Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is prohibited during the commercial skills test?
What is prohibited during the commercial skills test?
What must be passed to obtain a hazardous materials endorsement?
What must be passed to obtain a hazardous materials endorsement?
What happens if unauthorized markings are found on the vehicle during a skills test?
What happens if unauthorized markings are found on the vehicle during a skills test?
Which test is required to haul hazardous materials?
Which test is required to haul hazardous materials?
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Which type of trailer is illegal to pull in California?
Which type of trailer is illegal to pull in California?
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What is the purpose of the firefighter endorsement test?
What is the purpose of the firefighter endorsement test?
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What should candidates NOT do while waiting in the testing vicinity?
What should candidates NOT do while waiting in the testing vicinity?
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Which of the following is NOT required to take the tank vehicle test?
Which of the following is NOT required to take the tank vehicle test?
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What is the only acceptable proof of SSN when applying for an original CDL?
What is the only acceptable proof of SSN when applying for an original CDL?
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How long is the application fee for a CLP valid?
How long is the application fee for a CLP valid?
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What should an employer do following a conviction occurring in another state?
What should an employer do following a conviction occurring in another state?
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If a CLP is renewed, what must the applicant do regarding the skills test?
If a CLP is renewed, what must the applicant do regarding the skills test?
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What form should be used to notify an employer of a conviction?
What form should be used to notify an employer of a conviction?
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What happens to scores of passed segments of the skills test after the CLP's initial issuance?
What happens to scores of passed segments of the skills test after the CLP's initial issuance?
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Upon revocation, suspension, cancellation, or disqualification, what is the time frame for notifying the employer?
Upon revocation, suspension, cancellation, or disqualification, what is the time frame for notifying the employer?
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For how long is a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) good before renewal is required?
For how long is a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) good before renewal is required?
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What is required to apply for a CDL Certification for Military Waiver?
What is required to apply for a CDL Certification for Military Waiver?
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How long does the Basic Control Skills Test approximately take?
How long does the Basic Control Skills Test approximately take?
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What happens if a skills test is failed?
What happens if a skills test is failed?
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Which of the following is NOT a part of the Road Test evaluation criteria?
Which of the following is NOT a part of the Road Test evaluation criteria?
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What is the role of the examiner during the Basic Control Skills Test?
What is the role of the examiner during the Basic Control Skills Test?
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What ID is required for active duty members during the application for a CDL waiver?
What ID is required for active duty members during the application for a CDL waiver?
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What must veterans provide to demonstrate their eligibility during the CDL application process?
What must veterans provide to demonstrate their eligibility during the CDL application process?
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Which traffic situations will NOT be included in the Road Test?
Which traffic situations will NOT be included in the Road Test?
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Which license type is required for drivers of tank vehicles?
Which license type is required for drivers of tank vehicles?
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What is the purpose of the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners?
What is the purpose of the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners?
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Which endorsement is NOT applicable to a Class B license?
Which endorsement is NOT applicable to a Class B license?
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Which type of vehicle requires a separate endorsement for operation?
Which type of vehicle requires a separate endorsement for operation?
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What type of medical examiners are listed on the National Registry?
What type of medical examiners are listed on the National Registry?
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What is required of drivers applying for a School Bus certification?
What is required of drivers applying for a School Bus certification?
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Which type of vehicle does NOT require a special endorsement?
Which type of vehicle does NOT require a special endorsement?
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For which of the following is a Class A license required?
For which of the following is a Class A license required?
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What is the primary purpose of the program mentioned?
What is the primary purpose of the program mentioned?
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Who is responsible for ensuring that medical examiners are trained and certified?
Who is responsible for ensuring that medical examiners are trained and certified?
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What are CDL drivers required to do before submitting a medical report?
What are CDL drivers required to do before submitting a medical report?
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According to California Labor Code, who pays for the medical examination if it’s required for employment?
According to California Labor Code, who pays for the medical examination if it’s required for employment?
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What is one requirement for a commercial driver's medical fitness assessment?
What is one requirement for a commercial driver's medical fitness assessment?
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Which of the following statements is true regarding CDL driver applications?
Which of the following statements is true regarding CDL driver applications?
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What happens if a CDL driver had a medical examination done before applying for the job?
What happens if a CDL driver had a medical examination done before applying for the job?
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What determines if a commercial driver is fit for duty?
What determines if a commercial driver is fit for duty?
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What is the point count for a conviction of reckless driving?
What is the point count for a conviction of reckless driving?
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If a CDL holder is convicted of a moving violation in their personal vehicle, what consequence follows?
If a CDL holder is convicted of a moving violation in their personal vehicle, what consequence follows?
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How many points would a driver need to accumulate in 24 months to be considered a negligent operator?
How many points would a driver need to accumulate in 24 months to be considered a negligent operator?
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What is the point count for violations received in a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV)?
What is the point count for violations received in a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV)?
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What happens if a driver has an out-of-state CDL and is convicted while operating a vehicle in California?
What happens if a driver has an out-of-state CDL and is convicted while operating a vehicle in California?
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What is the minimum gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) for towing a vehicle or trailer that requires a CDL?
What is the minimum gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) for towing a vehicle or trailer that requires a CDL?
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Which of the following vehicles requires a Class A DL when used for towing?
Which of the following vehicles requires a Class A DL when used for towing?
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To transport hazardous materials (HazMat), what is required?
To transport hazardous materials (HazMat), what is required?
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What should be added to a driver's license if the gross combination weight rating (GCWR) is under 26,001 pounds?
What should be added to a driver's license if the gross combination weight rating (GCWR) is under 26,001 pounds?
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Which of the following does NOT necessitate a CDL?
Which of the following does NOT necessitate a CDL?
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Which condition permits the use of a vanpool vehicle without needing a CDL?
Which condition permits the use of a vanpool vehicle without needing a CDL?
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What type of license is required to drive a vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of over 26,000 pounds?
What type of license is required to drive a vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of over 26,000 pounds?
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Which of the following statements is correct regarding the requirements for obtaining a commercial driver license (CDL)?
Which of the following statements is correct regarding the requirements for obtaining a commercial driver license (CDL)?
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What is the minimum age requirement to obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP)?
What is the minimum age requirement to obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP)?
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With a CLP, what type of vehicle may a holder not operate if they have the 'N' endorsement?
With a CLP, what type of vehicle may a holder not operate if they have the 'N' endorsement?
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How long is the validity period of a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) from the date of issuance?
How long is the validity period of a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) from the date of issuance?
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What must be submitted as proof of legal presence in the U.S. when applying for a CLP?
What must be submitted as proof of legal presence in the U.S. when applying for a CLP?
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What does signing the Commercial Driver License Application (DL 44C) imply?
What does signing the Commercial Driver License Application (DL 44C) imply?
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What is a requirement for a CLP holder before they can drive commercially in interstate commerce?
What is a requirement for a CLP holder before they can drive commercially in interstate commerce?
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Which of the following options reflects a limitation placed on CLP holders?
Which of the following options reflects a limitation placed on CLP holders?
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Which endorsement is NOT available to clp holders?
Which endorsement is NOT available to clp holders?
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What is the maximum duration for which a CLP may be renewed?
What is the maximum duration for which a CLP may be renewed?
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What happens if a holder of a CLP refuses to sign the application form?
What happens if a holder of a CLP refuses to sign the application form?
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Which endorsement is required to operate firefighting equipment?
Which endorsement is required to operate firefighting equipment?
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What combination of trailers requires a specific test for operation?
What combination of trailers requires a specific test for operation?
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What is the minimum loss of CDL duration for a first offense of driving a CMV with a BAC of 0.04 percent or higher?
What is the minimum loss of CDL duration for a first offense of driving a CMV with a BAC of 0.04 percent or higher?
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What happens to the commercial skills test if hand signals are used in the testing vicinity?
What happens to the commercial skills test if hand signals are used in the testing vicinity?
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What must candidates avoid using during the commercial skills test?
What must candidates avoid using during the commercial skills test?
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Which violation leads to the longest CDL suspension duration for an out-of-service order?
Which violation leads to the longest CDL suspension duration for an out-of-service order?
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Which vehicle requires a separate endorsement to operate?
Which vehicle requires a separate endorsement to operate?
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Under what condition will a CDL be permanently revoked?
Under what condition will a CDL be permanently revoked?
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What is required in order to haul hazardous materials?
What is required in order to haul hazardous materials?
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What is the minimum suspension period for leaving the scene of an accident involving a CMV?
What is the minimum suspension period for leaving the scene of an accident involving a CMV?
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What type of markings would cause the skills test to be marked as a failure?
What type of markings would cause the skills test to be marked as a failure?
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What action will result in being put out of service for 24 hours?
What action will result in being put out of service for 24 hours?
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Which of the following vehicles requires passing a tank vehicle test?
Which of the following vehicles requires passing a tank vehicle test?
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What happens if you commit your first serious traffic violation involving a CMV within a three-year period?
What happens if you commit your first serious traffic violation involving a CMV within a three-year period?
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How long is the minimum CDL loss for a second serious traffic violation involving a CMV within a three-year period?
How long is the minimum CDL loss for a second serious traffic violation involving a CMV within a three-year period?
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What does a dash cam record during the commercial skills test?
What does a dash cam record during the commercial skills test?
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Which of the following is a reason for discontinuing the skills test?
Which of the following is a reason for discontinuing the skills test?
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If a driver causes a fatality through negligent operation of a CMV while placarded for HazMat, what is the minimum CDL loss?
If a driver causes a fatality through negligent operation of a CMV while placarded for HazMat, what is the minimum CDL loss?
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What is the consequence of refusing to undergo blood alcohol testing while operating a CMV?
What is the consequence of refusing to undergo blood alcohol testing while operating a CMV?
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For how long will your CDL be suspended if you are convicted of three or more serious traffic violations within a three-year period?
For how long will your CDL be suspended if you are convicted of three or more serious traffic violations within a three-year period?
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Which type of vehicle qualifies for a Basic Class C Driver License?
Which type of vehicle qualifies for a Basic Class C Driver License?
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What is the maximum GVWR for a single vehicle under Class B licenses?
What is the maximum GVWR for a single vehicle under Class B licenses?
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For a farmer or employee of a farmer, what is the maximum gross combination weight rating (GCWR) allowed for towing?
For a farmer or employee of a farmer, what is the maximum gross combination weight rating (GCWR) allowed for towing?
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What is the GVWR limit for a trailer coach or fifth-wheel travel trailer when towing is not for compensation?
What is the GVWR limit for a trailer coach or fifth-wheel travel trailer when towing is not for compensation?
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Which of the following vehicles can be operated with a Noncommercial Class B Driver License?
Which of the following vehicles can be operated with a Noncommercial Class B Driver License?
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What is the weight limit for a motor vehicle under 4,000 pounds unladen when towing another vehicle?
What is the weight limit for a motor vehicle under 4,000 pounds unladen when towing another vehicle?
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What is the maximum weight for a housecar that can be operated under a Basic Class C license with endorsement?
What is the maximum weight for a housecar that can be operated under a Basic Class C license with endorsement?
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Which statement about driving a vehicle under Class C is true regarding weight limits?
Which statement about driving a vehicle under Class C is true regarding weight limits?
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What is the consequence for a commercial driver holding a mobile telephone while driving for the second time?
What is the consequence for a commercial driver holding a mobile telephone while driving for the second time?
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Which of the following actions does NOT disqualify a driver from obtaining a hardship license for a CMV?
Which of the following actions does NOT disqualify a driver from obtaining a hardship license for a CMV?
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What is the validity period of the Certificate of Driving Skill (DL 170 ETP) issued by an employer authorized by DMV?
What is the validity period of the Certificate of Driving Skill (DL 170 ETP) issued by an employer authorized by DMV?
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When driving a commercial motor vehicle (CMV), what is the primary purpose of wearing a safety belt?
When driving a commercial motor vehicle (CMV), what is the primary purpose of wearing a safety belt?
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What must an applicant do if their Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) expires?
What must an applicant do if their Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) expires?
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For a third violation of the cell phone law, what is the penalty in terms of driving record points?
For a third violation of the cell phone law, what is the penalty in terms of driving record points?
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When notifying an employer of a conviction, what form should be used by a commercial driver?
When notifying an employer of a conviction, what form should be used by a commercial driver?
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Which rule must all CDL drivers follow regarding the size and weight of vehicles?
Which rule must all CDL drivers follow regarding the size and weight of vehicles?
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If a driver has passed segments of the skills test, what happens if their CLP is renewed after 180 days?
If a driver has passed segments of the skills test, what happens if their CLP is renewed after 180 days?
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How long does a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) remain valid before it can be renewed for an additional period?
How long does a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) remain valid before it can be renewed for an additional period?
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What must drivers do upon conviction in other states?
What must drivers do upon conviction in other states?
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Which of the following is NOT true about the application fee for a CLP?
Which of the following is NOT true about the application fee for a CLP?
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What type of proof of SSN is required when applying for an original CDL?
What type of proof of SSN is required when applying for an original CDL?
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If a driver is involved in a revocation, suspension, cancellation, or disqualification, how soon must they notify their employer?
If a driver is involved in a revocation, suspension, cancellation, or disqualification, how soon must they notify their employer?
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For how long must an individual provide their employer with employment history if applying for a driving job?
For how long must an individual provide their employer with employment history if applying for a driving job?
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What must all commercial vehicle drivers certify regarding their driving history?
What must all commercial vehicle drivers certify regarding their driving history?
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Which of the following is included in the background checks for commercial drivers transporting HazMat?
Which of the following is included in the background checks for commercial drivers transporting HazMat?
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What happens if a driver is found to represent a security threat during the background check?
What happens if a driver is found to represent a security threat during the background check?
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What is a requirement for commercial vehicle drivers applying for a California CLP/CDL?
What is a requirement for commercial vehicle drivers applying for a California CLP/CDL?
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What must commercial vehicle drivers do if they have held a driver's license in multiple states in the past decade?
What must commercial vehicle drivers do if they have held a driver's license in multiple states in the past decade?
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Which vehicle requires a special endorsement for operation?
Which vehicle requires a special endorsement for operation?
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What is the significance of self-certification for commercial vehicle drivers?
What is the significance of self-certification for commercial vehicle drivers?
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Which of these scenarios would disqualify a driver from receiving a HazMat endorsement?
Which of these scenarios would disqualify a driver from receiving a HazMat endorsement?
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What condition must be true regarding a driver's multiple licenses from the past ten years?
What condition must be true regarding a driver's multiple licenses from the past ten years?
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What must commercial drivers do if they want to apply for a CDL certification that includes military experience?
What must commercial drivers do if they want to apply for a CDL certification that includes military experience?
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What consequence occurs if a candidate uses hand signals in the testing vicinity during the commercial skills test?
What consequence occurs if a candidate uses hand signals in the testing vicinity during the commercial skills test?
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Which requirement must be met to obtain the endorsement for hazmat transport?
Which requirement must be met to obtain the endorsement for hazmat transport?
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When is the use of a recording device allowed during the commercial skills test?
When is the use of a recording device allowed during the commercial skills test?
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What is indicated by the requirement of the tank vehicle test?
What is indicated by the requirement of the tank vehicle test?
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What happens if unauthorized markings are discovered on the vehicle being used for the skills test?
What happens if unauthorized markings are discovered on the vehicle being used for the skills test?
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Which endorsement is required for operating a school bus?
Which endorsement is required for operating a school bus?
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What is the implication of double and triple trailers in California?
What is the implication of double and triple trailers in California?
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Which of the following is NOT a condition that would allow a successful completion of the basic control skills test?
Which of the following is NOT a condition that would allow a successful completion of the basic control skills test?
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What is necessary prior to taking the firefighter endorsement test?
What is necessary prior to taking the firefighter endorsement test?
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Which of the following is true regarding combination vehicles testing?
Which of the following is true regarding combination vehicles testing?
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Study Notes
Social Security Number Verification
- The DMV will verify your Social Security Number with the Social Security Administration while you are in the office.
- For more information on Social Security documents, visit dmv.ca.gov or call 1-800-777-0133.
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
- A social security card is the only acceptable proof of SSN for an original CDL (REAL ID or federal non-compliant).
- For more information on acceptable identity documents, visit dmv.ca.gov or call 1-800-777-0133.
Certificate of Driving Skill (DL 170 ETP)
- An employer authorized by the DMV can issue a Certificate of Driving Skill.
- Both the employee and employer must sign the form.
Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP)
- The CLP application fee is valid for 12 months from the application date.
- The CLP is valid for a maximum of 180 days and can be renewed for an additional 180 days without retaking the knowledge tests, provided the expiration date does not exceed one year from the application date.
- Scores for passed segments of the skills test are only valid during the initial issuance (first 180 days) of the CLP. Passed segments of the skills test (vehicle inspection, basic control skills, and road test) must be retaken if the CLP is renewed.
Combination Vehicles Test
- The combination vehicles test is required if you want to drive combination vehicles.
Hazardous Materials Test
- The hazardous materials test is required if you want to haul hazardous materials, as defined in CFR, Title 49 §383.5.
- To obtain this endorsement, you must pass a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) background check.
Tank Vehicle Test
- The tank vehicle test is required if you want to haul any liquid or gaseous materials in a tank or tanks having an individual rated capacity of more than 119 gallons and an aggregate rated capacity of 1,000 gallons or more that is either permanently or temporarily attached to the vehicle or chassis.
Doubles/Triples Test
- The doubles / triples test is required if you want to pull double or triple trailers. Triple trailers are not legal in California.
School Bus Test
- The school bus test is required if you want to drive a school bus.
Firefighter Endorsement Test
- The firefighter endorsement test is required to operate firefighting equipment. It is not required for military motor vehicle equivalents to a CMV on public roads and highways.
Military Waiver of CDL Driving Test
- Qualified applicants must submit a completed CDL Certification for Military Waiver of CDL Driving Test (DL 963) and a Commanding Officer’s Certification of Driving Experience (DL 964) forms in addition to any other documents required for a CDL.
- Active duty members will need to provide their military identification (ID) while veterans will need to provide a Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty (DD Form 214) which shows their discharge was within the last year.
- These forms are available at dmv.ca.gov.
CDL Skills Test
- The CDL skills test will not be waived for an “S” and/or “P” endorsement.
- The use of electronic devices, such as cell phones, Bluetooth, CB radios, Apple Watch, etc., is prohibited during the commercial skills test.
- People waiting in the testing vicinity are prohibited from using hand signals and shouting instructions.
- The test will be discontinued and marked as a commercial skills test failure if the following occur:
- Use of electronic devices.
- People waiting in the testing vicinity using hand signals or shouting.
- Markings on the vehicle used for the test that help pass the vehicle inspection or basic control skills test, including writing on the vehicle, tape, paint markings, markings on curbs, walls, or trees.
- The use of any recording device, including a video event recorder (dash cam), is prohibited during any commercial skills test.
- There is no additional fee for retaking the vehicle inspection test on the same application.
Basic Control Skills Test
- You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle.
- You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area.
- These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar.
- The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done and you will be scored on your ability to properly perform each exercise.
- The test takes approximately 30 minutes.
- Failure of any portion of the skills test ends the test.
- A retest fee is due for each basic control skills retest.
Road Test
- You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations on a DMV specified route.
- The test takes approximately 45–60 minutes and includes:
- Left and right turns
- Intersections
- Railroad crossings
- Curves
- Up and down grades
- Single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways
- The examiner will tell you where to drive.
- If you fail the road test, a retest fee is charged for each additional road test.
Medical Documentation Requirements
- CDL drivers in interstate commerce and drivers applying for, or who hold, a certificate to drive a School Bus, School Pupil Activity Bus, Youth Bus, General Public Paratransit Vehicle, or Farm Labor Vehicle must use the medical examiners listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (National Registry).
- The National Registry is a federal program that establishes requirements for healthcare professionals performing physical qualification examinations for CMV drivers.
- The program, developed to improve highway safety and driver health, requires medical examiners to be trained and certified so they can determine a commercial driver's medical fitness for duty, meeting federal standards.
- If you are required to have a CDL as part of your job, your employer should pay the cost of the examination unless it was performed before you applied for the job.
- A CDL driver can start an application and take the law and vision tests before submitting their medical report.
California Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
- CDL Requirement: A CDL is required for driving a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) in California, meeting federal standards.
- CMV Definition: A CMV is defined as a vehicle with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more.
- HazMat Transportation: A CDL with endorsements is required for transporting hazardous materials (HazMat) as defined in California Health and Safety Code (CHSC).
-
Endorsements: Examples of endorsements include:
- Tank (N): Allows for the operation of tank vehicles.
- Passenger (P): Allows for the operation of passenger vehicles.
- School Bus (S): Allows for the operation of school buses.
- Doubles/Triples: Allows for towing double or triple trailers.
- Hazardous Materials: Requires a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) background check.
-
Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP):
- A CLP is required before obtaining a CDL.
- A valid California driver's license is necessary to obtain a CLP.
- A CLP is only valid for 180 days from the issuance date.
- CLP holders are limited to driving within California, and not engaging in interstate commerce.
-
Disqualification:
- A driver's license can be suspended or revoked for various violations, including driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and traffic violations.
- Refusal to undergo blood alcohol testing automatically results in CDL suspension.
- A driver may be disqualified for having a detectable amount of alcohol in their system (.04 percent).
- An out of service order violation for 3 times in 10 years results in disqualification.
-
Point System:
- A driver's license can be revoked due to a high accumulation of traffic violations, including those in a non-commercial vehicle.
- Traffic violations committed in a CMV carry a 1.5 times greater penalty.
- A driver is considered a negligent operator with 4 points in 12 months, 6 points in 24 months, or 8 points in 36 months.
-
Motor Carrier Safety Improvement Act (MCSIA):
- Requires CDL holders to be disqualified from operating a CMV if convicted of certain moving violations in their personal vehicle.
- This includes situations where a personal vehicle driver's license is revoked, cancelled, or suspended due to traffic violations.
-
Prohibited Items:
- Cell phones, Bluetooth devices, CB radios, Apple Watch, and other electronic devices are prohibited during CDL skills tests.
- Recording devices, including dash cams, are prohibited during skills testing.
-
Penalties:
- CDL suspension for at least 1 year for a first offense involving:
- Driving a CMV with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .04 percent or higher.
- Driving a CMV under the influence of alcohol.
- Refusing to undergo blood alcohol testing.
- Driving a CMV while under the influence of a controlled substance.
- Leaving the scene of an accident involving a CMV.
- Committing a felony involving the use of a CMV.
- CDL suspension for at least 3 years for a second offense involving:
- Driving a CMV with a BAC of .04 percent or higher.
- Driving a CMV under the influence of alcohol.
- Refusing to undergo blood alcohol testing.
- Driving a CMV while under the influence of a controlled substance.
- CDL suspension for at least 60 days for two or more serious traffic violations within three years.
- CDL suspension for at least 120 days for three or more serious traffic violations within three years.
- CDL suspension for at least 90 days for the first violation of an out-of-service order.
- CDL suspension for at least one year for the second violation of an out-of-service order within a 10-year period.
- CDL suspension for at least three years for the third or subsequent violation of an out-of-service order within a 10-year period.
- CDL suspension for at least 60 days for the first railroad-highway grade crossing violation.
- CDL suspension for at least 120 days for the second railroad-highway grade crossing violation within a three-year period.
- CDL suspension for at least one year for the third railroad-highway grade crossing violation within a three-year period.
- CDL suspension for life for the second violation of a railroad-highway grade crossing violation.
- CDL suspension for life for using a CMV to commit a felony involving controlled substances.
- CDL suspension for life for causing a fatality due to negligent CMV operation.
- CDL suspension for at least 1 year for a first offense involving:
Medical Requirements
- Applicants for a CLP/CDL must provide proof of medical fitness.
- Must provide a completed Medical Examination Report (Medical Examiner's Certificate).
- Contact the DMV for details on Medical Examination Report requirements.
California Commercial Driver License (CDL) Requirements
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Noncommercial Class B Driver License:
- Single vehicle with a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or less, including a tow dolly.
- Any housecar over 40 feet but not over 45 feet with endorsement
- Trailer coach or fifth-wheel travel trailer under 10,000 pounds GVWR when towing is not for compensation.
- Fifth-wheel travel trailer exceeding 10,000 pounds but not exceeding 15,000 pounds GVWR, when towing is not for compensation and with endorsement.
- Any housecar 40 feet or less
- If the towing vehicle weighs 4,000 pounds or more unladen, you may tow a trailer coach not exceeding 9,000 pounds gross.
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Basic Class C Driver License:
- A 2-axle vehicle with a GVWR or GVW of 26,000 pounds or less
- A 3-axle vehicle weighing 6,000 pounds gross or less
- A motorized scooter
- A farmer or employee of a farmer may also drive any combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,000 pounds or less if used exclusively in agricultural operations and not for hire or compensation
- No passenger vehicle, regardless of weight, may tow more than one vehicle.
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Vehicle under Class C:
- A single vehicle with a GVWR or GVW of more than 26,000 pounds
- A bus (except a trailer bus) with a GVWR or GVW of more than 26,000 pounds, with endorsement
- Any farm labor vehicle, with endorsement
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Class A Commercial Driver License:
- A 3 or more axle vehicle weighing over 6,000 pounds
- All vehicles under Class C
California Commercial Driver License (CDL) Application Requirements
- Applicant must be a California resident
- Applicant must disclose all states in which they were previously licensed during the past 10 years and surrender all out-of-state DLs (current or expired), if any.
- Applicant must certify that they do not have a DL from more than 1 state or country.
- Applicant must self-certify what type of commercial commerce they expect to operate.
- Applicant may be required to take a combination vehicles test, hazardous materials test, tank vehicle test, doubles/triples test, school bus test and/or firefighter endorsement test.
- Social Security number will be verified with the Social Security Administration while the applicant is in the office.
California Commercial Driver License (CDL) Rules and Regulations
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Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP):
- Issued by the California DMV after passing the knowledge test for an initial CDL license.
- Good for a maximum of 180 days.
- Must reapply to renew the CLP for another 180 days without retaking the knowledge tests.
- Cannot exceed a period of 1 year from the application date.
- Scores for passed segments of the skills test are only valid during the initial issuance (first 180 days) of the CLP.
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Commercial Driver's License (CDL):
- Applicant must notify their home state DMV of any conviction within 30 days of the conviction.
- Applicant must notify their employer of any conviction within 30 days of the conviction.
- Applicant must include a 10-year employment history of commercial driving, if applying for a job as a driver.
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Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Requirements:
- Commercial drivers must pass a background checks for transporting hazardous materials.
- Checks include a review of criminal, immigration, and FBI records.
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General CDL Rules & Regulations:
- The use of electronic devices, such as cell phones, Bluetooth, CB radios, Apple watch, etc., is prohibited during the commercial skills test.
- The use of any recording device, including a video event recorder (dash cam), is prohibited during any commercial skills test.
- Applicants must be properly restrained by a safety belt at all times while operating a CMV.
- All CDL drivers must know the state laws limiting the size and weight of vehicles and loads.
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Hand-Free or Texting Law Violations:
- Drivers are not allowed to hold a mobile telephone to conduct a voice communication or dial a mobile telephone by pressing more than a single button while driving.
- Drivers are not allowed to send or read text messages while driving.
- For a CDL license holder, the second violation of the cell phone hands-free or texting law within a 3 year period will result in a 60-day suspension and 1 point on the driver's record.
- The third and subsequent violations of the cell phone hands-free or texting law within a 3 year period will result in a 120-day suspension and 1 point on the driver's record.
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Description
This quiz covers important aspects of the Social Security Number verification process and the requirements for obtaining a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) and Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP). Stay informed about necessary documents and procedures to ensure a smooth application experience.