Knowledge Test Class B
This license is required for driving a single vehicle with a GVWR of more than 26,001 pounds, and a trailer not to exceed 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight rating, or a vehicle designed to transport 24 or more people (including the driver). To receive this license, applicants must pass a 50-question test. To pass, applicants must answer 40 questions correctly. Each question has three possible answer choices. Test questions come from the Rhode Island 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 B CDL are: Hazardous materials, Tank, Passenger, HazMat and Tank, Air Brakes and School bus.
Number of Question
Passing Score
8. What does an air compressor do in an air brake system?
Explanation
In an air brake system, the air compressor pumps air into the air storage tanks. The air compressor is controlled by the air compressor governor.
9. The rods in S-cam brakes move the slack adjusters when air pressure is added to the brake chambers. This air pressure is added to the chambers when the driver:
Explanation
When pressing the brake pedal in a vehicle with S-cam brakes, air will enter the brake chambers. The added air pressure will push out the rods and move slack adjusters, twisting the brake camshafts.
10. A fatigued driver:
Explanation
Fatigued drivers are slower to see or react to hazards than drivers who are not fatigued. Drivers are impaired in their ability to make critical decisions when they are driving drowsy.
11. On a slippery road, a driver should:
Explanation
Under slippery conditions, you should drive slowly and smoothly. Make turns as gently as possible and do not pass other vehicles unless you have to.
12. If driving on a surface with poor traction, a driver should accelerate slowly:
Explanation
To avoid a loss of control, you should accelerate slowly when driving in poor-traction conditions, such as rain or snow.
13. Your horn should be used to:
Explanation
Your vehicle's horn is a tool to warn others of your presence. Because the horn may create danger by startling other drivers, you should use it only if necessary.
14. When the spring brakes are on, you should never:
Explanation
Never push down the brake pedal while the spring brakes are activated. The combined force of springs and air pressure could damage the brakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
A Class B CDL (Commercial Driver's License) is a license that allows drivers to operate a single vehicle with a weight of 26,001 pounds or more, or a combination of vehicles that do not exceed a total weight of 26,001 pounds. This license is required for individuals who drive vehicles such as delivery trucks, buses, and tow trucks. In Rhode Island, obtaining a Class B CDL requires passing both a written and skills test, as well as meeting other state requirements such as age and medical certification.
With a Class B CDL license in Rhode Island, you can operate a single vehicle with a weight of 26,001 pounds or more, or a combination of vehicles in which the towed vehicle(s) has a weight of less than 10,000 pounds. Examples of vehicles that you can operate with a Class B CDL include:
- Straight trucks (box trucks, dump trucks, etc.) that weigh over 26,001 pounds
- Large buses (city buses, school buses) that weigh over 26,001 pounds
- Segmental buses (such as airport shuttles) that weigh over 26,001 pounds
- Small trailers or vehicles weighing less than 10,000 pounds that are towed behind the Class B vehicle
It's important to note that you must have the appropriate endorsements on your CDL if you are driving certain types of vehicles such as those carrying hazardous materials or passengers.
- Straight trucks (box trucks, dump trucks, etc.) that weigh over 26,001 pounds
- Large buses (city buses, school buses) that weigh over 26,001 pounds
- Segmental buses (such as airport shuttles) that weigh over 26,001 pounds
- Small trailers or vehicles weighing less than 10,000 pounds that are towed behind the Class B vehicle
It's important to note that you must have the appropriate endorsements on your CDL if you are driving certain types of vehicles such as those carrying hazardous materials or passengers.
To obtain a Class B CDL license in Rhode Island, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a Class B CDL license. However, if you plan to drive across state lines, you must be at least 21 years old.
2. Valid driver's license: You must have a valid driver's license issued by Rhode Island or another state.
3. Medical certification: You must pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical examination and obtain a Medical Examiner's Certificate to prove that you are physically qualified to operate a commercial vehicle.
4. Knowledge tests: You must pass the written knowledge tests for the General Knowledge and Air Brakes endorsements.
5. Skills test: You must pass a three-part skills test consisting of a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving test in the type of commercial vehicle that you plan to operate.
6. Background check: You will be subject to a background check as part of the application process.
7. Fees: You will need to pay the appropriate fees for obtaining your Class B CDL license.
It's important to note that obtaining a Class B CDL license can involve additional requirements depending on the type of vehicle you plan to operate, such as obtaining additional endorsements for driving vehicles carrying hazardous materials or passengers.
1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a Class B CDL license. However, if you plan to drive across state lines, you must be at least 21 years old.
2. Valid driver's license: You must have a valid driver's license issued by Rhode Island or another state.
3. Medical certification: You must pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical examination and obtain a Medical Examiner's Certificate to prove that you are physically qualified to operate a commercial vehicle.
4. Knowledge tests: You must pass the written knowledge tests for the General Knowledge and Air Brakes endorsements.
5. Skills test: You must pass a three-part skills test consisting of a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving test in the type of commercial vehicle that you plan to operate.
6. Background check: You will be subject to a background check as part of the application process.
7. Fees: You will need to pay the appropriate fees for obtaining your Class B CDL license.
It's important to note that obtaining a Class B CDL license can involve additional requirements depending on the type of vehicle you plan to operate, such as obtaining additional endorsements for driving vehicles carrying hazardous materials or passengers.
In Rhode Island, the minimum age requirement to obtain a Class B CDL license is 18 years old. However, if you plan to operate a commercial vehicle across state lines, you must be at least 21 years old as per federal regulations. It's important to note that some employers may have a higher age requirement for their drivers. Additionally, if you are under the age of 21, you may be restricted in the types of commercial vehicles you can operate and the distance you can drive.
In Rhode Island, you may need to obtain additional endorsements to your Class B CDL license depending on the type of vehicle you plan to operate and the cargo you plan to haul. The most common endorsements for a Class B CDL license are:
1. Passenger endorsement (P): Required if you plan to operate a vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
2. School bus endorsement (S): Required if you plan to operate a school bus.
3. Tanker endorsement (T): Required if you plan to haul any liquid or gaseous materials in bulk containers with a capacity of 1,000 gallons or more.
4. Hazardous materials endorsement (H): Required if you plan to transport hazardous materials that require placards on the vehicle.
5. Combination of tank vehicle and hazardous materials endorsements (X): Required if you plan to haul both hazardous materials and liquids or gases in bulk containers.
To obtain any of these endorsements, you must pass additional written knowledge tests and in some cases, additional skills tests. It's important to note that some employers may require additional endorsements or qualifications beyond the minimum state and federal requirements.
1. Passenger endorsement (P): Required if you plan to operate a vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
2. School bus endorsement (S): Required if you plan to operate a school bus.
3. Tanker endorsement (T): Required if you plan to haul any liquid or gaseous materials in bulk containers with a capacity of 1,000 gallons or more.
4. Hazardous materials endorsement (H): Required if you plan to transport hazardous materials that require placards on the vehicle.
5. Combination of tank vehicle and hazardous materials endorsements (X): Required if you plan to haul both hazardous materials and liquids or gases in bulk containers.
To obtain any of these endorsements, you must pass additional written knowledge tests and in some cases, additional skills tests. It's important to note that some employers may require additional endorsements or qualifications beyond the minimum state and federal requirements.
The skills test for a Class B CDL license in Rhode Island consists of three parts:
1. Pre-trip Inspection: You will be required to perform a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle to ensure that it is safe and in proper working order. This includes checking the vehicle's engine compartment, cab, brakes, tires, lights, and other critical components.
2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be required to demonstrate your ability to control the vehicle in various situations such as backing up, turning, shifting gears, and parking. This test is usually conducted in a controlled environment such as a driving range.
3. Road Test: You will be required to demonstrate your ability to operate the vehicle safely and effectively on the road. This includes driving in traffic, making turns, changing lanes, navigating intersections, and responding to various road conditions.
During the skills test, you will be evaluated on your ability to perform these tasks safely and effectively according to state and federal regulations. It's important to note that the skills test must be taken in a vehicle that is representative of the type of vehicle you plan to operate with your Class B CDL license.
1. Pre-trip Inspection: You will be required to perform a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle to ensure that it is safe and in proper working order. This includes checking the vehicle's engine compartment, cab, brakes, tires, lights, and other critical components.
2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be required to demonstrate your ability to control the vehicle in various situations such as backing up, turning, shifting gears, and parking. This test is usually conducted in a controlled environment such as a driving range.
3. Road Test: You will be required to demonstrate your ability to operate the vehicle safely and effectively on the road. This includes driving in traffic, making turns, changing lanes, navigating intersections, and responding to various road conditions.
During the skills test, you will be evaluated on your ability to perform these tasks safely and effectively according to state and federal regulations. It's important to note that the skills test must be taken in a vehicle that is representative of the type of vehicle you plan to operate with your Class B CDL license.
Yes, there are restrictions and limitations for drivers with a Class B CDL license in Rhode Island. Some of the most important restrictions and limitations are:
1. Vehicle weight: Drivers with a Class B CDL license are limited to operating vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more.
2. Trailer weight: Drivers with a Class B CDL license may tow a trailer with a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or less.
3. Passenger transport: Drivers with a Class B CDL license may transport up to 16 passengers, including the driver.
4. Hazardous materials: Drivers with a Class B CDL license may transport hazardous materials, but only if they have obtained the necessary endorsements and have met all federal and state requirements.
5. Interstate vs. intrastate commerce: Depending on the type of commerce you plan to engage in (interstate or intrastate), there may be additional restrictions or requirements that apply to your Class B CDL license.
It's important to note that these restrictions and limitations are in place to ensure the safety of both the driver and others on the road. Violating these restrictions can result in fines, penalties, and even the suspension or revocation of your CDL license.
1. Vehicle weight: Drivers with a Class B CDL license are limited to operating vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more.
2. Trailer weight: Drivers with a Class B CDL license may tow a trailer with a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or less.
3. Passenger transport: Drivers with a Class B CDL license may transport up to 16 passengers, including the driver.
4. Hazardous materials: Drivers with a Class B CDL license may transport hazardous materials, but only if they have obtained the necessary endorsements and have met all federal and state requirements.
5. Interstate vs. intrastate commerce: Depending on the type of commerce you plan to engage in (interstate or intrastate), there may be additional restrictions or requirements that apply to your Class B CDL license.
It's important to note that these restrictions and limitations are in place to ensure the safety of both the driver and others on the road. Violating these restrictions can result in fines, penalties, and even the suspension or revocation of your CDL license.
Yes, you may be able to take the Class B CDL written test in a language other than English in Rhode Island. The Rhode Island DMV offers the written test in several languages, including Spanish, Portuguese, and French. However, it's important to note that the skills test (the driving portion of the CDL test) must be taken in English.
To take the written test in a language other than English, you must indicate your preferred language when you apply for your CDL permit. You will then be given a copy of the CDL manual in your preferred language to study for the test. When you are ready to take the test, you will need to schedule an appointment at a DMV office that offers the test in your preferred language.
It's important to note that even if you take the written test in a language other than English, you will still need to have a good understanding of English to operate a commercial vehicle safely. This is because many road signs and other critical information related to driving are presented in English in the United States.
To take the written test in a language other than English, you must indicate your preferred language when you apply for your CDL permit. You will then be given a copy of the CDL manual in your preferred language to study for the test. When you are ready to take the test, you will need to schedule an appointment at a DMV office that offers the test in your preferred language.
It's important to note that even if you take the written test in a language other than English, you will still need to have a good understanding of English to operate a commercial vehicle safely. This is because many road signs and other critical information related to driving are presented in English in the United States.
Yes, you can request accommodations for the Class B CDL written test in Rhode Island due to a disability. The Rhode Island DMV provides reasonable accommodations to ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal access to all of its programs and services, including the CDL test.
To request accommodations, you will need to fill out a Request for Reasonable Accommodation form and submit it to the DMV along with documentation that supports your request. Examples of accommodations that may be provided include:
1. Extended time to complete the test
2. A reader or sign language interpreter
3. A separate testing room
4. A large-print or Braille CDL manual
5. Use of a computer or other assistive technology
The DMV will review your request and let you know if your accommodation request has been approved. It's important to note that you must make your request for accommodations in advance of your scheduled test date to allow time for the DMV to make the necessary arrangements.
If you have any questions or concerns about requesting accommodations for the CDL test, you can contact the Rhode Island DMV's Customer Service Center for assistance.
To request accommodations, you will need to fill out a Request for Reasonable Accommodation form and submit it to the DMV along with documentation that supports your request. Examples of accommodations that may be provided include:
1. Extended time to complete the test
2. A reader or sign language interpreter
3. A separate testing room
4. A large-print or Braille CDL manual
5. Use of a computer or other assistive technology
The DMV will review your request and let you know if your accommodation request has been approved. It's important to note that you must make your request for accommodations in advance of your scheduled test date to allow time for the DMV to make the necessary arrangements.
If you have any questions or concerns about requesting accommodations for the CDL test, you can contact the Rhode Island DMV's Customer Service Center for assistance.
If you fail the Class B CDL written test in Rhode Island, you may retake the test. However, you will need to wait at least one day before you can retake the test. Additionally, there is a fee for each attempt at the written test.
It's important to note that you are only allowed a certain number of attempts to pass the written test before you will need to start the application process over again. In Rhode Island, if you fail the written test three times, you will need to begin the entire CDL application process again, which includes submitting a new application, providing documentation, and paying all applicable fees.
To increase your chances of passing the written test on your first attempt, it's important to study and review the CDL manual thoroughly. You can also take practice tests online or through a CDL training program to help prepare for the exam.
It's important to note that you are only allowed a certain number of attempts to pass the written test before you will need to start the application process over again. In Rhode Island, if you fail the written test three times, you will need to begin the entire CDL application process again, which includes submitting a new application, providing documentation, and paying all applicable fees.
To increase your chances of passing the written test on your first attempt, it's important to study and review the CDL manual thoroughly. You can also take practice tests online or through a CDL training program to help prepare for the exam.
