Free 5-Minute CDL Practice Test
Are you the type of individual that enjoys taking in our country on the open road?
Does the idea of a secure and stable career where you can control your hours entice you?
Have you ever considered a career in the trucking industry? Start as early as 2018!
If the answer to any of the above questions was "Yes," you are one step away from pursuing a career as a truck driver. All that's left for you to do is to pass the Commercial Driver's License Test at your local DMV and a CDL can be yours. Before you can do that, however, you need to prepare for the test! Luckily, Express CDL School is here to help.
We have various tests designed to help you be 100% prepared when it comes to your actual test:
- Air Brake
- Hazmat Freight
- Tanker Fleets
- Prior to trip Inspections
- Doubles and Triples
- Combination Trucks
- Class A
- Class B
- Class B-P Test
Once a potential driver has studied for a written exam and feels more confident in their ability to perform well behind the wheel, the next logical step is to prepare for the practical skills exam.
Much like preparing for an automobile driving exam, there is a certain level of preparation that ought to go into one's practice for the examination.
However, not every driving test for the CDL license are the same per state, nor is it the same for every situation. However, every instance requires a great deal of studying and know-how in order to sufficiently and correctly pass the exam.
The Different Types of CDL Tests
Many drivers may be under the conception that there is one standard CDL test that suits all drivers across the board.
While many of the driving tests have similarities, there additional examinations - both written and practical - that must be issued in order to operate certain trailers and to take on certain loads.
Drivers may be applying for a Class A license, but they may also look into Class B, or Class C licenses, depending on their occupational goals.
Commercial Class C licenses are generally obtained to drive single vehicles that do not fall into the realm of Class A or Class B. These vehicles may include those that transport 16 or more people as well as those that may be transporting hazardous materials
Commercial Class B licenses are similar to Class A licenses in their weight restrictions, but may be classified differently in that they may be categorized as a single vehicle (tankers, etc.) However, Class B licenses may also account for multiple trailers in tow.
Endorsements
In addition to the different classes, endorsements are also required for certain jobs, loads and taking on freight. Endorsements are qualifiers that show employers the competency of their driving skills and what kind of specialized freight they can handle. Drivers who have earned endorsements are generally more
Some of the following endorsements for these tests include:
- A TSA background check and written exam are required for the Hazmat (H) Endorsement
- A written test is required for the T endorsement - Semi trailer Double or Triples
- The Tanker endorsement is required for Class A drivers
- Passenger Vehicle (P) requires both driving and written tests
- Written and Driving Test, Background Check, Sex Offender Registry Check and P endorsement are all required for S - the school bus endorsement.
- Written Test for N - tank test
- A required written test for X - a combination of N and H
Apply for 2018 Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
As mentioned earlier, requirements and tests vary by the state a driver wishes to take their examination in.
While it's important for drivers to inquire within their local DMVs to see specific differences, here are some notable qualifications for CDL drivers in all states:
- To make runs from one state to another, drivers must be at least 21 years old.
- Drivers must be at least 18 years old to apply (Alaska requires a driver to be 19)
- Drivers must have no criminal offenses that disqualify them from applying
Depending on one's state, the length and duration of tests both written and skills-oriented will vary. However, drivers can expect a fairly lengthy process of passing health requirements as well, including vision, hearing, and other basic requirements.
2018 CDL Written Knowledge Exam
Drivers will then encounter three parts to their practical exam - the inspection test, the basic controls test and the road test.
The inspection test: Drivers will be prompted by their examiner to walk around their vehicle and explain several parts and points of inspection and to identify their condition and working purpose towards the overall state of the truck.
Basic Controls Test: This test is similar to the test given in a personal automobile. Drivers must get in the cab and demonstrate to the proctor that they can manage such skills as putting the brakes on the truck, putting the truck in neutral, safely and accurately backing out, pulling into a designated area and other skills that show a driver can maneuver well.
Road Test: This test puts a driver on the road - presumably, in traffic with other drivers) to show how they operate in various circumstances. Drivers may be dealing with other automobiles including other trucks, and may be responsible for properly approaching bridges, clearances, railroads and other conditions on the road.
Understanding all of this, a driver can begin to practice and prepare for the various levels of examination for their desired CDL license. A driver is encouraged to study hard, practice as much as they can and understand the responsibilities behind the wheel.