Double
This endorsement is required if the driver will pull two or three trailers. To receive this endorsement, applicants must pass a test. The test consists of 20 multiple choice questions. To pass, the applicant must answer at least 16 questions correctly. Each question has three or four possible answer choices. Test questions come from the Montana Commercial Driver License Manual. Questions come from chapters covering: Driving Safely, Air Brakes (if applicable), Combination Vehicles and Doubles and Triples. The Double/Triple endorsement can be used with the Class A CDL.
Number of Question
Passing Score
15. When traveling down a steep downgrade:
Explanation
On a downgrade, the braking effect of the engine should be your primary method of controlling speed. Shift down to a lower gear before starting down the hill and save the brakes for additional slowing or stopping that may be required by road or traffic conditions.
16. Convex mirrors:
Explanation
Many large vehicles have curved, convex mirrors. Convex mirrors allow drivers to see a wider area than flat mirrors. However, they also make objects seem smaller and farther away than they really are.
17. An Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) will:
Explanation
Anti-Lock Braking Systems (ABS) will help you to maintain control during hard braking. ABS will not necessarily shorten your stopping distance.
18. A driver should ensure that:
Explanation
It is essential to the safe operation of a CMV that cargo be properly loaded. Improper loading can affect handling and damage the vehicle. Additionally, improperly loaded materials can cause injury or death by falling off of the vehicle.
19. As part of the vehicle inspection test, a CDL applicant may be asked to:
Explanation
While testing for a CDL, an applicant will be required to go through a full vehicle inspection. The vehicle inspection test will include an engine oil level check.
20. If you are confronted with an aggressive driver, you should:
Explanation
The best thing to do when confronted with an aggressive driver is to get out of their way, if possible. Avoid making eye contact, which could further provoke the driver. Ignore any hand gestures made by the driver.
Frequently Asked Questions
To obtain a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement in Montana, follow these steps:
1. Obtain a Montana Commercial Driver's License (CDL): You must have a valid Montana CDL before you can apply for any endorsement. To obtain a CDL, you will need to pass a knowledge test and a skills test, which includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and an on-road driving test.
2. Study for the Doubles/Triples endorsement: Once you have your CDL, you can start studying for the Doubles/Triples endorsement test. You can find the study materials on the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) website.
3. Schedule a knowledge test appointment: Once you have studied and feel confident in your knowledge of doubles/triples driving, you can schedule an appointment to take the knowledge test at any Montana driver exam station.
4. Take the knowledge test: On the day of your appointment, bring your CDL and any other required documentation to the exam station. You will take the knowledge test on a computer and must score at least 80% to pass.
5. Pay the endorsement fee: If you pass the knowledge test, you will need to pay an endorsement fee to add it to your CDL.
6. Practice driving doubles/triples: Before taking your skills test, it is recommended that you practice driving doubles/triples with an experienced driver to become familiar with their handling characteristics.
7. Schedule a skills test appointment: Once you feel confident in your ability to drive doubles/triples, you can schedule an appointment to take the skills test at any Montana driver exam station.
8. Take the skills test: On the day of your appointment, bring your CDL with Doubles/Triples endorsement and any other required documentation to the exam station. During the skills test, you will demonstrate your ability to perform basic vehicle control tasks and safely drive doubles/triples on the road.
9. Receive your endorsement: If you pass the skills test, your Doubles/Triples endorsement will be added to your CDL and you will be able to legally operate double or triple trailers in Montana.
1. Obtain a Montana Commercial Driver's License (CDL): You must have a valid Montana CDL before you can apply for any endorsement. To obtain a CDL, you will need to pass a knowledge test and a skills test, which includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and an on-road driving test.
2. Study for the Doubles/Triples endorsement: Once you have your CDL, you can start studying for the Doubles/Triples endorsement test. You can find the study materials on the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) website.
3. Schedule a knowledge test appointment: Once you have studied and feel confident in your knowledge of doubles/triples driving, you can schedule an appointment to take the knowledge test at any Montana driver exam station.
4. Take the knowledge test: On the day of your appointment, bring your CDL and any other required documentation to the exam station. You will take the knowledge test on a computer and must score at least 80% to pass.
5. Pay the endorsement fee: If you pass the knowledge test, you will need to pay an endorsement fee to add it to your CDL.
6. Practice driving doubles/triples: Before taking your skills test, it is recommended that you practice driving doubles/triples with an experienced driver to become familiar with their handling characteristics.
7. Schedule a skills test appointment: Once you feel confident in your ability to drive doubles/triples, you can schedule an appointment to take the skills test at any Montana driver exam station.
8. Take the skills test: On the day of your appointment, bring your CDL with Doubles/Triples endorsement and any other required documentation to the exam station. During the skills test, you will demonstrate your ability to perform basic vehicle control tasks and safely drive doubles/triples on the road.
9. Receive your endorsement: If you pass the skills test, your Doubles/Triples endorsement will be added to your CDL and you will be able to legally operate double or triple trailers in Montana.
To get a CDL Doubles/Triples license in Montana, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to drive within Montana and 21 years old to drive across state lines.
2. Valid CDL: You must have a valid Montana CDL or be applying for a CDL at the same time.
3. Driving record: You must have a clean driving record and cannot have any serious traffic violations in the past two years.
4. Medical certificate: You must have a current medical certificate that indicates you are in good health and meet the minimum vision and hearing requirements.
5. Pass a knowledge test: You must pass a knowledge test that covers the information found in the Montana CDL manual specific to doubles/triples operation.
6. Pass a skills test: You must pass a skills test that includes both a pre-trip inspection and an on-road driving test in a vehicle with double or triple trailers.
7. Pay an endorsement fee: You must pay an endorsement fee to add the Doubles/Triples endorsement to your CDL.
It is important to note that some employers may have additional requirements beyond those listed above, such as additional training or experience with doubles/triples operation.
1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to drive within Montana and 21 years old to drive across state lines.
2. Valid CDL: You must have a valid Montana CDL or be applying for a CDL at the same time.
3. Driving record: You must have a clean driving record and cannot have any serious traffic violations in the past two years.
4. Medical certificate: You must have a current medical certificate that indicates you are in good health and meet the minimum vision and hearing requirements.
5. Pass a knowledge test: You must pass a knowledge test that covers the information found in the Montana CDL manual specific to doubles/triples operation.
6. Pass a skills test: You must pass a skills test that includes both a pre-trip inspection and an on-road driving test in a vehicle with double or triple trailers.
7. Pay an endorsement fee: You must pay an endorsement fee to add the Doubles/Triples endorsement to your CDL.
It is important to note that some employers may have additional requirements beyond those listed above, such as additional training or experience with doubles/triples operation.
Montana state law does not require specific experience or training to obtain a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement. However, it is highly recommended that you have some experience driving commercial vehicles before attempting to operate double or triple trailers.
Additionally, many employers require their drivers to have some experience with doubles/triples operation before hiring them, so it is a good idea to seek out training or hands-on experience if you plan on pursuing a career as a commercial driver.
The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) offers a variety of training programs and resources for commercial drivers, including online study materials, CDL training courses, and skills testing. These can help you prepare for the knowledge and skills tests required to obtain the Doubles/Triples endorsement and gain valuable experience in driving double or triple trailers.
Additionally, many employers require their drivers to have some experience with doubles/triples operation before hiring them, so it is a good idea to seek out training or hands-on experience if you plan on pursuing a career as a commercial driver.
The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) offers a variety of training programs and resources for commercial drivers, including online study materials, CDL training courses, and skills testing. These can help you prepare for the knowledge and skills tests required to obtain the Doubles/Triples endorsement and gain valuable experience in driving double or triple trailers.
Yes, to obtain a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement in Montana, you must pass a written knowledge test that covers the information found in the Montana CDL manual specific to doubles/triples operation. This test will include questions about coupling and uncoupling, inspecting double and triple trailers, and driving double or triple trailers.
The knowledge test for the Doubles/Triples endorsement is in addition to the other knowledge tests required for a CDL, including the general knowledge test, air brakes test (if applicable), and any other endorsements you may be seeking.
To prepare for the Doubles/Triples endorsement knowledge test, you can study the Montana CDL manual and take practice tests online. The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) also offers training courses and resources for commercial drivers that can help you prepare for the test.
The knowledge test for the Doubles/Triples endorsement is in addition to the other knowledge tests required for a CDL, including the general knowledge test, air brakes test (if applicable), and any other endorsements you may be seeking.
To prepare for the Doubles/Triples endorsement knowledge test, you can study the Montana CDL manual and take practice tests online. The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) also offers training courses and resources for commercial drivers that can help you prepare for the test.
In Montana, the CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement test includes a skills test that requires you to demonstrate specific maneuvers related to driving double or triple trailers. The skills test will usually take place on a closed course or at a designated testing location and will be administered by a state-certified examiner.
During the skills test, you will be required to demonstrate the following maneuvers:
1. Pre-trip inspection: You will need to perform a thorough inspection of the double or triple trailers to ensure that they are safe and in good working order.
2. Coupling and uncoupling: You will need to demonstrate your ability to properly couple and uncouple the double or triple trailers.
3. Straight line backing: You will need to back up the double or triple trailers in a straight line for a specified distance.
4. Off-set backing: You will need to back up the double or triple trailers into a designated parking spot at an angle.
5. Parallel parking: You will need to park the double or triple trailers in a designated spot parallel to the curb.
6. Driving on the road: You will need to demonstrate your ability to safely operate the double or triple trailers on the road, including shifting gears, making turns, and driving in traffic.
These maneuvers are designed to test your ability to safely operate double or triple trailers, which have unique handling characteristics and require additional skill and attention compared to single trailers. It is important to practice these maneuvers before taking the test and seek out training if necessary.
During the skills test, you will be required to demonstrate the following maneuvers:
1. Pre-trip inspection: You will need to perform a thorough inspection of the double or triple trailers to ensure that they are safe and in good working order.
2. Coupling and uncoupling: You will need to demonstrate your ability to properly couple and uncouple the double or triple trailers.
3. Straight line backing: You will need to back up the double or triple trailers in a straight line for a specified distance.
4. Off-set backing: You will need to back up the double or triple trailers into a designated parking spot at an angle.
5. Parallel parking: You will need to park the double or triple trailers in a designated spot parallel to the curb.
6. Driving on the road: You will need to demonstrate your ability to safely operate the double or triple trailers on the road, including shifting gears, making turns, and driving in traffic.
These maneuvers are designed to test your ability to safely operate double or triple trailers, which have unique handling characteristics and require additional skill and attention compared to single trailers. It is important to practice these maneuvers before taking the test and seek out training if necessary.
No, you cannot legally operate double or triple trailers without a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement in Montana. The Montana Commercial Driver License Manual states that a Doubles/Triples endorsement is required to operate a double or triple trailer combination.
The endorsement is required because driving double or triple trailers requires additional skill and attention compared to single trailers. Double and triple trailers have unique handling characteristics, and the added length and weight of the combination requires special driving techniques and safety considerations.
Driving without the proper endorsement can result in serious consequences, including fines, license suspension or revocation, and loss of employment. It is important to obtain the proper CDL endorsements and training before operating any commercial vehicle combination.
The endorsement is required because driving double or triple trailers requires additional skill and attention compared to single trailers. Double and triple trailers have unique handling characteristics, and the added length and weight of the combination requires special driving techniques and safety considerations.
Driving without the proper endorsement can result in serious consequences, including fines, license suspension or revocation, and loss of employment. It is important to obtain the proper CDL endorsements and training before operating any commercial vehicle combination.
In Montana, you can add the CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement to your existing CDL license. You will need to meet the following requirements:
1. Hold a valid Montana CDL license.
2. Pass the CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement knowledge test.
3. Pass the CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement skills test.
To add the endorsement to your CDL license, you will need to visit a Montana Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) exam station and provide the necessary documentation and fees. You will also need to provide proof of your identity, residency, and Social Security number.
Once you have passed both the knowledge and skills tests and provided all necessary documentation, the MVD will add the Doubles/Triples endorsement to your CDL license. It is important to note that you must renew your Montana CDL license with the Doubles/Triples endorsement every four years.
1. Hold a valid Montana CDL license.
2. Pass the CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement knowledge test.
3. Pass the CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement skills test.
To add the endorsement to your CDL license, you will need to visit a Montana Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) exam station and provide the necessary documentation and fees. You will also need to provide proof of your identity, residency, and Social Security number.
Once you have passed both the knowledge and skills tests and provided all necessary documentation, the MVD will add the Doubles/Triples endorsement to your CDL license. It is important to note that you must renew your Montana CDL license with the Doubles/Triples endorsement every four years.
Yes, there are restrictions and limitations for drivers with a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement in Montana. Here are some of the key restrictions and limitations:
1. You can only drive double or triple trailer combinations if you have the Doubles/Triples endorsement on your CDL license.
2. You can only operate double or triple trailers that meet Montana's size and weight regulations.
3. You cannot drive a double or triple trailer combination on roads that are not approved for these types of vehicles.
4. You must stop at all railroad crossings when driving a double or triple trailer combination.
5. You must maintain a greater following distance when driving a double or triple trailer combination compared to a single trailer.
It is important to remember that driving a double or triple trailer combination requires additional skill and attention compared to driving a single trailer. Always follow the rules and regulations for operating these vehicles, and take extra precautions to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road.
1. You can only drive double or triple trailer combinations if you have the Doubles/Triples endorsement on your CDL license.
2. You can only operate double or triple trailers that meet Montana's size and weight regulations.
3. You cannot drive a double or triple trailer combination on roads that are not approved for these types of vehicles.
4. You must stop at all railroad crossings when driving a double or triple trailer combination.
5. You must maintain a greater following distance when driving a double or triple trailer combination compared to a single trailer.
It is important to remember that driving a double or triple trailer combination requires additional skill and attention compared to driving a single trailer. Always follow the rules and regulations for operating these vehicles, and take extra precautions to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road.
In Montana, the maximum weight and length limits for double/triple trailers with a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement are as follows:
1. Maximum weight limit for a double trailer is 34,000 pounds per trailer, or a total of 68,000 pounds.
2. Maximum weight limit for a triple trailer is 28,000 pounds per trailer, or a total of 84,000 pounds.
3. Maximum length for a double trailer is 28 feet per trailer, or a total of 56 feet.
4. Maximum length for a triple trailer is 28 feet per trailer, or a total of 84 feet.
It's important to note that these weight and length limits apply only to Montana state highways and interstates. If you plan to drive through other states with double/triple trailers, you must follow the weight and length limits set by those states. Always check the regulations of the states you will be driving through before starting your trip to ensure you are in compliance with their laws.
1. Maximum weight limit for a double trailer is 34,000 pounds per trailer, or a total of 68,000 pounds.
2. Maximum weight limit for a triple trailer is 28,000 pounds per trailer, or a total of 84,000 pounds.
3. Maximum length for a double trailer is 28 feet per trailer, or a total of 56 feet.
4. Maximum length for a triple trailer is 28 feet per trailer, or a total of 84 feet.
It's important to note that these weight and length limits apply only to Montana state highways and interstates. If you plan to drive through other states with double/triple trailers, you must follow the weight and length limits set by those states. Always check the regulations of the states you will be driving through before starting your trip to ensure you are in compliance with their laws.
Yes, there are specific safety considerations and regulations that drivers with a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement must follow when driving double/triple trailers in Montana. Here are some of the key safety considerations:
1. Maintaining a safe following distance: Drivers of double/triple trailers must maintain a greater following distance between their vehicle and the one ahead of them compared to drivers operating a single trailer. This allows for more time to react to sudden stops or other hazards on the road.
2. Slower speeds: Double/triple trailers have a higher risk of tipping over, especially when driving at high speeds or taking sharp turns. Drivers should always drive at an appropriate speed, taking into account the weight and length of their vehicle.
3. Proper braking: Double/triple trailers require more distance to stop compared to single trailers due to their weight and length. Drivers should always ensure their brakes are properly adjusted and in good condition.
4. Railroad crossings: When approaching a railroad crossing, drivers of double/triple trailers must stop and ensure that there is enough room on the other side of the tracks for their entire vehicle before proceeding.
5. Proper loading: Double/triple trailers must be loaded properly to ensure weight distribution is even and cargo is secured. This helps prevent tipping, loss of control, or other accidents on the road.
It's important for drivers with a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement to be aware of these safety considerations and regulations and follow them at all times in order to maintain safety on the road for themselves and others.
1. Maintaining a safe following distance: Drivers of double/triple trailers must maintain a greater following distance between their vehicle and the one ahead of them compared to drivers operating a single trailer. This allows for more time to react to sudden stops or other hazards on the road.
2. Slower speeds: Double/triple trailers have a higher risk of tipping over, especially when driving at high speeds or taking sharp turns. Drivers should always drive at an appropriate speed, taking into account the weight and length of their vehicle.
3. Proper braking: Double/triple trailers require more distance to stop compared to single trailers due to their weight and length. Drivers should always ensure their brakes are properly adjusted and in good condition.
4. Railroad crossings: When approaching a railroad crossing, drivers of double/triple trailers must stop and ensure that there is enough room on the other side of the tracks for their entire vehicle before proceeding.
5. Proper loading: Double/triple trailers must be loaded properly to ensure weight distribution is even and cargo is secured. This helps prevent tipping, loss of control, or other accidents on the road.
It's important for drivers with a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement to be aware of these safety considerations and regulations and follow them at all times in order to maintain safety on the road for themselves and others.
