Air Brakes

This endorsement is required for driving a vehicle with air brakes. To receive this endorsement, applicants must pass a written test. The test consists of 25 multiple choice.. Read More

This endorsement is required for driving a vehicle with air brakes. To receive this endorsement, applicants must pass a written test. The test consists of 25 multiple choice questions. Each question has three answer choices. To pass, the applicant must answer at least 20 questions correctly. Test questions come from the Hawaii Commercial Driver License Manual. Questions come from the chapter covering: Air Brakes. The Air Brakes endorsement may be used with the Class A, B or C CDL.

Number of Question
Passing Score

19. If using spring brakes when hauling a heavy load, a complete stop will:

Explanation
Spring brakes do not work on all axles. If your vehicle's spring brakes activate due to low pressure in an air brake system, your vehicle will need a longer distance to stop than usual, especially if you are carrying a heavy load.

20. When leaving a vehicle unattended, a driver should:

Explanation
Always apply the parking brake when leaving your vehicle unattended.

21. Do not operate a vehicle if any brake drums have cracks that are larger than ____ of the width of the friction area.

Explanation
Before beginning a trip, it is important to check the brake drums during your walk-around inspection. It is unsafe to drive if any brake drum has a crack more than one half of the width of the friction area.

22. If an air compressor is belt-driven, the belt should be routinely checked to ensure that it is:

Explanation
If your vehicle has air brakes, the air compressor drive belt should be checked before each drive. Check the tightness of the belt and verify that it is in good condition.

23. What is often found in compressed air?

Explanation
Compressed air in an air brake system usually contains a certain amount of water and compressor oil. The water and oil can damage the brakes if left to accumulate in the system. Tanks must be drained regularly to remove this build-up.

24. How much distance will an air brake-equipped vehicle need to come to a complete stop if it is traveling at 55 mph under ideal driving conditions?

Explanation
A vehicle's total stopping distance is made up of perception distance, reaction distance, brake lag distance, and braking distance. With all of these factors included, an air brake-equipped vehicle traveling at a speed of 55 mph under ideal driving conditions will need approximately 450 feet to come to a complete stop.

25. When leaving your vehicle unattended:

Explanation
Always apply the parking brake when leaving your vehicle unattended.
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