Combination
All applicants who are applying for a Class A CDL should be prepared to take the Combination test. This test covers information found in Section 6 of the Alaska Commercial Driver License Manual. Section 6 provides the information needed to safely operate tractor-trailers, doubles, triples, and straight trucks with trailers. The test is made up of 20 multiple-choice questions, and applicants will need to correctly answer a minimum of 16 questions to pass. The Combination test is not a replacement for the Double/Triple endorsement test.
Number of Question
Passing Score
8. What is a bobtail tractor?
Explanation
Tractors without semi-trailers are referred to as "bobtail tractors." Bobtail tractors are difficult to operate and drivers must exercise caution.
9. Combination vehicles:
Explanation
Driving combination vehicles requires more skill than driving single commercial vehicles. Combinations are generally longer, generally heavier, and are more vulnerable to rollover.
10. The trailer hand valve:
Explanation
Never use the trailer hand valve while parking because doing so may release the air pressure from the braking system, releasing the brakes that are holding the vehicle in place. Instead, use the parking brake or wheel chocks.
11. Pushing in the trailer air supply control will:
Explanation
Push in the trailer air supply control to supply the trailer with air. Pull out the trailer air supply control to turn off the air supply and activate the emergency brakes.
12. If unsure if a trailer has an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), you can:
Explanation
If you do not know whether or not a trailer is equipped with ABS, look under the vehicle for the electronic control unit and wheel speed sensor wires coming from the back of the brakes.
13. When coupling, after you've connected the air lines to the trailer, you should:
Explanation
Correctly following the steps to couple and uncouple trailers is vital to safely operating a combination vehicle. After connecting the air lines to the trailer while coupling, you should supply air to the trailer.
14. What does an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) do?
Explanation