Special Requirements
All CDL applicants in Texas must pass a Commercial Rules test before they will be permitted to take any other CDL application tests. The Commercial Rules test is based on the information found in Section 14 of the Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers Handbook. This section covers special requirements for CMV drivers in the state of Texas, including lighting requirements, size and weight restrictions, and rules to enhance a driver’s safety. The test is made up of 20 multiple-choice questions, and applicants will need to correctly answer a minimum of 16 questions to pass.
Number of Question
Passing Score
1. In general, when approaching a railroad grade crossing, a school bus driver should:
Explanation
Generally, school buses carrying passengers should stop before passing over railroad grade crossings. The driver should ensure there are no trains coming from either direction before continuing. However, if an officer directs the driver to continue over the tracks without stopping, the driver should follow the officer's direction.
2. Passing a motorcycle while driving a semitrailer:
Explanation
If you are operating a large vehicle, be especially cautious when passing a motorcycle or bicycle. Since they are much lighter than other vehicles, they're more prone to be negatively affected by the wind created by large vehicles.
3. If you need to enter a driveway to park, it is a good idea to:
Explanation
If it is necessary to park in a driveway, you should enter the driveway by backing into the space. This way, when leaving the driveway, you can pull forward and clearly see where you are going.
4. If a semitrailer must be parked on the shoulder of a two-way roadway and flags are being used in the place of lighted lamps, the flags should be placed:
Explanation
If lighted lamps are not required to be used during an emergency stop, they should be replaced by two red flags. If a semitrailer must be parked on the shoulder of a two-way roadway and flags are being used in the place of lighted lamps, the flags should be placed 100 feet in front of and behind the vehicle.
5. If traveling down a hill, a commercial motor vehicle:
Explanation
When driving a commercial motor vehicle down a hill, you should control the speed by switching into a low gear and supplementing with engine braking. It would be unlawful to coast the vehicle down the grade.
6. On trucks, truck tractors, semitrailers, pole trailers, and buses that are at least 80 inches in width, reflectors should be placed between ____ from the ground.
Explanation
On trucks, truck tractors, semitrailers, pole trailers, and buses that are at least 80 inches in width, reflectors should be placed between 24 and 60 inches from the ground. Be sure to know the reflector requirements for your specific vehicle.
7. A special permit will be required if you wish to drive a vehicle:
Explanation
