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CDL Test: Questions and Answers

Every question we use, with the correct answer, an explanation and the source it comes from.

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Air brakes

  1. Air brakes are really three braking systems. They are:

    1. Service, parking and emergency brakes
    2. Front, rear and trailer brakes
    3. Engine, exhaust and hydraulic brakes
    4. Disc, drum and band brakes

    Answer: A. Service brakes for normal stops, parking brakes, and emergency brakes when the service system fails.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 5Air brakes are really three different braking systems.

  2. The air compressor governor usually stops pumping (cut-out) at about:

    1. 60 psi
    2. 125 psi
    3. 200 psi
    4. 90 psi

    Answer: B. Cut-out is about 125 psi; cut-in is about 100 psi.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 5.1.2

  3. Air tanks with manual drain valves should be drained:

    1. Once a month
    2. Only when water is visible
    3. At the end of each day of driving
    4. Never

    Answer: C. Water and oil collect in the tanks and can freeze or damage the brakes.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 5.1.4You must drain the tanks yourself at the end of each day of driving.

  4. The air system safety relief valve is usually set to open at:

    1. 60 psi
    2. 100 psi
    3. 20 psi
    4. 150 psi

    Answer: D. If the safety valve releases air, something is wrong — have a mechanic fix it.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 5.1.6

  5. The low air pressure warning must come on before pressure in the tanks falls below:

    1. 60 psi
    2. 100 psi
    3. 20 psi
    4. 125 psi

    Answer: A. When the warning comes on, stop safely as soon as possible.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 5.1.11must come on before the air pressure in the tanks falls below 60 psi

  6. If air pressure keeps dropping, the spring brakes will come on fully at about:

    1. 100 to 125 psi
    2. 20 to 45 psi
    3. 60 to 80 psi
    4. 0 psi only

    Answer: B. Spring brakes apply at 20-45 psi (typically 20-30); stop before that happens.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 5.1.14

  7. The most common type of foundation brake on heavy vehicles is the:

    1. Disc brake
    2. Band brake
    3. S-cam drum brake
    4. Wedge brake

    Answer: C. S-cam drum brakes are the most common foundation brakes.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 5.1.8The most common type is the s-cam drum brake.

  8. When you pull a slack adjuster by hand (brakes released), it should not move more than about:

    1. 1/8 inch
    2. 3 inches
    3. 6 inches
    4. 1 inch

    Answer: D. More than about one inch of movement means the brake probably needs adjustment.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 5.3.2

  9. With the engine off and brakes released, air loss in a single vehicle should be less than:

    1. 2 psi per minute
    2. 10 psi per minute
    3. 5 psi per minute
    4. 1 psi per hour

    Answer: A. Single vehicle: under 2 psi/min; combination: under 3 psi/min.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 5.3.3

  10. With the brakes fully applied (engine off, at governor cut-out), a combination vehicle should not lose more than about:

    1. 1 psi per minute
    2. 4 psi per minute
    3. 10 psi per minute
    4. 20 psi per minute

    Answer: B. Applied-brake leakage: no more than 3 psi/min (single) or 4 psi/min (combination).

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 5.3.3

  11. In a dual air system, pressure should build from 85 to 100 psi within about:

    1. 10 minutes
    2. 3 minutes
    3. 45 seconds
    4. 5 seconds

    Answer: C. Dual systems: 85 to 100 psi within 45 seconds (at the manufacturer's specified RPM).

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 5.3.3

  12. Before driving a vehicle with a dual air brake system, let pressure build to at least:

    1. 20 psi
    2. 45 psi
    3. 60 psi
    4. 100 psi in both systems

    Answer: D. Wait for at least 100 psi in both the primary and secondary systems.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 5.2

  13. Brake lag in an air brake system is the delay before braking begins of about:

    1. Half a second or more
    2. 5 seconds
    3. No delay at all
    4. 10 seconds

    Answer: A. Air takes time to flow; at 55 mph brake lag adds about 32 feet, for a total stopping distance over 450 feet.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 5.4.4

  14. On a long downgrade where your safe speed is 40 mph, the proper braking technique is to:

    1. Hold the brakes lightly all the way down
    2. Brake firmly until you reach about 35 mph, release, and repeat when you reach 40
    3. Use only the parking brake
    4. Shift to neutral and coast

    Answer: B. Use engine braking in a low gear, then snub-brake to about 5 mph below safe speed for about 3 seconds at a time.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 5.4.6

  15. You should NOT use the parking brakes when:

    1. The vehicle is empty
    2. It is daytime
    3. The brakes are very hot or very wet in freezing temperatures
    4. You are on level ground

    Answer: C. Hot brakes can be damaged and wet brakes can freeze; use wheel chocks instead.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 5.4.8

  16. If the low air pressure warning comes on while you are driving, you should:

    1. Keep driving to the next terminal
    2. Pump the brakes to build pressure
    3. Speed up to reach help
    4. Stop and safely park as soon as possible

    Answer: D. Controlled braking is possible only while enough air remains in the tanks.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 5.4.7

  17. Pressing and releasing the brake pedal unnecessarily on an air-brake vehicle can:

    1. Let air out faster than the compressor can replace it
    2. Recharge the air tanks
    3. Cool the brakes
    4. Adjust the slack adjusters

    Answer: A. Fanning the brakes wastes air.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 5.1.7

  18. If the application pressure gauge shows you need more pressure to hold the same speed, this means:

    1. Your tires are low
    2. The brakes are fading
    3. The compressor is overcharging
    4. Everything is normal

    Answer: B. Needing more application pressure for the same result is a sign of brake fade.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 5.1.10

Staying alert

  1. On a long trip, the manual recommends a break about every:

    1. 5 hours or 300 miles
    2. 100 miles or 2 hours
    3. 20 miles
    4. 8 hours

    Answer: B. Take breaks about every 100 miles or 2 hours.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 2.11.2

  2. If you become sleepy while driving, the only safe cure is to:

    1. Drink coffee
    2. Open the window
    3. Turn up the radio
    4. Get off the road and get some sleep

    Answer: D. Coffee, cold air and music do not fix fatigue — only sleep does.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 2.11.2the only safe cure is to get off the road and get some sleep

  3. Sleeping six hours or less a night does what to your risk of a crash?

    1. Triples it
    2. Has no effect
    3. Cuts it in half
    4. Doubles it only at night

    Answer: A. Sleeping six hours or less triples your risk of a crash.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 2.11.2

Cargo

  1. Cargo should have at least one tie-down for every:

    1. 5 feet of cargo
    2. 10 feet of cargo
    3. 20 feet of cargo
    4. 50 feet of cargo

    Answer: B. At least one tie-down per 10 feet of cargo, and never fewer than two.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 3.3.2

  2. No matter how small the cargo, it should have at least how many tie-downs?

    1. None if it is heavy
    2. One
    3. Two
    4. Four

    Answer: C. Even small cargo needs at least two tie-downs.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 3.3.2No matter how small the cargo, it should have at least two tie-downs.

  3. The aggregate working load limit of tie-downs must be at least:

    1. Equal to the truck's GVWR
    2. Twice the cargo weight
    3. One-quarter of the cargo weight
    4. One-half the weight of the cargo

    Answer: D. The combined working load limit must be at least half the cargo's weight.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 3.3.2

  4. To keep the center of gravity low when loading, you should:

    1. Put the heaviest parts of the cargo under the lightest parts
    2. Put the heaviest items on top
    3. Load everything at the rear
    4. Leave the floor empty

    Answer: A. A high center of gravity raises rollover risk.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 3.2.3

  5. Too little weight on the driving axles can cause:

    1. Hard steering
    2. Poor traction
    3. Better braking
    4. Higher fuel economy

    Answer: B. Too little weight on drive axles means poor traction; too much on the steering axle makes steering hard.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 3.2.4

  6. If you are hauling a sealed load you cannot inspect, you should still:

    1. Break the seal to check it
    2. Refuse the load
    3. Make sure you don't exceed gross weight and axle weight limits
    4. Ignore weight limits

    Answer: C. You can't inspect sealed loads, but you must still stay within weight limits.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 3.3.5You cannot inspect sealed loads

  7. Hanging meat, dry bulk and livestock are dangerous mainly because they:

    1. Weigh less than other cargo
    2. Cannot be insured
    3. Need refrigeration
    4. Have a high center of gravity or can shift — take curves and ramps slowly

    Answer: D. These loads shift and raise rollover risk; go slowly in curves and on ramps.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 3.4

Combination vehicles

  1. Compared with an empty rig, a fully loaded rig is how much more likely to roll over in a crash?

    1. Twice as likely
    2. Five times
    3. Ten times
    4. No difference

    Answer: C. Fully loaded rigs are ten times more likely to roll over in a crash than empty rigs.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 6.1 Driving Combination Vehicles SafelyFully loaded rigs are ten times more likely to roll over in a crash than empty rigs.

  2. A rearward amplification of 2.0 means the rear trailer is:

    1. Twice as likely to turn over as the tractor
    2. Half as likely to turn over
    3. Twice as heavy as the tractor
    4. Allowed to go twice as fast

    Answer: A. Rearward amplification 2.0: the rear trailer is twice as likely to turn over as the tractor (the "crack-the-whip" effect).

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 6.1 Driving Combination Vehicles Safelyrearward amplification of 2.0 in the chart means that the rear trailer is twice as likely to turn over as the tractor.

  3. For following distance, the manual says to leave at least:

    1. 1 second for each 20 feet of vehicle length
    2. 1 second for each 10 feet of vehicle length, plus 1 second over 40 mph
    3. 2 seconds total at any speed
    4. 1 second for each 10 mph of speed

    Answer: B. At least 1 second for each 10 feet of vehicle length, plus another second if going over 40 mph.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 6.1 Driving Combination Vehicles SafelyFollow far enough behind other vehicles (at least 1 second for each 10 feet of your vehicle length, plus another second if going over 40 mph).

  4. Large combination vehicles take longer to stop when they are:

    1. Fully loaded
    2. Half loaded
    3. Carrying liquids
    4. Empty

    Answer: D. Empty rigs take longer to stop than fully loaded ones; bobtail tractors need extra care too.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 6.1 Driving Combination Vehicles SafelyLarge combination vehicles take longer to stop when they are empty than when they are fully loaded.

  5. If your trailer starts to skid, you should:

    1. Release the service brakes to get traction back
    2. Apply the trailer hand brake to straighten the rig
    3. Accelerate hard
    4. Turn sharply toward the skid

    Answer: A. Release the brakes to regain traction; do not use the trailer hand brake to "straighten out the rig".

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 6.1 Trailer Skidsdo not use the trailer hand brake (if you have one) to "straighten out the rig."

  6. If you cannot make a right turn without entering another lane, you should:

    1. Swing wide to the left before starting the turn
    2. Let the rear wheels run over the curb
    3. Turn wide as you complete the turn
    4. Back up and try again

    Answer: C. Turn wide as you complete the turn; steer the front wide enough so the rear does not run over the curb.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 6.1 Turn WideIf you cannot complete your turn without entering another traffic lane, turn wide as you complete the turn.

  7. The trailer hand valve (trolley valve) should be used:

    1. To park the trailer
    2. Only to test the trailer brakes
    3. To straighten out a skid
    4. For normal braking in traffic

    Answer: B. Use it only to test the trailer brakes; never for driving or parking, because air can leak out and release the brakes.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 6.2 Combination Vehicle Air Brakesthe trailer hand valve should be used only to test the trailer brakes.

  8. The tractor protection valve closes automatically when air pressure drops into which range?

    1. 60 to 80 psi
    2. 100 to 125 psi
    3. 5 to 10 psi
    4. 20 to 45 psi

    Answer: D. It closes automatically when air pressure is low, in the range of 20 to 45 psi.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 6.2 Tractor Protection Valvethe tractor protection valve will close automatically if air pressure is low (in the range of 20 to 45 psi).

  9. When connecting glad hands, you press the seals together with the couplers at what angle?

    1. 90 degrees
    2. 45 degrees
    3. 180 degrees
    4. 0 degrees (in line)

    Answer: A. Press the two seals together with the couplers at a 90-degree angle, after cleaning couplers and seals.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 6.2 Glad Handspress the two seals together with the couplers at a 90 degree angle to each other.

  10. How often should you drain the air tanks?

    1. Once a month
    2. Once a week
    3. Every day
    4. Only when the low-air warning comes on

    Answer: C. Each tank has a drain valve, and you should drain each tank every day.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 6.2 Trailer Air TanksEach tank has a drain valve on it and you should drain each tank every day.

  11. On a combination, the shut-off valves at the back of the LAST trailer must be:

    1. Open
    2. Closed
    3. Removed
    4. Half open

    Answer: B. All shut-off valves are open except those at the back of the last trailer, which must be closed.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 6.2 Shut-off ValvesYou must check that all shut-off valves are in the open position except the ones at the back of the last trailer, which must be closed.

  12. Trailers and converter dollies built on or after what date must have ABS?

    1. March 1, 1998
    2. January 1, 2005
    3. March 1, 1988
    4. January 1, 2010

    Answer: A. All trailers and converter dollies built on or after March 1, 1998, must have ABS; the yellow malfunction lamp is on the left side.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 6.3 Antilock Brake SystemsAll trailers and converter dollies built on or after march 1, 1998, are required to have ABS.

  13. If the ABS on your trailer malfunctions:

    1. You have no brakes on the trailer
    2. You must stop and call for a tow
    3. The trailer brakes lock up
    4. You still have regular brakes

    Answer: D. If ABS fails you still have regular brakes; ABS does not necessarily shorten stopping distance.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 6.3 Antilock Brake Systemsremember, if your ABS malfunctions, you still have regular brakes.

  14. When coupling, the trailer height should be:

    1. High enough that the fifth wheel passes under the apron without touching
    2. Low enough that the tractor raises it slightly when backed under
    3. Exactly level with the top of the tractor tires
    4. As low as the landing gear allows

    Answer: B. The trailer should be low enough that it is raised slightly by the tractor when backed under it.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 6.4 Coupling Tractor-semitrailersthe trailer should be low enough that it is raised slightly by the tractor when the tractor is backed under it.

  15. After backing under the trailer, how do you check that it is locked onto the tractor?

    1. Look at the landing gear
    2. Sound the horn and listen
    3. Pull forward gently with the trailer brakes still locked
    4. Drive around the block

    Answer: C. Pull the tractor gently forward while the trailer brakes are still locked (tug test).

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 6.4 Coupling Tractor-semitrailersPull tractor gently forward while the trailer brakes are still locked to check that the trailer is locked onto the tractor.

  16. When you inspect the coupling, the locking jaws should be closed around:

    1. The shank of the kingpin
    2. The head of the kingpin
    3. The glide plate
    4. The apron

    Answer: A. Locking jaws around the shank, not the head, of the kingpin; no visible space between upper and lower fifth wheel.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 6.5 Inspecting a Combination VehicleLocking jaws around the shank, not the head of kingpin.

  17. Why should you never drive with the landing gear only part way up?

    1. It wastes fuel
    2. It overloads the fifth wheel
    3. It blocks the mirrors
    4. It may catch on railroad tracks or other things

    Answer: D. Landing gear left part way up may catch on railroad tracks or other things.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 6.4 Coupling Tractor-semitrailersnever drive with landing gear only part way up as it may catch on railroad tracks or other things.

  18. When uncoupling, why do you stop with the tractor frame still under the trailer?

    1. To keep the air lines connected
    2. So the trailer will not fall if the landing gear collapses or sinks
    3. To save the fifth-wheel grease
    4. To keep the lights working

    Answer: B. It prevents the trailer from falling to the ground if the landing gear collapses or sinks.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 6.4 Uncoupling Tractor-semitrailersStop with tractor frame under trailer (prevents trailer from falling to ground if landing gear should collapse or sink).

Communicating

  1. On a two-lane road, where should warning triangles be placed for a stopped vehicle?

    1. Only one, 50 feet behind
    2. All three directly behind the vehicle
    3. 500 feet ahead and behind
    4. Within 10 feet of the front or rear corner, plus about 100 feet behind and 100 feet ahead

    Answer: D. Two-lane or undivided road: one near the corner, one 100 feet behind, one 100 feet ahead.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 2.5.2

  2. On a one-way or divided highway, warning triangles should be placed:

    1. 10, 100 and 200 feet toward approaching traffic
    2. 10, 50 and 100 feet ahead of the vehicle
    3. Only at the rear bumper
    4. 1,000 feet behind

    Answer: A. Divided or one-way: 10, 100 and 200 feet back toward approaching traffic.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 2.5.2

  3. After stopping on the road or shoulder, you must put out warning devices within:

    1. 1 hour
    2. 30 minutes
    3. 10 minutes
    4. 2 minutes

    Answer: C. Put out your warning devices within ten minutes of stopping.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 2.5.2

Vehicle control

  1. When backing a large vehicle, you should, whenever possible, back toward:

    1. The passenger (right) side
    2. The driver's side
    3. The center of the road
    4. Oncoming traffic

    Answer: B. You can see better backing toward the driver's side; use a helper when possible.

    Source: North Dakota CDL Manual (2025-2027), 2.2.4

  2. When using a helper to back up, the most important signal to agree on beforehand is:

    1. Turn left
    2. Speed up
    3. Turn right
    4. Stop

    Answer: D. Agree on hand signals before you start, especially the signal for STOP.

    Source: North Dakota CDL Manual (2025-2027), 2.2.4

  3. You should turn off the retarder when:

    1. The road is wet, icy or snow covered
    2. Going down a long grade
    3. Driving empty
    4. Driving at night

    Answer: A. Retarders can make the drive wheels skid on slippery roads.

    Source: North Dakota CDL Manual (2025-2027), 2.3.4

  4. You should downshift:

    1. In the middle of a curve
    2. Halfway down a hill
    3. Before starting down a hill and before entering a curve
    4. Only after the brakes get hot

    Answer: C. Get into the right gear before the hill or curve so you can concentrate on steering.

    Source: North Dakota CDL Manual (2025-2027), 2.3.4

Distracted driving

  1. CMV drivers who text while driving are how many times more likely to be in a safety-critical event?

    1. 23.2 times
    2. 2 times
    3. 6 times
    4. 100 times

    Answer: A. Research cited in the manual: texting raises the odds 23.2 times; dialing about 6 times.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 2.9

  2. Texting or using a hand-held phone while driving a CMV can bring a civil penalty of up to:

    1. $100
    2. $500
    3. $2,750 per violation
    4. $50,000

    Answer: C. Drivers: up to $2,750 per violation; employers who allow it: up to $11,000; two or more convictions lead to disqualification.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 2.9

Doubles and triples

  1. Which trailer in a doubles or triples combination is most likely to turn over?

    1. The first trailer
    2. The middle trailer
    3. The last trailer
    4. They are all equally likely

    Answer: C. The last trailer is the most likely to turn over (crack-the-whip effect).

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 7.1.2 Beware of the Crack-the-whip Effectthe last trailer in a combination is most likely to turn over.

  2. When pulling doubles, where should the more heavily loaded trailer be?

    1. First, right behind the tractor
    2. Last, at the rear
    3. It does not matter
    4. On the converter dolly

    Answer: A. Put the more heavily loaded semitrailer first behind the tractor; the lighter trailer goes at the rear.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 7.2.1 Coupling Twin Trailersthe more heavily loaded semitrailer should be in first position behind the tractor.

  3. How do you release the brakes on a converter dolly before moving it into position?

    1. Push in the trailer air supply knob
    2. Pull the trailer hand valve
    3. Disconnect the safety chains
    4. Open the dolly air tank petcock

    Answer: D. Release dolly brakes by opening the air tank petcock (if the dolly has spring brakes, use the dolly parking brake control).

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 7.2.1 Coupling Twin Trailersrelease dolly brakes by opening the air tank petcock.

  4. Why should you never unlock the pintle hook while the dolly is still under the rear trailer?

    1. The trailer brakes will release
    2. The dolly tow bar may fly up and cause injury
    3. The air lines will freeze
    4. The landing gear will drop

    Answer: B. The tow bar may fly up, possibly causing injury and making it very hard to re-couple.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 7.2.2 Uncoupling Twin Trailersnever unlock the pintle hook with the dolly still under the rear trailer.

  5. On doubles and triples, the shut-off valves at the rear of the FRONT trailers should be:

    1. Open
    2. Closed
    3. Removed
    4. Taped shut

    Answer: A. Rear of front trailers: OPEN; rear of last trailer: CLOSED; dolly air tank drain valve: CLOSED.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 7.3.1 Additional Checksrear of front trailers: OPEN.

  6. To check that air flows to all trailers, after charging the system you open the emergency line shut-off valve at:

    1. The front of the first trailer
    2. The converter dolly
    3. The rear of the last trailer
    4. The tractor protection valve

    Answer: C. Open the emergency line shut-off at the rear of the last trailer; you should hear air escaping, showing the whole system is charged.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 7.4.1 Additional Air Brake Checksopen the emergency line shut-off valve at the rear of the last trailer.

  7. Where is the ABS malfunction lamp on a converter dolly built after March 1, 1998?

    1. On the dashboard only
    2. On the right rear corner
    3. On the tow bar
    4. On the left side of the dolly

    Answer: D. Converter dollies built on or after March 1, 1998 must have ABS and a yellow lamp on the left side of the dolly.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 7.1.8 Antilock Braking Systems on Converter Dolliesthese dollies will have a yellow lamp on the left side of the dolly.

  8. A curve speed that is safe for a single-trailer rig is, for doubles or triples:

    1. Possibly too fast
    2. Always safe
    3. Too slow
    4. Safe if loaded evenly

    Answer: A. A safe curve speed for a straight truck or single-trailer rig may be too fast for doubles or triples.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 7.1.1 Prevent Trailer from Rolling OverA safe speed on a curve for a straight truck or a single trailer combination vehicle may be too fast for a set of doubles or triples.

Hazardous materials

  1. A placarded vehicle must display at least how many identical placards?

    1. One
    2. Two
    3. Four
    4. Six

    Answer: C. At least four identical placards: on the front, the rear and both sides.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 9.3 Communication RulesA placarded vehicle must have at least four identical placards.

  2. Table 2 hazardous materials need placards only when the total amount is:

    1. 1,001 pounds or more
    2. Any amount
    3. 100 pounds or more
    4. 5,000 pounds or more

    Answer: A. Table 2 materials need placards only if the total is 1,001 pounds or more; Table 1 materials need them for any amount.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 9.3 Placardingneed placards only if the total amount transported is 1,001 pounds or more

  3. When you leave the cab of a hazmat vehicle, the shipping papers should be:

    1. Taken with you
    2. Locked in the glove box
    3. In the sleeper berth
    4. In the driver's door pouch or on the driver's seat

    Answer: D. Out of the vehicle: driver's door pouch or driver's seat. While driving: within reach with your seat belt on, or in the door pouch.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 9.6 Shipping PapersWhen not behind the wheel, leave shipping papers in the driver's door pouch or on the driver's seat.

  4. How many hazard classes of hazardous materials are there?

    1. Five
    2. Nine
    3. Twelve
    4. Twenty

    Answer: B. There are nine hazard classes.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 9.3 Communication Rulesthere are nine different hazard classes.

  5. The identification number of a hazardous material is:

    1. A two-letter state code
    2. The shipper's phone number
    3. A four-digit code used by first responders
    4. The placard color

    Answer: C. A four-digit code used by first responders; it must appear on the shipping paper.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 9.3 Communication RulesIdentification numbers are a four-digit code used by first responders to identify hazardous materials.

  6. With Division 1.1, 1.2 or 1.3 explosives, you must never park within how many feet of the traveled part of the road?

    1. 5 feet
    2. 25 feet
    3. 100 feet
    4. 300 feet

    Answer: A. Never within 5 feet of the traveled part of the road, and not within 300 feet of a bridge, tunnel, building, crowd or open fire.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 9.6 Parking with Explosivesnever park with division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3 explosives within five feet of the traveled part of the road.

  7. With Division 1.1–1.3 explosives, do not park within how many feet of a bridge, tunnel, building, crowd or open fire?

    1. 25 feet
    2. 50 feet
    3. 100 feet
    4. 300 feet

    Answer: D. Do not park within 300 feet of a bridge, tunnel or building, a place where people gather, or an open fire.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 9.6 Parking with Explosivesdo not park within 300 feet of:

  8. A person attending a parked placarded vehicle must be awake and in the vehicle (not in the sleeper), or within how many feet with it in clear view?

    1. 25 feet
    2. 100 feet
    3. 300 feet
    4. 500 feet

    Answer: B. In the vehicle, awake and not in the sleeper berth, or within 100 feet with the vehicle in clear view.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 9.6 Attending Parked VehiclesBe in the vehicle, awake, and not in the sleeper berth, or within 100 feet of the vehicle and have it within clear view.

  9. You must not smoke within how many feet of a vehicle carrying explosives, flammable materials or oxidizers?

    1. 5 feet
    2. 10 feet
    3. 25 feet
    4. 100 feet

    Answer: C. Do not smoke or carry a lit cigarette, cigar or pipe within 25 feet of such a vehicle.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 9.6 No Smokingdo not smoke or carry a lighted cigarette, cigar, or pipe within 25 feet of any vehicle

  10. The power unit of a placarded vehicle must have a fire extinguisher with a UL rating of at least:

    1. 1 A
    2. 2 B:C
    3. 5 A:B
    4. 10 B:C

    Answer: D. A fire extinguisher with a UL rating of 10 B:C or more.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 9.6 Fire Extinguisherthe power unit of placarded vehicles must have a fire extinguisher with a uL rating of 10 B:c or more.

  11. A placarded vehicle stopping at a railroad crossing must stop how far before the nearest rail?

    1. 15 to 50 feet
    2. 5 to 10 feet
    3. 50 to 100 feet
    4. At least 200 feet

    Answer: A. Stop 15 to 50 feet before the nearest rail, and do not shift gears while crossing.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 9.6 Railroad CrossingsYou must stop 15 to 50 feet before the nearest rail.

  12. If a placarded vehicle carrying explosives or flammables breaks down, you should warn traffic with:

    1. Burning flares
    2. Reflective triangles or red electric lights
    3. A flashlight only
    4. Nothing — stay in the cab

    Answer: B. Never use burning signals such as flares or fusees; use reflective triangles or red electric lights.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 9.6 Flaresuse reflective triangles or red electric lights.

  13. On a placarded vehicle with dual tires, the only acceptable way to check tire pressure is:

    1. Kicking the tires
    2. Looking at the tire bulge
    3. Using a tire pressure gauge
    4. Hitting them with a tire iron

    Answer: C. Use a tire pressure gauge; check tires at the start of each trip and each time you park.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 9.6 Tiresthe only acceptable way to check tire pressure is to use a tire pressure gauge.

  14. An immediate report to the National Response Center is required when estimated property damage exceeds:

    1. $5,000
    2. $10,000
    3. $25,000
    4. $50,000

    Answer: D. Also when someone is killed or hospitalized, or the public is evacuated or a major artery closed for an hour or more.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 9.7 Required NotificationEstimated property damage exceeds $50,000.

  15. If hazardous material is leaking, you should NOT:

    1. Try to identify it or find the leak by smell
    2. Park the vehicle
    3. Secure the area
    4. Send someone else for help

    Answer: A. Never identify material or find a leak by smell; park, secure the area, stay there and send someone for help.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 9.7 Leaks and Spillsdo not try to identify the material or find the source of a leak by smell.

  16. The total transport index of all radioactive packages in one vehicle must not exceed:

    1. 10
    2. 50
    3. 100
    4. 500

    Answer: B. The total transport index of all packages in a single vehicle must not exceed 50.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 9.4 Radioactive Materialsthe total transport index of all packages in a single vehicle must not exceed 50.

  17. During loading or unloading of a cargo tank, the person watching must be within how many feet of the tank?

    1. 5 feet
    2. 10 feet
    3. 25 feet
    4. 100 feet

    Answer: C. A qualified person must always watch and be within 25 feet of the tank.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 9.5 Cargo TanksBe within 25 feet of the tank.

  18. After a collision, explosives removed from the vehicles must be placed at least how far from the vehicles and occupied buildings?

    1. 25 feet
    2. 50 feet
    3. 100 feet
    4. 200 feet

    Answer: D. Remove all explosives before separating the vehicles and place them at least 200 feet away.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 9.7 ExplosivesPlace the explosives at least 200 feet from the vehicles and occupied buildings.

  19. Where must you never load a package labeled POISON?

    1. In the driver's cab or sleeper
    2. In a closed van trailer
    3. In the front of the cargo area
    4. On a flatbed with a tarp

    Answer: A. Never load POISON or POISON INHALATION HAZARD packages in the driver's cab or sleeper.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 9.4 Loading and Unloadingnever load a package labeled PoISon or PoISon InHALAtIon HAZArd in the driver's cab or sleeper

  20. A bulk packaging is a single container with a capacity of:

    1. 55 gallons or more
    2. 119 gallons or more
    3. 500 gallons or more
    4. 1,000 gallons or more

    Answer: B. A bulk packaging is a single container with a capacity of 119 gallons or more.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 9.3 PlacardingA bulk packaging is a single container with a capacity of 119 gallons or more.

  21. When fueling a vehicle that carries hazardous materials:

    1. The engine may keep running
    2. The driver may go inside to pay
    3. Turn the engine off and someone must be at the nozzle
    4. Use only the automatic nozzle latch

    Answer: C. Turn off the engine before fueling; someone must always be at the nozzle controlling the flow.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 9.6 FuelingSomeone must always be at the nozzle, controlling fuel flow.

  22. Carriers must file a detailed written report of a hazmat incident within:

    1. 24 hours
    2. 5 days
    3. 10 days
    4. 30 days

    Answer: D. Carriers must make detailed written reports within 30 days of an incident.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 9.7 Required Notificationcarriers must make detailed written reports within 30 days of an incident.

Inspection

  1. Front (steering) tires must have tread depth of at least:

    1. 2/32 inch
    2. 4/32 inch
    3. 1/32 inch
    4. 8/32 inch

    Answer: B. Front tires: at least 4/32 inch in every major groove; other tires: 2/32 inch.

    Source: North Dakota CDL Manual (2025-2027), 2.1.3You need at least 4/32-inch tread depth in every major groove on front tires.

  2. Steering wheel play of more than how much can make it hard to steer?

    1. 2 degrees
    2. 5 degrees
    3. 45 degrees
    4. 10 degrees (about 2 inches at the rim of a 20-inch wheel)

    Answer: D. More than 10 degrees of free play makes steering difficult.

    Source: North Dakota CDL Manual (2025-2027), 2.1.3

  3. Cargo and its securing devices must be checked within the first how many miles of a trip?

    1. 50
    2. 5
    3. 150
    4. 500

    Answer: A. Check within the first 50 miles, then every 3 hours or 150 miles and after every break.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 3.1

  4. After the first check, cargo securement should be rechecked:

    1. Only at the end of the day
    2. Every 500 miles
    3. Every 3 hours or 150 miles, whichever comes first
    4. Never if the load is sealed

    Answer: C. Recheck every 3 hours or 150 miles and after every break.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 3.1After you have driven for 3 hours or 150 miles.

  5. How many steps are in the standard pre-trip inspection method in the CDL manual?

    1. Three
    2. Seven
    3. Ten
    4. Twelve

    Answer: B. The seven-step method: overview, engine compartment, cab, lights, walkaround, signal lights, brake checks.

    Source: North Dakota CDL Manual (2025-2027), 2.1.5

  6. To test hydraulic brakes for leaks, pump the pedal three times, then hold firm pressure for five seconds. The pedal should:

    1. Slowly sink to the floor
    2. Bounce back and forth
    3. Go down about one inch
    4. Not move

    Answer: D. If the pedal moves, there may be a leak — get it fixed before driving.

    Source: North Dakota CDL Manual (2025-2027), 2.1.5The pedal should not move.

  7. To test the service brake during the pre-trip inspection, you should:

    1. Go about 5 mph and push the brake pedal firmly
    2. Brake hard at highway speed
    3. Set the parking brake and accelerate
    4. Pump the brake at 30 mph

    Answer: A. At about 5 mph, a firm stop should not pull to one side or be delayed.

    Source: North Dakota CDL Manual (2025-2027), 2.1.5

  8. Which warning devices must you carry for a stopped vehicle?

    1. Two flags
    2. One flare
    3. Three reflective warning triangles
    4. Six cones

    Answer: C. Emergency equipment includes three reflective warning triangles, a fire extinguisher and spare fuses (if needed).

    Source: North Dakota CDL Manual (2025-2027), 2.1.3

License rules

  1. A Class A CDL is required for a combination vehicle with a GCWR of 26,001 lbs or more when the towed unit's GVWR is more than:

    1. 1,000 lbs
    2. 5,000 lbs
    3. 10,000 lbs
    4. 26,000 lbs

    Answer: C. Class A: GCWR 26,001+ lbs, towing a unit with GVWR over 10,000 lbs.

    Source: North Dakota CDL Manual (2025-2027), Section 1

  2. A Class B CDL covers a single vehicle with a GVWR of:

    1. 26,001 lbs or more
    2. 10,001 lbs or more
    3. Exactly 26,000 lbs
    4. Under 10,000 lbs only

    Answer: A. Class B: single vehicle 26,001+ lbs GVWR, which may tow a vehicle up to 10,000 lbs.

    Source: North Dakota CDL Manual (2025-2027), Section 1

  3. A CDL is required for a vehicle designed to transport how many passengers, including the driver?

    1. 9 or more
    2. 16 or more
    3. 25 or more
    4. 50 or more

    Answer: B. Vehicles designed to carry 16 or more people including the driver need a CDL.

    Source: North Dakota CDL Manual (2025-2027), Section 1designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver

  4. Which CDL endorsement is needed to haul placarded hazardous materials?

    1. N
    2. T
    3. P
    4. H

    Answer: D. H = hazardous materials (knowledge test plus a federal background check).

    Source: North Dakota CDL Manual (2025-2027), Section 1

  5. The N (tank vehicle) endorsement is needed when individual tanks over 119 gallons have a total capacity of at least:

    1. 1,000 gallons
    2. 500 gallons
    3. 119 gallons
    4. 5,000 gallons

    Answer: A. N endorsement: tanks over 119 gallons totaling 1,000 gallons or more.

    Source: North Dakota CDL Manual (2025-2027), Section 1

  6. Which endorsement is required to pull double or triple trailers?

    1. P
    2. T
    3. S
    4. N

    Answer: B. T = doubles/triples (knowledge test).

    Source: North Dakota CDL Manual (2025-2027), Section 1

  7. For a CMV driver, it becomes illegal to drive starting at a blood alcohol concentration of:

    1. .08%
    2. .10%
    3. .04%
    4. .15%

    Answer: C. For CMV drivers the limit is .04% — driving at .04% or more is illegal.

    Source: North Dakota CDL Manual (2025-2027), Section 1

  8. A CMV driver with any detectable alcohol below .04% will be:

    1. Allowed to keep driving
    2. Fined only
    3. Disqualified for life
    4. Put out of service for 24 hours

    Answer: D. Any detectable alcohol under .04% means 24 hours out of service.

    Source: North Dakota CDL Manual (2025-2027), Section 1You will be put out-of-service for 24 hours if you have any detectable amount of alcohol under .04%.

  9. A first offense of driving a CMV under the influence (not hauling hazmat) results in disqualification for at least:

    1. One year
    2. 30 days
    3. Three years
    4. Life

    Answer: A. First offense: at least one year; three years if in a placarded hazmat vehicle; a second offense: life.

    Source: North Dakota CDL Manual (2025-2027), Section 1

  10. A first major offense (such as DUI) while operating a placarded hazmat vehicle disqualifies you for at least:

    1. 60 days
    2. One year
    3. Three years
    4. Six months

    Answer: C. In a placarded hazardous materials vehicle, a first major offense means at least three years.

    Source: North Dakota CDL Manual (2025-2027), Section 1

  11. Two serious traffic violations (such as speeding 15 mph or more over the limit) within three years disqualify a CDL holder for at least:

    1. 30 days
    2. 60 days
    3. 120 days
    4. One year

    Answer: B. Two serious violations in three years: at least 60 days; three: at least 120 days.

    Source: North Dakota CDL Manual (2025-2027), Section 1

  12. You must notify your employer of a conviction for any traffic violation (except parking) within:

    1. 24 hours
    2. 10 days
    3. 60 days
    4. 30 days

    Answer: D. Notify your employer within 30 days of any traffic conviction except parking.

    Source: North Dakota CDL Manual (2025-2027), Section 1

  13. When applying for a commercial driving job, you must list all driving jobs you have held in the past:

    1. 10 years
    2. 1 year
    3. 3 years
    4. 20 years

    Answer: A. Employers must get information on all driving jobs for the past 10 years.

    Source: North Dakota CDL Manual (2025-2027), Section 1all driving jobs you have held for the past 10 years

  14. A first conviction for a railroad-highway grade crossing violation disqualifies a CDL holder for at least:

    1. 10 days
    2. One year
    3. 60 days
    4. Life

    Answer: C. First violation: at least 60 days; second within 3 years: 120 days; third: one year.

    Source: North Dakota CDL Manual (2025-2027), Section 1

Passenger transport

  1. At a railroad crossing, a bus must stop:

    1. At least 5 feet from the nearest rail
    2. Within 10 feet of the crossbuck
    3. Between 15 and 50 feet before the nearest rail
    4. Exactly 100 feet before the tracks

    Answer: C. Stop between 15 and 50 feet before the nearest rail, with four-way flashers on; stop whether or not you carry passengers.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 4.3.5 Railroad-highway CrossingsStop your bus between 15 and 50 feet before the nearest rails.

  2. If your bus has a manual transmission, while crossing railroad tracks you should:

    1. Never change gears
    2. Shift up to gain speed
    3. Shift into neutral
    4. Change gears only on the second track

    Answer: A. Never change gears while crossing the tracks.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 4.3.5 Railroad-highway CrossingsIf your bus has a manual transmission, never change gears while crossing the tracks.

  3. At a drawbridge with no signal light or attendant, a bus must stop how far before the draw?

    1. 15 feet
    2. 25 feet
    3. 100 feet
    4. 50 feet

    Answer: D. Stop 50 feet before the draw and make sure it is completely closed before crossing.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 4.3.6 DrawbridgesStop 50 feet before the draw of the bridge.

  4. Standing riders on a bus must stay:

    1. Next to the driver
    2. Behind the standee line
    3. In the stairwell
    4. Anywhere if they hold a rail

    Answer: B. No rider may stand in front of the standee line; buses that allow standing have a two-inch line on the floor.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 4.2.3 Standee Lineno rider may stand in front of the standee line which is forward of the rear of the driver's seat.

  5. A bus must never carry more than how much allowed hazardous material in total?

    1. 100 pounds
    2. 250 pounds
    3. 500 pounds
    4. 1,000 pounds

    Answer: C. Never more than 500 pounds total of allowed hazardous materials, and no more than 100 pounds of any one class.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 4.2.2 Forbidden Hazardous Materialsmore than 500 pounds total of allowed hazardous materials, and no more than 100 pounds of any one class.

  6. Which of these may a bus carry?

    1. Small-arms ammunition labeled ORM-D
    2. Tear gas
    3. Liquid Class 6 poison
    4. Division 2.3 poison gas

    Answer: A. Buses may carry small-arms ammunition labeled ORM-D, emergency hospital supplies and drugs; tear gas, liquid Class 6 poison and Division 2.3 gas are forbidden.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 4.2.2 Forbidden Hazardous MaterialsBuses may carry small-arms ammunition labeled orm-d, emergency hospital supplies, and drugs.

  7. Which is true about fueling a bus?

    1. Fuel only with riders on board
    2. Fueling indoors is safer
    3. Riders must hold the nozzle
    4. Never refuel in a closed building with riders on board

    Answer: D. Avoid fueling with riders aboard unless absolutely necessary, and never in a closed building with riders on board.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 4.5 Prohibited Practicesnever refuel in a closed building with riders on board.

  8. On a transit bus, the brake-door interlock:

    1. Replaces the parking brake
    2. Applies the brakes and holds the throttle at idle when the rear door is open
    3. Locks the doors while moving
    4. Opens the rear door at stops

    Answer: B. It applies the service brakes and holds the throttle at idle when the rear door is open; do not use it in place of the parking brake.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 4.6 Use of Brake-door Interlocksthe interlock applies the service brakes and holds the throttle in idle position when the rear door is open.

  9. If your bus leans toward the outside on a banked curve, it means:

    1. The tires are underinflated
    2. The load is uneven
    3. You are driving too fast
    4. The curve is safe at that speed

    Answer: C. Leaning toward the outside on a banked curve means you are driving too fast.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 4.3.4 Speed on Curves or TurnsIf your bus leans toward the outside on a banked curve, you are driving too fast.

  10. Which tires are NOT allowed on the front wheels of a bus?

    1. Recapped or regrooved tires
    2. Radial tires
    3. Tubeless tires
    4. New tires

    Answer: A. Front wheels must not have recapped or regrooved tires.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 4.1 Vehicle Inspectiontires (front wheels must not have recapped or regrooved tires).

  11. If you work for an interstate carrier, after each shift you must:

    1. Only report defects verbally
    2. Inspect the bus once a week
    3. Wash the bus
    4. Complete a written inspection report for each bus driven

    Answer: D. A written inspection report is required for each bus driven; if there are no defects, the report should say so.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 4.4 After-trip Vehicle InspectionIf you work for an interstate carrier, you must complete a written inspection report for each bus driven.

  12. May you tow or push a disabled bus with riders aboard?

    1. Yes, always
    2. Only if getting off would be unsafe, and only to the nearest safe spot
    3. Only at night
    4. Only on the highway

    Answer: B. Do not tow or push with riders aboard unless getting off would be unsafe; then only to the nearest safe spot.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 4.5 Prohibited Practicesdo not tow or push a disabled bus with riders aboard the vehicle, unless getting off would be unsafe.

School bus

  1. The danger zone in front of a school bus may extend as much as how far from the front bumper?

    1. 10 feet
    2. 30 feet
    3. 50 feet
    4. 100 feet

    Answer: B. Up to 30 feet from the front bumper, 10 feet from each side and 10 feet behind the rear bumper.

    Source: Oregon Commercial Driver Manual, Section 10.1 Danger ZonesThe danger zones may extend as much as 30 feet from the front bumper

  2. Which area around a school bus is always considered dangerous because of passing cars?

    1. The left side
    2. The right side
    3. The rear
    4. The front

    Answer: A. The area to the left of the bus is always dangerous because of passing cars.

    Source: Oregon Commercial Driver Manual, Section 10.1 Danger Zonesthe area to the left of the bus is always considered dangerous because of passing cars.

  3. Which mirrors let you see the area directly in front of the bus that you cannot see directly?

    1. Outside flat mirrors
    2. Overhead inside mirror
    3. Outside convex mirrors
    4. Outside crossover mirrors

    Answer: D. Crossover mirrors show the area in front of the bus from the bumper at ground level to where direct vision is possible.

    Source: Oregon Commercial Driver Manual, Section 10.1 Outside Crossover MirrorsThe entire area in front of the bus from the front bumper at ground level to a point where direct vision is possible.

  4. When approaching a school bus stop, the amber warning lights should be turned on at least:

    1. 50 feet before the stop
    2. 100 feet before the stop
    3. 200 feet (about 5–10 seconds) before the stop
    4. Only after the bus stops

    Answer: C. Amber lights at least 200 feet or about 5–10 seconds before the stop; right turn signal about 100–300 feet before pulling over.

    Source: Oregon Commercial Driver Manual, Section 10.2.1 Approaching the Stopactivate alternating flashing amber warning lights at least 200 feet or approximately 5-10 seconds before the school bus stop

  5. At a school bus stop, the front bumper should be at least how far from the waiting students?

    1. 3 feet
    2. 10 feet
    3. 25 feet
    4. 50 feet

    Answer: B. Stop with the front bumper at least 10 feet away from students at the designated stop.

    Source: Oregon Commercial Driver Manual, Section 10.2.1 Approaching the StopBring school bus to a full stop with the front bumper at least 10 feet away from students at the designated stop.

  6. If you miss a student's unloading stop, you should:

    1. Not back up
    2. Back up carefully with the mirrors
    3. Let the student out at the next corner
    4. Stop in the road and let the student walk back

    Answer: A. Never back up to a missed stop; follow your district's procedure.

    Source: Oregon Commercial Driver Manual, Section 10.2.3 Unloading ProceduresIf you have missed a student's unloading stop, do not back up.

  7. During an evacuation, a safe place for students is at least how far off the road?

    1. 10 feet
    2. 25 feet
    3. 50 feet
    4. 100 feet

    Answer: D. At least 100 feet off the road in the direction of oncoming traffic; at least 300 feet upwind for a hazmat spill.

    Source: Oregon Commercial Driver Manual, Section 10.3.2 Evacuation ProceduresA safe place will be at least 100 feet off the road in the direction of oncoming traffic.

  8. If there is a risk from spilled hazardous materials, lead students:

    1. Downwind, 100 feet
    2. Into the nearest building
    3. Upwind of the bus, at least 300 feet
    4. Back onto the bus

    Answer: C. Lead students upwind of the bus at least 300 feet.

    Source: Oregon Commercial Driver Manual, Section 10.3.2 Evacuation ProceduresLead students upwind of the bus at least 300 feet if there is a risk from spilled hazardous materials.

  9. At a crossing with multiple tracks, a school bus stops:

    1. Before each set of tracks
    2. Only before the first set of tracks
    3. Between the tracks
    4. After the last set of tracks

    Answer: B. Stop only before the first set of tracks, then cross in a low gear without changing gears.

    Source: Oregon Commercial Driver Manual, Section 10.4.3 Recommended ProceduresAt a multiple-track crossing, stop only before the first set of tracks.

  10. To decide if there is enough room past a railroad crossing, add how many feet to the length of the school bus?

    1. 15 feet
    2. 5 feet
    3. 50 feet
    4. 100 feet

    Answer: A. Add 15 feet to the bus length to find the needed containment area: "If it won't fit, don't commit!"

    Source: Oregon Commercial Driver Manual, Section 10.4.4 Special Situationsadd 15 feet to the length of the school bus to determine an acceptable amount of containment or storage area.

  11. If the crossing gate comes down after you have started across the tracks, you should:

    1. Stop on the tracks
    2. Back up quickly
    3. Get the students off on the tracks
    4. Drive through it, even if it breaks the gate

    Answer: D. Keep going and drive through the gate even if it breaks.

    Source: Oregon Commercial Driver Manual, Section 10.4.3 Recommended ProceduresIf the gate comes down after you have started across, drive through it even if it means you will break the gate.

  12. A school bus can have a tail swing of up to:

    1. 1 foot
    2. 2 feet
    3. 3 feet
    4. 6 feet

    Answer: C. Up to three feet; check your mirrors before and during turns.

    Source: Oregon Commercial Driver Manual, Section 10.7.4 Tail SwingA school bus can have up to a three-foot tail swing.

  13. When may you back a school bus while students are outside the bus?

    1. When a lookout is posted
    2. Never
    3. At the school only
    4. If you sound the horn

    Answer: B. Backing is strongly discouraged and never done while students are outside the bus.

    Source: Oregon Commercial Driver Manual, Section 10.7.3 BackingYou should never back a school bus when students are outside of the bus.

  14. If you cannot account for a student outside the bus, you should:

    1. Secure the bus, take the key, and check around and underneath it
    2. Honk and drive on
    3. Radio the school and keep going
    4. Wait 30 seconds and leave

    Answer: A. Secure the bus, take the key, and check around and underneath the bus.

    Source: Oregon Commercial Driver Manual, Section 10.2.2 Loading ProceduresIf you cannot account for a student outside, secure the bus, take the key, and check around and underneath the bus.

  15. In emergency braking on a school bus with ABS, you should:

    1. Pump the brakes
    2. Use the parking brake
    3. Shift to neutral
    4. Not pump the brakes

    Answer: D. Use only the force needed and do not pump the brakes on a bus with ABS.

    Source: Oregon Commercial Driver Manual, Section 10.6.3 Braking with ABSin emergency braking, do not pump the brakes on a bus with ABS.

  16. A student who must cross the road after leaving the bus should first walk to a point at least how far in front of the right corner of the bumper?

    1. 3 feet
    2. 5 feet
    3. 10 feet
    4. 30 feet

    Answer: C. At least 10 feet in front of the right corner of the bumper, staying away from the front of the bus.

    Source: Oregon Commercial Driver Manual, Section 10.2.3 Students Crossing the RoadwayWalk to a location at least 10 feet in front of the right corner of the bumper

Seeing ahead

  1. Good drivers look ahead at least:

    1. 5 to 8 seconds
    2. 12 to 15 seconds
    3. 30 to 40 seconds
    4. 1 to 2 seconds

    Answer: B. 12-15 seconds is about one block in town and about a quarter mile at highway speed.

    Source: North Dakota CDL Manual (2025-2027), 2.4.1Most good drivers look at least 12 to 15 seconds ahead.

Space management

  1. Below 40 mph, the recommended following distance is at least:

    1. 2 seconds for any vehicle
    2. One car length per 10 mph
    3. 4 seconds for any vehicle
    4. One second for each 10 feet of vehicle length

    Answer: D. Below 40 mph: 1 second per 10 feet of vehicle length; over 40 mph add 1 second.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 2.7.1

  2. A 60-foot rig traveling over 40 mph should keep a following distance of at least:

    1. 7 seconds
    2. 3 seconds
    3. 6 seconds
    4. 10 seconds

    Answer: A. 60 feet = 6 seconds, plus 1 second above 40 mph = 7 seconds.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 2.7.1

  3. When making a left turn with a large vehicle at an intersection, you should start the turn:

    1. As soon as you enter the intersection
    2. From the right lane
    3. After reaching the center of the intersection
    4. Before the stop line

    Answer: C. Reach the center of the intersection before turning left so you do not hit vehicles to your left.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 2.7

  4. If there are two left-turn lanes, a large vehicle should usually use:

    1. The left-hand turn lane
    2. The right-hand (outer) turn lane
    3. Either lane
    4. Neither; go straight

    Answer: B. Taking the right-hand turn lane gives you room to complete the turn.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 2.7

  5. Why can an empty cargo vehicle hit an overpass that a loaded one clears?

    1. Empty trucks are longer
    2. Empty trucks go faster
    3. Loaded trucks are wider
    4. An empty vehicle sits higher than a loaded one

    Answer: D. Weight compresses the suspension; empty, the vehicle rides higher. Posted clearances can also be wrong.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 2.7

Speed

  1. At 55 mph on dry pavement, the total minimum stopping distance (perception + reaction + braking) for a heavy vehicle is about:

    1. 150 feet
    2. 419 feet
    3. 1,000 feet
    4. 60 feet

    Answer: B. Perception 142 ft + reaction 61 ft + braking about 216 ft = about 419 ft.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 2.6.1

  2. If you double your speed (for example from 20 to 40 mph), your braking distance becomes about:

    1. The same
    2. Twice as long
    3. Three times as long
    4. Four times as long

    Answer: D. Doubling speed means about four times the braking distance and impact.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 2.6.1

  3. Compared with a loaded truck, an empty truck usually:

    1. Needs a greater stopping distance because it has less traction
    2. Stops in a shorter distance
    3. Stops the same
    4. Cannot skid

    Answer: A. Empty vehicles have less traction, so they can take longer to stop.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 2.6.1Empty trucks require greater stopping distances because an empty vehicle has less traction.

  4. Hydroplaning can occur at speeds as low as:

    1. 5 mph
    2. 15 mph
    3. 30 mph (with a lot of water)
    4. 70 mph only

    Answer: C. With enough water, hydroplaning can start around 30 mph.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 2.6.2

  5. If your vehicle is hydroplaning, you should:

    1. Brake hard
    2. Release the accelerator and push in the clutch
    3. Turn the wheel sharply
    4. Speed up

    Answer: B. Do not brake; release the accelerator and push in the clutch so the wheels can turn freely.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 2.6.2

Tank vehicles

  1. On any tank vehicle, the most important item to check during inspection is:

    1. Tire tread
    2. Mirrors
    3. The fire extinguisher
    4. Leaks

    Answer: D. Leaks are the most important item; carrying liquids or gases in a leaking tank is a crime.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 8.1.1 Leakson all tank vehicles, the most important item to check for is leaks.

  2. Liquid surge in a partly filled tank can:

    1. Shove a stopped truck forward, e.g. into an intersection on ice
    2. Only happen in full tanks
    3. Make the truck stop shorter
    4. Be stopped by braking harder

    Answer: A. When the wave hits the end of the tank it pushes the truck; on ice it can shove a stopped truck into an intersection.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 8.2.2 Danger of SurgeIf the truck is on a slippery surface such as ice, the wave can shove a stopped truck out into an intersection.

  3. Baffles in a liquid tank reduce front-to-back surge, but:

    1. They eliminate all surge
    2. They make the tank lighter
    3. Side-to-side surge can still occur and cause a rollover
    4. They are required in all sanitary tanks

    Answer: C. Baffles reduce front-to-back surge, but side-to-side surge can still occur and cause a rollover.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 8.2.4 Baffled TanksSide-to-side surge can still occur.

  4. Why do tanks that haul milk and other food products often have no baffles (smooth bore)?

    1. They carry only full loads
    2. Sanitation rules forbid baffles because they are hard to clean
    3. Baffles would make the tank too heavy
    4. Food liquids do not surge

    Answer: B. Sanitation regulations forbid baffles because of the difficulty of cleaning; forward-and-back surge is very strong.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 8.2.5 Un-baffled Tanks(Sanitation regulations forbid the use of baffles because of the difficulty in cleaning the inside of the tank.)

  5. Why must you never load a cargo tank totally full?

    1. Full tanks surge more
    2. It is illegal to haul more than half a tank
    3. The vents would freeze
    4. Liquids expand as they warm; you must leave outage

    Answer: D. Liquids expand as they warm, so leave room (outage); different liquids need different amounts.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 8.2.6 OutageLiquids expand as they warm and you must leave room for the expanding liquid.

  6. Why might you only partly fill a tank with a dense liquid such as some acids?

    1. A full tank could exceed legal weight limits
    2. Dense liquids do not expand
    3. Partial loads never surge
    4. To make inspection easier

    Answer: A. A full tank of dense liquid may exceed legal weight limits, so it is often only partly filled.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 8.2.7 How Much to Load?A full tank of dense liquid (such as some acids) may exceed legal weight limits.

  7. When stopping a tank vehicle, you should:

    1. Pump the brakes quickly
    2. Release the brakes early to let the liquid settle
    3. Keep steady pressure and not release the brakes too soon
    4. Brake hard at the last moment

    Answer: C. Keep steady brake pressure, do not release too soon, brake far in advance and increase following distance.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 8.3.2 Controlling SurgeKeep a steady pressure on the brakes. do not release the brakes too soon when coming to a stop.

  8. How should you drive a tank vehicle through a curve?

    1. Brake in the middle of the curve
    2. Slow down before the curve, then accelerate slightly through it
    3. Keep the posted speed
    4. Coast in neutral

    Answer: B. Slow down before curves, then accelerate slightly through; the posted curve speed may be too fast for a tanker.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 8.3.3 CurvesSlow down before curves, then accelerate slightly through the curve.

  9. Which statement about tank vehicle stopping distance is true?

    1. Wet roads do not change it
    2. Full tanks always take longer to stop
    3. Wet roads cut it in half
    4. Empty tank vehicles may take longer to stop than full ones

    Answer: D. Wet roads double the normal stopping distance, and empty tankers may take longer to stop than full ones.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 8.3.4 Stopping Distanceremember that wet roads double the normal stopping distance. Empty tank vehicles may take longer to stop than full ones.

  10. Before driving a tank vehicle, the valves and manhole covers must be:

    1. Closed
    2. Open to vent vapors
    3. Removed
    4. Half open

    Answer: A. Never drive a tank vehicle with open valves or manhole covers; covers must have gaskets and close correctly.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 8.1.1 Leaksnever drive a tank vehicle with open valves or manhole covers.

  11. Tests have shown that tankers can turn over:

    1. Only above 65 mph
    2. Only when empty
    3. At the speed limits posted for curves
    4. Only on gravel

    Answer: C. Tankers can turn over at posted curve speeds; take curves and ramps well below the posted speeds.

    Source: Pennsylvania CDL Manual (PUB 223), 8.2.1 High Center of Gravitytests have shown that tankers can turn over at the speed limits posted for curves.

Weather and night

  1. The manual's best advice for driving in fog is:

    1. Use high beams
    2. Follow the taillights ahead closely
    3. Don't — pull off into a rest area or truck stop until it clears
    4. Speed up to get through it

    Answer: C. If you must drive, slow down, use low beams and fog lights and turn on 4-way flashers.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 2.12

  2. On slippery roads, the engine brake or speed retarder should be:

    1. Used constantly
    2. Turned off — it can make the drive wheels skid
    3. Used only downhill
    4. Set to maximum

    Answer: B. On slippery surfaces engine brakes and retarders can cause drive-wheel skids.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 2.13

  3. In very hot weather, you should check tire mounting and air pressure about every:

    1. 10 miles
    2. Day
    3. 500 miles
    4. Two hours or 100 miles

    Answer: D. Check every two hours or 100 miles; never let air out of hot tires.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 2.14

  4. When should you remove the radiator cap?

    1. Only after the cooling system has cooled
    2. While the engine is hot, to check the level
    3. Whenever the gauge is in the red
    4. Never — it is sealed

    Answer: A. Never open the pressurized cooling system until it has cooled.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 2.14

  5. After driving through deep water, to dry your brakes you should:

    1. Brake hard several times at speed
    2. Park and wait for an hour
    3. Slow down, use a low gear and apply light brake pressure
    4. Pump the clutch

    Answer: C. Water can make brakes weak, uneven or grabbing; light pressure in low gear dries them.

    Source: Michigan CDL Manual (2022), 2.13

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