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. To pass, applicants must answer 40 questions correctly. Each question has three or four possible answer choices. Test questions come from the Maryland Commercial Driver License Manual. Questions come from chapters covering: Introduction, Driving Safely, Transporting Cargo Safely, Air Brakes (if applicable), 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, HazMat and Tank, Air Brakes and School bus.
Number of Question
Passing Score
1. Which of the following is not a strategy to avoid becoming an aggressive driver?
Explanation
Strategies to avoid becoming an aggressive driver include having realistic expectations about your travel time and the possibility of delays; driving an appropriate speed and keeping a reasonable following distance; avoiding gesturing at other drivers; and keeping your hands on the wheel.
2. When transporting a load, you should inspect the cargo:
Explanation
Cargo and its securement must be inspected every time you take a break during a trip. Be sure to inspect the cargo at least every 150 miles.
3. If approaching a railroad crossing while driving a placarded vehicle, you should always:
Explanation
If approaching a railroad crossing while driving a transit bus, school bus, or placarded vehicle, special procedures apply. Before crossing, stop your vehicle within 50 feet of, but not less than 15 feet from, the nearest rail. Activate your four-way flashers while crossing. Do not stop, change gears, or change lanes while any part of your vehicle is proceeding across the tracks.
4. If the spring brakes are activated, you should never:
Explanation
Never apply the brake pedal if your spring breaks are activated. Brakes can be damaged if they are subject to both springs and air pressure.
5. Eating while driving:
Explanation
To reduce the chances of driving distracted, you should avoid eating, drinking, or smoking while driving. Anything that diverts attention from the task of driving is a distraction.
6. If there are no warning gates or lights at a railroad crossing, you should:
Explanation
A passive railroad crossing is a crossing that lacks control devices, like gates or warning lights. Before crossing a passive railroad crossing, you should search the tracks for approaching trains coming from either direction.
7. Off-ramps:
Explanation
On- and off-ramps can be dangerous when driving a truck. Remember that posted speed limits for ramps may be safe for cars but too fast for trucks.
Frequently Asked Questions
A Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is a type of license that allows a driver to operate a combination of vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more. This includes vehicles such as tractor-trailers, tanker trucks, and flatbed trucks. In Maryland, to obtain a Class A CDL license, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Be at least 18 years of age (21 years of age for interstate driving).
2. Hold a valid Maryland driver's license.
3. Pass a vision test.
4. Pass a knowledge test and obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP).
5. Complete a Maryland-approved CDL training program or provide proof of equivalent training.
6. Pass a skills test, which includes pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic control skills, and on-road driving test.
7. Submit to a medical examination and provide proof of meeting Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) medical standards.
Once you have met these requirements, you can apply for a Class A CDL license at any Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) branch office.
1. Be at least 18 years of age (21 years of age for interstate driving).
2. Hold a valid Maryland driver's license.
3. Pass a vision test.
4. Pass a knowledge test and obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP).
5. Complete a Maryland-approved CDL training program or provide proof of equivalent training.
6. Pass a skills test, which includes pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic control skills, and on-road driving test.
7. Submit to a medical examination and provide proof of meeting Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) medical standards.
Once you have met these requirements, you can apply for a Class A CDL license at any Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) branch office.
With a Class A CDL license in Maryland, you can operate combination vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the vehicle you are towing has a GVWR of 10,001 pounds or more. This includes:
1. Tractor-trailers
2. Truck and trailer combinations
3. Livestock carriers
4. Flatbed trucks with attached trailers
5. Tanker trucks
6. Large passenger buses (with endorsements)
It's important to note that there are also certain endorsements you may need to operate specific types of vehicles, such as hazardous materials or passenger endorsements. Be sure to check with the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) for more information on specific requirements and endorsements needed for the type of vehicle you plan to operate.
1. Tractor-trailers
2. Truck and trailer combinations
3. Livestock carriers
4. Flatbed trucks with attached trailers
5. Tanker trucks
6. Large passenger buses (with endorsements)
It's important to note that there are also certain endorsements you may need to operate specific types of vehicles, such as hazardous materials or passenger endorsements. Be sure to check with the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) for more information on specific requirements and endorsements needed for the type of vehicle you plan to operate.
To obtain a Class A CDL license in Maryland, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Be at least 18 years old (21 years old for interstate driving).
2. Hold a valid Maryland driver's license.
3. Pass a vision test.
4. Pass a written knowledge test and obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP).
5. Complete a Maryland-approved CDL training program or provide proof of equivalent training.
6. Pass a skills test, which includes pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic control skills, and on-road driving test.
7. Submit to a medical examination and provide proof of meeting Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) medical standards.
It's important to note that there are also certain endorsements you may need to operate specific types of vehicles, such as hazardous materials or passenger endorsements. Additionally, you must have a clean driving record and be able to pass a background check. Once you have met these requirements, you can apply for your Class A CDL license at any Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) branch office.
1. Be at least 18 years old (21 years old for interstate driving).
2. Hold a valid Maryland driver's license.
3. Pass a vision test.
4. Pass a written knowledge test and obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP).
5. Complete a Maryland-approved CDL training program or provide proof of equivalent training.
6. Pass a skills test, which includes pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic control skills, and on-road driving test.
7. Submit to a medical examination and provide proof of meeting Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) medical standards.
It's important to note that there are also certain endorsements you may need to operate specific types of vehicles, such as hazardous materials or passenger endorsements. Additionally, you must have a clean driving record and be able to pass a background check. Once you have met these requirements, you can apply for your Class A CDL license at any Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) branch office.
The minimum age requirement for a Class A CDL license in Maryland is 18 years old, but there are restrictions for drivers under the age of 21. Drivers between the ages of 18 and 21 can only operate commercial vehicles within the state of Maryland and cannot transport hazardous materials or operate double or triple trailers. Additionally, they are not eligible to obtain a passenger endorsement for their CDL license.
For drivers who are 21 years old or older, there are no restrictions on interstate travel or the types of vehicles they can operate with a Class A CDL license. However, specific endorsements may have additional age requirements. It's important to check with the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) for specific information on age requirements for endorsements and other restrictions that may apply to young drivers with a Class A CDL license.
For drivers who are 21 years old or older, there are no restrictions on interstate travel or the types of vehicles they can operate with a Class A CDL license. However, specific endorsements may have additional age requirements. It's important to check with the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) for specific information on age requirements for endorsements and other restrictions that may apply to young drivers with a Class A CDL license.
Whether you need any endorsements for your Class A CDL license depends on the type of vehicle you plan to operate.
In Maryland, there are several endorsements available for a Class A CDL license, including:
1. H (Hazardous Materials): Required if you plan to transport hazardous materials as defined by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
2. N (Tank Vehicles): Required if you plan to transport liquids or gases in bulk containers with a capacity of 1,000 gallons or more.
3. P (Passenger): Required if you plan to drive vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
4. S (School Bus): Required if you plan to drive a school bus.
5. T (Double/Triple Trailers): Required if you plan to tow double or triple trailers.
To obtain an endorsement, you must pass a knowledge test related to the specific type of vehicle or cargo you will be transporting and meet any additional requirements set forth by the FMCSA. You will also need to pay an additional fee for each endorsement.
It's important to note that some employers may require certain endorsements even if they are not legally required, so it's always a good idea to check with your employer or potential employer for specific requirements.
In Maryland, there are several endorsements available for a Class A CDL license, including:
1. H (Hazardous Materials): Required if you plan to transport hazardous materials as defined by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
2. N (Tank Vehicles): Required if you plan to transport liquids or gases in bulk containers with a capacity of 1,000 gallons or more.
3. P (Passenger): Required if you plan to drive vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
4. S (School Bus): Required if you plan to drive a school bus.
5. T (Double/Triple Trailers): Required if you plan to tow double or triple trailers.
To obtain an endorsement, you must pass a knowledge test related to the specific type of vehicle or cargo you will be transporting and meet any additional requirements set forth by the FMCSA. You will also need to pay an additional fee for each endorsement.
It's important to note that some employers may require certain endorsements even if they are not legally required, so it's always a good idea to check with your employer or potential employer for specific requirements.
The Class A CDL skills test in Maryland consists of three parts: a pre-trip inspection, a basic control skills test, and an on-road driving test.
1. Pre-Trip Inspection: You will be required to perform a thorough inspection of your vehicle to ensure that it is safe to operate on the road. This test includes checking various components of the vehicle, such as the brakes, tires, lights, and coupling devices.
2. Basic Control Skills Test: You will be required to demonstrate your ability to control the vehicle in several different situations, including straight-line backing, offset backing, and parallel parking.
3. On-Road Driving Test: You will be required to drive the vehicle on public roads while being evaluated on your ability to safely operate the vehicle in traffic. The test will include driving in various traffic situations such as intersections, railroad crossings, and highway driving.
During the skills test, you will be evaluated by a licensed examiner who will score you based on your performance. To pass the skills test and obtain your Class A CDL license in Maryland, you must pass all three parts of the skills test with a minimum score of 80% on each section.
It's important to note that you must hold a valid commercial learner's permit (CLP) for at least 14 days before taking the skills test. Additionally, you must provide your own Class A commercial vehicle for the skills test or arrange for a rental through an approved third-party provider.
1. Pre-Trip Inspection: You will be required to perform a thorough inspection of your vehicle to ensure that it is safe to operate on the road. This test includes checking various components of the vehicle, such as the brakes, tires, lights, and coupling devices.
2. Basic Control Skills Test: You will be required to demonstrate your ability to control the vehicle in several different situations, including straight-line backing, offset backing, and parallel parking.
3. On-Road Driving Test: You will be required to drive the vehicle on public roads while being evaluated on your ability to safely operate the vehicle in traffic. The test will include driving in various traffic situations such as intersections, railroad crossings, and highway driving.
During the skills test, you will be evaluated by a licensed examiner who will score you based on your performance. To pass the skills test and obtain your Class A CDL license in Maryland, you must pass all three parts of the skills test with a minimum score of 80% on each section.
It's important to note that you must hold a valid commercial learner's permit (CLP) for at least 14 days before taking the skills test. Additionally, you must provide your own Class A commercial vehicle for the skills test or arrange for a rental through an approved third-party provider.
Yes, there are restrictions or limitations for drivers with a Class A CDL license in Maryland. Some of the restrictions or limitations include:
1. Automatic Transmission Restriction: If you took the skills test in a vehicle with an automatic transmission, you will have an "E" restriction on your license, which means you are only authorized to operate vehicles with automatic transmissions.
2. Air Brake Restriction: If you took the skills test in a vehicle without air brakes, you will have an "L" restriction on your license, which means you are not authorized to operate vehicles with air brakes.
3. Intrastate Only Restriction: If you only plan to operate commercial vehicles within Maryland, you will have an "O" restriction on your license, which means you are only authorized to operate commercial vehicles within the state.
4. Hazmat Endorsement Restriction: If you have a hazardous materials (H) endorsement on your license, there may be additional restrictions or limitations related to the transportation of hazardous materials.
It's important to note that there may be additional restrictions or limitations based on federal regulations and individual employer policies. It's always a good idea to check with your employer or potential employer for specific requirements and restrictions.
1. Automatic Transmission Restriction: If you took the skills test in a vehicle with an automatic transmission, you will have an "E" restriction on your license, which means you are only authorized to operate vehicles with automatic transmissions.
2. Air Brake Restriction: If you took the skills test in a vehicle without air brakes, you will have an "L" restriction on your license, which means you are not authorized to operate vehicles with air brakes.
3. Intrastate Only Restriction: If you only plan to operate commercial vehicles within Maryland, you will have an "O" restriction on your license, which means you are only authorized to operate commercial vehicles within the state.
4. Hazmat Endorsement Restriction: If you have a hazardous materials (H) endorsement on your license, there may be additional restrictions or limitations related to the transportation of hazardous materials.
It's important to note that there may be additional restrictions or limitations based on federal regulations and individual employer policies. It's always a good idea to check with your employer or potential employer for specific requirements and restrictions.
In Maryland, the Class A CDL written test is available in several languages other than English, including Spanish, French, Korean, and Chinese. However, it's important to note that the skills test for a Class A CDL license must be taken in English.
If you wish to take the written test in a language other than English, you must notify the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) when you schedule your appointment. You may be required to provide an interpreter if one is not available at the MVA.
It's important to note that even if you take the written test in a language other than English, you will still be required to demonstrate your ability to read and understand English during the skills test. The skills test examiner will provide instructions and communicate with you in English during the test.
If you wish to take the written test in a language other than English, you must notify the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) when you schedule your appointment. You may be required to provide an interpreter if one is not available at the MVA.
It's important to note that even if you take the written test in a language other than English, you will still be required to demonstrate your ability to read and understand English during the skills test. The skills test examiner will provide instructions and communicate with you in English during the test.
Yes, you can request accommodations for the Class A CDL written test in Maryland if you have a disability that may affect your ability to take the test. The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) provides reasonable accommodations to ensure that all individuals have an equal opportunity to obtain a driver's license.
To request accommodations, you must submit a Request for Accommodation form to the MVA. The form is available on the MVA website and can be submitted online or by mail.
The Request for Accommodation form must be completed by a qualified professional who can verify your disability and describe the accommodations you need. The MVA will review your request and determine if the requested accommodations are appropriate and necessary.
Examples of accommodations that may be provided include extended testing time, a separate testing room, a sign language interpreter, or an assistive technology device.
It's important to note that requests for accommodations must be submitted in advance of your scheduled test date to allow sufficient time for review and approval.
To request accommodations, you must submit a Request for Accommodation form to the MVA. The form is available on the MVA website and can be submitted online or by mail.
The Request for Accommodation form must be completed by a qualified professional who can verify your disability and describe the accommodations you need. The MVA will review your request and determine if the requested accommodations are appropriate and necessary.
Examples of accommodations that may be provided include extended testing time, a separate testing room, a sign language interpreter, or an assistive technology device.
It's important to note that requests for accommodations must be submitted in advance of your scheduled test date to allow sufficient time for review and approval.
Yes, if you fail the Class A CDL written test in Maryland, you can retake it. However, you must wait at least one day before you can retake the test.
If you fail the test, the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) will provide a score report that shows your strengths and weaknesses. This report can help you focus your studying and prepare for the retake.
It's important to note that there is a fee for each attempt at the written test. Before you retake the test, make sure to review the Maryland CDL Manual and study any areas where you struggled.
If you fail the test three times, you will be required to wait at least 7 days before you can attempt it again. If you fail the test six times, you will be required to wait at least 30 days before you can attempt it again.
Keep in mind that passing the written test is only one step in obtaining a Class A CDL license. You will also need to pass a skills test, which includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and a road test.
If you fail the test, the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) will provide a score report that shows your strengths and weaknesses. This report can help you focus your studying and prepare for the retake.
It's important to note that there is a fee for each attempt at the written test. Before you retake the test, make sure to review the Maryland CDL Manual and study any areas where you struggled.
If you fail the test three times, you will be required to wait at least 7 days before you can attempt it again. If you fail the test six times, you will be required to wait at least 30 days before you can attempt it again.
Keep in mind that passing the written test is only one step in obtaining a Class A CDL license. You will also need to pass a skills test, which includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and a road test.
