Knowledge Test Class A
This license is required for driving any legal combination of vehicles, with a gross combination weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the GVWR of a trailer exceeds 10,000 pounds. To receive this license, applicants must pass a 50-question test. Test questions come from the Indiana Commercial Driver License Manual. To pass, applicants must answer 40 questions correctly. Each question has four possible answer choices. 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 A CDL are: Hazardous materials, Tank, Passenger, Doubles/Triples, HazMat, Tank, Air Brakes and School bus.
Number of Question
Passing Score
36. You should always use at least ____ to secure cargo on a flatbed trailer.
Explanation
When transporting cargo on a flatbed trailer, you should use at least one tie-down for every 10 feet of cargo. Any cargo, no matter how small, should be restrained by a minimum of two tie-downs.
37. If turning to avoid a hazard:
Explanation
If you are turning to avoid a hazard, do not apply the brakes while you are turning. This could easily lock the wheels and create a skid.
38. When a vehicle is started, warning lights and buzzers:
Explanation
After an engine is started, the warning lights and buzzers for oil, coolant, charging circuits, and the Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) should go out right away.
39. Headlights:
Explanation
To improve visibility, you should use high beam headlights at night where it is safe and legal to do so. However, the glare from high beam lights can blind other drivers. You should dim your lights to their low beam setting when driving within 500 feet of an approaching vehicle.
40. How much water must be present for a vehicle to hydroplane?
Explanation
Hydroplaning is a phenomenon during which a vehicle's tires lose traction with the road surface and begin to glide along on water on the road. There does not have to be a large amount of water on the road for this to occur.
41. What is brake lag?
Explanation
Because air takes time to flow through the air lines to the brakes, air brakes cannot begin working instantly. There is often a brake lag of at least one-half of a second between the moment the brake pedal is pressed and the moment the brakes begin to work. On vehicles with hydraulic brakes, the brakes work instantly when the pedal is pressed.
42. During exercises that are not the straight line backing exercise, you may exit your vehicle to check its position no more than:
Explanation
A driver is allowed to exit their vehicle to check its position during any basic control skills test exercise. This action is called a "look." During the straight line backing exercise, a driver may not exceed one look. During any other exercise, a driver may not exceed two looks.
Frequently Asked Questions
A Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) in Indiana allows the holder to operate any combination of vehicles with a total weight of 26,001 lbs. or more, provided that the vehicle being towed weighs over 10,000 lbs. This includes tractor-trailers, tanker vehicles, livestock carriers, flatbeds, and other large commercial vehicles.
To obtain a Class A CDL in Indiana, you must first pass a written knowledge test and a skills test consisting of a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must also meet certain medical and physical requirements and pass a drug and alcohol screening.
Additionally, if you plan to transport hazardous materials or passengers, you may need to obtain additional endorsements on your CDL.
To obtain a Class A CDL in Indiana, you must first pass a written knowledge test and a skills test consisting of a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must also meet certain medical and physical requirements and pass a drug and alcohol screening.
Additionally, if you plan to transport hazardous materials or passengers, you may need to obtain additional endorsements on your CDL.
With a Class A CDL license in Indiana, you can operate a combination of vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided that the towed vehicle weighs more than 10,000 pounds. This includes:
1. Tractor-trailers
2. Livestock carriers
3. Tanker vehicles
4. Flatbeds
5. Dump trucks hauling more than 10,000 pounds
6. Large buses with a trailer attached
It is important to note that the Class A CDL license does not allow you to operate vehicles that require a passenger or hazardous materials endorsement. These endorsements must be obtained separately.
1. Tractor-trailers
2. Livestock carriers
3. Tanker vehicles
4. Flatbeds
5. Dump trucks hauling more than 10,000 pounds
6. Large buses with a trailer attached
It is important to note that the Class A CDL license does not allow you to operate vehicles that require a passenger or hazardous materials endorsement. These endorsements must be obtained separately.
To obtain a Class A CDL license in Indiana, you must meet certain requirements, including:
1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to operate a commercial vehicle within the state of Indiana and 21 years old to operate a commercial vehicle outside of Indiana.
2. Residency: You must be a resident of Indiana or have proof of legal presence in the United States.
3. Medical Certificate: You must pass a medical examination and obtain a Medical Examiner's Certificate to show that you are physically qualified to operate a commercial vehicle.
4. Knowledge Tests: You must pass the general knowledge test and the combination vehicle test to obtain your Class A CDL permit.
5. Skills Tests: You must pass the pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and road skills tests in the type of vehicle you plan to operate.
6. Background Check: You must pass a criminal background check and disclose all convictions, including traffic violations, to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).
7. Drug and Alcohol Testing: You must pass a drug and alcohol screening before obtaining your CDL license and be subject to random testing while holding a CDL license.
It is also important to note that certain endorsements may be required for specific types of commercial driving, such as hazardous materials or passenger transportation.
1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to operate a commercial vehicle within the state of Indiana and 21 years old to operate a commercial vehicle outside of Indiana.
2. Residency: You must be a resident of Indiana or have proof of legal presence in the United States.
3. Medical Certificate: You must pass a medical examination and obtain a Medical Examiner's Certificate to show that you are physically qualified to operate a commercial vehicle.
4. Knowledge Tests: You must pass the general knowledge test and the combination vehicle test to obtain your Class A CDL permit.
5. Skills Tests: You must pass the pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and road skills tests in the type of vehicle you plan to operate.
6. Background Check: You must pass a criminal background check and disclose all convictions, including traffic violations, to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).
7. Drug and Alcohol Testing: You must pass a drug and alcohol screening before obtaining your CDL license and be subject to random testing while holding a CDL license.
It is also important to note that certain endorsements may be required for specific types of commercial driving, such as hazardous materials or passenger transportation.
In Indiana, the minimum age requirement for a Class A CDL license is 18 years old to operate a commercial vehicle within the state. However, to operate a commercial vehicle outside of Indiana or transport hazardous materials, you must be at least 21 years old. It is important to note that some companies may have their own age requirements for hiring commercial drivers, so it is important to check with potential employers. Additionally, drivers under the age of 21 may be subject to additional restrictions and requirements when operating a commercial vehicle.
Depending on the type of driving you will be doing, you may need additional endorsements for your Class A CDL license in Indiana.
1. Hazmat Endorsement: If you plan to transport hazardous materials, you must obtain a Hazmat endorsement. This requires passing a background check, fingerprinting, and passing a written test.
2. Tanker Endorsement: If you will be driving a commercial vehicle with a tank that holds more than 119 gallons of liquid, you must obtain a Tanker endorsement. This requires passing a written test.
3. Double/Triple Trailer Endorsement: If you plan to pull double or triple trailers, you must obtain a Double/Triple Trailer endorsement. This requires passing a written test.
4. Passenger Endorsement: If you will be transporting passengers in a commercial vehicle, such as a bus or shuttle, you must obtain a Passenger endorsement. This requires passing a written test.
5. School Bus Endorsement: If you plan to operate a school bus, you must obtain a School Bus endorsement. This requires passing a written test and completing additional training.
It is important to note that endorsements have their own requirements and fees in addition to the requirements for obtaining your Class A CDL license.
1. Hazmat Endorsement: If you plan to transport hazardous materials, you must obtain a Hazmat endorsement. This requires passing a background check, fingerprinting, and passing a written test.
2. Tanker Endorsement: If you will be driving a commercial vehicle with a tank that holds more than 119 gallons of liquid, you must obtain a Tanker endorsement. This requires passing a written test.
3. Double/Triple Trailer Endorsement: If you plan to pull double or triple trailers, you must obtain a Double/Triple Trailer endorsement. This requires passing a written test.
4. Passenger Endorsement: If you will be transporting passengers in a commercial vehicle, such as a bus or shuttle, you must obtain a Passenger endorsement. This requires passing a written test.
5. School Bus Endorsement: If you plan to operate a school bus, you must obtain a School Bus endorsement. This requires passing a written test and completing additional training.
It is important to note that endorsements have their own requirements and fees in addition to the requirements for obtaining your Class A CDL license.
The Class A CDL skills test in Indiana consists of three parts:
1. Pre-Trip Inspection: You will be required to perform a thorough inspection of your commercial vehicle before beginning the driving portion of the test. You will need to demonstrate your knowledge of the vehicle and its components by pointing out and explaining their function and condition.
2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be required to demonstrate your ability to control the vehicle in a variety of situations, such as backing up, turning, and parking. This portion of the test is typically conducted in a closed course or a large parking lot.
3. On-Road Test: You will be required to demonstrate your ability to safely operate your commercial vehicle on public roads and highways. The examiner will evaluate your ability to drive defensively, follow traffic laws, and safely maneuver the vehicle in traffic.
It is important to note that the skills test must be taken in a vehicle that is representative of the class of license being sought. Additionally, you must have a valid medical certificate, proof of insurance, and all required endorsements before taking the skills test.
1. Pre-Trip Inspection: You will be required to perform a thorough inspection of your commercial vehicle before beginning the driving portion of the test. You will need to demonstrate your knowledge of the vehicle and its components by pointing out and explaining their function and condition.
2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be required to demonstrate your ability to control the vehicle in a variety of situations, such as backing up, turning, and parking. This portion of the test is typically conducted in a closed course or a large parking lot.
3. On-Road Test: You will be required to demonstrate your ability to safely operate your commercial vehicle on public roads and highways. The examiner will evaluate your ability to drive defensively, follow traffic laws, and safely maneuver the vehicle in traffic.
It is important to note that the skills test must be taken in a vehicle that is representative of the class of license being sought. Additionally, you must have a valid medical certificate, proof of insurance, and all required endorsements before taking the skills test.
Yes, there are some restrictions and limitations for drivers with a Class A CDL license in Indiana. These include:
1. Age Requirements: Drivers must be at least 18 years old to obtain a Class A CDL license, but they may not engage in interstate commerce until they are at least 21 years old.
2. Endorsements: Drivers must obtain any required endorsements for the type of driving they will be doing, such as Hazmat, Tanker, or Passenger endorsements.
3. Weight Restrictions: Drivers may be limited in the weight of the vehicles they are allowed to operate based on their age and endorsements.
4. Hours of Service: Drivers must comply with federal hours of service regulations, which limit the amount of time they can drive and require rest breaks.
5. Medical Certification: Drivers must maintain a valid medical certification to operate a commercial vehicle.
6. Alcohol and Drug Use: Drivers are subject to strict alcohol and drug use regulations and may face suspension or revocation of their license if found to be in violation.
It is important for drivers with a Class A CDL license to understand and comply with these restrictions and limitations to ensure safe and legal operation of their commercial vehicle.
1. Age Requirements: Drivers must be at least 18 years old to obtain a Class A CDL license, but they may not engage in interstate commerce until they are at least 21 years old.
2. Endorsements: Drivers must obtain any required endorsements for the type of driving they will be doing, such as Hazmat, Tanker, or Passenger endorsements.
3. Weight Restrictions: Drivers may be limited in the weight of the vehicles they are allowed to operate based on their age and endorsements.
4. Hours of Service: Drivers must comply with federal hours of service regulations, which limit the amount of time they can drive and require rest breaks.
5. Medical Certification: Drivers must maintain a valid medical certification to operate a commercial vehicle.
6. Alcohol and Drug Use: Drivers are subject to strict alcohol and drug use regulations and may face suspension or revocation of their license if found to be in violation.
It is important for drivers with a Class A CDL license to understand and comply with these restrictions and limitations to ensure safe and legal operation of their commercial vehicle.
No, the Class A CDL written test in Indiana is only available in English. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires that all commercial driver's license knowledge tests be administered in English. This is to ensure that drivers have a strong understanding of the rules and regulations related to commercial driving and can communicate effectively with law enforcement and other drivers on the road.
However, some states may offer a Spanish version of the CDL manual to help non-English speakers prepare for the test. It is always recommended to check with your local Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) office to see if any additional resources are available to help prepare for the written test.
However, some states may offer a Spanish version of the CDL manual to help non-English speakers prepare for the test. It is always recommended to check with your local Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) office to see if any additional resources are available to help prepare for the written test.
Yes, the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) provides accommodations for individuals with disabilities who need assistance in taking the Class A CDL written test. Accommodations may include extra time, a separate testing room, or the use of assistive technology.
To request accommodations, you will need to complete an Application for Accommodations for Individuals with Disabilities form and submit it to the BMV. The form requires documentation of your disability and information about the specific accommodations you are requesting.
Once your request is received, the BMV will review it and determine if they can provide the requested accommodations. They may also contact you for additional information or to schedule a meeting to discuss your needs.
It is important to request accommodations as soon as possible to allow sufficient time for the BMV to review your request and make arrangements for your test.
To request accommodations, you will need to complete an Application for Accommodations for Individuals with Disabilities form and submit it to the BMV. The form requires documentation of your disability and information about the specific accommodations you are requesting.
Once your request is received, the BMV will review it and determine if they can provide the requested accommodations. They may also contact you for additional information or to schedule a meeting to discuss your needs.
It is important to request accommodations as soon as possible to allow sufficient time for the BMV to review your request and make arrangements for your test.
Yes, if you fail the Class A CDL written test, you will be allowed to retake it. In Indiana, you must wait at least one day before retaking the written test. However, it is important to note that you will be required to pay the testing fee each time you take the test.
If you fail the Class A CDL written test three times, you will be required to wait at least 30 days before taking it again. If you fail the test a fourth time, you will be required to wait at least 60 days before taking it again.
It's important to prepare thoroughly for the written test and ensure that you have a strong understanding of the rules and regulations related to commercial driving. You can study the Indiana Commercial Driver's License Manual and take practice tests to help prepare for the exam.
If you fail the Class A CDL written test three times, you will be required to wait at least 30 days before taking it again. If you fail the test a fourth time, you will be required to wait at least 60 days before taking it again.
It's important to prepare thoroughly for the written test and ensure that you have a strong understanding of the rules and regulations related to commercial driving. You can study the Indiana Commercial Driver's License Manual and take practice tests to help prepare for the exam.
