Combination
All applicants who are applying for a Class A CDL should be prepared to take the Combination test. This test covers information found in Section 6 of the Ohio Commercial Driver License Manual. Section 6 provides the information needed to safely operate tractor-trailers, doubles, triples, and straight trucks with trailers. The test is made up of 20 multiple-choice questions, and applicants will need to correctly answer a minimum of 16 questions to pass. The Combination test is not a replacement for the Double/Triple endorsement test.
Number of Question
Passing Score
1. Operating combination vehicles usually requires ____ operating single vehicles.
Explanation
Combination vehicles are usually heavier and longer than single combination vehicles. Operating a combination vehicle requires a higher level of driving skill than operating a single commercial vehicle.
2. During a trip, landing gear should be:
Explanation
Landing gear, or trailer supports, should always be completely raised before a vehicle is driven. Landing gear that is not entirely raised could catch on railroad tracks or other hazards on the roadway.
3. In a double or triple combination, the ____ trailer should be directly behind the cab.
Explanation
When positioning trailers in a combination, the most heavily-loaded trailer should be the closest to the tractor. The lightest trailer should be positioned in the rear.
4. Trailers with low underneath clearance can present challenges when driving over:
Explanation
Railroad-highway crossings may be difficult to cross when pulling a trailer with a low underneath clearance. In particular, both low-slung units and single-axle tractors pulling long trailers are especially challenging to drive over raised crossings.
5. Maintain a following distance of at least ____ for every 10 feet of your vehicle if you are traveling at a speed under 40 mph.
Explanation
At speeds below 40 mph, you should allow at least one second of following distance for every 10 feet of your vehicle. Follow the same formula when traveling at faster speeds, then add one additional second to your following distance. Remember that larger vehicles require more space to stop than smaller vehicles.
6. During a trip, the ____ should be open.
Explanation
When starting a trip, be sure that all shut-off valves are in the open position, except for the last valves on the rear trailer. It is important that air reaches the brakes on all trailers and that it is not able to escape from the back of the vehicle.
7. The trailer hand valve should be used:
Explanation
