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 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 have one hour to correctly answer a minimum of 16 questions. The Combination test is not a replacement for the Double/Triple endorsement test.
Number of Question
Passing Score
1. The trailer hand valve should:
Explanation
The trailer hand valve works the trailer brakes but should only be used when testing them. Using it while driving could create a skid. 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.
2. Which of the following types of vehicles is most prone to the “crack-the-whip" effect?
Explanation
Double and triple combinations are the most vulnerable to turning over as a result of the "crack-the-whip" effect.
3. Using the trailer hand brake while experiencing a trailer jackknife will:
Explanation
If you are experiencing a trailer jackknife, you can help your tires regain traction by releasing the brakes. Using a trailer hand brake while experiencing a skid will only cause the skid to continue.
4. Using the trailer hand valve while driving:
Explanation
Never use the trailer hand valve while operating your vehicle. Using the trailer hand valve while driving can cause your trailer to skid.
5. Driving a combination vehicle ____ than driving a single vehicle.
Explanation
Driving a combination vehicle usually requires more skill than driving a single vehicle. Combination vehicles are generally longer and heavier than single commercial vehicles.
6. Simply changing lanes can cause:
Explanation
Due to the "crack-the-whip" effect caused by rearward amplification, changing lanes too quickly in a combination vehicle can result in a rollover.
7. Avoid needing to make sudden lane changes by:
Explanation