2005 CDL Driver Manual PDF

Commercial Driver License Manual 2005 CDL Testing System Version: July 2017 CDL Driver’s Manual COPYRIGHT © 2005 AAMVA All Rights Reserved This material is based upon work supported by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration under Cooperative Agreement No....

Commercial Driver License Manual 2005 CDL Testing System Version: July 2017 CDL Driver’s Manual COPYRIGHT © 2005 AAMVA All Rights Reserved This material is based upon work supported by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration under Cooperative Agreement No. DTFH61-97-X-00017. Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the Author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. COPYRIGHT © 2005 AAMVA. All rights reserved This material has been created for and provided to State Driver License Agencies (SDLAs) by AAMVA for the purpose of educating Driver License applicants (Commercial or Non-Commercial). Permission to reproduce, use, distribute or sell this material has been granted to SDLAs only. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system without express written permission from the author / publisher. Any unauthorized reprint, use, distribution or sale of this material is prohibited. In January 2015, an RV pulled into a truck stop in Virginia. Observant professional truck driver Kevin Kimmel recognized suspicious activity around that RV, which had pulled back by the truck line, and decided something was off. Instead of turning a blind eye, he made a call that brought law enforcement out to the scene within a few minutes. After interviewing the occupants of the vehicle, they discovered that a young woman, 20 years old, had been kidnapped from Iowa two weeks prior. She had been beaten, raped, her whole body burned by instruments heated on the RV stove, branded and starved. She was being sold by her traffickers, Laura Sorenson and Aldair Hodza, through sex ads on Craigslist, where men were purchasing her and then arriving at the RV to rape her. She was dying from malnutrition and the torture she was subjected to … had the call not been made that brought law enforcement out to that truck stop, doctors said she would have died within the next few days. Now a recovering survivor, this young woman calls Kimmel her guardian angel. He calls himself a Trucker Against Trafficking. Truckers Against Trafficking is a non-profit organization that has been working with the trucking industry since 2009 to provide the needed training and tools to enable members of the industry to both recognize human trafficking when they see it happening and to know what actions to take to enable law enforcement to effectively fight this crime. Through this training and these tools, truckers are becoming Everyday Heroes like Kevin Kimmel, who was also named TAT’s 2015 Harriet Tubman Award winner. One of the tools TAT provides is a wallet card with red flags to look for, questions to ask if you suspect someone is a victim and actionable information to report. This wallet card is available by App, from the appropriate App Store, on all smart phones, whether Android, iPhone or Windows format, as well as by emailing [email protected], for a version to carry in your wallet. Additionally, TAT provides a powerful, 26-minute training video on its website (www.truckersagainsttrafficking.org), which, when watched along with taking and passing a short test, certifies drivers as TAT-Trained, a designation which can go on your resume. Because professional drivers often find themselves in locations frequented and exploited by human traffickers, they are in a unique position to recognize the signs of human trafficking and to make the call that can lead to victim recovery and perpetrator arrests. Get your wallet card today. Be an Everyday Hero! Make the call (1-888-3737-888); save lives!  Table of Contents Introduction.........................................................................................................................................1-1 Driving Safely...................................................................................................................................2-1 Transporting Cargo Safely...............................................................................................3-1 Transporting Passengers Safely...............................................................................4-1 Air Brakes.............................................................................................................................................5-1 Combination Vehicles............................................................................................................6-1 Doubles and Triples.................................................................................................................7-1 Tank Vehicles..................................................................................................................................8-1 Hazardous Materials................................................................................................................9-1 School Bus........................................................................................................................................10-1 Vehicle Vehicle Inspection.............................................................................................11-1 Basic Vehicle Control Skills Test............................................................................12-1 On-Road Driving.........................................................................................................................13-1 THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK Commercial Driver’s License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System Class A Combination Vehicles. Any combination Section 1 of vehicles with gross combination weight rating INTRODUCTION (GCWR) of 26,001 or more pounds falls in Group A provided the GVWR of the vehicle(s) being towed is more than 10,000 pounds. Most Class A vehicles This Section Covers are trucks such as truck-tractor/semi-trailer or truck and trailer combinations. However, tractor-trailer  Commercial Driver License Tests buses may be found in a few communities. Driving a  Medical Requirements Class A vehicle requires considerably more skill and  Driver Disqualifications knowledge than driving vehicles in Classes B and C.  Other Safety Rules Since these skills include those required to drive a B and C vehicle, a driver who has a Class A license  International Registration Program also may drive vehicles in Classes B and C. There is a federal requirement that each state have Class B Heavy Straight Vehicles. Any single minimum standards for the licensing of commercial vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 or more pounds falls drivers. in Group B, or any such vehicle towing another vehicle not in excess of 10,000 pounds GVWR. This manual provides driver license testing Class B includes straight trucks and large buses, information for drivers who wish to have a including articulated buses. Safely driving these commercial driver license (CDL). This manual does heavy vehicles requires considerably more NOT provide information on all the federal and state knowledge and skill than driving the small trucks and requirements needed before you can drive a buses found in Class C. Since they include the skills commercial motor vehicle (CMV). You may have to required to drive Class C vehicles, drivers who have contact your state driver licensing authority for qualified for a Class B license may also drive vehicles additional information. in Class C. Class C Small Vehicles. Any single vehicle with a You must have a CDL to operate: GVWR less than 26,001 pounds falls in Group C, or Any single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight any such vehicle towing another vehicle not in rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more. excess of 10,000 pounds GVWR. However, vehicles of this size are included in the CDL program only if A combination vehicle with a gross combination they are: 1) Designed to carry 16 or more passengers weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 or more pounds, including the driver, or (2) Used to transport provided the GVWR of the vehicle(s) being towed is hazardous materials in quantities requiring in excess of 10,000 pounds. placarding under the Hazardous Materials A vehicle designed to transport 16 or more Regulations (49 CFR Part 172, Subpart F) or is passengers (including the driver). carrying material listed as a select agent or toxin in 42 CFR part 73. Any size vehicle which requires hazardous material placards or is carrying material listed as a select There are a great variety of vehicles in Class C. agent or toxin in 42 CFR part 73. Federal Some rather large Class C vehicles may require regulations through the Department of Homeland more skill and knowledge to operate than do the Security require a background check and smaller ones. However, the licensing category is fingerprinting for the Hazardous Materials based principally on the type of cargo carried. endorsement. Contact your local department of Because of the seriousness of an accident involving driver licensing for more information. hazardous material or human passengers, the safe operation of even the smaller vehicles in Class C (Your state may have additional definitions of requires special knowledge and the drivers of these CMVs.) vehicles must have a CDL. CDL Classifications STATE OPTIONS: Some states may include more drivers and vehicles in their CDL programs. For The CDL vehicle classification included in the example, in some states, a CDL may be required for federal standard, together with the type of cargo to buses designed to carry fewer than 16 passengers. be transported, determine what type of CDL license Going beyond the federal standard is acceptable and endorsement an applicant must apply for. and the state will need to decide which battery of There are three basic vehicle classes or groups: tests applies to these drivers, or develop a new battery. Section 1 - Introduction Page 1-1 Version: July 2017 Commercial Driver’s License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System CDL Endorsements & Restrictions Hazardous Materials (H). Any driver, regardless of the vehicle Class/Group (A, B, or C) who wishes to Endorsements haul any material that has been designated as All commercial drivers who drive certain types of hazardous under 49 U.S.C. 5103 and is required to vehicles or haul certain types of cargo must add be placarded under subpart F of 49 CFR part 172; or endorsements to their CDL license and/or any quantity of a material listed as a select agent or Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) to show that toxin 42 CFR Part 73 must add a hazardous they have the specialized knowledge required for materials endorsement to their CDL. S/he must pass these operations. There are six kinds of CDL a special written examination on how to recognize, endorsements that may be required, depending on handle, and transport hazardous materials. the vehicle or type of cargo. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) NOTE: The only endorsements that may be and the US Department of Transportation require added to a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) background checks on commercial drivers who are are: certified to transport hazardous materials. The - Passenger (P); background checks include a review of criminal, - School bus (S); and immigration and FBI records. If the driver is found to represent a security threat, TSA will notify the - Tank vehicle (N). person and the state will deny issuance of an Double and Triple Trailers (T). Many drivers who endorsement. are qualified to drive Class A vehicles may wish to Combination Hazardous Materials and Tank pull double or triple trailers. Research shows that Vehicle (X). Drivers of tank vehicles who haul considerable additional knowledge and skill is hazardous materials or waste in amounts requiring necessary to safely pull double and triple trailers in placards must add an X endorsement to their CDL, various traffic conditions and driving environments. showing that they have passed the special Consequently, adding the endorsement to the knowledge examinations for both tank vehicles and licenses of Class A drivers is necessary if they wish hazardous materials. to pull double or triple trailers. A special knowledge examination on the problems associated with pulling School Buses (S). Drivers who wish to drive a multiple trailers must be passed. school bus, must add a school bus endorsement to their CDL/CLP. They must pass a special knowledge Tank Vehicle (N). Drivers of any commercial motor examination on safety considerations when vehicle that is designed to transport any liquid or transporting passengers in a school bus and must gaseous materials within a tank or tanks having an pass skills tests in a school bus. The endorsement individual rated capacity of more than 119 gallons applies to applicants who wish to drive a school bus and an aggregate rated capacity of 1,000 gallons or in any class (A, B, or C). more that is either permanently or temporarily attached to the vehicle or the chassis must obtain this In addition to these six required endorsements, endorsement. Applies to Class A, B and C (only states may add special endorsements of their applicable to Class C if the vehicle is hauling own as they see fit. hazardous materials) vehicles. Liquids in bulk cause driving control problems because the cargo is heavy, Restrictions prone to shifting, and has a high center of gravity. These drivers must pass a special knowledge Restrictions may be added to Commercial Driver examination on the problems posed by large volume Licenses/Permits based upon the type of vehicle and liquid cargos to add the endorsement to their equipment that the driver uses for the Skills Test. CDL/CLP. There are ten standardized restriction codes. Passengers (P). Drivers who wish to drive a vehicle NOTE: If a CLP is issued with a Passenger (P) or a having a design capacity to carry 16 or more people, School Bus (S) endorsement, it must also contain a including the driver, must add a passenger (P) – No passengers in a CMV bus restriction. endorsement to their CDL/CLP. They must pass a If a CLP is issued with a Tanker (N) endorsement, it special knowledge examination on safety must also contain a (X) – No cargo in a CMV tank considerations when transporting passengers and vehicle. must pass skills tests in a passenger vehicle. The endorsement applies to applicants who wish to drive a bus in any class (A, B, or C). Section 1 - Introduction Page 1-2 Version: July 2017 Commercial Driver’s License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System (E) - No manual transmission. If an applicant (P) - No passengers in CMV bus: A CLP holder performs the skills test in a vehicle equipped with an with a P endorsement is prohibited from operating a automatic transmission, the State must indicate on CMV carrying passengers, other than Federal/State the CDL, if issued, that the person is restricted from auditors and inspectors, test examiners, other operating a CMV equipped with a manual trainees, and the CDL holder accompanying the transmission. For the purposes of the skills test and CLP holder as prescribed by § CFR 383.25(a)(1) of the restriction, an automatic transmission includes this part. any transmission not operating fully on the gear shift A CLP holder with a S endorsement is prohibited and clutch principle. from operating a school bus with passengers, other (K) - Intrastate only: If an applicant certifies their than Federal/State auditors and inspectors, test status as either Non-Excepted Intrastate or examiners, other trainees, and the CDL holder Excepted Intrastate, the state must indicate on the accompanying the CLP holder as prescribed by § CDL, if issued, that person is restricted from CFR 383.25(a)(1) of this part. operating a CMV in interstate commerce. States (V) - Medical Variance: If the State is notified may impose this restriction for reasons other than according to § 383.73(o)(3) that the driver has been those specified above. issued a medical variance, the State must indicate (L) - No Air brake equipped CMV: If an applicant the existence of such a medical variance on the does not take or fails the air brake component of the CDLIS driver record and the CDL document, if knowledge test, or performs the skills test in a issued, using the restriction code ‘‘V’’ to indicate vehicle not equipped with air brakes, the State must there is information about a medical variance on the indicate on the CLP or CDL, if issued, that the CDLIS driver record. person is restricted from operating a CMV equipped (X) - No cargo in CMV tank vehicle: A CLP holder with any type of air brakes. For the purposes of the with an N endorsement may only operate an empty skills test and the restriction, air brakes include any tank vehicle and is prohibited from operating any braking system operating fully or partially on the air tank vehicle that previously contained hazardous brake principle. materials that has not been purged of any residue. (M) - No Class A passenger vehicle: If an (Z) - No full air brake equipped CMV: If an applicant applying for a passenger endorsement applicant performs the skills test in a vehicle performs the skills test in a passenger vehicle equipped with air over hydraulic brakes, the State requiring a Group B CDL, the State must indicate on must indicate on the CDL, if issued, that the person the CDL, if issued, that the person is restricted from is restricted from operating a CMV equipped with operating a passenger vehicle requiring a Group A any braking system operating fully on the air brake CDL. principle. For the purposes of the skills test and the (N) - No Class A and B passenger vehicle: If an restriction, air over hydraulic brakes includes any applicant applying for a passenger endorsement braking system operating partially on the air brake performs the skills test in a passenger vehicle and partially on the hydraulic brake principle. requiring a Group C CDL, the State must indicate on Any additional jurisdictional restrictions that apply to the CDL, if issued, that the person is restricted from the CLP driving privilege. operating a passenger vehicle requiring a Group A or B CDL To Get a CDL or CLP (O) - No tractor trailer CMV: If an applicant performs the skills test in a combination vehicle for To get a CDL or CLP, you must pass knowledge and a Group A CDL with the power unit and towed unit skills tests. This manual will help you pass the tests, connected with a pintle hook or other non-fifth wheel however, it is not a substitute for a truck driver connection, the State must indicate on the CDL, if training class or program. Formal training is the issued, that the person is restricted from operating most reliable way to learn the many special skills a tractor-trailer combination connected by a fifth required for safely driving a large commercial wheel that requires a Group A CDL. vehicle and becoming a professional driver in the trucking industry. Figure 1.1 helps you determine if An applicant who passes a skills test using a you need a CDL combination vehicle that is NOT a Truck Tractor Semi-Trailer combination, but is otherwise equipped with a fifth wheel, will be issued a CDL with an “O” restriction. Section 1 - Introduction Page 1-3 Version: July 2017 Commercial Driver’s License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System Figure 1.1 NOTE: A bus may be Class A, B, or C depending on whether the GVWR is over 26,001 pounds or is a combination vehicle. Section 1 - Introduction Page 1-4 Version: July 2017 Commercial Driver’s License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System 1.1 – Commercial Driver License Tests traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to 1.1.1 – Knowledge Tests be done. You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, On-road Test. You will be tested on your skill to depending on what class of license and what safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic endorsements you need. The CDL knowledge tests situations. The situations may include left and right include: turns, intersections, railroad crossings, curves, up and down grades, single or multi-lane roads, The general knowledge test, taken by all streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you applicants. where to drive. The passenger transport test, taken by all bus driver applicants. Figure 1.2 details which sections of this manual you should study for each particular class of license and The air brakes test, which you must take if your for each endorsement. vehicle has air brakes, including air over hydraulic brakes. What Sections Should You Study? The combination vehicles test, which is required LICENSE if you want to drive combination vehicles. ENDORSEMENT TYPE Class A Class B Class C Materials Hazardous Double / Triple Tank Vehicles Passenger School Bus The hazardous materials test, required if you want to haul hazardous materials as defined in 49 CFR 383.5. In order to obtain this endorsement you are also required to pass a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) background check. The tank vehicle test, required if you want to haul Sections to Study any liquid or gaseous materials in a tank or tanks 1 X X X 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 2 X X X X X X temporarily attached to the vehicle or chassis 3 X X X The doubles/triples test, required if you want to pull double or triple trailers. 4 X The School Bus test, required if you want to drive a school bus. 5* X X X X 1.1.2 – Skills Tests 6 X X X If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills test when you are eligible. The 7 X CDL Skills Test consists of three segments: Vehicle inspection, basic vehicle control, and on- 8 X road driving. You must take the segments in the order listed and must pass each one before moving 9 X X to the next. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed. Any 10 X vehicle that has components marked or labeled cannot be used for the CDL Skills Test. 11 X X X X X Vehicle Inspection. You will be tested to see if you 12 X X X X X know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a Vehicle inspection of your vehicle. 13 X X X X X You must point to/touch and name the item you are inspecting and explain to the examiner what you *Study section 5 if you plan to operate vehicles would inspect and why. equipped with air brakes. Basic Vehicle Control. You will be tested on your Figure 1.2 – What to Study 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 Section 1 - Introduction Page 1-5 Version: July 2017 Commercial Driver’s License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System 1.2 – Medical Documentation you must decide whether you will operate (or expect Requirements to operate) in a non-excepted or excepted status. This decision will tell you to which of the four types Starting January 30, 2012 and no later than January of commerce you must self-certify. 30, 2014, if you are applying for a CDL Permit; or are renewing, upgrading, adding endorsements to a Interstate Commerce: CDL; or transferring a CDL from another state, you are required to provide information to your State You operate in excepted interstate commerce Driver’s License Agency (SDLA) regarding the type when you drive a CMV in interstate commerce only of commercial motor vehicle operation you drive in for the following excepted activities: or expect to drive in with your CDL. Drivers To transport school children and/or school staff operating in certain types of commerce will be between home and school; required to submit a current medical examiner’s certificate and/or any medical variance documents As Federal, State or local government employees; that you have been issued (i.e. Vision, Skills To transport human corpses or sick or injured Performance or Diabetic waivers, or other persons; exemptions) to your SDLA to obtain a “certified” medical status as part of your driving record. You Fire truck or rescue vehicle drivers during must contact your State Driver Licensing Agency emergencies and other related activities; (SDLA) to obtain information regarding the Primarily in the transportation of propane winter requirement for submitting these documents. heating fuel when responding to an emergency If you are required to have a ”certified” medical condition requiring immediate response such as status and fail to provide and keep up-to-date your damage to a propane gas system after a storm or medical examiner’s certificate you become ”not- flooding; certified” and may lose your CDL. In Response to a pipeline emergency condition For the purpose of complying with the new requiring immediate response such as a pipeline requirements for medical certification, it is important leak or rupture; to know how you are using the CMV. The following In custom harvesting on a farm or to transport farm information will help you decide how to self-certify: machinery and supplies used in the custom harvesting operation to and from a farm or to 1.2.1 – Interstate or Intrastate Commerce transport custom harvested crops to storage or market; Do you, or will you, use a CDL to operate a CMV in interstate or intrastate commerce? Beekeeper in the seasonal transportation of bees; Interstate commerce is when you drive a CMV: Controlled and operated by a farmer, but is not a combination vehicle (power unit and towed unit), From one State to another State or a foreign and is used to transport agricultural products, farm country; machinery or farm supplies (no placardable Between two places within a State, but during part hazardous materials) to and from a farm and within of the trip, the CMV crosses into another State or 150 air-miles of the farm; foreign country; or As a private motor carrier of passengers for non- Between two places within a State, but the cargo or business purposes; or passengers are part of a trip that began or will end To transport migrant workers. in another State or foreign country. If you answered yes to one or more of the above Intrastate commerce is when you drive a CMV activities as the only operation in which you drive, within a State and you do not meet any of the you operate in excepted interstate commerce and descriptions above for interstate commerce. do not need a Federal medical examiner’s certificate. If you operate in both intrastate commerce and interstate commerce, you must choose interstate If you answered no to all of the above activities, you commerce. operate in non-excepted interstate commerce and are required to provide a current medical 1.2.2 – Inter/Intrastate Commerce: Status Non- examiner’s certificate (49 CFR 391.45),commonly excepted or Excepted? referred to as a medical certificate or DOT card, to your State Driver Licensing Agency (SDLA). Most Once you decide whether you will operate in CDL holders who drive CMVs in interstate interstate commerce or intrastate commerce, Section 1 - Introduction Page 1-6 Version: July 2017 Commercial Driver’s License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System commerce are non-excepted interstate  Intrastate excepted: I certify that I operate or commerce drivers. expect to operate entirely in intrastate commerce, that I am not subject to the medical If you operate in both excepted interstate requirements for my State; and that I am not commerce and non-excepted interstate required to obtain a medical examiner’s commerce, you must choose non-excepted certificate. interstate commerce to be qualified to operate in both types of interstate commerce. Intrastate Commerce: 1.3 - CDL Disqualifications You operate in excepted Intrastate commerce 1.3.1 – General when you drive a CMV only in intrastate commerce activities for which your State of licensure has You may not drive a commercial motor vehicle if you determined do not require you to meet the State’s are disqualified for any reason. medical certification requirements. (contact your SDLA about their requirements). 1.3.2 – Alcohol, Leaving the Scene of an Accident, and Commission of a Felony You operate in non-excepted intrastate commerce when you drive a CMV only in intrastate It is illegal to operate a CMV if your blood alcohol commerce and are required to meet your State of concentration (BAC) is.04% or more. If you operate licensure’s medical certification requirements a CMV, you shall be deemed to have given your (contact your SDLA about their requirements). consent to alcohol testing. If you operate in both excepted intrastate You will lose your CDL for at least one year for a first commerce and non-excepted intrastate offense for: commerce, you must choose non-excepted intrastate commerce. Driving under the influence of alcohol as prescribed by State law. 1.2.3 – Self-Certification Statements Driving while under the influence of a controlled substance. When completing an application for your CDL, you will be required to check the box next to the Driving a CMV if your blood alcohol concentration statement that describes your status. The actual is.04% or higher. statements on your application may vary from those Refusing to undergo blood alcohol testing. shown below: Leaving the scene of an accident.  Interstate non-excepted: I certify that I operate Using a vehicle to commit a felony. or expect to operate in interstate commerce, that I am subject to and meet the Federal DOT Driving a CMV when the CDL is revoked, medical card requirements under 49 CFR part suspended or cancelled, or the driver is 391; and that I am required to obtain a medical disqualified from operating a CMV.. examiner’s certificate. Causing a fatality through negligent operation of a CMV.  Interstate excepted: I certify that I operate or expect to operate in interstate commerce, but You will lose your CDL for at least three years if the engage exclusively in transportation or offense occurs while you are operating a CMV that operations excepted under 49 CFR §§390.3(f), is placarded for hazardous materials. 391.2, 391.68 or 398.3 from all or parts of the qualification requirements of 49 CFR part 391; You will lose your CDL for life for a second offense. and that I am not required to obtain a medical examiner’s certificate. You will lose your CDL for life if you use a CMV to commit a felony involving controlled substances.  Intrastate non-excepted: I certify that I operate or expect to operate entirely in intrastate You will be put out-of-service for 24 hours if you commerce, that I am subject to and meet the have any detectable amount of alcohol under.04%. medical requirements for my State; and that I am required to obtain a medical examiner’s certificate. Section 1 - Introduction Page 1-7 Version: July 2017 Commercial Driver’s License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System 1.3.3 – Serious Traffic Violations For all drivers failing to have sufficient space to drive completely through the crossing without Serious traffic violations are excessive speeding (15 stopping. mph or more above the posted limit), reckless For all drivers failing to obey a traffic control device driving, improper or erratic lane changes, following or the directions of an enforcement official at the a vehicle too closely, traffic offenses committed in a crossing. CMV in connection with fatal traffic accidents, driving a CMV without obtaining a CDL or having a For all drivers failing to negotiate a crossing CDL in the driver’s possession, and driving a CMV because of insufficient undercarriage clearance. without the proper class of CDL and/or endorsements. 1.3.6 – Hazardous Materials Endorsement Background Check and Disqualifications You will lose your CDL: If you require a hazardous materials endorsement For at least 60 days if you have committed two you will be required to submit your fingerprints and serious traffic violations within a three-year period be subject to a background check. involving a CMV. For at least 120 days for three or more serious You will be denied or you will lose your hazardous traffic violations within a three-year period involving materials endorsement if you: a CMV. Are not a lawful permanent resident of the United States. 1.3.4 – Violation of Out-of-Service Orders Renounce your United States citizenship. You will lose your CDL: Are wanted or under indictment for certain felonies. [For at least 90 days if you have committed your Have a conviction in military or civilian court for first violation of an out-of-service order. certain felonies. For at least one year if you have committed two violations of an out-of-service order in a ten-year Have been adjudicated as lacking mental capacity period. or have been involuntarily committed to a mental health facility as specified in §1572.109. For at least three years if you have committed Are considered to pose a security threat as three or more violations of an out-of-service order determined by the Transportation Security in a ten-year period]. Administration. 1.3.5 – Railroad-highway Grade Crossing The background check procedures vary from Violations jurisdiction to jurisdiction. Your licensing agency will provide you with all the information you need to You will lose your CDL: complete the required TSA background check procedures. For at least 60 days for your first violation. For at least 120 days for your second violation within a three-year period. 1.3.7 – Traffic Violations in Your Personal Vehicle For at least one year for your third violation within a The Motor Carrier Safety Improvement Act three-year period. (MCSIA) of 1999 requires a CDL holder to be disqualified from operating a commercial motor These violations include violation of a federal, state or local law or regulation pertaining to one of the vehicle if the CDL holder has been convicted of following six offenses at a railroad-highway grade certain types of moving violations in their personal vehicle. crossing: If your privilege to operate your personal vehicle is For drivers who are not required to always stop, revoked, cancelled, or suspended due to violations failing to stop before reaching the crossing if the of traffic control laws (other than parking violations) tracks are not clear. you will also lose your CDL driving privileges. For drivers who are not required to always stop, failing to slow down and check that the tracks are If your privilege to operate your personal vehicle is revoked, cancelled, or suspended due to alcohol, clear of an approaching train. controlled substance or felony violations, you will For drivers who are always required to stop, failing lose your CDL for 1 year. If you are convicted of a to stop before driving onto the crossing. Section 1 - Introduction Page 1-8 Version: July 2017 Commercial Driver’s License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System second violation in your personal vehicle or CMV to be sure that drivers do not have more than one you will lose your CDL for life. CDL. You are not allowed to hold a mobile telephone to If your license to operate your personal vehicle is conduct a voice communication or dial a mobile revoked, cancelled, or suspended you may not telephone by pressing more than a single button obtain a “hardship” license to operate a CMV. when driving. You are not allowed to send or read text messages 1.4 – Other CDL Rules while driving. There are other federal and state rules that affect You must be properly restrained by a safety belt drivers operating CMVs in all states. Among them at all times while operating a commercial motor are: vehicle. The safety belt design holds the driver You cannot have more than one license. If you securely behind the wheel during a crash, break this rule, a court may fine you up to $5,000 helping the driver to control the vehicle and or put you in jail and keep your home state license reduces the chance of serious injury or death. If and return any others. you do not wear a safety belt, you are four times more likely to be fatally injured if you are thrown You must notify your employer within 30 days of from the vehicle. conviction for any traffic violations (except parking). This is true no matter what type of vehicle you Your state may have additional rules that you were driving. must also obey. You must notify your motor vehicle licensing agency within 30 days if you are convicted in any other jurisdiction of any traffic violation (except 1.5 – International Registration Plan parking). This is true no matter what type of vehicle International Fuel Tax Agreement you were driving. You must notify your employer within two business If you operate a CDL required vehicle in interstate days if your license is suspended, revoked, or commerce, the vehicle, with few exceptions, is canceled, or if you are disqualified from driving. required to be registered under the International Registration Plan (IRP) and the International Fuel You must give your employer information on all Tax Agreement (IFTA). These federally mandated driving jobs you have held for the past 10 years. programs provide for the equitable collection and You must do this when you apply for a commercial distribution of vehicle license fees and motor fuels driving job. taxes for vehicles traveling throughout the 48 No one can drive a commercial motor vehicle contiguous United States and 10 Canadian without a CDL. A court may fine you up to $5,000 provinces. or put you in jail for breaking this rule. Under the IRP, jurisdictions must register If you have a hazardous materials endorsement apportioned vehicles which includes issuing license you must notify and surrender your hazardous plates and cab cards or proper credentials, materials endorsement to the state that issued calculate, collect and distribute IRP fees, audit your CDL within 24 hours of any conviction or carriers for accuracy of reported distance and fees indictment in any jurisdiction, civilian or military, for, and enforce IRP requirements. or found not guilty by reason of insanity of a disqualifying crime listed in 49 CFR 1572.103; who Registrant responsibilities under the Plan include is adjudicated as lacking mental capacity or have applying for IRP registration with base jurisdiction, been involuntarily committed to a mental institution providing proper documentation for registration, as specified in 49 CFR 1572.109; or who paying appropriate IRP registration fees, properly renounces his or her U. S. citizenship; displaying registration credentials, maintaining Your employer may not let you drive a commercial accurate distance records, and making records motor vehicle if you have more than one license or available for jurisdiction review. if you’re CDL is suspended or revoked. A court may fine the employer up to $5,000 or put him/her The basic concept behind IFTA is to allow a licensee in jail for breaking this rule. (motor carrier) to license in a base jurisdiction for the reporting and payment of motor fuel use taxes. All states are connected to one computerized Under the IFTA, a licensee is issued one set of system to share information about CDL drivers. credentials which will authorize operations through The states will check on drivers' accident records all IFTA member jurisdictions. The fuel use taxes Section 1 - Introduction Page 1-9 Version: July 2017 Commercial Driver’s License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System collected pursuant to the IFTA are calculated based If the vehicle you operate is registered under IRP on the number of miles (kilometers) traveled and the and you are a motor carrier licensed under IFTA, number of gallons (liters) consumed in the member then you are required to comply with the jurisdictions. The licensee files one quarterly tax mandatory record keeping requirements for return with the base jurisdiction by which the operating the vehicle. A universally accepted licensee will report all operations through all IFTA method of capturing this information is through the member jurisdictions. completion of an Individual Vehicle Distance Record (IVDR), sometimes times referred to as a It is the base jurisdiction's responsibility to remit the Driver Trip Report. This document reflects the taxes collected to other member jurisdictions and to distance traveled and fuel purchased for a vehicle represent the other member jurisdictions in the tax that operates interstate under apportioned (IRP) collection process, including the performance of registration and IFTA fuel tax credentials. audits. Although the actual format of the IVDR may vary, the information that is required for proper record keeping An IFTA licensee must retain records to support the does not. information reported on the IFTA quarterly tax return In order to satisfy the requirements for Individual The IRP registrant and the IFTA licensee may be Vehicle Distance Records, these documents must the vehicle owner or the vehicle operator. include the following information: Distance The requirement for acquiring IRP plates for a vehicle and IFTA license for a motor carrier is Per Article IV of the IRP Plan determined by the definitions from the IRP Plan and (i) Date of trip (starting and ending) the IFTA for Qualified Vehicle and Qualified Motor (ii) Trip origin and destination – City and State Vehicle: or Province (iii) Route(s) of travel For purposes of IRP: (iv) Beginning and ending odometer or A Qualified Vehicle is (except as provided below) hubometer reading of the trip (v) Total distance traveled any Power Unit that is used or (vi) In-Jurisdiction distance intended for use in two or more Member (vii) Power unit number or vehicle identification Jurisdictions and that is used for the transportation number. of persons for hire or designed, used, or maintained Fuel primarily for the transportation of property, and: (i) has two Axles and a gross Vehicle weight or Per Section P560 of the IFTA Procedures Manual registered gross Vehicle weight in.300 An acceptable receipt or invoice must (ii) excess of 26,000 pounds (11,793.401 include, but shall not be limited to, the following: kilograms), or.005 Date of purchase (iii) has three or more Axles, regardless of weight,.010 Seller's name and address or.015 Number of gallons or liters purchased; (iv) is used in combination, when the gross Vehicle.020 Fuel type weight of such combination exceeds 26,000.025 Price per gallon or liter or total amount of pounds (11,793.401 kilograms). sale.030 Unit number or other unique vehicle While similar, the Qualified Motor Vehicle in IFTA identifier means a motor vehicle used, designed, or.035 Purchaser's name maintained for transportation of persons or property An example of an IVDR that must be completed in and: its entirety for each trip can be found in Figure 1 1) Having two axles and a gross vehicle weight below. Each individual IVDR should be filled out for or registered gross vehicle weight exceeding only one vehicle. The rules to follow when trying to 26,000 pounds or 11,797 kilograms; or determine how and when to log an odometer reading are the following: 2) Is used in combination, when the weight of such combination exceeds 26,000 pounds or  At the beginning of the day 11,797 kilograms gross vehicle or registered  When leaving the state or province gross vehicle weight. Qualified Motor Vehicle  At the end of the trip/day does not include recreational vehicles. Section 1 - Introduction Page 1-10 Version: July 2017 Commercial Driver’s License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System Not only do the trips need to be logged, but the fuel jurisdictions in which the vehicle is operated, so purchases need to be documented as well. You must these original records must be maintained for a obtain a receipt for all fueling and include it with your minimum of four years. completed IVDR. In addition, these records are subject to audit by the Make sure that any trips that you enter are always taxing jurisdictions. Failure to maintain complete filled out in descending order and that your trips and accurate records could result in fines, penalties include all state/provinces that you traveled through and suspension or revocation of IRP registrations on your route. and IFTA licenses. There are different routes that a driver may take, For additional information on the IRP and the and most of the miles may be within one state or requirements related to the IRP, contact your base province. Whether or not the distance you travel is jurisdiction motor vehicle department or IRP, Inc. primarily in one jurisdiction or spread among several the official repository for the IRP. Additional jurisdictions, all information for the trip must be information can be found on the IRP, Inc. website at recorded. This includes the dates, the routes, www.irponline.org. There is a training video on the odometer readings and fuel purchases. By website home page available in English, Spanish completing this document in full and keeping all and French records required by both the IRP and the IFTA, you will have ensured that you and your company are For additional information on IFTA and the incompliance with all State and Provincial laws requirements related to IFTA, contact the surrounding fuel and distance record keeping appropriate agency in your base jurisdiction. You requirements. will also find useful information about the Agreement at the official repository of IFTA at The IVDR serves as the source document for the http://www.iftach.org/index.php. calculation of fees and taxes that are payable to the Figure 1 – Individual Vehicle Mileage & Fuel Record (Example) Section 1 - Introduction Page 1-11 Version: July 2017 Commercial Driver’s License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK. Section 1 - Introduction Page 1-12 Version: July 2017 Commercial Driver’s License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System dollars, or even worse, a crash caused by the Section 2 defect. DRIVING SAFELY Federal and state laws require that drivers inspect their vehicles. Federal and state inspectors also This Section Covers may inspect your vehicles. If they judge the vehicle to be unsafe, they will put it "out of service" until it is  Vehicle Inspection fixed.  Basic Control of Your Vehicle 2.1.2 – Types of Vehicle Inspection  Shifting Gears  Seeing Vehicle Inspection. A Vehicle inspection will help  Communicating you find problems that could cause a crash or  Space Management breakdown.  Controlling Your Speed During a Trip. For safety you should:  Seeing Hazards Watch gauges for signs of trouble.  Distracted Driving Use your senses to check for problems (look,  Aggressive Drivers/Road Rage listen, smell, feel).  Night Driving & Driver Fatigue Check critical items when you stop:  Driving in Fog Tires, wheels and rims.  Winter Driving Brakes.  Hot Weather Driving Lights and reflectors.  Railroad-highway Crossings Brake and electrical connections to trailer. Trailer coupling devices.  Mountain Driving Cargo securement devices.  Driving Emergencies  Antilock Braking Systems After-trip Inspection and Report. You should do  Skid Control and Recovery an after-trip inspection at the end of the trip, day, or tour of duty on each vehicle you operated. It may  Accident Procedures include filling out a vehicle condition report listing  Fires any problems you find. The inspection report helps  Alcohol, Other Drugs, and Driving a motor carrier know when the vehicle needs repairs.  Hazardous Materials Rules 2.1.3 – What to Look For This section contains knowledge and safe driving information that all commercial drivers should know. Tire Problems You must pass a test on this information to get a CDL. This section does not have specific Too much or too little air pressure. information on air brakes, combination vehicles, Bad wear. You need at least 4/32-inch tread depth doubles, or passenger vehicles. When preparing for in every major groove on front tires. You need 2/32 the Vehicle Inspection Test, you must review the inch on other tires. No fabric should show through material in Section 11 in addition to the information the tread or sidewall. in this section. This section does have basic information on hazardous materials (HazMat) that Cuts or other damage. all drivers should know. If you need a HazMat endorsement, you should study Section 9. Tread separation. Dual tires that come in contact with each other or 2.1 – Vehicle Inspection parts of the vehicle. Mismatched sizes. 2.1.1 – Why Inspect Radial and bias-ply tires used together. Safety is the most important reason you inspect your vehicle, safety for yourself and for other road Cut or cracked valve stems. users. Re-grooved, recapped, or retreaded tires on the A vehicle defect found during an inspection could front wheels of a bus are prohibited. save you problems later. You could have a breakdown on the road that will cost time and Section 2 – Driving Safely Page 2-1 Version: July 2017 Commercial Driver’s License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System Wheel and Rim Problems Suspension System Defects. The suspension system holds up the vehicle and its load. It keeps Damaged rims. the axles in place. Therefore, broken suspension Rust around wheel nuts may mean the nuts are parts can be extremely dangerous. Look for: loose--check tightness. After a tire has been Spring hangers that allow movement of axle from changed, stop a short while later and re-check proper position. See Figure 2.2. tightness of nuts. Missing clamps, spacers, studs, or lugs means danger. Mismatched, bent, or cracked lock rings are dangerous. Wheels or rims that have had welding repairs are not safe. Bad Brake Drums or Shoes Cracked drums. Shoes or pads with oil, grease, or brake fluid on them. Shoes worn dangerously thin, missing, or broken. Steering System Defects Missing nuts, bolts, cotter keys, or other parts. Bent, loose, or broken parts, such as steering column, steering gear box, or tie rods. If power steering equipped, check hoses, pumps, and fluid level; check for leaks. Figure 2.2 Steering wheel play of more than 10 degrees Cracked or broken spring hangers. (approximately 2 inches movement at the rim of a Missing or broken leaves in any leaf spring. If one- 20-inch steering wheel) can make it hard to steer. fourth or more are missing, it will put the vehicle "out of service", but any defect could be dangerous. See Figure 2.3. Figure 2.1 Figure 2.3 Section 2 – Driving Safely Page 2-2 Version: July 2017 Commercial Driver’s License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System Broken leaves in a multi-leaf spring or leaves that 2.1.4 – CDL Vehicle Inspection Test have shifted so they might hit a tire or other part. In order to obtain a CDL you will be required to pass Leaking shock absorbers. a Vehicle inspection test. You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You Torque rod or arm, u-bolts, spring hangers, or will be asked to do a Vehicle inspection of your other axle positioning parts that are cracked, vehicle. You must point to/touch and name the item damaged, or missing. you are inspecting and explain to the examiner what Air suspension systems that are damaged and/or you would inspect and why. The following seven- leaking. See Figure 2.4. step inspection method should be useful. 2.1.5 – Seven-step Inspection Method Method of Inspection. You should do a Vehicle inspection the same way each time so you will learn all the steps and be less likely to forget something. Approaching the Vehicle. Notice general condition. Look for damage or vehicle leaning to one side. Look under the vehicle for fresh oil, coolant, grease, or fuel leaks. Check the area around the vehicle for hazards to vehicle movement (people, other vehicles, objects, low-hanging wires, limbs, etc.). Vehicle Inspection Guide Figure 2.4 Step 1: Vehicle Overview Any loose, cracked, broken, or missing frame Review Last Vehicle Inspection Report. Drivers members. may have to make a vehicle inspection report in writing each day. The motor carrier must repair any Exhaust System Defects. A broken exhaust items in the report that affect safety and certify on system can let poison fumes into the cab or sleeper the report that repairs were made or were berth. Look for: unnecessary. You must sign the report only if defects were noted and certified to be repaired or Loose, broken, or missing exhaust pipes, mufflers, not needed to be repaired. tailpipes, or vertical stacks. Step 2: Check Engine Compartment Loose, broken, or missing mounting brackets, clamps, bolts, or nuts. Check That the Parking Brakes Are On and/or Wheels Chocked. Exhaust system parts rubbing against fuel system parts, tires, or other moving parts of vehicle. You may have to raise the hood, tilt the cab (secure loose things so they don't fall and break something), Exhaust system parts that are leaking. or open the engine compartment door. Emergency Equipment. Vehicles must be Check the following: equipped with emergency equipment. Look for: Engine oil level. Fire extinguisher(s). Coolant level in radiator; condition of hoses. Spare electrical fuses (unless equipped with circuit breakers). Power steering fluid level; hose condition (if so equipped). Warning devices for parked vehicles: three reflective triangles or at least 6 fusees or 3 liquid Windshield washer fluid level. burning flares). Battery fluid level, connections and tie downs (battery may be located elsewhere) Cargo (Trucks). You must make sure the truck is not overloaded and the cargo is balanced and Automatic transmission fluid level (may require secured before each trip. If the cargo contains engine to be running). hazardous materials, you must inspect for proper Check belts for tightness and excessive wear papers and placarding. (alternator, water pump, air compressor)--learn Section 2 – Driving Safely Page 2-3 Version: July 2017 Commercial Driver’s License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System how much "give" the belts should have when Interaxle differential lock (if vehicle has one). adjusted right, and check each one. Horn(s). Leaks in the engine compartment (fuel, coolant, oil, Windshield wiper/washer. power steering fluid, hydraulic fluid, battery fluid). Lights. Cracked, worn electrical wiring insulation. Headlights. Lower and secure hood, cab, or engine Dimmer switch. compartment door. Turn signal. Step 3: Start Engine and Inspect Inside the Cab Four-way flashers. Get In and Start Engine Parking, clearance, identification, marker switch(es). Make sure parking brake is on. Put gearshift in neutral (or "park" if automatic). Start engine; listen for unusual noises. If equipped, check the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) indicator lights. Light on dash should come on and then turn off. If it stays on the ABS is not working properly. For trailers only, if the yellow light on the left rear of the trailer stays on, the ABS is not working properly. Look at the Gauges Oil pressure. Should come up to normal within seconds after engine is started. See Figure 2.5 Air pressure. Pressure should build from 50 to 90 psi within 3 minutes. Build air pressure to governor cut-out (usually around 120 – 140 psi. Know your vehicle’s requirements. Ammeter and/or voltmeter. Should be in normal range(s). Coolant temperature. Should begin gradual rise to Figure 2.5 normal operating range. Check Mirrors and Windshield. Inspect mirrors Engine oil temperature. Should begin gradual rise and windshield for cracks, dirt, illegal stickers, or to normal operating range. other obstructions to seeing clearly. Clean and Warning lights and buzzers. Oil, coolant, charging adjust as necessary. circuit warning, and antilock brake system lights should go out right away. Check Emergency Equipment Check for safety equipment: Check Condition of Controls. Check all of the Spare electrical fuses (unless vehicle has circuit following for looseness, sticking, damage, or breakers). improper setting: Three red reflective triangles, 6 fusees or 3 liquid Steering wheel. burning flares. Clutch. Properly charged and rated fire extinguisher. Accelerator ("gas pedal"). Check for optional items such as: Brake controls. Chains (where winter conditions require). Foot brake. Tire changing equipment. Trailer brake (if vehicle has one). List of emergency phone numbers Parking brake. Accident reporting kit (packet). Retarder controls (if vehicle has them). Transmission controls. Section 2 – Driving Safely Page 2-4 Version: July 2017 Commercial Driver’s License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System Check Safety Belt. Check that the safety belt is Front securely mounted, adjusts; latches properly and is Condition of front axle. not ripped or frayed. Condition of steering system. Step 4: Turn Off Engine and Check Lights No loose, worn, bent, damaged or missing parts. Must grab steering mechanism to test for Make sure the parking brake is set, turn off the looseness. engine, and take the key with you. Turn on headlights (low beams) and four-way emergency Condition of windshield. flashers, and get out of the vehicle. Check for damage and clean if dirty. Step 5: Do Walk-around Inspection Check windshield wiper arms for proper spring tension. Go to front of vehicle and check that low beams Check wiper blades for damage, "stiff" rubber, and are on and both of the four-way flashers are securement. working. Lights and reflectors. Push dimmer switch and check that high beams Parking, clearance, and identification lights clean, work. operating, and proper color (amber at front). Turn off headlights and four-way emergency Reflectors clean and proper color (amber at front). flashers. Right front turn signal light clean, operating, and Turn on parking, clearance, side-marker, and proper color (amber or white on signals facing identification lights. forward). Turn on right turn signal, and start walk-around Right Side inspection. Right front: check all items as done on left front. General Primary and secondary safety cab locks engaged Walk around and inspect. (if cab-over-engine design). Clean all lights, reflectors, and glass as you go Right fuel tank(s). along. Securely mounted, not damaged, or leaking. Fuel crossover line secure. Left Front Side Tank(s) contain enough fuel. Driver's door glass should be clean. Cap(s) on and secure. Door latches or locks should work properly. Condition of visible parts. Left front wheel. Rear of engine--not leaking. Condition of wheel and rim--missing, bent, broken Transmission--not leaking. studs, clamps, lugs, or any signs of misalignment. Exhaust system--secure, not leaking, not touching Condition of tires--properly inflated, valve stem and wires, fuel, or air-lines. cap OK, no serious cuts, bulges, or tread wear. Frame and cross members--no bends or cracks. Use wrench to test rust-streaked lug nuts, indicating Air-lines and electrical wiring--secured against looseness. snagging, rubbing, wearing. Hub oil level OK, no leaks. Spare tire carrier or rack not damaged (if so Left front suspension. equipped). Condition of spring, spring hangers, shackles, Spare tire and/or wheel securely mounted in rack. u-bolts. Shock absorber condition. Spare tire and wheel adequate (proper size, properly inflated). Left front brake. Condition of brake drum or disc. Cargo securement (trucks). Condition of hoses. Cargo properly blocked, braced, tied, chained, etc. Header board adequate, secure (if required). Side boards, stakes strong enough, free of damage, properly set in place (if so equipped). Section 2 – Driving Safely Page 2-5 Version: July 2017 Commercial Driver’s License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System Canvas or tarp (if required) properly secured to Right rear turn signal operating, and proper color prevent tearing, billowing, or blocking of mirrors. (red, yellow, or amber at rear). If oversize, all required signs (flags, lamps, and License plate(s) present, clean, and secured. reflectors) safely and properly mounted and all Splash guards present, not damaged, properly required permits in driver's possession. fastened, not dragging on ground, or rubbing tires. Curbside cargo compartment doors in good Cargo secure (trucks). condition, securely closed, latched/locked and required security seals in place. Cargo properly blocked, braced, tied, chained, etc. Right Rear Tailboards up and properly secured. Condition of wheels and rims--no missing, bent, or End gates free of damage, properly secured in broken spacers, studs, clamps, or lugs. stake sockets. Canvas or tarp (if required) properly secured to Condition of tires--properly inflated, valve stems prevent tearing, billowing, or blocking of either the and caps OK, no serious cuts, bulges, tread wear, rearview mirrors or rear lights. tires not rubbing each other, and nothing stuck between them. If over-length, or over-width, make sure all signs Tires same type, e.g., not mixed radial and bias and/or additional lights/flags are safely and types. properly mounted and all required permits are in driver's possession. Tires evenly matched (same sizes). Rear doors securely closed, latched/locked. Wheel bearing/seals not leaking. Left Side Suspension. Check all items as done on right side, plus: Condition of spring(s), spring hangers, shackles, and u-bolts. Battery(ies) (if not mounted in engine compartment). Axle secure. Battery box(es) securely mounted to vehicle. Powered axle(s) not leaking lube (gear oil). Box has secure cover. Condition of torque rod arms, bushings. Battery(ies) secured against movement. Condition of shock absorber(s). Battery(ies) not broken or leaking. If retractable axle equipped, check condition of lift mechanism. If air powered, check for leaks. Fluid in battery(ies) at proper level (except maintenance-free type). Condition of air ride components. Cell caps present and securely tightened (except Brakes. maintenance-free type). Brake adjustment. Vents in cell caps free of foreign material (except Condition of brake drum(s) or discs. maintenance-free type). Condition of hoses--look for any wear due to rubbing. Step 6: Check Signal Lights Lights and reflectors. Get In and Turn Off Lights Side-marker lights clean, operating, and proper Turn off all lights. color (red at rear, others amber). Turn on stop lights (apply trailer hand brake or Side-marker reflectors clean and proper color (red have a helper put on the brake pedal). at rear, others amber). Turn on left turn signal lights. Rear Get Out and Check Lights Lights and reflectors. Left front turn signal light clean, operating and Rear clearance and identification lights clean, proper color (amber or white on signals facing the operating, and proper color (red at rear). front). Reflectors clean and proper color (red at rear). Left rear turn signal light and both stop lights clean, Taillights clean, operating, and proper color (red at operating, and proper color (red, yellow, or amber). rear). Section 2 – Driving Safely Page 2-6 Version: July 2017 Commercial Driver’s License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System Get In Vehicle Pressure gauges. Turn off lights not needed for driving. Ammeter/voltmeter. Check for all required papers, trip manifests, Mirrors. permits, etc. Tires. Secure all loose articles in cab (they might interfere Cargo, cargo covers. with operation of the controls or hit you in a crash). Lights, etc Start the engine. If you see, hear, smell, or feel anything that might Step 7: Start the Engine and Check mean trouble, check it out. Test for Hydraulic Leaks. If the vehicle has hydraulic brakes, pump the brake pedal three times. Safety Inspection. Drivers of trucks and truck Then apply firm pressure to the pedal and hold for tractors when transporting cargo must inspect the five seconds. The pedal should not move. If it does, securement of the cargo within the first 50 miles of there may be a leak or other problem. Get it fixed a trip and every 150 miles or every three hours before driving. If the vehicle has air brakes, do the (whichever comes first) after. checks described in Sections 5 and 6 of this manual. 2.1.7 – After-trip Inspection and Report Brake System You may have to make a written report each day on the condition of the vehicle(s) you drove. Report Test Parking Brake(s) anything affecting safety or possibly leading to Fasten safety belt mechanical breakdown. Set parking brake (power unit only). Release trailer parking brake (if applicable). Place vehicle into a low gear. Subsection 2.1 Test Your Knowledge Gently pull forward against parking brake to make sure the parking brake holds. The vehicle inspection report tells the motor carrier Repeat the same steps for the trailer with trailer about problems that may need fixing. Keep a copy parking brake set and power unit parking brakes of your report in the vehicle for one day. That way, released (if applicable). the next driver can learn about any problems you have found. If it doesn't hold vehicle, it is faulty; get it fixed. 1. What is the most important reason for doing a Test Service Brake Stopping Action vehicle inspection? 2. What things should you check during a trip? Go about five miles per hour. 3. Name some key steering system parts. Push brake pedal firmly 4. Name some suspension system defects. "Pulling" to one side or the other can mean brake 5. What three kinds of emergency equipment must trouble. you have? Any unusual brake pedal "feel" or delayed stopping 6. What is the minimum tread depth for front tires? action can mean trouble. For other tires? 7. Name some things you should check on the If you find anything unsafe during the Vehicle front of your vehicle during the walk around inspection, get it fixed. Federal and state laws forbid inspection. operating an unsafe vehicle. 8. What should wheel bearing seals be checked 2.1.6 – Inspection during a Trip for? 9. How many red reflective triangles should you Check Vehicle Operation Regularly carry? You should check: 10. How do you test hydraulic brakes for leaks? Instruments. 11. Why put the starter switch key in your pocket during the Vehicle inspection? Air pressure gauge (if you have air brakes). Temperature gauges. Section 2 – Driving Safely Page 2-7 Version: July 2017 Commercial Driver’s License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer them all, re-read subsection 2.1. 2.2.4 – Backing Safely Because you cannot see everything behind your vehicle, backing is always dangerous. Avoid backing whenever you can. When you park, try to 2.2 – Basic Control of Your Vehicle park so you will be able to pull forward when you leave. When you have to back, here are a few To drive a vehicle safely, you must be able to control simple safety rules: its speed and direction. Safe operation of a commercial vehicle requires skill in: Start in the proper position. Accelerating. Look at your path. Steering. Use mirrors on both sides. Stopping. Back slowly. Backing safely. Back and turn toward the driver's side whenever possible. Fasten your seatbelt when on the road. Apply the Use a helper whenever possible. parking brake when you leave your vehicle.