to do so. Additionally, you may not send or read text messages while driving.)
40. If you are disqualified from driving
You must notify your employer within two business days. (You must notify your employer within two business days if your license is suspended, revoked, or canceled, or if you are otherwise disqualified from driving.)
36. Rollovers happen when
You take a turn too fast. (Rollovers are caused by operators turning too fast. To avoid rolling over, drive slowly on entrance ramps, on exit ramps, and around corners. Avoid making quick lane changes when towing trailers.)
43. If asked by a law enforcement officer to take a test to determine your blood alcohol concentration (BAC)
You will lose your CDL if you refuse to take the test. (Most states have an Implied Consent Law, which means that by driving a vehicle on the state's roads, you have agreed to undergo a drug or alcohol test if a police officer asks you to do so. If you refuse to submit to a test, you will lose your operating privileges. Make sure you are aware of the laws for every state in which you drive.)
70. After two violations of any state law regarding hand-held mobile phone use
Your CDL will be disqualified. (If you are twice convicted of violating any state law regarding hand-held mobile phone use, your CDL will be disqualified. Consequences will become more severe with subsequent violations.)
44. Your CDL will be revoked if
Your privilege to operate your personal vehicle is revoked. (If your privilege to operate your personal vehicle is revoked, canceled, or suspended due to moving traffic violations, you will also lose your CDL. This does not apply if your license is revoked due to parking violations.)
