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 questions. Each question has three or four answer choices. To pass, the applicant must answer at least 20 questions correctly. Test questions come from the Maryland Commercial Driver Guide. 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. The ____ tells a driver how much pressure is in the air tanks.
Explanation
A vehicle that is equipped with air brakes must also be equipped with a supply pressure gauge. This gauge tells the driver how much air pressure is in each of the vehicle's air tanks.
20. What helps prevent wheel lockup when braking?
Explanation
The purpose of an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) is to prevent wheel lockup while brakes are being applied.
21. Alcohol evaporators are:
Explanation
Some air brake systems include an alcohol evaporator. The evaporator introduces alcohol into the braking system to prevent the formation of ice, which can cause damage.
22. A dual air brake system:
Explanation
A dual air brake system has two separate air brake systems that use a single set of brake controls. One system typically operates the regular brakes on the rear axle or axles. The other system operates the regular brakes on the front axle.
23. A driver can rely on front wheel braking to work:
Explanation
Front wheel braking is effective under all road conditions. It is unlikely that you will experience a front wheel skid, even on ice.
24. If your tractor is equipped with ABS but your trailer is not, the ABS:
Explanation
In a tractor-trailer combination, if the tractor is equipped with an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) but the trailer is not, the ABS will still improve the driver's steering control. The driver should keep an eye on the trailer and let up on the brakes if the trailer begins to swing out.
25. Pressing and releasing a brake pedal unnecessarily can:
Explanation