DMV CDL Test (Version 4)

Questions and Answers

What is the function of convex (curved) mirrors?

Show a wider area than flat mirrors show

What should you do when parked at the side of the road at night?

Turn on your 4-way emergency flashers to warn others

What should you do when exiting a highway using an off ramp that curves downhill in a heavy vehicle?

Slow down to a safe speed before the curve

Rust around wheel fasteners indicates that they are tight.

False Signup and view all the answers

What may cause skidding if the drive wheels have poor traction?

Retarders Signup and view all the answers

Larger vehicles require smaller gaps in traffic than smaller ones.

False Signup and view all the answers

Medicines used to treat the common cold may make you sleepy.

True Signup and view all the answers

What can cause brake 'fade'?

The brakes getting very hot Signup and view all the answers

A burning tire should be cooled with water.

False Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following does not provide extra gears on some trucks?

Automatic transmissions Signup and view all the answers

You should downshift after entering a curve.

False Signup and view all the answers

Loss of steering control is a danger when an automatic transmission is forced into a lower gear at high speed.

True Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when backing a heavy vehicle?

Avoid backing whenever you can Signup and view all the answers

The distance you should look ahead of your vehicle while driving is about ___ at low speeds.

1 Block Signup and view all the answers

When should you use your vehicle's horn?

When it may help avoid a crash Signup and view all the answers

Using mirrors correctly means you are aware of blind spots.

True Signup and view all the answers

You should leave your high beams on if your headlights are not working properly.

False Signup and view all the answers

You should remove ice from radiator shutters.

True Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when you see a hazard on the roadway?

Use your 4-way flashers or brake lights to warn others Signup and view all the answers

In a traffic emergency, what is a good rule to remember?

You can almost always turn to miss an obstacle more quickly than you can stop Signup and view all the answers

What might pump the brake generate?

Enough pressure to stop the vehicle Signup and view all the answers

What condition causes hydroplaning?

When there is a lot of water Signup and view all the answers

What do bridge formulas permit?

Less maximum axle weight for axles that are close together Signup and view all the answers

How can you recognize hazardous materials?

By looking at the containers' labels Signup and view all the answers

You must stop on a hill or curve on a 2-lane, 2-way road. How far back should you place your reflective triangles?

Within 500 feet behind the vehicle Signup and view all the answers

What can help you stay alert while driving?

Taking short breaks before you are drowsy Signup and view all the answers

What should you balance with hours of service?

Enough sleep to keep you alert Signup and view all the answers

What is a good practice for preventing fatigue on long trips?

Stop periodically for rest and exercise Signup and view all the answers

When is the best time to take a short break while driving?

Before you feel drowsy or tired Signup and view all the answers

What happens as the Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) goes up?

Judgment and self-control are affected Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of having a detectable amount of BAC?

You will be placed out-of-service for 24 hours Signup and view all the answers

You should remove the radiator cap on a pressurized system until it has cooled.

True Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when the road becomes very slippery due to ice?

Stop driving as soon as you can safely do so Signup and view all the answers

Which left turn lane should you use when making a left turn from Elm Street onto Oak Street?

B Signup and view all the answers

Windshield washer antifreeze should not be used in cold weather driving.

False Signup and view all the answers

Short-term or daily rental truck drivers may pose a hazard due to limited vision.

True Signup and view all the answers

What should you keep in mind when leaving the road to avoid a hazard?

Most shoulders are not strong enough to support the weight of a large vehicle Signup and view all the answers

If the wheels are skidding, you cannot control the vehicle during emergency braking.

True Signup and view all the answers

Where is cargo blocking used?

In the front, back, and/or sides of the cargo Signup and view all the answers

What is the most important reason to inspect your truck or bus?

Safety Signup and view all the answers

To prevent brake fade, what should you do?

Select a gear which will keep your vehicle to a safe speed on steep downgrades Signup and view all the answers

If you have been drinking alcohol, what should you do before driving?

Wait for it to wear off Signup and view all the answers

How can sleep debt be paid off?

By sleeping Signup and view all the answers

What is the best action if you feel sleepy after driving for several hours?

Park in a safe place and take a nap Signup and view all the answers

Air pressure in tires decreases with temperature.

False Signup and view all the answers

A helper should be used to help back your vehicle only if it is necessary.

False Signup and view all the answers

Crossing railroad tracks on dirt roads poses minimal risks.

False Signup and view all the answers

Drivers needing a HazMat endorsement must possess basic chemistry knowledge.

False Signup and view all the answers

Use of drugs while driving can lead to collisions and/or arrest.

True Signup and view all the answers

When driving at night, when should you use your low beams?

When an oncoming vehicle is within 500 feet Signup and view all the answers

When should you use the parking brake?

Every time you leave your vehicle, with rare exceptions Signup and view all the answers

How can you tell if your vehicle is equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS)?

The vehicle was manufactured after 1998 Signup and view all the answers

How do brakes work on a long steep downgrade?

They work as a supplement to the braking effect of the engine Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is true about dual air brake systems?

All these statements are true Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is not part of the drum brake?

Safety valve Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following can cause brakes to fail or fade?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What does the tractor protection valve do?

Does all of the above Signup and view all the answers

If you pull hard on a slack adjuster, it should not move more than ___.

1 inch Signup and view all the answers

With the engine off and the brakes on, the air loss rate in a tractor semi-trailer combination should not be more than ___ per minute.

4 psi Signup and view all the answers

What does the safety valve protect the brake system from?

Too much air pressure Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if a low air pressure warning comes on for only one system in your dual air brake system?

Stop the vehicle while you are still able to control it Signup and view all the answers

Before operating a vehicle with a dual air system, you should allow time for the air compressor to build up a minimum of ___ psi.

100 Signup and view all the answers

What should you check and fill daily during cold weather if your vehicle has an alcohol evaporator?

The alcohol level Signup and view all the answers

Why should you drain air storage tanks?

Oil and water collect in the bottom of the tank and may cause brake failure Signup and view all the answers

The safety valve is usually set to open at ___ pressure.

150 psi Signup and view all the answers

You should drive more quickly if your anti-lock braking system (ABS) is malfunctioning.

False Signup and view all the answers

If your air compressor develops a leak, what keeps the air in the tank?

The one way check valve Signup and view all the answers

What happens if your ABS fails?

You will still have normal brake function and will just need to get the ABS repaired soon Signup and view all the answers

The maximum leakage rates per minute after the initial pressure drop are:

3 psi for single vehicles and 4 psi for combination vehicles Signup and view all the answers

When uncoupling a loaded trailer, how should you lower the landing gear?

Until it makes firm contact with the ground and then crank it in low gear a few extra turns Signup and view all the answers

What should you do after connecting the air lines but before backing under the trailer?

Supply air to the trailer system and then pull out the air supply knob Signup and view all the answers

What are two things that can prevent rollovers?

Keep the cargo as close to the ground as possible; go slowly around turns Signup and view all the answers

Which of these vehicles off-track the most?

5 axle tractor towing a 53-foot trailer Signup and view all the answers

Where should the front trailer supports be positioned before driving away after coupling with a semi trailer?

Fully raised with the crank handle secured in its bracket Signup and view all the answers

If the fifth wheel locking lever is not locked after the jaws close around the kingpin, the coupling is correct.

False Signup and view all the answers

How much space should be between the upper and lower fifth wheel after coupling?

None Signup and view all the answers

Compared to a straight truck or bus, how many things are there to inspect on a combination vehicle?

More Signup and view all the answers

What gear should you use to raise the landing gear after coupling the trailer?

High gear Signup and view all the answers

What should you always use when backing a tractor under a trailer?

The lowest reverse gear Signup and view all the answers

If you try to couple when the trailer is too high, it might couple correctly.

False Signup and view all the answers

You should apply your hand brake to straighten out a jackknifing trailer.

False Signup and view all the answers

It is true that an anti-lock braking system (ABS) increases your normal braking ability.

False Signup and view all the answers

The letters 'ABS' on the left side of the steering wheel indicate that a trailer is equipped with an anti-lock braking system.

False Signup and view all the answers

What should you do after unlocking the fifth wheel while uncoupling?

Pull the tractor forward so that it is partially clear of the trailer Signup and view all the answers

When driving a 100-ft. twin trailer combination at 50 mph, you should keep at least ___ seconds of space ahead of you.

11 Signup and view all the answers

Doubles and triples must be driven very smoothly to avoid rollover or jackknife.

True Signup and view all the answers

Which braking system should be used to secure a second trailer to your combination vehicle?

Trailer emergency air brakes Signup and view all the answers

What should you check when inspecting coupled doubles and triples?

Make sure the pintle hook is latched Signup and view all the answers

What are the correct positions for shut-off valves in doubles and triples?

Open for the rear of the front trailers and closed for the rear of the last trailer Signup and view all the answers

Why is a safe speed on a curve for a normal tractor trailer?

May be too fast for a set of doubles or triples Signup and view all the answers

What is likely to occur if a set of trailer wheels goes into a skid while driving doubles?

You will have a trailer jackknife Signup and view all the answers

How much space should be between the upper and lower fifth wheel when checking the coupling of a converter dolly?

None Signup and view all the answers

Using the braking effect of the engine to control speed while going downhill is an effective method.

True Signup and view all the answers

Doubles or triples turn over more easily than other combination vehicles.

True Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

General Knowledge

Convex mirrors provide a wider field of view compared to flat mirrors.
Activate 4-way emergency flashers when parked on the roadside at night to alert others.
For exiting highways on a downhill curve, slow down before entering the curve.
Rust around wheel fasteners indicates they may be loose.
Poor traction on drive wheels can lead to skidding when retarders are used.
Large vehicles require larger gaps in traffic for crossing compared to smaller vehicles.
Cold medicines can cause drowsiness and should not be used before driving.
Brake fade occurs when brakes overheat due to excessive use.
To cool a burning tire, use water.
Automatic transmissions do not offer extra gears on some trucks.
Always downshift before entering a curve for better control.
Forcing an automatic transmission into a lower gear at high speed does not lead to loss of steering control.
Avoid backing up with heavy vehicles whenever possible.
Look approximately one block ahead at low speeds while driving.
Use your horn to prevent potential crashes.
Be aware that mirrors cannot show all blind spots.
Do not leave high beams on if headlights are malfunctioning.
Remove ice from radiator shutters for proper functioning.
Use 4-way flashers or brake lights to warn others of road hazards.
In traffic emergencies, it’s typically easier to steer around obstacles than to stop quickly.
If hydraulic brake pedals go to the floor, pumping the brakes may restore pressure.
Hydroplaning occurs in conditions of excessive water on the roadway.
Bridge formula regulations require less axle weight for closely spaced axles.
Hazardous materials are identifiable by their labels.
Reflective triangles must be placed within 500 feet behind a vehicle stopped on a hill or curve.
Taking short breaks during driving helps maintain alertness.
Balanced hours of service with adequate sleep is essential for driver alertness.
Regular breaks for rest and exercise can help prevent fatigue on long trips.
Take breaks before feeling sleepy to remain focused while driving.
Rising Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) negatively impacts judgment and self-control.
A detectable BAC below 0.04% will result in being placed out-of-service for 24 hours.
Never remove the radiator cap from a hot system to avoid injury.
On icy roads, stop driving as soon as safely possible.
When making a left turn with a long vehicle, use the leftmost lane (lane B) whenever possible in a multiple-lane setting.
Use windshield washer antifreeze in cold weather to maintain visibility.
Be cautious of short-term rental truck drivers as they may lack experience with vehicle dimensions.
Shoulders on roads may not support the weight of large vehicles, so be mindful when leaving the roadway.
During emergency braking, skidding wheels result in loss of vehicle control.
Proper cargo blocking should be utilized in all areas of the cargo.
Regular vehicle inspections are crucial for ensuring safety.

Brake Systems

To prevent brake fade on steep downgrades, select an appropriate gear for safe vehicle speed.
After consuming alcohol, allow adequate time for it to leave your system before driving.
Sleep debt can only be paid off with sleep.
If feeling sleepy after hours of driving, park safely and take a nap.
Tire air pressure increases as temperature rises.
Always use a helper when backing up a vehicle to ensure safety.
Dirt roads can pose dangers when crossing railroad tracks, including potential get-hung situations.
Knowledge of HazMat regulations doesn't require expertise in basic chemistry.
Drug use increases the likelihood of collisions and legal issues.
At night, dim headlights when oncoming vehicles are within 500 feet.

Air Brakes

Engage the parking brake every time you leave your vehicle unless exceptions apply.
Vehicles manufactured after 1998 come equipped with anti-lock braking systems (ABS).
Brakes in steep downgrades work alongside engine braking for better control.
Dual air brake systems have a primary and secondary system, often operating different axles.
Draining air storage tanks is necessary to prevent oil and water buildup that can lead to brake failure.
Safety valves protect the air brake system from over-pressurization, usually set to open at around 150 psi.
A slack adjuster should not move more than one inch when pulled hard.
If air pressure drops below regulations in a dual system, stop the vehicle immediately.
Daily checks in cold weather should include alcohol evaporator levels if applicable.
Brake fade can occur due to excessive reliance on service brakes or improper adjustment.
One-way check valves in the air compressor prevent air from escaping the tank.

Combination Vehicles

When uncoupling a loaded trailer, ensure landing gear contacts the ground firmly.
After connecting air lines, supply air to the trailer system before backing up.
Keeping cargo low and driving slowly around turns helps prevent rollovers.
The type of vehicle most prone to off-tracking is a 5-axle tractor towing a 53-foot trailer.
Elevator supports must be fully raised and secure before driving away after coupling.
An unlocked fifth wheel after aligning indicates a faulty coupling that must be corrected.
Ensure no space exists between the upper and lower fifth wheels upon coupling.
Combination vehicles have more inspection points compared to straight trucks.
Raise landing gear using high gear after coupling to ensure proper securing.
Always use low reverse gear when backing a tractor under a trailer to minimize risks.
Attempting to couple with a trailer that is too high may result in improper coupling.
Applying the hand brake is not advised to correct a jackknifing trailer.
ABS does not enhance normal braking ability; it helps prevent loss of control.
Identification of trailers with ABS typically does not include labeling on the steering wheel.
After unlocking the fifth wheel during uncoupling, pull the tractor forward to clear the trailer.

Driving Doubles and Triples

Maintain an 11-second following distance while driving a 100-ft twin trailer at 50 mph on dry roads.
Doubles and triples require smooth driving to prevent rollover or jackknife situations.
Secure a second trailer using its emergency air brakes when coupling.
Ensure the pintle hook is latched during inspections of coupled doubles and triples.
Follow correct shut-off valve positions to ensure safe air distribution in coupled trailers.
A normal tractor trailer's safe speed on curves may exceed safe levels for doubles or triples.
A trailer may jackknife if trailer wheels skid while driving a set of doubles.
Check that upper and lower fifth wheels are properly aligned when inspecting a converter dolly.
Utilize engine braking on downhill drives to maintain optimal brake temperature and functionality.
Be aware that quick steering movements can lead to rollovers in doubles or triples.
The converter dolly air tank petcocks should be closed for safe functioning during travel.
Compared to tractor semi-trailers, double and triple trailers have a higher likelihood of turning over.
Slow down when dimming headlights at night to manage speed effectively.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

Prepare for the DMV CDL Test with these flashcards that cover essential knowledge for safe driving. Learn about convex mirrors, emergency procedures, and highway exit strategies. Master the key concepts to ensure you're ready for the CDL exam.