Free CDL permit practice test

Review your mistakes

• On a straight, level two-lane road with a clear view in both directions, where do the three warning triangles go?

  Correct answer: Within 10 ft of the front or rear on the traffic side, about 100 ft behind, and about 100 ft ahead

  This placement assumes a clear view. Hills and curves can require moving a warning device farther back.

  • California CDL handbook §2.5.2

• In the handbook’s general stopping-distance model, which three distances are added?

  Correct answer: Perception distance + reaction distance + braking distance

  This is the handbook’s general stopping-distance model. Air-brake stopping distance also includes brake lag; see section 5.4.4.

  • California CDL handbook §2.6.1

• Below 40 mph in good conditions, what is the handbook’s minimum following-time rule?

  Correct answer: At least 1 second for each 10 ft of vehicle length

  Allow more space when traction or visibility is poor.

  • California CDL handbook §2.7.1

• Above 40 mph in good conditions, how does the following-time rule change?

  Correct answer: Add 1 extra second to the 1-second-per-10-ft rule

  The extra second supplements the vehicle-length rule; poor conditions require more space.

  • California CDL handbook §2.7.1

• Hydroplaning can occur at speeds as low as:

  Correct answer: 30 mph

  Water depth, worn tread and low tire pressure affect the risk. This is not a safe-speed guarantee.

  • California CDL handbook §2.6.2

• At what blood alcohol concentration (BAC) or higher is driving a CMV prohibited under the California handbook?

  Correct answer: 0.04%

  For a CMV, 0.04% or higher is prohibited. A lower BAC does not establish that driving is safe or legal.

  • California CDL handbook §2.22.1

• How far ahead should you look while driving?

  Correct answer: About 12 to 15 seconds ahead

  Keep scanning nearby hazards as well as the distance ahead.

  • California CDL handbook §2.4.1

• If you become drowsy while driving, what is the safe remedy?

  Correct answer: Get off the road safely and sleep

  Leave the road safely and sleep. Caffeine does not replace sleep.

  • California CDL handbook §2.11.2

• Which emergency braking method aims to avoid locking the wheels?

  Correct answer: Controlled braking

  Controlled braking aims to avoid wheel lock. Stab braking deliberately allows lock before releasing and is not for ABS-equipped vehicles.

  • California CDL handbook §2.17.2

• If a front tire blows out, you should:

  Correct answer: Hold the steering wheel firmly and stay off the brake until the vehicle slows

  After slowing, brake gently and stop safely. The handbook allows braking sooner if needed to avoid a collision.

  • California CDL handbook §2.17.4

• When crossing railroad tracks, you should:

  Correct answer: Never shift gears while crossing the tracks

  Choose the gear before entering, and make sure there is room to clear the tracks.

  • California CDL handbook §2.15.5

• For accessible cargo that must be inspected, when should you first recheck cargo and securement after starting a trip?

  Correct answer: Within 50 miles; then at 3 hours or 150 miles, whichever comes first, and after duty-status changes

  Use whichever interval comes first, and recheck after duty-status changes. Sealed or inaccessible loads have inspection exceptions.

  • California CDL handbook §3.1
  • 49 CFR 392.9(b)

• Under 49 CFR 393.110(b)(1), what is the minimum tiedown count for an ordinary article no longer than 5 feet, weighing no more than 1,100 lb, and not blocked against forward movement?

  Correct answer: One tiedown, with all other applicable securement requirements satisfied

  The handbook gives a simplified two-tiedown guide; this scenario tests the federal exception. Working-load limits and special cargo rules still apply.

  • California CDL handbook §3.3.2
  • 49 CFR 393.110(b)(1)

• On a long downgrade using the snub-braking method, once you reach your safe speed you should:

  Correct answer: Apply enough braking to slow about 5 mph below the safe speed, then release

  Use the proper low gear first; apply enough braking for a definite slowdown, then release around 5 mph below the selected safe speed.

  • California CDL handbook §2.16.4

• In California’s low-air warning inspection check, what lower pressure boundary is specified, subject to the manufacturer’s guidance?

  Correct answer: 55 psi

  The California check uses 55 psi as its lower boundary and requires knowing the vehicle manufacturer’s specification. Some buses warn earlier.

  • California CDL handbook §5.3.3.2

You answered all 15 questions correctly. Revisit the official manual to keep studying.