The act of operating a motor vehicle in a selfish, bold or pushy manner, without regard for the rights of safety of others.

Driving a vehicle in a very bad mood.

The skill of driving quickly and efficiently.

Class A Commercial Driver's License Practice Test -1 — Questions and Answers

Question 1: You will lose your CDL for at least one year if you are caught committing which first offense?

If you refuse to undergo blood alcohol testing.
Driving a CMV if your blood alcohol concentration is .04% or higher.
All of the listed answers. (Correct answer)
If you leave the scene of an accident involving a CMV.

Correct answer: All of the listed answers.

According to federal CDL regulations, refusing a blood alcohol test, driving a CMV with a BAC of .04% or higher, or leaving the scene of an accident involving a CMV are all considered major offenses. Any of these first offenses will result in a disqualification of your CDL for at least one year.

Question 2: What general skills will be tested when you apply for a commercial driver's license?

On your ability to control your vehicle.
To see whether you know when your vehicle is safe to drive.
Your ability to drive safely in a variety of traffic situations.
All of the listed answers. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: All of the listed answers.

The CDL skills test is comprehensive, designed to ensure drivers can safely and competently operate commercial vehicles. It assesses a driver's ability to perform a pre-trip inspection, control the vehicle during basic maneuvers, and drive safely in various traffic conditions. Therefore, all the listed skills are tested.

Question 3: What is the minimum number of days you can lose your CDL if you have committed your first violation of an "out-of-service order"?

90 days. (Correct answer)
30 days.
60 days.
15 days.
45 days.

Correct answer: 90 days.

Federal regulations specify that a first violation of an 'out-of-service order' will result in a minimum CDL disqualification of 90 days. Subsequent violations carry even longer disqualification periods.

Question 4: You must have a CDL to operate ________.

A vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver).
Any single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more.
All of the listed answers. (Correct answer)
Any size vehicle which requires hazardous material placards.

Correct answer: All of the listed answers.

A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is required to operate vehicles that meet specific criteria due to their size, weight, or cargo. This includes any single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more, a vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver), or any size vehicle requiring hazardous material placards. All the listed options fall under these requirements.

Question 5: What offense is a serious traffic violation?

Following a vehicle too closely.
Erratic lane changes.
All of the listed answers. (Correct answer)
Reckless driving.
Traffic offenses committed in a CMV in connection with fatal traffic accidents.

Correct answer: All of the listed answers.

Serious traffic violations, as defined by CDL regulations, include a range of dangerous driving behaviors. These encompass reckless driving, erratic lane changes, following a vehicle too closely, and any traffic offense committed in a CMV in connection with a fatal traffic accident. Therefore, all the listed answers are considered serious traffic violations.

Question 6: What is road rage?

The act of operating a motor vehicle in a selfish, bold or pushy manner, without regard for the rights of safety of others.
Driving a vehicle in a very bad mood.
The skill of driving quickly and efficiently.
The act of operating a motor vehicle with the intent of doing harm to others or physically assaulting another driver or their vehicle. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The act of operating a motor vehicle with the intent of doing harm to others or physically assaulting another driver or their vehicle.

Road rage is defined as aggressive and hostile driving behavior that goes beyond mere impatience or selfishness. It specifically involves the intent to cause harm to others or their vehicles, distinguishing it from general aggressive driving by the element of malicious intent or physical assault.

Question 7: What is the difference between a traffic emergency and a vehicle emergency?

Traffic emergencies occur when two vehicles are about to collide. Vehicle emergencies occur when tires, brakes or critical parts of your vehicle fail. (Correct answer)
Traffic emergencies occur when foreign objects or public road equipment obstruct public roadways and potentially cause accidents while vehicle emergencies occur only between two vehicles that are about to collide.
There is no difference. The terms are interchangeable.
Traffic emergencies involve inexperienced drivers while vehicle emergencies are typically the terms attributed to professional drivers.

Correct answer: Traffic emergencies occur when two vehicles are about to collide. Vehicle emergencies occur when tires, brakes or critical parts of your vehicle fail.

Traffic emergencies refer to situations external to your vehicle, such as impending collisions with other vehicles or unexpected road hazards. Vehicle emergencies, on the other hand, are internal issues related to the mechanical failure of your own truck, like brake failure, tire blowouts, or engine problems. The distinction is crucial for understanding the appropriate response.

Question 8: While driving a heavy commercial vehicle, why should you avoid turning wide to the left as you start turning right?

You shouldn't avoid turning left
Your vehicle will rollover.
A following driver may think you are turning left and try to pass you on the right, potentially causing a crash. (Correct answer)
You will lose sight of the entire road.

Correct answer: A following driver may think you are turning left and try to pass you on the right, potentially causing a crash.

When a large commercial vehicle turns wide to the left before making a right turn, it creates a dangerous 'squeeze play' situation. Other drivers, particularly those behind, might misinterpret this wide turn as an intention to turn left and attempt to pass on the right, getting caught between the truck and the curb, leading to a potential collision.

Question 9: Most hydraulic brakes fail as a result of one of two common instances. One occurs after you've been driving down a long hill with fading brakes. What is the other instance?

Sunny weather.
An increase in hydraulic pressure.
Bad driving.
Loss of hydraulic pressure. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Loss of hydraulic pressure.

Hydraulic brake systems commonly fail due to two main reasons. One is brake fade caused by overheating, often experienced when driving down long hills. The other primary cause is a loss of hydraulic pressure, which can result from leaks in the brake lines or other components, preventing the brake fluid from transmitting force to the brake pads.

Question 10: During the night, you should dim your lights when you are within _____ feet of an oncoming vehicle.

575
700
650
600
500 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 500

To ensure safety and prevent blinding other drivers, it is a standard regulation to dim your high-beam headlights when an oncoming vehicle is within 500 feet. This practice reduces glare and improves visibility for everyone on the road at night.

Question 11: While driving why should you frequently use your mirrors to check your covered cargo?

To make sure the cover doesn't have any wrinkles.
To make sure thieves aren't hiding under the covers.
A flapping cover can tear loose and possibly block your view or someone else's. (Correct answer)
There is no reason.

Correct answer: A flapping cover can tear loose and possibly block your view or someone else's.

Regularly checking covered cargo in your mirrors is essential for safety. A flapping or loose cover can quickly tear, detach, and potentially obstruct your own view or the view of other drivers, creating a significant road hazard. Monitoring it ensures it remains secure throughout the trip.

Question 12: ____ is another name for front-end header boards.

Dish rack.
Headache racks. (Correct answer)
Protective board.
Head banger.

Correct answer: Headache racks.

Front-end header boards are protective barriers located at the front of a truck's cargo area, behind the cab. They are commonly known as 'headache racks' because their primary purpose is to protect the driver and passengers from shifting cargo that could otherwise enter the cab during sudden stops or collisions.

Question 13: Why are false bulkheads sometimes necessary and typically beneficial for drivers transporting livestock?

There is no reason to use bulkheads. It's actually quite dangerous for the animals.
Because livestock can move around in a trailer, causing unsafe handling, false bulkheads can keep the livestock bunched together and potentially prevent unnecessary movement and loss of control in your tractor or trailer. (Correct answer)
False bulkheads can help muffle the sound of livestock, helping you be more aware of more important road noises around you.
False bulkheads are very useful for transporting livestock cargo. The bulkheads can separate the livestock's feces and urine from the inanimate cargo you are also carrying.

Correct answer: Because livestock can move around in a trailer, causing unsafe handling, false bulkheads can keep the livestock bunched together and potentially prevent unnecessary movement and loss of control in your tractor or trailer.

False bulkheads are crucial when transporting livestock because animals can shift their weight significantly within the trailer. By keeping the livestock bunched together, these bulkheads help stabilize the load, preventing excessive movement that could lead to unsafe handling, loss of control, or even a rollover, especially during turns or braking.

Question 14: A flapping cover can tear loose and possibly block your view or someone else's. It's important then that you ________.

Never use cargo covers.
Ignore posted speed limits.
Drive very slowly.
Use your mirrors to check your covered cargo. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Use your mirrors to check your covered cargo.

Since a flapping cargo cover poses a significant safety risk by potentially blocking vision or detaching, it is crucial for drivers to constantly monitor its condition. Regularly using your mirrors to check your covered cargo allows you to identify and address any issues with the cover before it becomes a hazard.

Question 15: Even if you use false bulkheads to keep your livestock cargo bunched together, special care is still necessary especially when you ________.

Park at your final stop.
Turn on your vehicle.
Accelerate on an empty road.
Make a turn and enter a curve. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Make a turn and enter a curve.

Even with false bulkheads, livestock cargo remains a dynamic load. The animals' movements can still cause significant weight shifts, especially when the vehicle is subjected to lateral forces. Therefore, extra caution is necessary when making turns and entering curves, as these maneuvers can amplify the effects of shifting weight and impact vehicle stability.

Question 16: Wedge brakes and disc brakes are ______ than s-cam brakes.

Just as common.
Less common. (Correct answer)
More common.
More efficient.

Correct answer: Less common.

In commercial vehicles, s-cam brakes are the most prevalent type of air brake system due to their reliability and widespread use. While wedge brakes and disc brakes exist and offer certain advantages, they are significantly less common in the heavy commercial vehicle industry compared to s-cam brakes.

Question 17: Automatic air tanks automatically expel _____________.

Water and oil. (Correct answer)
Dust
Oil.
Air.
Water.

Correct answer: Water and oil.

Automatic air tanks in air brake systems are designed to automatically expel accumulated water and oil. This is crucial because compressed air contains moisture and oil vapor, which can condense and collect in the tanks. Removing these contaminants prevents them from freezing in cold weather, corroding components, or damaging the air brake system, ensuring its proper and safe operation.

Question 18: What happens when pressure is put on the air brakes?

This should never be done. This could ruin your car vehicle.
The stop light switch turns on the brake lights. (Correct answer)
Nothing.
The brake pedal overheats.

Correct answer: The stop light switch turns on the brake lights.

When pressure is applied to the air brakes, the air pressure activates a stop light switch. This switch is specifically designed to turn on the vehicle's brake lights. Illuminating the brake lights signals to drivers behind you that your vehicle is slowing down or stopping, which is a fundamental aspect of road safety.

Question 19: Which braking system uses parts of the service and parking brake systems to stop the vehicle in a brake system failure?

Emergency brake system. (Correct answer)
The service brake system.
Parking brake system.
None of the listed answers.

Correct answer: Emergency brake system.

The emergency brake system is a critical safety feature that activates if the service brakes fail. It utilizes parts of both the service brake system (like the brake drums or discs) and the parking brake system (often spring brakes) to bring the vehicle to a safe stop. This redundant system ensures that a driver can still control and stop the vehicle even in the event of a primary brake system failure.

Question 20: When the air system is low ________.

Have the air brakes system fixed immediately.
You should bring the vehicle to a safe stop.
It will take you longer to stop your vehicle.
All of the listed answers. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: All of the listed answers.

A low air system pressure in a commercial vehicle's air brakes is a serious safety concern. It means the brakes will not have enough power to stop the vehicle effectively, leading to significantly longer stopping distances. Therefore, if the air system is low, you must immediately bring the vehicle to a safe stop and have the air brake system inspected and repaired to prevent accidents.

Question 21: Which of the following is emergency equipment you should carry with you at all times?

Warning devices for parked vehicles.
All of the listed answers. (Correct answer)
Fire extinguisher.
Spare electrical fuses.

Correct answer: All of the listed answers.

Commercial motor vehicles are legally required to carry specific emergency equipment to ensure safety on the road. This includes warning devices (such as reflective triangles or flares) to alert other motorists to a parked or disabled vehicle, a fire extinguisher to combat small fires, and spare electrical fuses for essential vehicle systems. Carrying all these items ensures preparedness for various roadside emergencies and compliance with regulations.

Question 22: If your vehicle is equipped with a cargo lift, you need to ________.

Avoid inspecting it.
None of the listed answers.
Loosen any ties or straps.
Explain how it should be checked for correct operation. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Explain how it should be checked for correct operation.

During a pre-trip inspection, if your vehicle is equipped with a cargo lift, you must be able to demonstrate and explain how to properly check its operation. This involves inspecting its components for damage, ensuring it moves smoothly, and verifying all safety features are working correctly. This demonstrates your competency in safely operating and maintaining specialized vehicle equipment.

Question 23: Vehicles should be equipped with emergency equipment. This equipment should be ______.

Warning devices for parked vehicles.
All of the listed answers. (Correct answer)
Fire extinguisher.
Spare electrical fuses.

Correct answer: All of the listed answers.

Commercial motor vehicles are legally mandated to carry specific emergency equipment for safety and compliance. This essential equipment includes a fire extinguisher to address potential fires, spare electrical fuses to replace blown fuses in critical systems, and warning devices like reflective triangles to alert other drivers if the vehicle is stopped or disabled. Having all these items ensures preparedness for various roadside emergencies.

Question 24: For your pre-trip vehicle inspection test, your entry doors should be in what condition?

Entry doors should be in working condition.
Entry doors should operate smoothly from the outside.
Your entry doors should be undamaged.
All of the listed answers. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: All of the listed answers.

For your pre-trip vehicle inspection test, the entry doors must be thoroughly checked to ensure they are safe and functional. This means they should be undamaged, operate smoothly from both the inside and outside, and be in overall working condition. Proper door function is essential for driver and passenger safety, as well as for securing cargo.

Question 25: You will need to pass the pre-trip vehicle inspection test ________.

Before you complete the general knowledge test.
Before you can proceed to the basic vehicle control skills test. (Correct answer)
After the basic vehicle control skills test.
During the winter.

Correct answer: Before you can proceed to the basic vehicle control skills test.

The CDL skills test is structured in a specific sequence. You must first successfully pass the pre-trip vehicle inspection test, which assesses your ability to identify and explain vehicle components and their safe operating condition. Only after demonstrating this foundational knowledge are you permitted to proceed to the basic vehicle control skills test, followed by the on-road driving test.

Question 26: You will lose your CDL for life ________.

If you use a CMV to commit a felony involving controlled substances or if you commit an alcohol-related offense for the second time. (Correct answer)
If you leave the scene of an accident involving a CMV for the first time.
Only if you use a CMV to commit a felony involving controlled substances.
Only if you commit an alcohol-related offense for the second time.

Correct answer: If you use a CMV to commit a felony involving controlled substances or if you commit an alcohol-related offense for the second time.

Federal regulations impose severe penalties for serious offenses committed by CDL holders to ensure public safety. You will lose your CDL for life if you use a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) to commit a felony involving controlled substances. Additionally, a second conviction for an alcohol-related offense, even in a personal vehicle, also results in a lifetime disqualification of your CDL.

Question 27: If you have committed two violations of an "out-of-service order" in a ten-year period, you will likely lose your CDL for what amount of time?

One year. (Correct answer)
60 days.
120 days.
90 days.
9 months.

Correct answer: One year.

Violating an 'out-of-service order' is a serious offense for CDL holders, as it indicates a disregard for safety regulations. For a second violation within a ten-year period, federal regulations typically mandate a one-year disqualification of your CDL. This penalty aims to enforce compliance with safety directives and prevent unsafe vehicles or drivers from operating.

Question 28: Failing to obey a traffic control device at a railroad crossing could result in you losing your CDL for at least ______ if it is your second similar violation within a three-year period.

45 days.
90 days.
120 days. (Correct answer)
60 days.

Correct answer: 120 days.

Failing to obey traffic control devices at railroad crossings is a critical safety violation due to the severe risks involved. For a second such violation within a three-year period, federal CDL regulations impose a minimum disqualification of 120 days. This strict penalty emphasizes the importance of extreme caution and adherence to signals at railroad crossings to prevent catastrophic accidents.

Question 29: What kind of situations may require you to more frequently check your mirrors?

Tight maneuvers.
Merges.
Turns.
Lane changes.
All of the listed answers. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: All of the listed answers.

Professional drivers must constantly be aware of their surroundings, and frequent mirror checks are crucial in many dynamic driving situations. During merges, turns, lane changes, and tight maneuvers, checking mirrors helps identify other vehicles, blind spots, and potential hazards. This continuous vigilance is key to preventing accidents and maintaining situational awareness.

Question 30: It's safe to use your high beams when you are more than _____ ft. away of an approaching vehicle.

350 ft.
400
450 ft.
500 (Correct answer)
200

Correct answer: 500

High beams provide greater visibility at night, but they can temporarily blind oncoming drivers. To ensure safety and courtesy, drivers should dim their high beams when an approaching vehicle is within 500 feet. This prevents glare for other motorists while still allowing the driver to utilize enhanced lighting when appropriate.

Class A Commercial Driver's License Practice Test -1

You will lose your CDL for at least one year if you are caught committing which first offense?