Knowledge Test Class B
This license is required for driving a single vehicle with a GVWR of more than 26,000 pounds, a 3-axle vehicle weighing over 6,000 pounds, a bus (except a trailer bus), with endorsement or any farm labor vehicle, with endorsement. 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. Endorsements that may be used with a Class B CDL are: Hazardous materials, Tank, Passenger, HazMat and Tank, Air Brakes and School bus.
Number of Question
Passing Score
8. When leaving your vehicle:
Explanation
Parking brakes should be used whenever you park. If necessary, chock your wheels.
9. When backing up, follow a turning trailer by:
Explanation
When backing with a trailer, begin by turning the steering wheel in the direction opposite of the turn. Once the trailer starts to turn, reverse the direction of the steering wheel to follow the trailer.
10. By beginning a left turn before reaching the center of an intersection, you:
Explanation
When planning to turn left at an intersection, make sure you have reached the center of the intersection before beginning the turn. If you turn too soon, off-tracking may cause the left side of your vehicle to hit another vehicle.
11. Cargo with a high center of gravity:
Explanation
Cargo with a high center of gravity makes a vehicle more likely to tip over than cargo with a low center of gravity. For this reason, it is important that the weight of cargo be distributed as low as possible.
12. If a tire fails, you should:
Explanation
Braking after a tire fails can result in a loss of control. Stay off your brakes, if possible, until your vehicle has slowed considerably.
13. When driving in winter, which of the following should receive extra attention in a pre-trip inspection?
Explanation
When doing a pre-trip inspection during the winter, you should pay extra attention to the coolant level and amount of antifreeze; the defrosting and heating equipment; the wiper blades and windshield washer; the tires and tire chains; the lights and reflectors; the windows and mirrors; the hand holds, steps, and deck plates; the radiator shuttles and winterfront; and exhaust system.
14. When braking with ABS, you should:
Explanation
When braking a vehicle equipped with an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), you should not brake any differently than you would if driving a vehicle with a different braking system.
Frequently Asked Questions
A Class B CDL (Commercial Driver's License) in California allows you to operate a single vehicle with a weight of 26,001 pounds or more, or a combination of vehicles with a total weight of 26,001 pounds or more. This license is required if you want to drive a passenger bus, school bus, or a large truck. Here are the steps to obtain a Class B CDL license in California:
1. Meet the eligibility requirements: You must be at least 18 years old, hold a valid California driver's license, have no previous disqualifications for CDL, and pass a physical examination.
2. Obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP): To get a CLP, you must pass a written test on general knowledge and specific endorsements related to the type of vehicle you wish to drive. You must also pass a vision test and provide proof of citizenship or legal presence.
3. Complete training: You must complete training at an accredited truck driving school or through an employer-sponsored program.
4. Pass the skills test: The skills test consists of three parts - pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and on-road driving test. You must complete all three parts successfully to obtain your CDL.
5. Pay the required fees: There are fees associated with obtaining your CDL in California, including application fees and testing fees.
6. Maintain your CDL: To maintain your CDL, you must meet all state and federal requirements for medical certification and driving record checks. You must also renew your license every four years and complete any required continuing education or training courses.
1. Meet the eligibility requirements: You must be at least 18 years old, hold a valid California driver's license, have no previous disqualifications for CDL, and pass a physical examination.
2. Obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP): To get a CLP, you must pass a written test on general knowledge and specific endorsements related to the type of vehicle you wish to drive. You must also pass a vision test and provide proof of citizenship or legal presence.
3. Complete training: You must complete training at an accredited truck driving school or through an employer-sponsored program.
4. Pass the skills test: The skills test consists of three parts - pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and on-road driving test. You must complete all three parts successfully to obtain your CDL.
5. Pay the required fees: There are fees associated with obtaining your CDL in California, including application fees and testing fees.
6. Maintain your CDL: To maintain your CDL, you must meet all state and federal requirements for medical certification and driving record checks. You must also renew your license every four years and complete any required continuing education or training courses.
With a Class B CDL license in California, you can operate a single vehicle with a weight of 26,001 pounds or more, or a combination of vehicles with a total weight of 26,001 pounds or more. Here are some examples of vehicles that you can operate with a Class B CDL:
1. Straight trucks: This includes trucks with a single rear axle and a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more.
2. Large buses: You can operate buses designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
3. Box trucks: This includes delivery trucks commonly used for local deliveries.
4. Dump trucks: You can operate dump trucks used for construction or hauling.
5. Cement mixers: This includes concrete mixing trucks used in construction.
6. Tow trucks: You can operate tow trucks that have a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more.
It is important to note that certain endorsements may be required to operate certain types of vehicles, such as hazardous materials (HazMat) or passenger transport endorsements for specific types of buses.
1. Straight trucks: This includes trucks with a single rear axle and a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more.
2. Large buses: You can operate buses designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
3. Box trucks: This includes delivery trucks commonly used for local deliveries.
4. Dump trucks: You can operate dump trucks used for construction or hauling.
5. Cement mixers: This includes concrete mixing trucks used in construction.
6. Tow trucks: You can operate tow trucks that have a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more.
It is important to note that certain endorsements may be required to operate certain types of vehicles, such as hazardous materials (HazMat) or passenger transport endorsements for specific types of buses.
To obtain a Class B 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 apply for a Class B CDL license. However, if you plan to transport hazardous materials, you must be at least 21 years old.
2. California driver's license: You must hold a valid California driver's license.
3. Medical requirements: You must meet the medical requirements set forth by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This includes passing a physical exam given by a certified medical examiner.
4. Knowledge tests: You must pass the written knowledge test for a Class B CDL, which covers general knowledge, air brakes, and combination vehicles.
5. Skills test: You must pass a three-part skills test consisting of a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and on-road driving test.
6. Background check: You will be required to undergo a background check and disclose any previous convictions or disqualifications related to driving or criminal activity.
7. Commercial learner's permit (CLP): Before taking the skills test, you will need to obtain a commercial learner's permit (CLP) by passing the written knowledge test and meeting other requirements.
8. Fees: You will need to pay the required fees associated with obtaining your Class B CDL license in California.
It is important to note that additional endorsements may be required for certain types of vehicles or cargo, such as HazMat or passenger transport endorsements for specific types of buses.
1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a Class B CDL license. However, if you plan to transport hazardous materials, you must be at least 21 years old.
2. California driver's license: You must hold a valid California driver's license.
3. Medical requirements: You must meet the medical requirements set forth by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This includes passing a physical exam given by a certified medical examiner.
4. Knowledge tests: You must pass the written knowledge test for a Class B CDL, which covers general knowledge, air brakes, and combination vehicles.
5. Skills test: You must pass a three-part skills test consisting of a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and on-road driving test.
6. Background check: You will be required to undergo a background check and disclose any previous convictions or disqualifications related to driving or criminal activity.
7. Commercial learner's permit (CLP): Before taking the skills test, you will need to obtain a commercial learner's permit (CLP) by passing the written knowledge test and meeting other requirements.
8. Fees: You will need to pay the required fees associated with obtaining your Class B CDL license in California.
It is important to note that additional endorsements may be required for certain types of vehicles or cargo, such as HazMat or passenger transport endorsements for specific types of buses.
The minimum age requirement for a Class B CDL (Commercial Driver's License) license in California is 18 years old. However, if you plan to transport hazardous materials (HazMat) or operate a vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, you must be at least 21 years old.
It's important to note that younger drivers can obtain a commercial learner's permit (CLP) at the age of 18, but they will be restricted in the type of driving they can do until they turn 21. For example, drivers who are between the ages of 18 and 20 with a CLP may not operate a commercial vehicle outside of California or transport hazardous materials. Additionally, they may not operate a commercial vehicle with double or triple trailers, or a vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers.
It's important to note that younger drivers can obtain a commercial learner's permit (CLP) at the age of 18, but they will be restricted in the type of driving they can do until they turn 21. For example, drivers who are between the ages of 18 and 20 with a CLP may not operate a commercial vehicle outside of California or transport hazardous materials. Additionally, they may not operate a commercial vehicle with double or triple trailers, or a vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers.
Yes, you may need endorsements for certain types of vehicles or cargo when obtaining a Class B CDL (Commercial Driver's License) license in California. Endorsements are additional qualifications added to your CDL that allow you to operate specific types of vehicles or transport certain types of cargo.
The most common endorsements for a Class B CDL in California are:
1. Passenger endorsement (P): This endorsement is required to operate a vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
2. School bus endorsement (S): This endorsement is required to operate a school bus.
3. Tanker endorsement (N): This endorsement is required to transport liquids or gases in bulk containers of 1,000 gallons or more.
4. Hazardous materials endorsement (H): This endorsement is required to transport hazardous materials (HazMat).
5. Doubles/Triples endorsement (T): This endorsement is required to operate a commercial vehicle with double or triple trailers.
6. Air brakes endorsement (L): This endorsement is required if the vehicle you will be operating has air brakes.
It's important to note that additional endorsements may be required for specific types of cargo or vehicles, so it's best to check with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to confirm which endorsements you'll need for your specific situation.
The most common endorsements for a Class B CDL in California are:
1. Passenger endorsement (P): This endorsement is required to operate a vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
2. School bus endorsement (S): This endorsement is required to operate a school bus.
3. Tanker endorsement (N): This endorsement is required to transport liquids or gases in bulk containers of 1,000 gallons or more.
4. Hazardous materials endorsement (H): This endorsement is required to transport hazardous materials (HazMat).
5. Doubles/Triples endorsement (T): This endorsement is required to operate a commercial vehicle with double or triple trailers.
6. Air brakes endorsement (L): This endorsement is required if the vehicle you will be operating has air brakes.
It's important to note that additional endorsements may be required for specific types of cargo or vehicles, so it's best to check with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to confirm which endorsements you'll need for your specific situation.
The Class B CDL (Commercial Driver's License) skills test in California consists of three parts:
1. Pre-trip inspection: You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle to ensure that it is safe to operate. This includes checking all of the vehicle's systems and components, such as brakes, lights, tires, and steering.
2. Basic vehicle control: You will be tested on your ability to perform basic maneuvers with your vehicle, such as backing up, turning, and parking.
3. On-road driving: You will be tested on your ability to safely operate your vehicle on the road. This includes merging onto highways, changing lanes, turning, and obeying traffic laws.
During the skills test, an examiner will ride with you in the vehicle to evaluate your driving skills and provide instructions as needed. You will be graded on a point system and must score at least 80% to pass.
It's important to note that specific requirements for the skills test may vary depending on the type of vehicle you plan to operate and any endorsements you may have. You should review the California Commercial Driver Handbook and speak with a DMV representative for more information on the Class B CDL skills test requirements in your situation.
1. Pre-trip inspection: You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle to ensure that it is safe to operate. This includes checking all of the vehicle's systems and components, such as brakes, lights, tires, and steering.
2. Basic vehicle control: You will be tested on your ability to perform basic maneuvers with your vehicle, such as backing up, turning, and parking.
3. On-road driving: You will be tested on your ability to safely operate your vehicle on the road. This includes merging onto highways, changing lanes, turning, and obeying traffic laws.
During the skills test, an examiner will ride with you in the vehicle to evaluate your driving skills and provide instructions as needed. You will be graded on a point system and must score at least 80% to pass.
It's important to note that specific requirements for the skills test may vary depending on the type of vehicle you plan to operate and any endorsements you may have. You should review the California Commercial Driver Handbook and speak with a DMV representative for more information on the Class B CDL skills test requirements in your situation.
Yes, there are some restrictions and limitations for drivers with a Class B CDL (Commercial Driver's License) license in California. The specific restrictions and limitations may vary depending on the type of vehicle you are operating and any endorsements you hold, but some common examples include:
1. No passengers: If you do not have a passenger endorsement, you are not allowed to carry more than one passenger in the vehicle.
2. No hazardous materials: If you do not have a hazardous materials endorsement, you are not allowed to transport any hazardous materials.
3. No double/triple trailers: If you do not have a doubles/triples endorsement, you are not allowed to operate a commercial vehicle with double or triple trailers.
4. Air brake restriction: If you do not have an air brakes endorsement, you are restricted from driving vehicles with air brakes.
5. Automatic transmission restriction: If you took the skills test using a vehicle with an automatic transmission, your license will be restricted to only driving vehicles with automatic transmissions.
It's important to note that additional restrictions or limitations may apply depending on your specific situation. You should review the California Commercial Driver Handbook and speak with a DMV representative for more information on any restrictions or limitations that may apply to your Class B CDL license.
1. No passengers: If you do not have a passenger endorsement, you are not allowed to carry more than one passenger in the vehicle.
2. No hazardous materials: If you do not have a hazardous materials endorsement, you are not allowed to transport any hazardous materials.
3. No double/triple trailers: If you do not have a doubles/triples endorsement, you are not allowed to operate a commercial vehicle with double or triple trailers.
4. Air brake restriction: If you do not have an air brakes endorsement, you are restricted from driving vehicles with air brakes.
5. Automatic transmission restriction: If you took the skills test using a vehicle with an automatic transmission, your license will be restricted to only driving vehicles with automatic transmissions.
It's important to note that additional restrictions or limitations may apply depending on your specific situation. You should review the California Commercial Driver Handbook and speak with a DMV representative for more information on any restrictions or limitations that may apply to your Class B CDL license.
Yes, you may be able to take the Class B CDL (Commercial Driver's License) written test in a language other than English in California. The California DMV offers the Class B CDL written test in several languages, including Spanish, Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese.
To take the written test in a language other than English, you will need to indicate your language preference when you apply for your CDL. You may also need to provide additional documentation, such as a translation of your current driver's license or other identification.
It's important to note that while you may take the written test in a language other than English, you will still need to be able to read and understand road signs and other traffic signals in English. Additionally, you will need to pass the English proficiency portion of the skills test if you plan to operate a commercial vehicle outside of California.
If you have any questions or concerns about taking the Class B CDL written test in a language other than English, you should contact your local DMV office for more information.
To take the written test in a language other than English, you will need to indicate your language preference when you apply for your CDL. You may also need to provide additional documentation, such as a translation of your current driver's license or other identification.
It's important to note that while you may take the written test in a language other than English, you will still need to be able to read and understand road signs and other traffic signals in English. Additionally, you will need to pass the English proficiency portion of the skills test if you plan to operate a commercial vehicle outside of California.
If you have any questions or concerns about taking the Class B CDL written test in a language other than English, you should contact your local DMV office for more information.
Yes, you may request accommodations for the Class B CDL (Commercial Driver's License) written test in California if you have a disability that makes it difficult to take the test under standard conditions. The California DMV provides accommodations for individuals with disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
To request accommodations, you will need to complete and submit a Request for Accommodations form to the DMV. The form must be signed by a licensed healthcare provider who can attest to your disability and the specific accommodations you need. Some examples of accommodations that may be available include:
- Extended time to complete the test
- A separate testing room
- A reader or interpreter
- Special equipment or software
Once your request has been approved, you will be contacted by the DMV to schedule your test with the necessary accommodations.
It's important to note that you must submit your request for accommodations at least 30 days before your scheduled test date. If you have any questions or concerns about requesting accommodations for the Class B CDL written test, you should contact your local DMV office for more information.
To request accommodations, you will need to complete and submit a Request for Accommodations form to the DMV. The form must be signed by a licensed healthcare provider who can attest to your disability and the specific accommodations you need. Some examples of accommodations that may be available include:
- Extended time to complete the test
- A separate testing room
- A reader or interpreter
- Special equipment or software
Once your request has been approved, you will be contacted by the DMV to schedule your test with the necessary accommodations.
It's important to note that you must submit your request for accommodations at least 30 days before your scheduled test date. If you have any questions or concerns about requesting accommodations for the Class B CDL written test, you should contact your local DMV office for more information.
If you fail the Class B CDL (Commercial Driver's License) written test in California, you will have the opportunity to retake the test. However, the DMV requires that you wait at least one day before retaking the test. You will need to schedule a new appointment and pay the testing fee again.
If you fail the written test three times, you will be required to wait at least two weeks before taking it again. If you fail the test six times, you will be required to wait at least six months before taking it again.
It's important to note that if you fail the written test, you will not be able to take the skills (driving) test until you pass the written test. Additionally, if you fail either the written or skills test three times, you will be required to complete an approved driver training program before taking the test again.
To improve your chances of passing the Class B CDL written test, it's important to study and prepare thoroughly. The California DMV provides a Commercial Driver Handbook that covers all of the information you need to know for the written test. You may also want to consider taking a practice test or enrolling in a commercial driver training program to help prepare for the test.
If you fail the written test three times, you will be required to wait at least two weeks before taking it again. If you fail the test six times, you will be required to wait at least six months before taking it again.
It's important to note that if you fail the written test, you will not be able to take the skills (driving) test until you pass the written test. Additionally, if you fail either the written or skills test three times, you will be required to complete an approved driver training program before taking the test again.
To improve your chances of passing the Class B CDL written test, it's important to study and prepare thoroughly. The California DMV provides a Commercial Driver Handbook that covers all of the information you need to know for the written test. You may also want to consider taking a practice test or enrolling in a commercial driver training program to help prepare for the test.
