Knowledge Test Class A
This license is required for driving any legal combination of vehicles, including vehicles under Class B and Class C. The GVWR of a trailer is not to exceed 10,000 pounds. To receive this license, applicants must pass a 50-question test. Each question has three answer choices. To pass, applicants must answer 40 questions correctly. Test questions come from the California Commercial Driver Handbook. Questions come from chapters covering: Introduction, Driving Safely, Transporting Cargo Safely, Air Brakes (if applicable), Combination Vehicles, Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection Test, Basic Vehicle Control Skills Test and On-Road Driving. Endorsemetns that may be used with a Class A CDL are: Hazardous materials, Tank, Passenger, Doubles/Triples, HazMat and Tank, Air Brakes and School bus.
Number of Question
Passing Score
15. When completing a driver's side parallel parking maneuver, you should:
Explanation
You may be asked to complete a parallel parking maneuver into a parking space that is to the left of your vehicle. You should drive past the parking space before backing into it while bringing the rear of your vehicle as close to the rear of the space as possible. Your vehicle should be completely within the boundaries of the space.
16. While operating on a downgrade, you should brake until you reach a speed that is:
Explanation
While driving downhill, you should hold down the brake pedal until your vehicle reaches a speed 5 mph below your safe speed, then release the brake pedal. Repeat this process.
17. If unable to tell if the road is becoming icy and slippery, a driver:
Explanation
If you think the road surface may be becoming icy but you are not certain, you can open your window and feel the front of the side mirror, mirror support, or antenna. If ice has formed on any of these items, the road is likely becoming icy as well.
18. When parking, you should not use the parking brake if:
Explanation
If your brakes are hot after coming down a steep grade, you should not use your parking brake when parking. Let your brakes cool before applying the parking brake or risk damaging the brakes.
19. To prevent a vehicle from rolling backward when beginning to move forward from a stopped position, you should:
Explanation
To prevent a vehicle with manual transmission from rolling backward when you begin to move forward from a stopped position, you can partly engage the clutch before removing your foot from the brake pedal.
20. During a basic vehicle control skills test, a look is when:
Explanation
A driver uses a look when they open their door, leave their seated position, and walk to the back of the vehicle to check its position. During the straight line backing exercise, a driver may not exceed one look. During any other exercise, a driver may not exceed two looks.
21. Having ABS on only one axle:
Explanation
If you have an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) equipped on only the tractor, only the trailer, or only one axle, you will still have more control over the vehicle when braking than you would without ABS. You should brake normally.
Frequently Asked Questions
A Class A CDL (Commercial Driver's License) license in California is a license that allows the holder to operate a combination of vehicles with a total weight of 26,001 pounds or more, provided that the towed vehicle weighs more than 10,000 pounds. This license is required for drivers who operate tractor-trailers, tanker trucks, and flatbeds.
Here are the steps to obtain a Class A CDL license in California:
Step 1: Obtain a California Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)
- You must be at least 18 years old
- Possess a valid California driver’s license
- Pass the general knowledge test and any additional endorsement tests required for the type of vehicle you plan to operate
- Have a valid medical certificate
Step 2: Practice driving under the supervision of a licensed CDL holder
- You must have your CLP for at least 14 days before you can take your skills test
- You must log at least 10 hours of behind-the-wheel training with a licensed CDL holder
Step 3: Schedule and pass the skills test
- The skills test includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test
- You must bring your own vehicle that meets all requirements for the class of license you are applying for
- Pass all three parts of the skills test to obtain your Class A CDL license
Step 4: Pay all applicable fees and receive your CDL license
- After passing the skills test, you will pay any applicable fees and receive your Class A CDL license.
It's important to note that there may be additional requirements or restrictions depending on your driving record and criminal history.
Here are the steps to obtain a Class A CDL license in California:
Step 1: Obtain a California Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)
- You must be at least 18 years old
- Possess a valid California driver’s license
- Pass the general knowledge test and any additional endorsement tests required for the type of vehicle you plan to operate
- Have a valid medical certificate
Step 2: Practice driving under the supervision of a licensed CDL holder
- You must have your CLP for at least 14 days before you can take your skills test
- You must log at least 10 hours of behind-the-wheel training with a licensed CDL holder
Step 3: Schedule and pass the skills test
- The skills test includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test
- You must bring your own vehicle that meets all requirements for the class of license you are applying for
- Pass all three parts of the skills test to obtain your Class A CDL license
Step 4: Pay all applicable fees and receive your CDL license
- After passing the skills test, you will pay any applicable fees and receive your Class A CDL license.
It's important to note that there may be additional requirements or restrictions depending on your driving record and criminal history.
With a Class A CDL license in California, you can operate the following vehicles:
- Combination of vehicles with a total weight of 26,001 pounds or more, provided that the towed vehicle weighs more than 10,000 pounds. This includes tractor-trailers, tanker trucks, and flatbeds.
- Single vehicles with a weight of 26,001 pounds or more.
- Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
- Any size vehicle that requires hazardous materials placards or is transporting material listed as a select agent or toxin in 42 CFR Part 73.
It's important to note that operating some of these vehicles may require additional endorsements or certifications. For example, operating a vehicle designed to transport hazardous materials requires a Hazardous Materials (HazMat) endorsement on your CDL license. Additionally, certain employers may have their own requirements for drivers beyond those set by the state.
- Combination of vehicles with a total weight of 26,001 pounds or more, provided that the towed vehicle weighs more than 10,000 pounds. This includes tractor-trailers, tanker trucks, and flatbeds.
- Single vehicles with a weight of 26,001 pounds or more.
- Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
- Any size vehicle that requires hazardous materials placards or is transporting material listed as a select agent or toxin in 42 CFR Part 73.
It's important to note that operating some of these vehicles may require additional endorsements or certifications. For example, operating a vehicle designed to transport hazardous materials requires a Hazardous Materials (HazMat) endorsement on your CDL license. Additionally, certain employers may have their own requirements for drivers beyond those set by the state.
To obtain a Class A CDL (Commercial Driver's License) license in California, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a Class A CDL license, but you may only drive within the state of California until you are 21 years old. To drive across state lines, you must be at least 21 years old.
2. California Driver's License: You must possess a valid California driver's license.
3. Obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP): You must pass a written test to obtain a CLP. The CLP allows you to practice driving a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) while accompanied by a licensed CDL holder.
4. Medical Exam: You must pass a medical exam and obtain a medical certificate from a licensed medical examiner.
5. Training: You must complete behind-the-wheel training with a licensed CDL holder for at least 10 hours before taking the driving skills test.
6. Driving Skills Test: You must pass the driving skills test, which includes three parts - pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and on-road driving.
7. Fees: You must pay all applicable fees for obtaining your CDL license.
It's important to note that there may be additional requirements or restrictions depending on your driving record and criminal history. Additionally, certain employers may have their own requirements for drivers beyond those set by the state.
1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a Class A CDL license, but you may only drive within the state of California until you are 21 years old. To drive across state lines, you must be at least 21 years old.
2. California Driver's License: You must possess a valid California driver's license.
3. Obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP): You must pass a written test to obtain a CLP. The CLP allows you to practice driving a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) while accompanied by a licensed CDL holder.
4. Medical Exam: You must pass a medical exam and obtain a medical certificate from a licensed medical examiner.
5. Training: You must complete behind-the-wheel training with a licensed CDL holder for at least 10 hours before taking the driving skills test.
6. Driving Skills Test: You must pass the driving skills test, which includes three parts - pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and on-road driving.
7. Fees: You must pay all applicable fees for obtaining your CDL license.
It's important to note that there may be additional requirements or restrictions depending on your driving record and criminal history. Additionally, certain employers may have their own requirements for drivers beyond those set by the state.
The minimum age requirement for a Class A CDL (Commercial Driver's License) license in California is 18 years old. However, drivers under 21 years old are limited to driving within the state of California only. To drive across state lines, you must be at least 21 years old.
It's important to note that some employers may have their own age requirements for drivers beyond those set by the state. Additionally, there may be additional requirements or restrictions depending on your driving record and criminal history.
It's important to note that some employers may have their own age requirements for drivers beyond those set by the state. Additionally, there may be additional requirements or restrictions depending on your driving record and criminal history.
Yes, you may need endorsements for a Class A CDL (Commercial Driver's License) license depending on the type of vehicle you plan to operate and the cargo you plan to transport. The following are some common endorsements for Class A CDL:
1. T - Double/triple trailers endorsement: This endorsement allows you to drive a combination of two or three trailers.
2. P - Passenger endorsement: This endorsement allows you to drive vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
3. N - Tanker endorsement: This endorsement allows you to drive vehicles that transport liquid or gas in bulk containers.
4. H - Hazardous materials (HazMat) endorsement: This endorsement allows you to transport hazardous materials in amounts that require placarding.
To obtain an endorsement, you must pass a written test and sometimes a skills test as well. Additionally, you may need to meet certain requirements such as a background check and fingerprinting for the HazMat endorsement.
It's important to note that some endorsements have age requirements and/or additional restrictions beyond those set by the state.
1. T - Double/triple trailers endorsement: This endorsement allows you to drive a combination of two or three trailers.
2. P - Passenger endorsement: This endorsement allows you to drive vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
3. N - Tanker endorsement: This endorsement allows you to drive vehicles that transport liquid or gas in bulk containers.
4. H - Hazardous materials (HazMat) endorsement: This endorsement allows you to transport hazardous materials in amounts that require placarding.
To obtain an endorsement, you must pass a written test and sometimes a skills test as well. Additionally, you may need to meet certain requirements such as a background check and fingerprinting for the HazMat endorsement.
It's important to note that some endorsements have age requirements and/or additional restrictions beyond those set by the state.
The Class A CDL (Commercial Driver's License) skills test consists of three parts:
1. Pre-trip inspection: You will be asked to inspect your vehicle to make sure it is safe to drive. You will need to demonstrate your knowledge of the vehicle's parts and systems, as well as your ability to identify any defects or safety issues.
2. Basic vehicle control: You will be asked to demonstrate your ability to control the vehicle in a variety of situations, such as backing up, turning, and shifting gears. This part of the test is typically conducted in a controlled environment like a parking lot.
3. On-road driving: You will be asked to demonstrate your ability to drive the vehicle safely and effectively on public roads. You will need to follow traffic laws and signals, make turns and lane changes, and respond appropriately to other drivers and road conditions.
The skills test is usually conducted by a state-licensed examiner, who will evaluate your performance based on specific criteria outlined in the state's CDL manual. To pass the skills test, you must demonstrate that you have the knowledge, skills, and ability to operate the vehicle safely and effectively in a variety of situations.
1. Pre-trip inspection: You will be asked to inspect your vehicle to make sure it is safe to drive. You will need to demonstrate your knowledge of the vehicle's parts and systems, as well as your ability to identify any defects or safety issues.
2. Basic vehicle control: You will be asked to demonstrate your ability to control the vehicle in a variety of situations, such as backing up, turning, and shifting gears. This part of the test is typically conducted in a controlled environment like a parking lot.
3. On-road driving: You will be asked to demonstrate your ability to drive the vehicle safely and effectively on public roads. You will need to follow traffic laws and signals, make turns and lane changes, and respond appropriately to other drivers and road conditions.
The skills test is usually conducted by a state-licensed examiner, who will evaluate your performance based on specific criteria outlined in the state's CDL manual. To pass the skills test, you must demonstrate that you have the knowledge, skills, and ability to operate the vehicle safely and effectively in a variety of situations.
Yes, there are several restrictions and limitations for drivers with a Class A CDL (Commercial Driver's License) license. Some of the most common restrictions are:
1. Air brakes restriction: If you did not pass the air brakes knowledge test or the air brakes skills test, you will be restricted from operating any vehicle equipped with air brakes.
2. Automatic transmission restriction: If you took the skills test in a vehicle with an automatic transmission, you will be restricted from operating any vehicle with a manual transmission.
3. Lifting restriction: If you are unable to meet the physical requirements for lifting and/or tying down cargo, you may be restricted from operating vehicles that require heavy lifting.
4. HazMat endorsement restriction: If you have a HazMat endorsement on your Class A CDL, you may be restricted from transporting certain types of hazardous materials.
5. Medical restriction: If you have a medical condition that prevents you from meeting the physical or mental requirements for operating a commercial vehicle, you may be restricted from driving.
It's important to note that these restrictions and limitations may vary depending on the state and the specific circumstances of your CDL license. It's always a good idea to consult with your state's DMV or licensing agency to understand the specific restrictions and limitations that apply to your license.
1. Air brakes restriction: If you did not pass the air brakes knowledge test or the air brakes skills test, you will be restricted from operating any vehicle equipped with air brakes.
2. Automatic transmission restriction: If you took the skills test in a vehicle with an automatic transmission, you will be restricted from operating any vehicle with a manual transmission.
3. Lifting restriction: If you are unable to meet the physical requirements for lifting and/or tying down cargo, you may be restricted from operating vehicles that require heavy lifting.
4. HazMat endorsement restriction: If you have a HazMat endorsement on your Class A CDL, you may be restricted from transporting certain types of hazardous materials.
5. Medical restriction: If you have a medical condition that prevents you from meeting the physical or mental requirements for operating a commercial vehicle, you may be restricted from driving.
It's important to note that these restrictions and limitations may vary depending on the state and the specific circumstances of your CDL license. It's always a good idea to consult with your state's DMV or licensing agency to understand the specific restrictions and limitations that apply to your license.
The answer to this question depends on the state where you are taking the Class A CDL written test. In California, for example, the written test is available in several languages other than English, including Spanish, Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese.
However, it's important to note that the skills test for a Class A CDL must be conducted in English. This is because all CDL drivers must be able to read and understand road signs in English, as well as communicate effectively with law enforcement officers and other drivers on the road.
If you need to take the written test in a language other than English, you should contact your local DMV or licensing agency to find out what options are available in your state. They will be able to provide you with more information on how to schedule your test and what documents you may need to bring with you.
However, it's important to note that the skills test for a Class A CDL must be conducted in English. This is because all CDL drivers must be able to read and understand road signs in English, as well as communicate effectively with law enforcement officers and other drivers on the road.
If you need to take the written test in a language other than English, you should contact your local DMV or licensing agency to find out what options are available in your state. They will be able to provide you with more information on how to schedule your test and what documents you may need to bring with you.
Yes, you can request accommodations for the Class A CDL written test if you have a disability that would make it difficult for you to take the test under standard conditions. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires that all DMV and licensing agencies provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities.
To request accommodations for the Class A CDL written test, you should contact your local DMV or licensing agency and inform them of your disability. They will provide you with information on what types of accommodations are available and what documentation is required to support your request. Examples of accommodations that may be available include:
- Extended testing time
- Alternative testing formats (such as a Braille test or an audio test)
- Use of a sign language interpreter or other communication assistance
- Test materials in large print or with high contrast
It's important to note that you may need to provide documentation from a medical professional or other qualified individual to support your request for accommodations. Additionally, you should make your request for accommodations as early as possible to allow sufficient time for processing and scheduling of your test.
To request accommodations for the Class A CDL written test, you should contact your local DMV or licensing agency and inform them of your disability. They will provide you with information on what types of accommodations are available and what documentation is required to support your request. Examples of accommodations that may be available include:
- Extended testing time
- Alternative testing formats (such as a Braille test or an audio test)
- Use of a sign language interpreter or other communication assistance
- Test materials in large print or with high contrast
It's important to note that you may need to provide documentation from a medical professional or other qualified individual to support your request for accommodations. Additionally, you should make your request for accommodations as early as possible to allow sufficient time for processing and scheduling of your test.
If you fail the Class A CDL written test, you will be allowed to retake the test after a waiting period. In California, for example, you must wait at least one day before retaking the test. However, the waiting period may vary depending on the state where you are taking the test.
When you retake the test, you will need to pay the testing fee again. It's important to note that if you fail the test multiple times, you may be required to take additional training or education before being allowed to retake the test.
If you are having difficulty passing the Class A CDL written test, there are resources available to help you prepare. Many DMV and licensing agencies offer study materials and practice tests that can help you become more familiar with the material covered on the test. Additionally, there are many online resources and commercial study guides available that can provide additional support.
It's important to take the time to prepare thoroughly for the Class A CDL written test in order to increase your chances of passing on your first attempt.
When you retake the test, you will need to pay the testing fee again. It's important to note that if you fail the test multiple times, you may be required to take additional training or education before being allowed to retake the test.
If you are having difficulty passing the Class A CDL written test, there are resources available to help you prepare. Many DMV and licensing agencies offer study materials and practice tests that can help you become more familiar with the material covered on the test. Additionally, there are many online resources and commercial study guides available that can provide additional support.
It's important to take the time to prepare thoroughly for the Class A CDL written test in order to increase your chances of passing on your first attempt.
