CDL 2021 Flashcards
When traveling down a long downgrade, you should brake by:
A. Only using the brakes.
B. Mostly using the brakes and downshifting occasionally.
C. Downshifting and then using brakes.
D. Never using the brakes.
Downshifting and then using brakes
Explanation: On a downgrade, you should use the braking effect of your engine as the principal way of controlling your speed. Save your brakes for additional slowing or stopping that may be required by road or traffic conditions.
If cargo on a flatbed trailer is 40 feet long, it must be secured by a minimum of:
A. One tie-down.
B. Two tie-downs.
C. Three tie-downs.
D. Four tie-downs.
Four tie-downs
Explanation: On flatbed trailers and trailers without sides, cargo must be tied down. There should be at least one tie-down for every 10 feet of cargo. Regardless of the size of the cargo, at least two tie-downs must be used.
Sending text messages while driving:
A. May be done if the messages are short.
B. Is encouraged.
C. Is permitted if you are asking a question of your employer.
D. Is not permitted.
Is not permitted
Explanation: Sending and reading text messages while driving is prohibited.
During an applied leakage test, the maximum leakage rate for a single vehicle with air brakes is:
A. 3 psi in one minute.
B. 6 psi in one minute.
C. 8 psi in one minute.
D. 4 psi in one minute.
3 psi in one minute
Explanation: It is important to know the maximum air loss rate that is safe for your specific vehicle. A single vehicle with air brakes should have a leakage rate no higher than 3 psi in a minute during an applied leakage test.
When loading a trailer, it is important to:
A. Place as little weight as possible over the axles.
B. Place an appropriate amount of weight over the axles.
C. Not be concerned about how the weight is distributed.
D. Only place weight over the axles.
Place an appropriate amount of weight over the axles
Explanation: The weight of cargo in a trailer should be evenly balanced. Having too much or too little weight on an axle can interfere with proper control of the vehicle. Additionally, having too much weight on one axle can damage it.
When asked about the vehicle’s oil during the vehicle inspection test, you must be able to do all of the following, except:
A. Indicate where the dipstick is located.
B. Show that the oil level is within a safe operating range.
C. Show that the oil level is above the refill mark.
D. Show that the oil level is below the refill mark.
Show that the oil level is below the refill mark
Explanation: During the vehicle inspection test, you must be able to indicate where the oil dipstick is located; show that the oil level is within a safe operating range; and show that the oil level is above the refill mark.
Pressing and releasing the brake pedal unnecessarily can:
A. Release air faster than it can be replaced.
B. Add more air to a brake system.
C. Make the brake pedal harder to depress.
D. Create a loud noise.
Release air faster than it can be replaced
Explanation: On a vehicle with air brakes, pressing and releasing the brake pedal unnecessarily may let air out of the braking system faster than the compressor can replace it. This may cause the system’s air pressure to become too low and the brakes to stop working.
Spring brakes come on:
- When too much air pressure is lost.
- When a control on the dashboard is activated.
- When the tires have minimal tread depth.
- When the brakes are noisy
When too much air pressure is lost
Explanation: Spring brakes come on automatically when air pressure drops to an unsafe psi level. Instead of waiting for the spring brakes to automatically activate, you should safely exit the road as soon as you notice the low pressure warning signal and bring your vehicle to a stop while you are still able to control the brakes.
Mirror adjustment can only be checked properly if:
- The trailer is straight.
- There is no trailer attached to the tractor.
- The vehicle is on a slight incline.
- The vehicle is on a slight decline.
The trailer is straight.
Explanation: If a trailer is attached to a tractor, the adjustment of the vehicle’s mirrors can only be checked accurately if the trailer is straight.
Mirror adjustment can only be checked properly if:
- The trailer is straight.
- There is no trailer attached to the tractor.
- The vehicle is on a slight incline.
- The vehicle is on a slight decline.
The inspections should be done the same way each time.
Explanation: Pre-trip inspections should be conducted in the same way every time. This will reinforce the steps, making it less likely that you will forget to inspect something important.
When a brake pedal is pressed and the S-cam is turned, the S-cam:
- Presses the brake shoes against the inside of the brake drum.
- Tightens the brake drum onto the axle.
- Presses the brake lining against the wheel.
- Releases air from the air tanks
Presses the brake shoes against the inside of the brake drum
Explanation: When a brake pedal is pressed and the S-cam is turned, the S-cam presses the brake shoes against the inside of the brake drum. This causes friction and will cause the vehicle to slow.
Parts of an exhaust system should be:
- Loose.
- Leaking.
- Fastened securely.
- Cracked.
Fastened securely
Explanation: When inspecting an exhaust system, you should verify that parts of the system are not loose, broken, or missing. The system’s parts must be properly mounted and should not be rubbing against moving parts of the vehicle.
The most important reason to inspect your vehicle before a trip is:
- To ensure safety.
- To maximize gas mileage.
- To wake up before the drive.
- To fill up time
To ensure safety
Explanation: The most important reason to inspect your vehicle before a trip is to ensure the safety of yourself and others on the road. Safety inspections before every trip are required by state and federal laws.
The parking brake should be:
- Used whenever you park your vehicle.
- Used while driving.
- Set when driving in bad weather.
- Removed
Used whenever you park your vehicle
Explanation: The parking brake in a vehicle with air brakes should be used every time the vehicle is parked.
When trying to put out an electrical fire:
- Use water.
- Use a B or C extinguisher.
- Use an X extinguisher.
- Use a Q extinguisher.
Use a B or C extinguisher.
Explanation: B and C type fire extinguishers are designed to work on electrical fires. Water should never be used to extinguish an electrical fire because doing so could result in an electrical shock.
When checking your mirrors:
- Do not use the passenger side mirror.
- Do not use the driver’s side mirror.
- Both mirrors should be used.
- Look in each mirror for long stretches of time.
Both mirrors should be used.
Explanation: To travel safely, it is essential that you know what is happening on all sides of your vehicle at all times. Check all mirrors frequently while driving.
Which of the following is not a good rule to follow when using turn signals?
- Signal early.
- Signal continuously.
- Do not use your turn signal if you think others know what you plan to do.
- Cancel your signal after the turn is completed.
Do not use your turn signal if you think others know what you plan to do.
Explanation: To be certain that others are aware of your intentions, always signal whenever you plan to turn or change lanes. You should signal well in advance of a turn; signal continuously throughout the turn; and make sure to cancel the signal when you are finished turning.
A suspension system:
- Has a weight capacity rating.
- Uses pressurized water to support the load.
- Can handle any weight load.
- Has a minimum weight rating.
Has a weight capacity rating.
Explanation: Suspension systems receive weight capacity ratings, given by the manufacturers.
If you plan to slow down, you can warn drivers behind you by:
- Slamming on the brakes.
- Tapping the brakes a few times and before braking.
- Turning on one set of turn signals.
- Putting your hand out the driver’s side window and waving.
Tapping the brakes a few times and before braking.
Explanation: Before slowing down, it is a good idea to flash your brake lights by lightly tapping your brake pedal a few times. This will warn drivers behind you of your plans to slow down.
When you are driving while drowsy, you should:
- Press on and try to finish the trip.
- Take drugs to keep awake.
- Stop and take a nap.
- Stop for a coffee break.
Stop and take a nap.
Explanation: The only effective way to deal with drowsiness while driving is to stop and sleep. Caffeine or other stimulant drugs may help you stay awake, but they will not keep you alert. You will likely end up being even more tired when the artificial stimulants begin to wear off.
When starting the engine of a truck with a trailer, how can you tell if the Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) is not working?
- The yellow light on the rear of the trailer will stay on.
- The red light on the trailer will flash three times and then stay on.
- All the rear lights on the trailer will flash and then shut off.
- The blue light near the driver’s door will light.
The yellow light on the rear of the trailer will stay on.
Explanation: Trailers equipped with Anti-Lock Braking Systems (ABS) are equipped on the left rear with a yellow malfunction lamp. If the malfunction lamp stays on after the engine has been started, the ABS is malfunctioning.
What can happen if a parking brake is used in very wet weather when temperatures are below freezing?
The brakes will squeak.
The brakes may freeze so the vehicle cannot move.
The brakes may suddenly release by themselves.
The brakes may explode
The brakes may freeze so the vehicle cannot move.
Explanation: If you use the parking brakes when the weather is very wet and the temperature is below freezing, the brakes may become frozen, preventing the vehicle from moving.
During a basic vehicle control skills test, you may be asked to:
Pull forward into a parking space.
Drive in a figure eight.
Alley dock.
Sound your horn.
Alley dock.
Explanation: Maneuvers that may be included in the basic vehicle control skills test include straight line backing, offset back/right parking, offset back/left parking, driver side parallel parking, conventional parallel parking, and alley docking.
If a vehicle gets stuck on a railroad track, the driver should:
Stay in the vehicle and try to restart the vehicle.
Get out of the vehicle and walk away from the tracks.
Try to flag down another vehicle to give them a push.
Wait in the vehicle for a law enforcement officer to arrive
Get out of the vehicle and walk away from the tracks.
Explanation: If your vehicle gets stuck on railroad tracks, immediately exit the vehicle and get away from the tracks. Check signs or signal housing at the crossing for emergency contact information. Call the emergency contact or call 911.
One way to overcome the challenges of blind spots is to:
Drive faster than surrounding vehicles so no other drivers can pass you.
Drive in the left lane, allowing you to only worry about vehicles to your right.
Make frequent mirror checks and assess the positions of surrounding vehicles.
Avoid using your mirrors.
Make frequent mirror checks and assess the positions of surrounding vehicles.
Explanation: You should make frequent mirror checks to monitor the traffic around you. This should help you notice if surrounding vehicles begin to move into your blind spots.
The brake pedal is part of which braking system?
The service brake system
The parking brake system
The emergency brake system
The auxiliary brake system
The service brake system
Explanation: The service brake system applies and releases the brakes when a driver presses the brake pedal while driving normally.
During a pre-trip inspection, what is the best method for checking your lights?
Parking near a mirror to look for a reflection
Activating the lights, then exiting the vehicle to check
Looking on the instrument panel to see if any warning lights are illuminated
Driving in traffic and waiting for other drivers to let you know your lights are out
Activating the lights, then exiting the vehicle to check
Explanation: During a pre-trip inspection, you should activate your lights, then get out of the vehicle to look at them.
The suspension system:
Holds up the vehicle and its load.
Keeps the load the proper distance behind the driver’s compartment.
Maintains a safe distance between the vehicle and other vehicles.
Lightens the load for the tires.
Holds up the vehicle and its load.
Explanation: Holds up the vehicle and its load.
What can happen if one-fourth of the leaves in a leaf spring are missing when a vehicle is inspected?
The vehicle’s driver will be allowed to drive, but only at reduced speeds.
The vehicle will be put out-of-service until it is fixed.
The vehicle will be fine to drive since most of the spring is in place.
The driver will be asked to decrease the weight of the load.
The vehicle will be put out-of-service until it is fixed.
Explanation: If at least one-fourth of the leaves in a leaf spring are missing, the vehicle will be put out-of-service until the defect is fixed.
If a CMV driver operates a CMV with a detectable blood alcohol concentration (BAC) that is lower than 0.04 percent, they will be:
Told to stop drinking.
Put out-of-service for 24 hours.
Required to drive at speeds below 55 mph.
Told to drive home.
Put out-of-service for 24 hours.
Explanation: If you are found to be operating a CMV with any detectable amount of alcohol in your system, but you are still below the legal limit of 0.04 percent, you will be placed out-of-service for 24 hours. It is both illegal and dangerous to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.
What does the air compressor governor do?
Controls when the air compressor pumps air into the air storage tanks.
Controls how quickly air leaves the air storage tanks.
Controls the temperature of the air entering the air storage tanks.
Controls the temperature of the air leaving the air storage tanks.
Controls when the air compressor pumps air into the air storage tanks.
Explanation: In an air brake system, the air compressor governor controls when the air compressor pumps air into the air storage tanks.
When going down a steep downhill, your primary source of braking should be:
Engine adjustments/downshifting.
Using the brake.
Using the parking brake.
Using ABS.
Engine adjustments/downshifting.
Explanation: On a steep downgrade, you must use the engine’s braking effect as your primary method of speed control. Be sure to decelerate and downshift appropriately before beginning to drive down the hill.
Which of the following is not another name for convex mirrors?
Fisheye mirrors
Spot mirrors
Bug-eye mirrors
Flat side mirrors
Flat side mirrors
Explanation: Convex mirrors are also known as “fisheye”, “spot”, or “bug-eye” mirrors.
On a truck with air brakes, the braking system’s air compressor:
Pumps air into the air storage tanks.
Fills the tires.
Moves air to the back of the truck.
Cleans the brakes.
Pumps air into the air storage tanks.
Explanation: In an air brake system, the air compressor pumps air into the air storage tanks. The air compressor is controlled by the air compressor governor.
Most heavy-duty vehicles use:
Mono air brake systems.
Dual air brake systems.
Triple air brake systems.
Quadruple air brake systems.
Dual air brake systems.
Explanation: Most heavy-duty vehicles use dual air brake systems. A dual system has two separate air brake systems with a single set of controls.
If your tractor is equipped with ABS but your trailer is not, the ABS:
Will not be effective.
Will still improve your steering control.
Will make jackknifing easier.
Will allow others to see when you brake.
Will still improve your steering control.
Explanation: In a tractor-trailer combination, if the tractor is equipped with an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) but the trailer is not, the ABS will still improve the driver’s steering control. The driver should keep an eye on the trailer and let up on the brakes if the trailer begins to swing out.
Which of the following is not an activity that causes a distraction?
Adjusting the radio
Adjusting the CD player
Eating
Checking your mirrors
Checking your mirrors
Explanation: Anything that takes your attention away from driving can be a dangerous distraction. This includes eating, drinking, smoking, or adjusting the vehicle’s audio and climate controls.
Joggers who are wearing headsets:
Are usually aware of what is happening around them.
May not be aware of what is happening around them.
Can clearly hear sounds of traffic.
Usually don’t have music playing.
May not be aware of what is happening around them.
Explanation: Be careful around pedestrians, joggers, and cyclists who are wearing headphones. They may not be able to clearly hear surrounding traffic and may not be aware that you are there.
The height of a vehicle’s center of gravity:
Usually has no impact on the handling the vehicle.
Plays a large role in a driver’s ability to safely handle the vehicle.
Should not be a concern when loading the vehicle.
Should only be a concern if there are lots of hills on the planned route.
Plays a large role in a driver’s ability to safely handle the vehicle.
Explanation: The height of a vehicle’s center of gravity is very important to a driver’s ability to safely handle the vehicle. Always distribute the weight of cargo as low as possible.
When taking the on-road driving skills test, you will be evaluated on your gear usage. You should not:
Avoid grinding or clashing gears.
Select a gear that does not rev the engine.
Forget to shift through an intersection.
Shift while taking a turn.
Shift while taking a turn.
Explanation: During the on-road driving skills test, you will be evaluated on your gear usage. Select a gear that does not rev or lug the engine; avoid grinding and clashing gears; and avoid shifting through turns or intersections.
When carrying a wide load, you should:
Drive as fast as possible.
Obtain special permits and follow special rules, such as driving during certain hours.
Honk at other drivers to get them to move from the lane closest to you.
Drive on the shoulder.
Obtain special permits and follow special rules, such as driving during certain hours.
Explanation: Over-sized loads require special permits, may be allowed on the roads only at certain times, and may require special warning signs or equipment.
How can a person check for a leak in hydraulic brakes?
Pump the brake pedal three times and hold the pedal for five seconds. If the pedal moves, there may be a problem.
Push the brake pedal down as far as possible and let go. If the brake pedal returns to its normal position, there may be a problem.
Push the brake pedal down as far as possible and let go. If the brake makes a squeak, there may be a problem.
Remove the rear wheel and listen for a noise when the brake pedal is depressed.
Pump the brake pedal three times and hold the pedal for five seconds. If the pedal moves, there may be a problem.
Explanation: Check hydraulic brakes by pumping the brake pedal three times before applying firm pressure to the pedal for five seconds. The pedal should not move. If it does, there may be a leak or some other problem in the braking system.
Mirrors should be adjusted:
While moving.
When the trailers are straight.
When you are standing next to the vehicle.
By an assistant.
When the trailers are straight.
Explanation: Mirrors should be checked prior to the beginning of a trip. On a vehicle with a trailer, mirror adjustment can only be checked accurately if the connected trailer is straight.
The best way to avoid glare at night from oncoming vehicles is to:
Wear sunglasses.
Close your eyes as vehicles approach.
Look to the right side of road.
Use your high beams.
Look to the right side of road.
Explanation: To avoid being blinded by the lights of oncoming vehicles, you can glance to the right side of the road until the vehicle has passed.
What is removed when an air tank is drained?
Water and oil
Ammonia
Wood
Chlorine
Water and oil
Explanation: In an air brake system, the air storage tanks are equipped with drains to allow water and compressor oil to be removed. The water and oil can damage the brakes if left to accumulate in the system.
A truck may need to be under the legal maximum weight limit when being driven:
On a flat road.
On a mountainous road.
In heavy traffic.
At night.
On a mountainous road.
Explanation: Under some driving conditions, it may not be safe to operate a vehicle at its full legal maximum weight. Keep this in mind when driving in poor weather or on mountainous roadways.
Dry bulk tanks require special care because:
They have low centers of gravity.
They have high centers of gravity.
Loads are usually stable.
They are usually overloaded.
They have high centers of gravity.
Explanation: Driving with a dry bulk tank requires special care, both because dry bulk tanks have high centers of gravity and because their loads often shift in transit. Be especially careful when taking turns and curves while operating such a vehicle.
Which of the following is not a possible cause of a fire?
Under-inflated tires
Electrical system failures
Flammable cargo
Rolling down the window
Rolling down the window
Explanation: Possible causes of vehicle fires include spilled fuel or improper use of flares following an crash; under-inflated tires or dual tires that touch; short circuits in the electrical system; smoking around fuel; improper fueling or loose fuel connections; and carrying cargo that is flammable, improperly sealed or loaded, or poorly ventilated.
How does doubling your speed from 20 mph to 40 mph affect your vehicle’s braking distance?
It stays about the same.
It increases slightly.
It doubles.
It quadruples.
It quadruples.
Explanation: Increasing your vehicle’s speed will increase your vehicle’s striking power and braking distance. Doubling your vehicle’s speed from 20 to 40 mph will multiply its braking distance by four.
To use the stab braking method, you should:
Apply the brakes completely until the wheels lock up, release the brakes until the wheels start rolling, then repeat the process.
Apply the brakes about halfway, but allow the wheels to keep rolling.
Apply the brakes completely until the wheels lock up and the vehicle stops.
Apply the emergency brake until the vehicle starts to slow.
Apply the brakes completely until the wheels lock up, release the brakes until the wheels start rolling, then repeat the process.
Explanation: The stab braking method for emergency stops involves fully applying the brakes until they lock up. The brakes are then released until the wheels start rolling, and then the process is repeated.
What color is the low air pressure warning light?
Green
Orange
Red
Purple
Red
Explanation: A low air pressure warning signal is required in vehicles with air brakes. The warning light is usually red and may be accompanied by a buzzer.
The most common type of foundation brake used is the:
S-cam drum brake.
C-cam drum brake.
G-cam disc brake.
P-cam disc brake.
S-cam drum brake.
The most common type of foundation brake is an s-cam drum brake.
If you plan to slow down, you can warn drivers behind you by:
Slamming on the brakes.
Tapping the brakes a few times and before braking.
Turning on one set of turn signals.
Putting your hand out the driver’s side window and waving.
Tapping the brakes a few times and before braking.
Before slowing down, it is a good idea to flash your brake lights by lightly tapping your brake pedal a few times. This will warn drivers behind you of your plans to slow down.
Dry bulk tanks:
Usually have low centers of gravity.
Usually have high centers of gravity.
Usually are not allowed to cross railroad tracks.
Cannot be driven on interstates.
Usually have high centers of gravity.
Dry bulk tanks require special care when being driven because they have high centers of gravity. Drivers should also be careful because the materials being carried can easily shift in transit, causing a change in the vehicle’s handling.
To help your vehicle be seen by others:
Your headlights should be clean.
Your headlights should be turned off during the day.
Your headlights should be covered with grease.
Your headlights should be used, but only in the rain
Your headlights should be clean.
A vehicle’s headlights should be clean during trips. This will ensure that the lights can provide as much light as possible, helping the vehicle to be seen.
Dry bulk tanks require special care because:
They have low centers of gravity.
They have high centers of gravity.
Loads are usually stable.
They are usually overloaded.
They have high centers of gravity.
Driving with a dry bulk tank requires special care, both because dry bulk tanks have high centers of gravity and because their loads often shift in transit. Be especially careful when taking turns and curves while operating such a vehicle.
On trucks and buses, where are ABS malfunction lamps located?
On the driver’s door
On the instrument panel
On the outside of the vehicle by the passenger’s door
Under the hood
On the instrument panel
Tractors, trucks, and buses with Anti-Lock Braking Systems (ABS) have yellow malfunction lamps located on their instrument panels. Trailers have yellow ABS malfunction lamps on their left side, either on the front or rear corner.
When driving through a work zone, you should:
Slow down.
Speed up.
Use a cell phone.
Steer with one hand to keep the other hand free.
In work zones, you should observe posted speed limits. Slow down if road or weather conditions are poor, and slow down even further if workers are near the roadway.
When driving through a work zone, you should:
Slow down.
Speed up.
Use a cell phone.
Steer with one hand to keep the other hand free.
Slow down.
In work zones, you should observe posted speed limits. Slow down if road or weather conditions are poor, and slow down even further if workers are near the roadway.
When starting the engine of a truck with a trailer, how can you tell if the Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) is not working?
The yellow light on the rear of the trailer will stay on.
The red light on the trailer will flash three times and then stay on.
All the rear lights on the trailer will flash and then shut off.
The blue light near the driver’s door will light.
The yellow light on the rear of the trailer will stay on.
Trailers equipped with Anti-Lock Braking Systems (ABS) are equipped on the left rear with a yellow malfunction lamp. If the malfunction lamp stays on after the engine has been started, the ABS is malfunctioning.
Which of the following is not a rule for using turn signals?
Signal early.
Signal continuously.
Cancel your signal once your turn or lane change is complete.
Don’t signal unless another vehicle is close.
Don’t signal unless another vehicle is close.
Always signal before a turn or lane change. Begin signaling well in advance of the movement and keep the signal on continuously during the turn. If it is not self-canceling, make sure to turn your signal off after your turn or lane change is complete.
When it is difficult to see, such as at dawn or dusk, what is the best way to make your vehicle more visible?
Use your high beam lights.
Use your low beam lights.
Use only your clearance lights.
Do not use any lights.
Use your low beam lights.
In conditions of poor visibility (such as at dawn, at dusk, in rain, or in snow), you should turn on your low beam headlights to make your vehicle easier to see. Do not use your high beams when driving near other vehicles.
How should you brake if your vehicle loses its ABS?
Brake normally.
Pump the brake repeatedly.
Push the brake pedal down as hard as you can.
Avoid using the brakes.
Brake normally
An Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) is in place as an addition to a braking system. It intervenes to prevent brakes from locking up during hard braking. If ABS is not working, the basic braking functions on a vehicle will still remain, so the driver can continue to drive and brake normally.
What should you do if your vehicle gets stuck on railroad tracks?
Stay in the vehicle.
Get out of the vehicle and call for assistance.
Continue trying to remove the vehicle from the tracks.
Walk down the tracks to look for an oncoming train.
Get out of the vehicle and call for assistance.
If your vehicle gets stuck on railroad tracks for any reason, you should immediately exit the vehicle and walk away from the tracks. Contact the proper emergency authorities.
Who may operate a vehicle that requires placards to be driven?
Any driver with a CDL
A driver with a hazardous materials endorsement
A driver with a minimum of 10 years of commercial driving experience
Any person who thinks they can
A driver with a hazardous materials endorsement
You must have a CDL with a HazMat endorsement to operate a vehicle that is used to transport hazardous materials.
Blocking a load:
Is dangerous and should never be done.
Helps stabilize the load.
Is only done with liquids.
Can only be done in dry weather.
Helps stabilize the load.
Cargo should be blocked to prevent it from sliding around in transit. The shifting of weight in transit can make steering and handling difficult for the driver.
Tires of mismatched sizes:
May be used on a tractor.
May be used on a trailer.
Should be used in adverse weather conditions.
Should not be used on a vehicle.
Should not be used on a vehicle.
Having tires of mismatched sizes on a vehicle is a problem that should be fixed if discovered during a vehicle inspection.
Which of the following may result in an applicant being denied a hazardous materials endorsement?
They are considered a security threat by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
They are a lawful U.S. citizen.
They work for a foreign company.
They do not have perfect vision.
They are considered a security threat by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
You will be denied a hazardous materials endorsement, or lose an existing endorsement, if you renounce your U.S. citizenship; are not a lawful permanent U.S. resident; are wanted for, indicted for, or convicted of certain felonies; are judged mentally defective or are committed to a mental institution; or are deemed by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to pose a security threat.
____ is a thin layer of ice that forms on road surfaces.
White ice
Black ice
Soft ice
Sharp ice
Black ice
Black ice is a thin layer of ice that is clear enough for the road surface to be seen through it. A road covered in black ice may look like it is merely wet. You should be very careful when temperatures are below freezing and the road looks wet.
To check the automatic transmission fluid level in some vehicles, the vehicle:
Should be parked uphill.
Should be parked downhill.
Must be washed.
May have to be left running.
May have to be left running.
For some vehicles, you may need to leave the engine running to be able to check its automatic transmission fluid level.
What is Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW)?
The total weight of a vehicle and its cargo
The total weight of a vehicle before cargo
The total weight of cargo
The maximum weight allowed to be transported by a vehicle
The total weight of a vehicle and its cargo
Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) is the total weight of a single vehicle and its load of cargo.
Drivers may use ____ red reflective warning triangles when their vehicle is stopped on the side of the road.
Two
Three
Five
Seven
Three
If a vehicle carries red reflective triangles, the driver should place three of them as warning devices when the vehicle is parked on the road.
When taking the basic control skills test, drivers are:
Not permitted to stop and exit the vehicle to look at the vehicle’s position.
Encouraged not to exit the vehicle to look at the vehicle’s position.
Allowed to leave the vehicle, but only if the vehicle is placed in reverse.
Allowed to leave the vehicle, but only if the vehicle is placed in neutral and the parking brake is set.
Allowed to leave the vehicle, but only if the vehicle is placed in neutral and the parking brake is set.
During the basic vehicle control skills test, you must place the vehicle in neutral and set the parking brake before exiting the vehicle to check its position. You may check the position of the vehicle no more than twice, except during the straight line backing exercise, where you may look no more than once.
When starting a vehicle, the oil pressure should:
Slowly build up pressure over a few minutes.
Come up to a normal level within a few seconds.
Start high, then decrease quickly while the engine runs.
Come up to a normal level within a few seconds.
After starting a vehicle’s engine, the oil pressure should come up to a normal level within seconds. Do not operate a vehicle if it has oil pressure that is low, dropping, or fluctuating.
Convex mirrors:
Cannot be used on vehicles transporting hazardous materials.
Can replace flat mirrors.
Can be help a driver see a large area.
Are illegal in most states.
Can be help a driver see a large area.
Convex mirrors are curved to provide drivers with wider views of the road than can be provided by flat mirrors. However, convex mirrors also make objects appear to be smaller and farther away than they really are.
When testing a parking brake, the vehicle should:
Not be running.
Be placed in a low gear while the driver attempts to pull forward.
Be inspected by a professional mechanic.
Be driven while the parking brake is applied.
Be placed in a low gear while the driver attempts to pull forward.
To test a parking brake, you should fasten your safety belt, set the parking brake for the power unit, release the trailer parking brake (if applicable), place the vehicle in low gear, and attempt to pull forward against the parking brake. If the parking brake does not hold while you are attempting to pull forward against it, the brake is faulty and must be fixed.
Retreaded tires:
May be used on the front axle of a school bus.
May be used on the rear axles of a school bus.
Cannot be used on a school bus.
May be used on the rear axles of a school bus.
Regrooved, recapped, or retreaded tires are not allowed to be used on the front wheels of a bus.
When parked on the side of a road, you should:
Activate your emergency flashers.
Turn off all lights.
Open the driver’s side door.
Stand in the roadway and wave your arms.
Activate your emergency flashers.
If you must stop on the side of the road, you should turn on your emergency flashers to alert other road users. This is particularly important at night.
Cargo on flatbed trailers should be:
Tied down.
Glued down.
Left loose.
Pushed to one side.
Tied down.
On flatbed trailers and trailers without sides, cargo must be securely tied down to keep it from shifting or falling off in transit.
During a pre-trip inspection, belts in the engine compartment should be:
Loosened.
Checked for tightness.
Inspected only if they seem frayed.
Left alone and not inspected.
Checked for tightness.
During a pre-trip inspection, belts in the engine compartment should be checked for tightness and excessive wear.
The brake pedal is part of which braking system?
The service brake system
The parking brake system
The emergency brake system
The auxiliary brake system
The service brake system
The service brake system applies and releases the brakes when a driver presses the brake pedal while driving normally.
To stop a vehicle using air brakes:
The brake pedal should be pressed.
The brake pedal should be lifted.
The brake knob should be pulled out.
The brake knob should be pushed in.
The brake pedal should be pressed.
To stop normally in a vehicle with air brakes, press down the brake pedal.
When you double your speed from 20 to 40 mph, your vehicle’s braking distance will become ____ times longer.
Two
Three
Four
10
Four
If you double your speed, your braking distance will become four times longer. Similarly, the impact your vehicle would have in the case of a collision will also multiply by four.
What can change the height of a vehicle?
Color
Length
Weight
Number of windows
Weight
The added weight of a heavy load will make a vehicle sit lower than usual. A vehicle will often be taller when carrying a light load than when carrying a heavy load. If your vehicle fits under an overpass while carrying a full load, it is not guaranteed that it will fit under the same overpass if it is empty.
If a tire fails, you should:
Use the brakes.
Stay off the brakes.
Swerve.
Wave your arms at other drivers.
Stay off the brakes.
Using the brakes after a tire failure could cause you to lose control of your vehicle. Unless you’re about to hit something, stay off of the brake until the vehicle has slowed sufficiently.
When approaching a railroad crossing:
You will likely be able to outdrive a train.
You should not rely only on warning signals.
You should roll a window down to listen for an approaching train.
You should only worry about the track closest to your vehicle.
You should not rely only on warning signals.
You should never rely only on warning signals to alert you to an approaching train. Never try to race a train to a crossing. If there are multiple tracks at a crossing, be sure to check all tracks in both directions before starting to cross.
When inspecting your vehicle, which of the following should not cause concern?
Exhaust system parts rubbing against fuel system parts
Exhaust system parts that are leaking
Missing mounting brackets
Exhaust system parts made of aluminum
Exhaust system parts made of aluminum
Problems to check for when inspecting a vehicle’s exhaust system include loose, broken, or missing exhaust pipes, mufflers, tailpipes, or vertical stacks; loose, broken, or missing mounting brackets, clamps, bolts, or nuts; exhaust system parts rubbing against fuel system parts, tires, or other moving parts of the vehicle; and exhaust system parts that are leaking.
A cardboard box on the road:
Is not considered a hazard.
Should be avoided by driving off the roadway.
Could damage vehicle parts.
Will improve tires’ traction.
Could damage vehicle parts.
Any foreign object on the road is potentially dangerous. For example, something seemingly harmless, such as a cardboard box or paper sack, could contain a hard or heavy object that could do serious damage to a vehicle.
Which of the following is not an indication of damaged brakes?
Cracked drums
Shoes with oil or grease on them
Shoes worn thinly
Pads free of oil or grease
Pads free of oil or grease
Potential problems to check for when inspecting brakes include cracked drums; shoes or pads with oil, grease, or brake fluid on them; and shoes that are missing, broken, or worn dangerously thin.
If required to complete a vehicle inspection report in writing, the report must be signed:
Every day.
Only if defects have been noted and certified to have been repaired.
Only if the repairs are estimated to cost more than $1,000.
Only if requested to do so by a law enforcement officer.
Only if defects have been noted and certified to have been repaired.
You must sign the previous vehicle inspection report only if defects were noted and certified to have been repaired or not needing to be repaired.
When pulled off on the side of the road, a driver should:
Keep the driver’s side door open.
Turn on their emergency flashers.
Wave their arms.
Turn off all lights.
Turn on their emergency flashers.
If you must stop on the side of the road, it is important that you turn on your emergency flashers as a warning to other drivers. This is especially important if you are stopped at night.
What color are ABS malfunction lamps?
Orange
Yellow
Green
Blue
Yellow
Vehicles with Anti-Lock Braking Systems (ABS) have yellow malfunction lamps.
If you don’t know if there is enough space for your vehicle to pass under a bridge, you should:
Speed up.
Swerve back and forth.
Slow down.
Drive on the shoulder.
Slow down.
If you can’t tell if your vehicle will have room to fit under a bridge or other overhead object, you should slow down and find an alternate route, if possible.
If exiting a bus during the basic vehicle control skills test, you must:
Keep both hands on the handrail.
Not touch the handrail.
Maintain a firm grasp on the handrail.
Rush down the stairs.
Maintain a firm grasp on the handrail.
When exiting your vehicle during the basic vehicle control skills test, you must face the vehicle and maintain three points of contact at all times. If your testing vehicle is a bus, you must maintain contact with the handrail. Exiting the vehicle incorrectly may result in automatic failure of the basic control skills test.
If equipped, a header board should:
Be damaged.
Be loose.
Be strong enough to contain cargo.
Light up when the engine is started.
Be strong enough to contain cargo.
When checking a header board during the vehicle inspection test, you should ensure that it is secure, free of damage, and strong enough to contain cargo.
When looking under your vehicle’s hood during a pre-trip inspection, you should:
Use the parking brakes and/or chock blocks.
Leave the vehicle in a low gear.
Remove the battery.
Disconnect the radiator.
Use the parking brakes and/or chock blocks.
Before inspecting under a vehicle’s hood, make sure the parking brake is engaged and/or the wheels are properly chocked.
If being shipped on either a flatbed trailer or a trailer without sides, cargo must be:
Glued to the bed.
Strapped down.
Loose to allow it to shift when the vehicle turns.
Heavy enough that it won’t shift.
Strapped down.
If being shipped on a flatbed trailer or on a trailer without sides, cargo must be securely tied down to keep it from shifting or falling off while the vehicle moves.
____ is a thin layer of ice that forms on road surfaces.
White ice
Black ice
Green ice
Blue ice
Black ice
Black ice is a layer of ice that is thin and clear enough for the road to be visible through it. This makes the road look as if it is merely wet.
When driving in fog, you should:
Use the windshield wipers.
Use the low beam headlights.
Use the high beam headlights.
Use the heater.
Use the low beam headlights.
While it is best to entirely avoid driving in fog, you should turn on your low beam headlights if you must drive in foggy conditions. Using high beams is a bad idea because the lights will reflect off of the fog and back into your eyes, making the road and its surroundings even more difficult to see.
If you experience a loss of hydraulic pressure, you should do all of the following, except:
Downshift.
Pump the brakes.
Accelerate.
Use the parking brake.
Accelerate
If you experience a loss of hydraulic pressure in your brakes, you should downshift, pump the brakes, and use the parking brake. Seek an escape route, such as an escape ramp, open field, or side street.
When covering cargo, a cover that flaps in transit:
Is acceptable.
Allows air to get to the cargo to keep it cool.
Can tear away.
Can attract birds.
Can tear away.
If cargo is covered, the cover should not flap in the wind in transit. The cover could tear loose, uncovering the cargo while potentially blocking your view or the view of others.
