Free CDL Test Questions and Answers

We have changed the format and purpose of this blog to offer FREE CDL test questions and answers. We offer seven different tests, with answers provided free. The entire series of tests are listed on this page, but we recommend choosing a particular test to study, from the list to the right, under Blog Archives. They are practices tests, but are comprised of questions that are on the official CDL tests in all states.

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The CDL test is not easy to pass, and the DMV does not make it any easier because their prep. guide is confusing and hard to follow. We are offering a comprehensive CDL test guide, with CDL test answers, questions, a full CDL test practice exam, free of charge on this blog. See all the posts on this blog for your free questions and answers. This CDL practice test will cover general knowledge, the brake test, Hazmat, tank vehicles and more. It's a comprehensive series of questions and CDL test answers. This practice exam covers enough material to allow you to pass the CDL test. Get you CDL test answers now, with the full question and answer practice test. Similar CDL test answer guides sell online for $20.00 or more.

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Free CDL Test Answers - Multiple Choice

Hazardous Material Endorsement

1. A hazard class name ID number may not be used to describe a:

1. Non –hazardous material.
2. Reportable quantity of hazardous substance.
3. Hazardous waste
4. Hazardous material

2. A vehicle placarded for hazardous materials must have placards on ____sides.
   1. 1
   2. 2
   3. 3
   4. 4

3. Who is responsible for packaging, labeling, and preparing the hazardous materials shipping papers for a common carrier?
   1. Shipper
   2. Carrier
   3. Driver
   4. State Auditors

4. The intent of the Hazardous Materials regulations has three parts: (1) to ensure safe driver and equipment; (2) to communicate the risk; (3):
   1. To tax shippers correctly.
   2. To contain the material.
   3. To allow state enforcement.
   4. None of the above.

5. There are two lists that drivers, shippers, and carriers use to find out if a material is regulated product. One of these is the :
   1. List of Hazardous Substances and Reportable Quantities.
   2. EPA Dangerous Materials Table.
   3. Shippers List of Transportable Quantities.
   4. Department of Transportable Hazard Chart.

6. If an “X” or an “RQ” is in the HM column of a shipping paper entry, the:
   1. Shipment is regulates by hazardous material regulations.
   2. Material on that line is the biggest part of the shipment.
   3. Entry refers to the materials that must be top loaded.
   4. Entry is part of a partial shipment.

7. No one may smoke around any vehicle being loaded or unloaded with:
   1. flammables
   2. oxidizers
   3. Explosives.
   4. any of the above

8. Only one of these shipping paper descriptions for a hazardous material is in the right order. Which one is it?
   1. Hydrogen Bromide, Non-flammable gas, UN 1048
   2. UN 1787, Corrosive material, Hydriotic acid
   3. Corrosive material, Hydrochloric acid, UN 1789
   4. Hexane, UN 1208, Flammable Liquid

9. A vehicle carrying explosives has crashed with another vehicle. You should not pull the vehicles apart until:
   1. The shipper’s loading foreman is present.
   2. The explosives have been places at least 200 feet away from the vehicles and occupied buildings.
   3. At least 30 minutes have passed.
   4. All three of the above conditions are met.

10. You may not park a vehicle carrying hazardous materials within_____feet of an open fire.
    1. 100
    2. 200
    3. 300
    4. 400

11. Before loading or unloading any explosive, check the cargo space for:
    1. A cargo heater that could not start.
    2. Sharp points that might damage the cargo.
    3. Loose floor boards or plates.
    4. All of the above.

12. The transport index of a radioactive material :
    1. is another way of writing the weight of the package
    2. Tells the degree of control needed during transportation.
    3. Is something that only the shipper needs to worry about?
    4. Lets the ERT ignore the ID number on the placard.

13. When hauling hazardous materials, you must stop your vehicle and check any dual tires at least once every____. Whichever is less?
    1. 1 hour or 40 miles
    2. 2 hours or 80 miles
    3. 2 hours or 100 miles
    4. 3 hours or 150 miles

14. To stop for railroad tracks, you should stop__ to __feet before the nearest track:
    1. 5; 20
    2. 10; 35
    3. 15; 50
    4. 20; 65

15. You are transporting hazardous materials. When you are not behind the wheel, the shipping papers must be on the driver’s seat or:
    1. In the driver’s door pouch.
    2. In the trailer’s paper pouch.
    3. On your person.
    4. On the dashboard in clear view.

16. If hazardous material is spilling from your vehicle, do not move your vehicle:
    1. Any more than 500 feet.
    2. In an upwind direction.
    3. Off of the roadway.
    4. Any more than safety requires.

17. The hazard class of a two-liter bottle of material is “Flammable liquid.” If the description also says “poison inhalations hazard” you should:
    1. Placard the vehicle “POISON” only if no other cargo requires it.
    2. Placard the vehicle with both the “POISON” and hazard class placards.
    3. Placard the vehicle “POISON” and remove all other placards.
    4. Not placard the vehicle.

18. You are going to be hauling hazardous materials over a route you do not know well. When should you check the route and the permits needed for the trip?
    1. Before starting the trip
    2. While you are still on a part of the route that you know
    3. Within 24 hours of the finish of the trip
    4. At the end of the month

19. Carriers must give each driver who transports Class A or B explosive:
    1. An extra fire bottle.
    2. The consignee’s phone number.
    3. A copy of FMCSR part 397.
    4. A list of rest stops the driver may use.

20. You should stop before crossing a railroad grade if your vehicle is carrying___of chlorine:
    1. 100 gallons
    2. 100 gallons
    3. 55 gallons
    4. Any amount.

21. You are hauling hazardous materials and you find that one of your tires is leaking. You must:
    1. Continue at reduced speed and check that tire every 25-mile.
    2. Stop at the nearest safe place and fix it.
    3. Report it to your carrier immediately.
    4. Report it to the D.O.T.

22. When shippers package hazardous materials, they must certify that this was done according to the regulations. The only exception is when:
    1. The shipment is a hazardous waste.
    2. The driver is given a sealed cargo compartment.
    3. The shipper is a private carrier carrying their own product.
    4. The trip will not cross a state line.

23. When fueling a placarded vehicle, someone must always be:
    1. Within 10 feet of the pump with a fire extinguisher.
    2. Watching the fueling from a safe distance.
    3. At the nozzle, controlling the fuel flow.
    4. At the emergency power shut-off for the pump.

24. Animal and human foodstuffs should not be loaded in the same vehicles with:
    1. Explosives.
    2. Oxidizers.
    3. Poisons.
    4. Compressed gases.

25. You must briefly leave your placarded vehicle parked on a public roadway and someone else may watch it. The person watching your vehicle must:
    1. Be awake and able to move the vehicle if needed.
    2. Know what to do in an emergency.
    3. Be on the vehicle or within 100 feet of the vehicle and have it within clear view.
    4. Meet all of the above conditions.

26. A driver who transports route controlled radioactive material must have had special training by the carrier within last____years (s).
    1. 1
    2. 2
    3. 3
    4. 4

27. Whenever your vehicle is placarded, do not drive new open fire unless you:
    1. Are equipped with fire sprinklers.
    2. Have LTL of a nonflammable material.
    3. Can safely pass the fire without stopping.
    4. Have an enclosed cargo compartment.

28. Cylinders containing compressed gasses may only be loaded onto a vehicle if the cylinders are:
    1. Loaded in an upright of horizontal position.
    2. Loaded into racks attached to the vehicle.
    3. In boxes that will keep them from turning over.
    4. Any of the above.

29. When there is a hazardous materials emergency, you should:
    1. Keep people away.
    2. Prevent smoking and keep open flame away.
    3. Warn others of the danger.
    4. Do all of the above.

30. Which signals may be used to warn of a stopped vehicle which contains explosives?
    1. Signal fires
    2. Reflective triangles
    3. Flares
    4. Fuses

31. When transporting chlorine in cargo tanks, you must have:
    1. An approved gas mask.
    2. An emergency kit for controlling leaks in fittings on the dome cover plate.
    3. Both a and b.
    4. Either a or b, but not both.

32. If the word “Forbidden” appears in the hazard class column of an entry in the hazardous materials table:
    1. The carrier may not open the package or the container.
    2. A common carrier must never transport the material.
    3. A shipment of that material must never be larger than the RQ.
    4. You may only transport it with an escort.

33. When handling packages of explosives, you must:
    1. Keep bystanders 100 feet away.
    2. Double wrap wet boxes in plastic to prevent staining.
    3. Roll the packages carefully, with no sharp or jarring actions.
    4. Never use hooks or other metal tools.

34. Your vehicle contains explosives, oxidizers, or flammables. No one may smoke within ___feet of the vehicle.
    1. 14
    2. 25
    3. 35
    4. 50

35. Who is responsible for safety transporting a hazardous material shipment without delay and keeping the shipping papers in the right place?
    1. the driver
    2. The carrier
    3. The shipper
    4. No one has both of these responsibilities

36. A railroad crossing is ahead of you and you are hauling hazardous material. When you stop for the crossing, you can stop as far away as___feet from the nearest rail.
    1. 25
    2. 50
    3. 75
    4. 100

37. The basic description of a hazardous material includes the hazard class, the identification number and the proper shipping name. Which one must appear first on the shipping paper?

1. the hazard class
2. The proper shipping name
3. The identification number
4. The order of these is not a legal requirement

38. Explosives must not be transported in a combination vehicle if it includes:
    1. two or more trailers
    2. 200 inch wheelbase trailer
    3. a placarded cargo tank
    4. a vehicle carrying foodstuffs

39. You find an overheated tire during an enroute inspection. If you are hauling hazardous materials, you must:
    1. Wait at least 2 hours before continuing your trip.
    2. Cool the tire, and then check it every 2 hours.
    3. Lower that tires cold air pressure by at least 20 psi.
    4. Remove the tire and place it a safe distance from the vehicle.

40. The power unit of a placarded vehicle must have a fire extinguisher with a UL rating of___B:C or more.
    1. 5
    2. 10
    3. 15
    4. 20

41. If you need to placard a vehicle for hazardous materials, at least now may placards will you need?
    1. 4
    2. 3
    3. 2
    4. 1

42. A dated certificate of a radioactive materials training must be:
    1. Signed by your insurance agent.
    2. Kept in the driver’s vehicle.
    3. Filed with the D.O.T.
    4. carried by the driver

43. A properly prepared Uniform Hazardous Waste Manifest:

1. Is not the concern of a driver hauling hazardous waste?
2. Is required only if there is a loss of cargo during transport.
3. Must be signed and carried by anyone transporting a hazardous waste.
4. Is the same as any other shipping paper?

44. With most hazardous materials, you may park within 5 feet of the road briefly, if your work requires it. The materials which are the exception and do not allow parking this close to the road are:

5. Explosives A and B.
6. Corrosives and oxidizers.
7. Acids and poisons.
8. ORM C, D, and E.

45. You have a vehicle without racks to hold cylinders of compressed gas. You may load such cylinders only if they are:

1. Loaded upright or braced laying down flat.

2. Bundled loosely together with steel strapping.
3. Less than half of the load.
4. Labeled “Non-Flammable Gas.”

46. Who is responsible for finding out what permits or special routes you will need to haul hazardous materials?

1. The driver

2. The carrier
3. The shipper
4. The designee

47. If you are in an accident involving hazardous materials, you should:

1. Tell only the Emergency Response team about the hazard.

2. Keep all people far away and upwind of the accidents.
3. Prevent a panic by acting like nothing is wrong.
4. Make sure the wheels can roll freely.

48. The intent of the Hazardous Materials regulations has three parts: (1) to ensure safe driver and equipment: (2) to contain the material; and (3):

1. To tax shippers correctly.

2. To communicate the risk.
3. To allow state enforcement.
4. To move shipments smoothly across state lines.

49. You are behind the wheel of a truck carrying a hazardous material shipment. The shipping papers must be on the driver’s door in:

1. A box under the driver’s seat.

2. clear view within your reach
3. the trucks glove compartment
4. a pouch on the inside of the trailer door

50. To find out if a shipment includes a hazardous material, you should:

1. Open and inspect every package and container.

2. Check for a fence around the loading dock.
3. Look at the shipping paper.
4. look at the shipping license

51. A vehicle contains 500 pounds each of explosives A and B. You must use:

1. “Explosives A” placards.

2. “Dangerous” placards.
3. “Blasting Agents” placards
4. “Explosives” and “Dangerous” placard.

52. An “X” in the HM column of a shipping paper entry means that:

1. The material is not a Hazardous Material.

2. This is an exception to the Hazardous Materials regulations.
3. The entry is for a Hazardous Material.
4. This is a Hazardous Material that any driver can transport.

53. Which of the following must drivers have in their possession while transporting Class A or B explosives?

1. The written route plan.

2. A citizen’s band radio.
3. The carrier’s insurance policy
4. All of the above.

54. The total transport index of all radioactive materials packages in a single vehicle must not exceed____.

1. 5

2. 10
3. 50
4. 100

55. Who is responsible for checking that the shipper correctly named, labels, and marked a hazardous materials shipment?

1. D.O.T.

2. Shipper
3. Manufacture
4. Carrier

56. If there is an RQ before or after the item description on the shipping paper, it means the:

1. material has an insurance value of over $1,000

2. material is in a package containing no other materials
3. carrier must report a spill of this material
4. weight column may be blank

57. You need to warn of a stopped vehicle which has a tank for flammable liquids or gasses. You may use:

1. flares

2. fuses
3. signal fires
4. reflective triangles

58. You have hazardous materials leaking from a container but not spilling from a vehicle. Drive to the closest area where you can get the help:

1. That is up-wind of a place where people gather.

2. As fast as you can if it is damaging your truck.
3. In repacking the leaking material with plastic over wrap.
4. And call emergency personnel if they are needed.

Free CDL Test Answers - True or False Q&A

TRUE OR FALSE CDL TEST QUESTIONS

1. The general knowledge test must be taken by all CDL applicants.

True

2. Some common cold medications can make you sleepy.

True.

3. There is a federal requirement that each state have the same standards for licensing commercial drivers.

False

4. As a courtesy, you should signal drivers behind you when it is safe for them to pass you.

False

5. If you must drive on the shoulder, it is best to get all your wheels off the pavement and onto the shoulder.

False

6. Only the driver's seat MUST have a seat belt.

False

7. For a cargo fire in a box trailer or van, you should leave the doors shut.

True

8. If you do not downshift before descending a hill, you may overheat your brakes.

True

9. If you are being tailgated you should increase YOUR following distance.

True

10. Stopping is always the safest thing to do in an emergency.

False

11. You must be a resident of the state in order to apply for that state's CDL.

True

12. Your employer may be put in jail if you have more than one driver license.

True

13. If you need to drive at an illegal speed in order to stay at the same speed as the traffic around you, you should do so.

False

16. Some basic hazardous material information is included in the General Knowledge Test.

True

17. Reflectors are considered a Critical Item to check when you stop.

True

18. If your brake pedal suddenly feels spongy or goes to the floor, pumping the brakes may build pressure back up.

True

19. Over a long haul, driving slightly faster than the speed limit will allow you to save significant time.

False

21. You should let some air out of hot tires so that the pressure goes back to normal.

False

22. States may have differing state rules about operating a CMV that are above and beyond federal rules.

True

23. Empty buses generally require more distance to stop than do loaded buses.

False

24. The vehicle used to take the skills test must match the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

True

25. When you are looking ahead, you are looking for anything that might make you change lanes or change speed.

True

26. There is a federal requirement that each state have the same minimum standards for licensing commercial drivers.

True

27. A retarder may cause skids when your drive wheels have poor traction.

True

28. You should use your low beams as much as possible at night and use high beams just when you need to see something far away more clearly.

False

29. If you use your headlights in the daytime, they should be on high beam.

False

30. If you take the CDL Skills test in a vehicle that does not have air brakes, you will have a Non-Airbrake Restriction on your CDL.

True

31. Both federal and state laws require CDL drivers to inspect their vehicles.

True

32. A CMV must carry spare electrical fuses unless equipped with circuit breakers.

True

33. There are many types of retarders. All of them can be turned on and off by the driver.

True

34. All states honor CDL Instruction Permits.

False

35. Retarders apply their braking power when the driver lets up on the accelerator pedal ALL THE WAY.

True

36. The requirements to obtain a CDL in one state may be different than in another state.

True

37. Over a long haul, driving slightly faster than the speed limit will allow you to save significant time.

False

38. Rust around wheel nuts may mean that the nuts are loose.

True

39. All states are connected to one computer system to share information about CDL drivers.

True

40. If you swing wide to the left before making a right turn, another driver may try to pass you on the right.

True

41. Warning device placement is the same for a hill or curve situation where oncoming drivers cannot see your vehicle from 500 feet.

True

42. If you must drive on the shoulder, it is best to get all your wheels off the pavement and onto the shoulder.

False

43. Rust around wheel nuts may mean that the nuts are too tight.

False

44. Tire changing equipment is considered to be mandatory safety equipment.

False

45. You do not need to know any hazardous material information in order to pass the General Knowledge Test.

False

46. The vehicle used to take the skills test must match the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

True

47. The only requirement to remove a Non-Airbrake Restriction from a CDL is that you must take the written air brake test.

False

48. A spring hangar defect in the suspension system could allow an axle to move out of position.

True

49. States will allow you to obtain a CDL Endorsement to a CDL issued in another state.

False

50. If you have to make a quick turn to avoid an obstacle, you should brake while you

turn to decrease your speed.

False

51. If you must drive on the shoulder, it is best to keep one set of wheels on the pavement.

True

52. Drivers of newer trucks may have to use lower gears going down a grade than they would use going up the grade.

True

53. Glare effects older and younger drivers the same.

False

54. Coffee and fresh air will help you sober up.

False

55. An easy way to check for ice is to open the window and feel the front of the rearview mirror.

True

56. Three beers will not effect you as must as three shots of whiskey.

False

57. You should not start a left turn at an intersection until you reach the center of the intersection.

True

58. You should use the engine brake as much as possible when driving on slippery surfaces.

False

59. You should use the engine brake as much as possible when driving on slippery surfaces.

False

60. If you cannot use driver-side backing, you should go around the block to put your vehicle in a better position.

True

61. A state inspector can place your vehicle 'out of service'.

True

62. Reflectors are considered a Critical Item to check when you stop.

True

63. An accident reporting kit is considered to be mandatory equipment.

False

64. If you can touch the radiator cap with your bare hand it is probably cool enough to open.

True

65. It is necessary to check EVERY belt in the engine compartment during the pre-trip inspection.

True

66. All vehicles carrying hazardous materials must have placards.

False

67. The front passenger seat is NOT required to be equipped with a seat belt.

False

68. A CMV must be equipped with fire extinguishers.

True

69. If you are hydroplaning, you can use the accelerator to spin the drive wheels and gain traction.

False

70. The CDL General Knowledge Test does NOT include any material on HAZMAT.

False

71. If you need to drive at an illegal speed in order to stay at the same speed as the traffic around you, you should do so.

False

72. It is permissible to use retread tires on the front axel of a bus.

False

73. Trucks with a high center of gravity can roll over even if they are at the posted speed limit for a curve.

True

74. Accelerating slightly as you go around a curve is usually poor technique.

False

75. It is all right to wear sun glasses at night to block out glare from oncoming lights.

False

76. Federal and state inspectors may inspect your vehicle for safety items.

True

77. If you have a CDL then you are old enough to obtain a HAZMAT Endorsement.

True

78. When driving on a CDL Instruction Permit, the person accompanying you must be in the seat beside you at all times.

True

79. Off-ramp speed limits may not be safe speeds for heavier vehicles.

True

80. You have 3/32 tread depth on a front tire. It is OK to move that tire to a rear axle.

True

Free Tank Vehicles CDL Practice Test W/Answers

CDL TEST QUESTIONS WITH ANSWERS

TANK VEHICLES

1. A tank vehicle includes?
Transit mix trucks and cement mixers

2. With tank vehicles 'Outage' means?
Space that must be left in a cargo tank for liquids to expand

3. Why should you find out the 'Outage' for the liquids you are transporting?
Different liquids expand by different amounts.

4. What are two problems especially important to tanker operation?
A high center of gravity and the liquid surge of the cargo transported

5. What is a tank compartment?
A liquid-tight division of a tank

6. How is a bulkhead different from a baffle?
Bulkheads are liquid-tight and baffles have holes in them.

7. Which is a factor that determines the amount of liquid you can load in a tank?
The weight of the liquid

8. One of these helps determine the amount of liquid you can load in a tank.
The legal weight and load limits of your vehicle

9. Which of these helps determine the amount of liquid you can load in a tank?
The amount that the liquid might expand in transit

10. Why is the danger of liquid surge more when a tank is less than full?
Liquid has more room to move in a partially-filled tank.

11. The side-to-side surge of liquid in a tank can cause a vehicle to?
Roll over

12. Do the speed limits posted for on-ramps and off-ramps apply to tankers?
Not necessarily

13. Are smooth bore tankers different to drive than tankers with tank baffles?
Yes, forward and back surge is strong in smooth bore tankers.

14. Baffles offer little resistance to?

Side-to-side surge

15. In what direction does liquid surge cause a vehicle to move?
It will tend to move the vehicle in the direction that the liquid moves.

16. As compared to a smooth bore tank, a tank with bulkheads or baffles?
Will have less front-to-back surge

17. Why are unbaffled tanks used to transport food products?
Sanitation regulations often forbid the use of baffles.

18. The amount that a liquid can expand in transit can be affected by?
The temperature of the load

19. What is a reason for filling a tank only partially?
The shipper ordered a small quantity.

20. Why is the stopping of a tank vehicle on a slippery surface extra hazardous?
Liquid surge will tend to shove the vehicle ahead.

21. What is overturn protection?
Guards to protect fittings and valves in case of a rollover

22. When you load a tank that has bulkheads, it is most important to check?
Weight distribution of the commodity being loaded

23. What is a dome cover?
A cover to protect an opening where a tank is filled

24. If transporting flammable cargo over a railroad track you may shift gears?
Do not shift gears when crossing over railroad tracks.

25. How soon can you remove placards when you unload flammables from a tanker?
After the tank has been cleaned or another commodity has been loaded

26. What can liquid surge do to the handling of a tank vehicle?
Surge may move the vehicle in the direction the liquid moves in the tank.

27. A vehicle with empty tanks may?
Require a greater stopping distance than a loaded tanker

28. Which is true about the emergency steering of tankers?
Do not apply the brakes when making a quick turn.

29. When loading a tanker you must consider weight distribution because?
You do not want to put too much weight on the front or on the rear.

30. A tank vehicle includes any portable tank having a liquid capacity of?
1,000 gallons or more

Free Hazmat CDL Practice Test Answers

CDL TEST QUESTIONS WITH ANSWERS

HAZMAT

1. What must be shown on a hazardous materials bill of lading?
The quantity of hazardous materials

2. What are placards?
Placards are diamond-shaped warning signs placed on vehicles

3. Before transporting certain radioactive materials a route restriction?
May be necessary

4. Which is correct about listing hazardous materials on a bill of lading?
The proper shipping name of the commodity is listed first.

5. What is the intent of the hazardous materials regulations?
To communicate risk, to protect all, and to contain the product.

6. Two letters that may be shown before the name of a hazardous substance?
RQ

7. Which is not part of a correct shipping name?
The brand name of the product

8. Information on a hazardous materials shipping paper must be shown?
Proper shipping name, then hazard class, ID number, packing group

9. Which is not the proper four-digit Identification (ID) Number?
USA number

10. If a label will not fit on a hazardous materials package?
The label must be put on a tag which is then wired to the package.

11. Which is an acceptable method of showing shipper’s certification on papers?
Printed

12. Drivers who transport highway route-controlled radioactive materials must have?
Had special training within the past two years

13. Which is an acceptable quantity shown on a hazardous materials bill of lading?
2,100 pounds

14. In bulk quantities only on highways marine pollutants are regulated?
In intrastate and interstate commerce

15. You may load cylinders of compressed gas without racks if the cylinders?
Can be loaded on the vehicle laying down flat and braced

16. A vehicle carrying hazardous materials must be parked at least?
300 feet away from an open fire

17. When placards are required, they should be placed?
On the front, the rear, and both sides of the vehicle

18. The Hazardous Materials Table is organized?
In alphabetical order by the proper shipping name

19. With tank vehicles the Identification (ID) Number must appear on?
The placards and the shipping papers.

20. When a vehicle is parked the hazardous material shipping papers must be?
Kept on the seat or in a pocket in the left door

21. Labels on hazardous materials must measure?
At least four inches on each side

22. If a shipper’s certification is signed, must you accept a leaking package?
You must refuse the shipment.

23. Which word is a hazardous class description found on labels?
Corrosive

24. If required to stop for a railroad crossing you must stop?
Fifteen to fifty feet before the nearest rail

25. Corrosives could require more than one label because they could also be?
Poison by inhalation

26. A commodity named in Placard Table 1 requires a placard for?
Any quantity

27. What is a marking that must be shown on liquid hazardous materials packages?
This Side Up

28. For the placards to use with packaged freight you must know the hazard class?
The amount shipped and the total weight of hazardous materials on board

29. Which of these is true?
Do not smoke when around Explosives, Flammables and Oxidizers.

30. When fueling a placarded vehicle, someone must be?
At the nozzle, controlling the fuel flow

31. Which Code of Federal Regulations requires that placards be used?
Title 49, CFR

32. When should a driver have all needed placards in place for packaged freight?
After the vehicle is loaded but before it goes out onto the highway

33. How should each trailer be placarded in a combination unit?
For the class of hazardous material contained in that trailer

34. When are you allowed to have overhang (tailgate) loads of Explosives?
Never

35. An exception to the rule for trailer placarding for semis is?
Instead of the trailer, a placard may be placed on the front of the tractor.

36. Which requires a placard even if there is only one pound of it on board?
Class A Explosives

37. What placard may be used for Table 2 materials none of which equal 1,000 lbs?
Dangerous

38. When driving a placarded vehicle you must stop and check the tires?
Every two hours or 100 miles

39. Cargo tanks or portable tanks loaded with hazardous materials must show ?
The ID Number of the product

40. The total transport index of all radioactive packages in a vehicle can’t exceed?
50

41. An X or an RQ shown in the HM column of a shipping paper means?
The material in the shipment is a hazardous material.

42. If special permits or special routes are required, who is responsible for this?
Driver of the vehicle

43. The EPA registration numbers of the carrier, shipper and destination must be on?
Hazardous Waste Manifests

44. Transporters must keep a copy of hazardous waste manifests for at least?
Three years

45. Which may be exempt from labeling rules when transported in small quantities?
Consumer products

46. A driver should count the total number of packages loaded and should count?
The number of packages of hazardous materials.

47. Poisons must not be transported with which of the following?
Foods, animal feed or medicines

48. What is a way to determine if two materials are not compatible to transport?
Study the charts that are available.

49. A driver transporting hazardous materials should keep those materials?
Away from moisture

50. What is the status of vehicle brakes when hazardous materials are being loaded?
The parking brakes should be set.

Free CDL Combo, Doubles, Triples Test Answers - Questions

COMBO, DOUBLES, TRIPLES

1. What is the cause of more than half the truck driver deaths in crashes?
Truck rollovers.

2. Are fully loaded rigs more likely to roll over in a crash than empty rigs?
Yes, fully loaded rigs are 10 times more likely to roll over in a crash.

3. What two things can a driver do to prevent rollovers?
Keep the cargo as close to the ground as possible and go slowly around turns.

4. When you make a quick lane change, the trailer only may overturn. What is the effect called that produces this result?
The crack-the-whip effect.

5. Since a sudden movement with your steering wheel can tip a trailer over, how far behind other vehicles should you follow when pulling trailers.
At least one second for each ten feet of your vehicle length, plus another second if going over 40 miles per hour.

6. What are some things that you can do to avoid getting surprised and having to make a sudden lane change?
Look far enough down the road and allow lots of following distance.

7. Why do large combination vehicles that are empty take longer to stop than when they are fully loaded?
When lightly loaded, stiff suspension springs and strong brakes give poor traction and make it easy to lock up the wheels.

8. Why must you be extra careful when bobtailing?
Bobtails can be hard to stop smoothly and take longer to stop than a loaded tractor-semi trailer.

9. When the wheels of a trailer lock up, what will the trailer tend to do?
The trailer will tend to jackknife or swing around.

10. Why should you check your mirrors whenever you apply the brakes hard?
This is the best way to recognize if the trailer has started to skid.

11. If your trailer has started to skid, what should you do to get traction back?
Release the brakes and Don't use the trailer handbrake.

12. What is it called when the rear wheels follow a different path than the front wheels when a vehicle goes around a corner?
Off-tracking.

13. What are two reasons why doubles and triples take up more space than other commercial vehicles?
They are longer and they cannot be turned or stopped suddenly.

14. In allowing more space, what should you do before entering or crossing traffic?
Make sure there are large enough gaps before entering or crossing traffic.

15. What is a reason why there is more chance of skids with doubles and triples in bad weather, slippery conditions and mountain driving?
You have more length and more dead axles to pull.

16. When can you use the trailer hand valve for parking a combination vehicle?
You can never use the trailer hand valve for parking a combination vehicle.

17. In normal driving should you ever use the trailer hand valve before the brake pedal to prevent trailer skids?
No, you should never use the trailer hand valve before the brake pedal to prevent trailer skids.

18. Which valve keeps air in the tractor or truck if the trailer breaks away or develops a bad leak?
The tractor protection valve.

19. If the tractor protection valve closes, letting air out of the trailer emergency line, which brakes should come on?
The trailer emergency brakes.

20. What happens when you push in the trailer air supply control knob and what happens when you pull it out?
Push it in to supply the trailer with air. Pull it out to shut the air off and put on the trailer emergency brakes.

21. On older vehicles there may be a lever, rather than a knob, for the tractor protection valve. What are the normal and emergency positions?
The normal position is used for pulling a trailer. The emergency position is used to shut air off to the trailer.

22. Which valves on the service line on the trailer connect the trailer air tanks to the trailer air brakes
Relay valves.

23. What is one purpose of the emergency air line?
It supplies air to the trailer air tanks.

24. What happens to the trailer emergency brakes if there is a loss of pressure in the emergency line?
The emergency trailer brakes will come on.

25. When the emergency line loses pressure, what happens to the tractor protection value?
The valve will close.

26. If the air lines on a truck are color coded, which lines are blue?
The service line.

27. To connect the glad hands, the tow seals are pressed together with the couplers at what kind of angle to each other?
A 90 degree angle.

28. Why should you lock the glad hands to each other when you are not towing any trailers?
To keep dirt and water out the lines.

29. If the spring brakes do not release when you push the trailer air supply control, what should you do?
Check the air line connections.

30. Do trailers made before 1975 have spring brakes?
Many do not.

31. Before driving away, how can you always test the trailer brakes?
With the hand valve or by pulling the tractor protection valve and then pulling against the brakes in a low gear.

32. How are the air tanks on trailers and converter dollies filled?
By the emergency supply line from the tractor.

33. What tells how much pressure the relay valves should send to the trailer brakes?
The pressure in the service line.

34. In what position should the air line shut off valves be when you check them?
They should be in the open position except at the back of the last trailer.

35. What should you use to be safe when you park trailers that don't have spring brakes?
Use wheel chocks

36. What happens if (only) the service line comes apart while you are driving?
You may not notice anything until you try to put the brakes on when air loss from the leak will quickly lower the air tank pressure.

37. Why must the fifth wheel plate have enough grease?
To prevent steering problems.

38. Before backing up how should you position the tractor in relation to the trailer?
Directly in front of the trailer.

39. Before you back under a semi-trailer in coupling your tractor at what height should the trailer be?
Just below the middle of the fifth wheel.

40. You have connected the air lines but have not yet backed under the trailer. What should you do?
Supply air to the trailer system.

41. Before you back under the trailer, you should be sure that the trailer brakes are?
Locked (Applied).

42. When a tractor and a trailer are coupled, how much space should there be between the upper and lower fifth wheel.
No space.

43. After you lock the kingpin into the fifth wheel how can you check the connection?
By pulling the tractor ahead gently with the trailer brakes locked.

44. Looking into the back of the fifth wheel, which part of the kingpin should the locking jaws close around?
The shank of the kingpin.

45. For the coupling to be complete for a fifth wheel with a locking lever, where must the safety catch for the fifth wheel locking lever be?
Over the locking lever.

46. After you have coupled the tractor with a trailer where should the landing gear be before driving away?
Fully raised with the crank handle secured in its bracket.

47. Inspect the coupling. You must make certain that there is enough clearance between which two of the following?
Between the tops of the tractor tires and the nose of the trailer.

48. If you will be pulling doubles where one trailer is more heavily loaded than the other, where should the heavier loaded trailer be placed?
It should always be in front of the lighter trailer

49. What should the trailer height be before you connect a converter dolly to a second or third trailer?
It must be slightly lower than the center of the fifth wheel.

50. Why should you never unlock the pintle hook with the dolly still under the rear trailer?
The dolly tow bar may fly up.

Free CDL Air Brake Test Question and Answers

AIR BRAKES

1. What are the three braking systems?
The three braking systems are the service brake, parking brake and emergency system.

2. What is used to make the brakes work?
Compressed air is used to make the brakes work.

3. What does the air compressor do?
The air compressor pumps air into the air storage tanks.

4. What does the air compressor governor control?
It controls when the compressor will pump air into the air storage tanks.

5. How much compressed air must the storage tanks hold?
Enough air to allow brakes to be used when the air compressor stops working.

6. If oil and water collect in the air tanks what can happen to the brakes?
The brakes can fail.

7. If No automatic tank drains. When should you drain the air tanks?
Every day.

8. Where will you find the drain valve for each air tank?
You will find the drain valve for each tank at the bottom of the tank.

9. What are the two types of air tank drains?
The two types of air tank drains are manually or automatic operated.

10. What is a purpose of an alcohol evaporator?
It reduces risk of ice in brake valves and other parts in cold weather.

11. How often should you check the alcohol evaporator in cold weather?
Check the alcohol container and fill up as necessary every day.

12. What is a purpose of the safety release valve in the first tank?
It protects the tank and the rest of the system from too much pressure

13. What are two other names for the brake pedal?
It can be called the foot valve or treadle valve.

14. What can happen if the brake pedal is pressed and released too often?
Air can be let out of the system faster than the compressor can replace.

15. Where are foundation brakes found?
At each wheel.

16. Where are brake shoes and linings located?
Inside each brake drum

17. What happens when a brake lining is pushed against the inside of the drum?
This causes friction which slows the vehicle and creates heat.

18. On S-Cam brakes what happens to the air when you push the brake pedal?
Air pressure forces out the push rod and moves the slack adjuster.

19. Which direction does the S-Cam force brake shoes when brakes are applied?
It presses them against the inside of the brake drum.

20. If the air compressor begins to leak what keeps air in the tanks?
The one-way check valve.

21. What is one kind of gauge that is required for vehicles with air brakes?
An air pressure gauge

22. What kind of warning signal is required on vehicles with air brakes?
A low air pressure warning signal.

23. What are the three types of low air pressure warning devices?
A red light . . . or a buzzer . . . or a wigwag.

24. What is used to turn on the stop lights in an air brakes system?
An electric switch that works by air pressure

25. In normal driving parking and emergency brakes are usually held back by?
The Air pressure.

26. The effectiveness of the spring brakes depends on the adjustment of?
The Service brakes.

27. Why do some buses have a separate air tank to release spring brakes?
So you can move the vehicle in an emergency.

28. What is a dual air brake system?
A dual air brake system is two separate air brake systems with a single set of brake controls.

29. What should you look for in checking an air compressor belt?
Check belts for excessive wear and cracks and tightness.

30. What should you do before checking free play in manual slack adjusters?
Park on level ground and chock the wheels and release parking brakes.

31. Combination vehicle: brakes released. The maximum air released?
Less than three pounds per square inch.

32. Single vehicle: brakes released. Maximum air leakage in one minute?
Less than two pounds per square inch.

33. After applying brakes fully, maximum air loss in one minute - single vehicles?
Three pounds per square inch.

34. After applying brakes fully max. air loss in one minute - combination vehicles?
Four pounds per square inch.

35. When should the air governor cut out the air compressor?
At about the manufacturer specified air pressure.

36. When making a normal stop when should you push in the clutch?
Do not push the clutch in until the engine R.P.M.'s are down close to idle.

37. When making a very quick stop you should brake so that you?
Stay in a straight line and can steer.

38. What is another name for controlled braking?
Squeeze braking is another name for controlled braking.

39. What is stab braking?
Pressing the brake pedal hard and releasing brakes when wheels lock up.

40. Why does air braking take more time than hydraulic braking?
Because it takes time for air to flow through the lines to the brakes.

Free CDL Test Answers - General Knowledge Test

CDL General Knowledge Test Answers - Q&A

The CDL Test Answers found throughout this blog are free to you. Please bookmark the site and return as often as you like. All the free CDL tests are listed to the right under Blog Archives. This test is the CDL General Knowledge Test.

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Below are 100 answers to the CDL General Knowledge Test

1. When should you downshift for a curve?
You should downshift before entering the curve.

2. What is true about downshifting before you reach a long downhill grade?
Downshifting helps prevent the brakes from overheating and losing braking power.

3. How can you know you have the engine speed and road speed to shift gears?
By using the sound of the engine to know when to shift; You know you have the engine speed and road speed to shift gears

4. What is the purpose of brake retarders?
Retarders are to help slow down the vehicle and to reduce brake wear.

5. Should you turn the retarder off when the road is wet or snow covered?
Yes the retarder may cause a skid.

6. How far ahead should you look while driving?
You should look 12 to 15 seconds ahead of you while driving.

7. What is a good reason for knowing what the traffic is doing on all sides?
You need to have room to change lanes or stop.

8. Should you always be looking into the distance ahead?
No you should shift your attention back and forth near and far.

9. What is a problem that you can have when using your mirrors?
There are blind spots that your mirrors cannot show you.

10. Where do you place the three reflector triangles on a two-lane road?
Within 10 feet of the rear and 100 feet to the rear and 100 feet from the front.


11. Where do you place the three reflector triangles on a divided highway?
Place them to the rear: within 10 feet and 100 feet and 200 feet.

12. What are three factors of total stopping distance with hydraulic brakes?
Perception, reaction, and braking distance.

13. What should you do if your vehicle hydroplanes?
Release the accelerator and push in the clutch.

14. How long does it take to stop a heavy vehicle going 55 miles per hour on dry level road?
About the length of a football field . . . about six seconds.

15. What is probably your best driving speed? Traffic is moving at 35 miles per hour in a 55 miles per hour zone.
35 miles per hour is probably your best driving speed.

16. How does tire pressure affect hydroplaning?
Hydroplaning is more likely to occur when tire pressure is low.

17. How many times more distance does it take to stop when speed is doubled?
Four times as much distance it takes to stop when speed is doubled.

18. What is a good rule as to the speed you should go when driving at night?
You should be able to stop within the range of your headlights.

19. When driving over 40 miles per hour how much space should you try to keep in front of you?
At least one second for 10 feet of your vehicle length plus one second.

20. What are some things to do if you are being tailgated?
Avoid quick changes of speed or direction.


21. Why can you never assume you will clear the heights posted at overpasses?
Because some roads can cause your vehicle to tilt.

22. You wish to turn right and you must swing wide.
You should turn wide as you complete the turn.

23. If you are turning left, which lane should you use of two left turn lanes?
Use the right hand lane.

24. At night where can you look to avoid the glare of oncoming traffic?
Try to look at the right side of the road and watch the sidelines.

25. What are some items to check especially before driving in winter weather?
Coolant level and windshield washer and antifreeze.

26. How often should you check your tires when driving in very hot weather?
You should check your tires every 2 hours or every 100 miles.

27. How do you lessen chances of having to make sudden moves to avoid hazards?
Watch far enough ahead so that hazards can be anticipated.

28. What is a good policy for using your brakes when pulling off the road?
Try to avoid using your brakes until your speed has dropped to about 20 miles per hour.



29. In making a quick turn what is a point to remember?
Do not apply the brake when you are turning.

30. What is controlled braking?
Controlled braking is applying the brakes as hard as you can without locking the wheels.


31. What is the major cause of most serious skids?
Driving too fast for road conditions.

32. What is the only way to stop a front-wheel skid?
Let the vehicle slow down. Stop turning and stop braking so hard.

33. If you think that a tire has blown out what should you do in stopping?
Hold steering wheel firmly and don't touch brakes until the vehicle has slowed.

34. What should you do when using a fire extinguisher to fight a fire?
Aim at the base of the fire.


35. As a driver for what are you responsible regarding your cargo?
You are responsible for inspecting your cargo and knowing that it is securely tied down or covered.

36. How often should cargo inspections be made?
After every break during driving.

37. What is important about the center of gravity of a load?
A high center of gravity means you are more likely to tip over.

38. What can happen if you do not have enough weight on the steering axle?
This can make the vehicle hard to steer.

39. What is the maximum distance between tiedowns to prevent cargo shifting?
To prevent cargo shifting tiedown every 10 feet.

40. What is the minimum number of tiedowns that you should have?
You should have at least two tiedowns.


41. What is the purpose of cargo blocking and bracing?
To keep cargo from sliding and falling and getting out of balance.

42. Must you show your logbook to officers?
Yes.

43. How do you test hydraulic brakes for a leak with the vehicle stopped?
Pump brake pedal three times - Apply firm pressure hold for five seconds.

44. How do you test hydraulic brakes for their stopping action?
Go about five miles per hour. Then push the brake pedal firmly



45. What is the minimum amount of tread depth that your tires should have?
Four-thirty seconds inch on front wheels -and two - thirty seconds on others.

46. When checking tires what are some problems that you should look for?
Bad wear - cuts or other damage - tread separation - cracked valve stems

47. What are some steering system defects to look for?
Missing nuts or bolts or cotter keys or other parts


48. What are some defects to look for in the suspension system?
Spring hangers that are cracked or broken.

49. In holding a steering wheel what is the proper way to place your hands?
Firmly with your hands on opposite sides of the wheel.

50. What are some things to do when you are backing your vehicle?
Look at your path. Back slowly. Back straight back.


51. What are two factors in knowing when to shift?
Using engine speed and road speed


52. A pretrip inspection should be performed
Before each trip.

53. What is a vehicle condition report?
A list of problems found by you.

54. What may rust around the wheel nuts mean?
The wheel nuts may be loose.

55. Wheels or rims that have been repaired by welding are?
Not safe.

56. Exhaust system parts should not?
Rub against fuel system parts, tires or other moving parts of the vehicle.

57. If the cargo contains any hazardous materials you must check to see?
If placards are required.

58. To keep your vehicle from rolling back when you start up you.
Partly engage the clutch before you take your right foot off the brake.

59. As soon as your see your trailer getting off the proper backing path you?
Turn the top of the steering wheel in the direction of the drift.



60. When traction is poor as in rain or snow you speed up?
Very gradually.


61. When backing a trailer you turn the steering wheel?
Opposite the direction you want to go

62. When backing a trailer you may make corrections to reposition your vehicle by?
Pull-ups.

63. Whether backing a straight truck or a combination vehicle you back and turn?
Toward the driver's side.

64. If you are using a helper when you are backing the helper should?
Agree with you as to a signal for ’Stop’ and stand where he can be seen by you.

65. Some newer vehicles have ’progressive’ shifting which means?
The RPM at which you shift becomes higher as you move up in the gears.

66. Downshifting requires knowing when to shift. To do this correctly you should?
Use either the tachometer or speedometer.

67. Before starting down a hill you want to be sure that you are in the proper gear?
You downshift before you start down the hill.

68. When going downhill in a vehicle with an automatic transmission you?
Select a low range to get greater engine braking.

69. When turned ’on’ brake retarders apply their power whenever?
You let up all the way on the accelerator pedal.

70. Besides looking for vehicles coming into your lane, looking for traffic means?
Watching for brake lights of slowing vehicles ahead


71. Besides watching the traffic behind, you can use your rear view mirrors to?
Watch for possible tire fires.

72. In turning you should look in your mirrors to make sure that?
The rear of your trailer will not hit anything.

73. When merging with other traffic you should use your mirrors to make sure.
The gap in the traffic is large enough for you to enter.

74. To be sure that you know what is happening on the highway ahead of you?
Don't focus on the mirrors too long.

75. Convex mirrors show a wider area than flat mirrors. But they also?
Make everything seem farther away than it really is.



76. Two of the three good rules for using turn signals are?
Signal early and signal continuously.


77. A third good rule for using turn signals is?
If you don't have self-canceling signals don't forget to turn off the turn signals.

78. When your need to slow down you may want to warn drivers behind you by?
Tapping lightly on the brake pedal to flash the brake lights.

79. Because of the size of your vehicle you may wish to flash your brake lights to?
Remind drivers behind you of hazards that you see ahead.

80. To make a tight turn with a large vehicle you may have to?
Go slower than many car drivers would expect.


81. If you have to stop your vehicle in the road to load cargo or passengers you?
Flash your brake lights to warn drivers behind you.

82. When should you help out other drivers by signaling when it is safe for them to pass?
Never signal to let others know it is safe to pass.

83. Whenever you are about to pass a vehicle, pedestrian or bicyclist you should?
Assume that they have not seen you.

84. At dawn or dusk or in rain or snow, when it's hard for others to see you, you might?
Turn on your low beam headlights.

85. If you have to set out warning reflective triangles by the highway you hold them?
Between yourself and the oncoming traffic.

86. Slight melting will make ice wet. Which is more slippery?
Wet ice.

87. Why do empty trucks usually require greater stopping distances?
Empty trucks can bounce and lock up their wheels.

88. Empty busses may not require more stopping distance than loaded busses because?
They usually have as much braking power when empty as when loaded.

89. What is 'black ice'?
Black ice is a thin layer of ice so clear you can see the road underneath it.

90. Which is a danger when traveling alongside other vehicles?
You may be trapped when you need to change lanes.


91. The amount of space you need to cross or to enter traffic is affected by?
The weight of your load.



92. If a vehicle that is coming toward you has on high beams you should?
Keep your lights on low beam and look off to the right.



93. You should use your high beam headlights?
Whenever you can and the law allows it.

94. Before putting tire chains on your vehicle you check to be sure that?
The chains have no broken hooks or cross links or bent or broken side chains.


95. Roads usually become more slippery when?
The temperature has risen to the point where the ice begins to melt.

96. Antifreeze is effective?
Under hot conditions as well as cold conditions.

97. With a pressurized cooling system you should not?
Remove the radiator cap until the system has cooled.

98. What should you do before you drive if you are feeling drowsy?
Get some sleep.

99. Since air pressure increases with temperature increases you should?
Leave the tires alone since the air pressure will decrease when the tires cool off.

100. Speed limits that are posted at freeway off ramps may not be?
Safe speeds for larger vehicles or heavily loaded vehicles.

These questions and answers should help you pass the CDL General Knowledge Test

CDL Test Answers

The CDL Test Answers found throughout this blog are free to you. Please bookmark the site and return as often as you like. The free CDL tests are listed to the right under Blog Archives.

While you're here, if you see anything of interest, feel free to visit the sponsored links to the right of the page.

If you want to drive a big rig, or even a local UPS truck, you will need a CDL license. The CDL test is not easy to pass, just ask anyone who has taken it. The DMV does not make it any easier because their prep. guide is confusing and hard to follow. We are offering a comprehensive CDL test guide, with CDL test answers, questions, a full CDL test practice exam, free of charge. See all the posts on this blog for your free questions and answers. This CDL practice test will cover general knowledge, the brake test, Hazmat, tank vehicles and more. It's a comprehensive series of questions and CDL test answers. This practice exam covers enough material to allow you to pass the CDL test. Get you CDL test answers now, with the full question and answer practice test. Similar CDL test answer guides sell online for $20.00 or more.

CDL Test Answers, Complete Q&A CDL Practice Test on this Blog!

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Median hourly earnings of heavy truck and tractor-trailer drivers were $16.85 in May 2006. The middle 50 percent earned between $13.33 and $21.04 an hour. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $10.80, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $25.39 an hour. Median hourly earnings in the industries employing the largest numbers of heavy truck and tractor-trailer drivers in May 2006 were:

General freight trucking $18.38
Grocery and related product wholesalers 18.01
Specialized freight trucking 16.40
Cement and concrete product manufacturing 15.26
Other specialty trade contractors 14.94

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