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 possible answer choices. Test questions come from the Virginia 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
8. If your brakes fail while you are traveling downhill and there is no available escape ramp, you should:
Explanation
If your brakes fail while you are driving downhill, you should first look for an escape ramp to stop your vehicle. If no ramp is available, you should look for an alternative place to bring your vehicle to a stop, such as an open field or side road that flattens out or turns uphill.
9. When leaving your vehicle:
Explanation
Parking brakes should be used whenever you park. If necessary, chock your wheels.
10. If the coolant temperature gauge goes above the highest safe temperature, you should:
Explanation
If the coolant temperature gauge goes above the highest safe temperature, you should stop driving as soon as possible and try to figure out what is wrong. There could be an issue in your vehicle that could lead to engine failure and possibly a fire.
11. If planning to change lanes, your mirrors should:
Explanation
While regular mirror checks should be part of your normal scanning routine, be especially sure to check your mirrors when changing lanes.
12. Of the following, which is not a recommended way to spot potential signs of trouble?
Explanation
During a trip, you should regularly make checks to ensure that your vehicle is operating properly. Check the instrument panel and gauges; look at your mirrors; and examine the tires, cargo, and lights. Use all of your senses and be alert for anything that could be an early indication of trouble.
13. Heights posted at bridges:
Explanation
Never assume that the posted height on a bridge or other overhead object is correct. Even if it was accurate when posted, things may have changed that affect clearance, either permanently (such as a repaving of the road) or temporarily (such as packed snow on the road).
14. Black ice is:
Explanation
Black ice is a layer of ice that is thin and clear enough for the road to be visible through it. The surface will look like a wet road. Always be alert to black ice if the road looks wet when the temperature is below freezing.
Frequently Asked Questions
To obtain a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement in Virginia, you will need to follow these steps:
1. Meet the eligibility requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old (21 for interstate driving)
- Hold a valid Virginia commercial driver's license (CDL)
- Have a good driving record
- Pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam
2. Study the Virginia CDL Driver's Manual and the Doubles/Triples section thoroughly.
3. Schedule an appointment with your local Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office to take the Doubles/Triples endorsement knowledge test.
4. Pass the Doubles/Triples endorsement knowledge test with a score of 80% or higher.
5. Pay the required fee for the endorsement.
6. If you pass the knowledge test, you can then take the skills test in a vehicle with double or triple trailers attached.
7. Once you pass the skills test, the DMV will issue you a CDL with a Doubles/Triples endorsement.
It is important to note that additional fees may apply for taking the skills test, and that you must bring your own vehicle for the test, along with proof of insurance and registration.
1. Meet the eligibility requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old (21 for interstate driving)
- Hold a valid Virginia commercial driver's license (CDL)
- Have a good driving record
- Pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam
2. Study the Virginia CDL Driver's Manual and the Doubles/Triples section thoroughly.
3. Schedule an appointment with your local Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office to take the Doubles/Triples endorsement knowledge test.
4. Pass the Doubles/Triples endorsement knowledge test with a score of 80% or higher.
5. Pay the required fee for the endorsement.
6. If you pass the knowledge test, you can then take the skills test in a vehicle with double or triple trailers attached.
7. Once you pass the skills test, the DMV will issue you a CDL with a Doubles/Triples endorsement.
It is important to note that additional fees may apply for taking the skills test, and that you must bring your own vehicle for the test, along with proof of insurance and registration.
To obtain a CDL Doubles/Triples license in Virginia, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to drive within Virginia, and 21 years old to drive outside of Virginia or transport hazardous materials.
2. Valid driver’s license: You must have a valid Virginia driver’s license.
3. Medical certification: You must have a valid Medical Examiner's Certificate that shows you meet the physical requirements for driving a commercial motor vehicle.
4. Hold a valid CDL: You must hold a valid Virginia commercial driver's license (CDL), or be applying for a CDL at the same time as the Doubles/Triples endorsement.
5. Pass the Doubles/Triples knowledge test: You must pass the Doubles/Triples endorsement knowledge test with a score of 80% or higher.
6. Pass the Doubles/Triples skills test: Once you pass the knowledge test, you must pass the skills test in a vehicle with double or triple trailers attached.
7. Pay the required fees for the endorsement and any other applicable fees for taking the skills test.
It is important to note that you must have significant experience driving commercial vehicles before attempting to obtain a Doubles/Triples endorsement, as it is considered an advanced skill and requires specialized training. Additionally, passing these tests does not guarantee employment as a commercial driver, as many employers have their own hiring requirements and training programs.
1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to drive within Virginia, and 21 years old to drive outside of Virginia or transport hazardous materials.
2. Valid driver’s license: You must have a valid Virginia driver’s license.
3. Medical certification: You must have a valid Medical Examiner's Certificate that shows you meet the physical requirements for driving a commercial motor vehicle.
4. Hold a valid CDL: You must hold a valid Virginia commercial driver's license (CDL), or be applying for a CDL at the same time as the Doubles/Triples endorsement.
5. Pass the Doubles/Triples knowledge test: You must pass the Doubles/Triples endorsement knowledge test with a score of 80% or higher.
6. Pass the Doubles/Triples skills test: Once you pass the knowledge test, you must pass the skills test in a vehicle with double or triple trailers attached.
7. Pay the required fees for the endorsement and any other applicable fees for taking the skills test.
It is important to note that you must have significant experience driving commercial vehicles before attempting to obtain a Doubles/Triples endorsement, as it is considered an advanced skill and requires specialized training. Additionally, passing these tests does not guarantee employment as a commercial driver, as many employers have their own hiring requirements and training programs.
Yes, you need to have specific experience and training to obtain a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement in Virginia.
According to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), you must have at least one year of experience driving a commercial motor vehicle with a standard trailer before you can apply for the Doubles/Triples endorsement. Additionally, it is recommended that you complete a specialized training program that includes instruction on driving double or triple trailers before attempting to take the endorsement exam.
The training program should cover the following topics:
- Coupling and uncoupling double or triple trailers
- Inspecting double or triple trailers
- Driving techniques specific to double or triple trailers, such as turning, backing up, and maintaining control while driving on hills or curves
- Emergency maneuvers
It is important to note that the DMV may require additional training or experience beyond what is listed above, depending on your specific situation or the type of endorsement you are seeking. Therefore, it is recommended that you contact your local DMV office for more information on the requirements for obtaining a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement in Virginia.
According to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), you must have at least one year of experience driving a commercial motor vehicle with a standard trailer before you can apply for the Doubles/Triples endorsement. Additionally, it is recommended that you complete a specialized training program that includes instruction on driving double or triple trailers before attempting to take the endorsement exam.
The training program should cover the following topics:
- Coupling and uncoupling double or triple trailers
- Inspecting double or triple trailers
- Driving techniques specific to double or triple trailers, such as turning, backing up, and maintaining control while driving on hills or curves
- Emergency maneuvers
It is important to note that the DMV may require additional training or experience beyond what is listed above, depending on your specific situation or the type of endorsement you are seeking. Therefore, it is recommended that you contact your local DMV office for more information on the requirements for obtaining a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement in Virginia.
Yes, there is an additional written test that you must take to obtain a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement in Virginia. In addition to passing the general knowledge test and any other tests required for your specific type of commercial vehicle, you must also pass the Doubles/Triples endorsement knowledge test. This test covers the specific rules and regulations related to driving double or triple trailers, such as:
- Coupling and uncoupling procedures
- Inspection requirements
- Safe driving practices
- Weight distribution and balance
- Emergency procedures
To pass the Doubles/Triples endorsement knowledge test in Virginia, you must answer at least 16 out of 20 questions correctly. You can prepare for the test by studying the Virginia Commercial Driver's Manual, which includes information on all aspects of driving commercial vehicles, including double or triple trailers.
It is important to note that passing the written test alone does not qualify you for a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement. You must also pass a skills test in a vehicle with double or triple trailers attached to demonstrate your ability to safely operate these vehicles.
- Coupling and uncoupling procedures
- Inspection requirements
- Safe driving practices
- Weight distribution and balance
- Emergency procedures
To pass the Doubles/Triples endorsement knowledge test in Virginia, you must answer at least 16 out of 20 questions correctly. You can prepare for the test by studying the Virginia Commercial Driver's Manual, which includes information on all aspects of driving commercial vehicles, including double or triple trailers.
It is important to note that passing the written test alone does not qualify you for a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement. You must also pass a skills test in a vehicle with double or triple trailers attached to demonstrate your ability to safely operate these vehicles.
To obtain a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement in Virginia, you must pass a skills test that includes specific maneuvers and skills. The skills test consists of three parts: the pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
During the basic vehicle control portion of the test, you will be required to demonstrate your ability to safely operate a vehicle with double or triple trailers in a closed course setting. This will include the following maneuvers:
- Straight line backing
- Offset backing
- Parallel parking
During the on-road driving portion of the test, you will be evaluated on your ability to safely operate a vehicle with double or triple trailers on public roads. You will need to demonstrate your ability to complete the following maneuvers:
- Left and right turns
- Lane changes
- Merging onto highways
- Driving on hills and curves
- Intersections and railway crossings
It is important to note that during the test, you must follow all traffic laws and regulations and demonstrate safe driving practices at all times. You will be evaluated on your ability to properly control your vehicle, communicate with other drivers, and respond appropriately to traffic situations.
If you successfully pass the skills test and the written exam for the Doubles/Triples endorsement, you will be issued a CDL with the endorsement, allowing you to legally operate double or triple trailers in Virginia.
During the basic vehicle control portion of the test, you will be required to demonstrate your ability to safely operate a vehicle with double or triple trailers in a closed course setting. This will include the following maneuvers:
- Straight line backing
- Offset backing
- Parallel parking
During the on-road driving portion of the test, you will be evaluated on your ability to safely operate a vehicle with double or triple trailers on public roads. You will need to demonstrate your ability to complete the following maneuvers:
- Left and right turns
- Lane changes
- Merging onto highways
- Driving on hills and curves
- Intersections and railway crossings
It is important to note that during the test, you must follow all traffic laws and regulations and demonstrate safe driving practices at all times. You will be evaluated on your ability to properly control your vehicle, communicate with other drivers, and respond appropriately to traffic situations.
If you successfully pass the skills test and the written exam for the Doubles/Triples endorsement, you will be issued a CDL with the endorsement, allowing you to legally operate double or triple trailers in Virginia.
No, you cannot legally operate double or triple trailers without a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement in Virginia. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires any driver who operates a commercial vehicle with double or triple trailers to have the Doubles/Triples endorsement on their CDL.
In Virginia, if you are caught operating a commercial vehicle with double or triple trailers without the proper endorsement on your CDL, you could face fines, license suspension or revocation, and other penalties. Additionally, your employer could also face fines and other penalties for allowing an unqualified driver to operate a commercial vehicle.
It is important to obtain the proper endorsement on your CDL before operating double or triple trailers to ensure that you are in compliance with FMCSA regulations and Virginia state law. This will help you avoid legal issues and ensure that you are qualified to safely operate these vehicles.
In Virginia, if you are caught operating a commercial vehicle with double or triple trailers without the proper endorsement on your CDL, you could face fines, license suspension or revocation, and other penalties. Additionally, your employer could also face fines and other penalties for allowing an unqualified driver to operate a commercial vehicle.
It is important to obtain the proper endorsement on your CDL before operating double or triple trailers to ensure that you are in compliance with FMCSA regulations and Virginia state law. This will help you avoid legal issues and ensure that you are qualified to safely operate these vehicles.
You can add the CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement to your existing CDL license in Virginia without having to apply for a new license. To add the endorsement, you will need to pass the Doubles/Triples endorsement written exam and the skills test.
To take the written exam, you will need to visit a Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office and provide your current CDL license, proof of identity, and payment for the endorsement fee. You will then need to pass the written exam with a score of at least 80%.
After passing the written exam, you will need to schedule and pass the Doubles/Triples skills test. This test will evaluate your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle with double or triple trailers. Once you pass the skills test, the Doubles/Triples endorsement will be added to your existing CDL license.
It is important to note that you must already have a valid CDL license before you can add any endorsements. Additionally, you must meet all other requirements for obtaining a CDL in Virginia, including meeting age and medical requirements and passing other required exams.
To take the written exam, you will need to visit a Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office and provide your current CDL license, proof of identity, and payment for the endorsement fee. You will then need to pass the written exam with a score of at least 80%.
After passing the written exam, you will need to schedule and pass the Doubles/Triples skills test. This test will evaluate your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle with double or triple trailers. Once you pass the skills test, the Doubles/Triples endorsement will be added to your existing CDL license.
It is important to note that you must already have a valid CDL license before you can add any endorsements. Additionally, you must meet all other requirements for obtaining a CDL in Virginia, including meeting age and medical requirements and passing other required exams.
Yes, there are restrictions and limitations for drivers with a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement in Virginia. The following are some of the restrictions and limitations:
1. You can only operate double or triple trailers that are connected in a specific way, as outlined in the FMCSA regulations.
2. You cannot operate triple trailers on highways that are not designated as National Network highways.
3. You may be required to obtain additional permits to operate double or triple trailers in certain states.
4. You must comply with all weight and length restrictions for commercial vehicles set by Virginia state law.
5. You must follow all other regulations and rules set by the FMCSA for operating commercial vehicles with double or triple trailers.
It is important to be aware of these restrictions and limitations to avoid any legal issues while operating double or triple trailers with a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement. Additionally, it is important to always practice safe driving habits and follow all traffic laws to ensure the safety of yourself and others on the road.
1. You can only operate double or triple trailers that are connected in a specific way, as outlined in the FMCSA regulations.
2. You cannot operate triple trailers on highways that are not designated as National Network highways.
3. You may be required to obtain additional permits to operate double or triple trailers in certain states.
4. You must comply with all weight and length restrictions for commercial vehicles set by Virginia state law.
5. You must follow all other regulations and rules set by the FMCSA for operating commercial vehicles with double or triple trailers.
It is important to be aware of these restrictions and limitations to avoid any legal issues while operating double or triple trailers with a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement. Additionally, it is important to always practice safe driving habits and follow all traffic laws to ensure the safety of yourself and others on the road.
In Virginia, the maximum weight and length limits for double/triple trailers with a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement are as follows:
1. Maximum Weight:
- The maximum gross vehicle weight (GVW) for a combination of two trailers is 68,000 pounds.
- The maximum GVW for a combination of three trailers is 80,000 pounds.
2. Maximum Length:
- The maximum length for a combination of two trailers is 28 feet for each trailer, for a total of 56 feet.
- The maximum length for a combination of three trailers is 28 feet for each trailer, for a total of 84 feet.
It is important to note that these weight and length limits are subject to change and may vary by state. Additionally, drivers with a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement must comply with all other regulations and rules set by the FMCSA and Virginia state law. It is important to always follow safe driving practices and stay up-to-date on any changes to regulations or rules related to operating commercial vehicles with double or triple trailers.
1. Maximum Weight:
- The maximum gross vehicle weight (GVW) for a combination of two trailers is 68,000 pounds.
- The maximum GVW for a combination of three trailers is 80,000 pounds.
2. Maximum Length:
- The maximum length for a combination of two trailers is 28 feet for each trailer, for a total of 56 feet.
- The maximum length for a combination of three trailers is 28 feet for each trailer, for a total of 84 feet.
It is important to note that these weight and length limits are subject to change and may vary by state. Additionally, drivers with a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement must comply with all other regulations and rules set by the FMCSA and Virginia state law. It is important to always follow safe driving practices and stay up-to-date on any changes to regulations or rules related to operating commercial vehicles with double or triple trailers.
Yes, there are specific safety considerations and regulations for driving double/triple trailers with a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement. Here are a few important ones:
1. Proper Coupling and Uncoupling: Double/triple trailers must be coupled and uncoupled in a specific way to ensure that they are safe and secure. Drivers must be trained on the proper procedures for coupling and uncoupling.
2. Maneuvering: Because double/triple trailers are longer and heavier than single trailers, they require more space to maneuver. Drivers must be aware of their surroundings and make wider turns to avoid hitting other vehicles or objects.
3. Braking: Double/triple trailers require more braking distance than single trailers, especially when fully loaded. Drivers must allow enough space to stop safely and avoid emergency braking whenever possible.
4. Speed Limits: In some states, there are lower speed limits for double/triple trailers than for single trailers. Drivers must be aware of these speed limits and drive accordingly.
5. Inspection: Double/triple trailers must be inspected regularly to ensure that they are in good condition and safe to operate. Drivers should inspect their vehicle before each trip and report any issues to their employer.
It is important for drivers with a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement to follow all safety considerations and regulations to ensure the safety of themselves and others on the road. Additionally, drivers should stay up-to-date on any changes to regulations or rules related to operating commercial vehicles with double or triple trailers.
1. Proper Coupling and Uncoupling: Double/triple trailers must be coupled and uncoupled in a specific way to ensure that they are safe and secure. Drivers must be trained on the proper procedures for coupling and uncoupling.
2. Maneuvering: Because double/triple trailers are longer and heavier than single trailers, they require more space to maneuver. Drivers must be aware of their surroundings and make wider turns to avoid hitting other vehicles or objects.
3. Braking: Double/triple trailers require more braking distance than single trailers, especially when fully loaded. Drivers must allow enough space to stop safely and avoid emergency braking whenever possible.
4. Speed Limits: In some states, there are lower speed limits for double/triple trailers than for single trailers. Drivers must be aware of these speed limits and drive accordingly.
5. Inspection: Double/triple trailers must be inspected regularly to ensure that they are in good condition and safe to operate. Drivers should inspect their vehicle before each trip and report any issues to their employer.
It is important for drivers with a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement to follow all safety considerations and regulations to ensure the safety of themselves and others on the road. Additionally, drivers should stay up-to-date on any changes to regulations or rules related to operating commercial vehicles with double or triple trailers.
