Knowledge Test Class A
This license is required for driving any legal combination of vehicles, with a gross combination weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the GVWR of a trailer exceeds 10,000 pounds 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 Alaska Commercial Driver License Manual. Questions come from chapters covering: Introduction, Driving Safely, Transporting Cargo Safely, Air Brakes (if applicable), Combination, Doubles and Hazardous Materials. Endorsements that may be used with a Class A CDL are: Hazardous materials, Tank, Passenger, HazMat and Tank, Air Brakes and School bus.
Number of Question
Passing Score
1. If you must drive in reverse, using driver's side backing:
Explanation
If you must back up, it is safest to back toward the driver's side of the vehicle. This way, as the driver, you will have the best possible view of your path of travel.
2. When you must travel down a hill, when should you switch into a lower gear?
Explanation
You should always slow down and shift into a lower gear before starting down a hill. If you do not begin to drive down a hill at a low enough speed, you risk overusing your brakes, causing them to overheat and fade.
3. What is a retarder?
Explanation
Retarders help to slow vehicles, reducing drivers' need to use brakes.
4. When drivers turn, they usually:
Explanation
When turning, drivers usually look in the direction of their turn. If a driver fails to signal before a turn or lane change, their body movements may still provide a clue that they are planning to turn.
5. When encountering a railroad crossing during the driving test, you should:
Explanation
During the on-road driving test, you must not stop, change gears, pass another vehicle, or change lanes while any part of your vehicle is in a railroad crossing.
6. A wig wag is:
Explanation
Vehicles with air brakes are required to be equipped with a low pressure warning device. A wig wag is a type of low air pressure warning device. This device drops a mechanical arm into the driver's view if the pressure in the tanks drops to a level between 55 and 75 psi.
7. When entering a curve, you should:
Explanation
You should always slow down to a safe speed and shift into a lower gear before entering a curve.
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Frequently Asked Questions
A Class A CDL (Commercial Driver's License) in Alaska is a license that allows you to operate a combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed is more than 10,000 pounds. This license is required for drivers who operate tractor-trailers, truck and trailer combinations, and other large commercial vehicles.
Here are the steps to obtain a Class A CDL in Alaska:
1. Obtain a commercial learner's permit (CLP) by passing the written knowledge test for the Class A CDL.
2. Hold your CLP for at least 14 days before taking the skills test.
3. Schedule and pass the pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and road test with a third-party examiner.
4. Provide proof of identity, residency, and citizenship or lawful presence in the U.S.
5. Pay the required fees for licensing and testing.
6. Pass a medical examination and obtain a medical certificate from a certified medical examiner.
It's important to note that additional endorsements may be required for certain types of commercial vehicles or cargo, such as hazardous materials or passenger transport.
Here are the steps to obtain a Class A CDL in Alaska:
1. Obtain a commercial learner's permit (CLP) by passing the written knowledge test for the Class A CDL.
2. Hold your CLP for at least 14 days before taking the skills test.
3. Schedule and pass the pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and road test with a third-party examiner.
4. Provide proof of identity, residency, and citizenship or lawful presence in the U.S.
5. Pay the required fees for licensing and testing.
6. Pass a medical examination and obtain a medical certificate from a certified medical examiner.
It's important to note that additional endorsements may be required for certain types of commercial vehicles or cargo, such as hazardous materials or passenger transport.
With a Class A CDL license in Alaska, you can operate a combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed is more than 10,000 pounds. This includes:
1. Tractor-trailers: A combination of a tractor unit and one or more trailers.
2. Truck and trailer combinations: A combination of a truck and one or more trailers.
3. Doubles and triples: A combination of two or three trailers attached to a tractor unit.
4. Tanker vehicles: Vehicles designed to transport liquids or gases in bulk quantities.
5. Livestock carriers: Vehicles designed to transport live animals.
6. Flatbeds: Open trailers with no sides or roof used for hauling large items such as machinery, building materials and heavy equipment.
7. Other large commercial vehicles: Any other commercial vehicle that falls under the Class A category as per Alaska state laws.
It's important to note that additional endorsements may be required for certain types of commercial vehicles or cargo, such as hazardous materials or passenger transport.
1. Tractor-trailers: A combination of a tractor unit and one or more trailers.
2. Truck and trailer combinations: A combination of a truck and one or more trailers.
3. Doubles and triples: A combination of two or three trailers attached to a tractor unit.
4. Tanker vehicles: Vehicles designed to transport liquids or gases in bulk quantities.
5. Livestock carriers: Vehicles designed to transport live animals.
6. Flatbeds: Open trailers with no sides or roof used for hauling large items such as machinery, building materials and heavy equipment.
7. Other large commercial vehicles: Any other commercial vehicle that falls under the Class A category as per Alaska state laws.
It's important to note that additional endorsements may be required for certain types of commercial vehicles or cargo, such as hazardous materials or passenger transport.
To obtain a Class A CDL (Commercial Driver's License) license in Alaska, you must meet certain requirements. Here are the basic requirements:
1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a Class A CDL in Alaska. However, you may only operate within the state of Alaska until you are 21 years old.
2. Hold a valid driver's license: You must hold a valid driver's license that is not suspended, revoked, or cancelled.
3. Obtain a commercial learner's permit (CLP): You must obtain a CLP by passing the written knowledge test for the Class A CDL.
4. Meet medical requirements: You must pass a medical examination and obtain a medical certificate from a certified medical examiner.
5. Hold your CLP for at least 14 days: Before taking the skills test, you must hold your CLP for at least 14 days.
6. Pass the skills test: You must pass the pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and road test with a third-party examiner.
7. Provide proof of identity, residency, and citizenship or lawful presence in the U.S.: You must provide documents proving your identity, residency, and citizenship or lawful presence in the U.S.
It's important to note that additional endorsements may be required for certain types of commercial vehicles or cargo, such as hazardous materials or passenger transport.
1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a Class A CDL in Alaska. However, you may only operate within the state of Alaska until you are 21 years old.
2. Hold a valid driver's license: You must hold a valid driver's license that is not suspended, revoked, or cancelled.
3. Obtain a commercial learner's permit (CLP): You must obtain a CLP by passing the written knowledge test for the Class A CDL.
4. Meet medical requirements: You must pass a medical examination and obtain a medical certificate from a certified medical examiner.
5. Hold your CLP for at least 14 days: Before taking the skills test, you must hold your CLP for at least 14 days.
6. Pass the skills test: You must pass the pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and road test with a third-party examiner.
7. Provide proof of identity, residency, and citizenship or lawful presence in the U.S.: You must provide documents proving your identity, residency, and citizenship or lawful presence in the U.S.
It's important to note that additional endorsements may be required for certain types of commercial vehicles or cargo, such as hazardous materials or passenger transport.
The minimum age requirement for obtaining a Class A CDL (Commercial Driver's License) in Alaska is 18 years old. However, drivers who are between the ages of 18 and 21 may only operate commercial vehicles within the state of Alaska.
To operate a commercial vehicle outside of Alaska, drivers must be at least 21 years old. This age requirement is set by federal law and applies to all states in the United States.
It's important to note that certain endorsements may also have age requirements. For example, drivers must be at least 21 years old to transport hazardous materials or operate a commercial vehicle designed to transport more than 15 passengers (including the driver).
To operate a commercial vehicle outside of Alaska, drivers must be at least 21 years old. This age requirement is set by federal law and applies to all states in the United States.
It's important to note that certain endorsements may also have age requirements. For example, drivers must be at least 21 years old to transport hazardous materials or operate a commercial vehicle designed to transport more than 15 passengers (including the driver).
Yes, you may need endorsements for a Class A CDL (Commercial Driver's License) license depending on the type of vehicle or cargo you plan to operate. Endorsements are additional certifications that are added to your CDL to allow you to operate certain types of commercial vehicles. Here are the most common endorsements for a Class A CDL in Alaska:
1. Hazardous materials (H): If you will be transporting hazardous materials, you will need to obtain a hazmat endorsement. This requires passing a written test and a security threat assessment by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
2. Tank vehicles (N): If you will be driving a tank vehicle, such as a tanker truck, you will need a tank vehicle endorsement. This requires passing a written test.
3. Double/triple trailers (T): If you will be driving double or triple trailers, you will need a double/triple trailer endorsement. This requires passing a written test.
4. Passenger transport (P): If you will be transporting passengers, such as in a bus or other passenger vehicle, you will need a passenger endorsement. This requires passing a written test and a skills test in a passenger vehicle.
5. School bus (S): If you will be driving a school bus, you will need a school bus endorsement. This requires passing a written test and a skills test in a school bus.
It's important to note that each endorsement requires passing an additional written test and, in some cases, additional skills tests as well.
1. Hazardous materials (H): If you will be transporting hazardous materials, you will need to obtain a hazmat endorsement. This requires passing a written test and a security threat assessment by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
2. Tank vehicles (N): If you will be driving a tank vehicle, such as a tanker truck, you will need a tank vehicle endorsement. This requires passing a written test.
3. Double/triple trailers (T): If you will be driving double or triple trailers, you will need a double/triple trailer endorsement. This requires passing a written test.
4. Passenger transport (P): If you will be transporting passengers, such as in a bus or other passenger vehicle, you will need a passenger endorsement. This requires passing a written test and a skills test in a passenger vehicle.
5. School bus (S): If you will be driving a school bus, you will need a school bus endorsement. This requires passing a written test and a skills test in a school bus.
It's important to note that each endorsement requires passing an additional written test and, in some cases, additional skills tests as well.
The Class A CDL (Commercial Driver's License) skills test is a two-part examination that measures your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle. Here's what's involved in the skills test:
1. Pre-trip inspection: You will be asked to perform a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle, which involves checking various components of the vehicle to ensure that they are in good working order. You will need to identify and explain any issues you find during the inspection.
2. Driving test: You will need to demonstrate your driving skills on a closed course or on public roads. The driving test will include several maneuvers, such as backing up, turning, and changing lanes. You will also need to demonstrate your ability to control the vehicle while driving in reverse.
During the driving portion of the test, you will be evaluated based on several criteria, including your ability to:
- Accelerate and brake smoothly
- Shift gears smoothly
- Use turn signals and mirrors properly
- Observe traffic signs and signals
- Maintain proper speed and lane position
- Use proper steering techniques
To pass the skills test, you must perform each maneuver safely and correctly while following all traffic laws and regulations. It's important to practice and prepare for the skills test in advance to increase your chances of passing.
1. Pre-trip inspection: You will be asked to perform a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle, which involves checking various components of the vehicle to ensure that they are in good working order. You will need to identify and explain any issues you find during the inspection.
2. Driving test: You will need to demonstrate your driving skills on a closed course or on public roads. The driving test will include several maneuvers, such as backing up, turning, and changing lanes. You will also need to demonstrate your ability to control the vehicle while driving in reverse.
During the driving portion of the test, you will be evaluated based on several criteria, including your ability to:
- Accelerate and brake smoothly
- Shift gears smoothly
- Use turn signals and mirrors properly
- Observe traffic signs and signals
- Maintain proper speed and lane position
- Use proper steering techniques
To pass the skills test, you must perform each maneuver safely and correctly while following all traffic laws and regulations. It's important to practice and prepare for the skills test in advance to increase your chances of passing.
Yes, there are some restrictions and limitations for drivers with a Class A CDL (Commercial Driver's License) license. Here are a few common ones:
1. Age restrictions: In Alaska, you must be at least 21 years old to obtain a Class A CDL license. If you are between the ages of 18 and 21, you may be able to obtain a Class A CDL for intrastate (within Alaska) driving only.
2. Endorsement restrictions: As I mentioned earlier, endorsements are additional certifications that allow you to operate certain types of commercial vehicles. If you do not have the appropriate endorsement for the vehicle or cargo you are carrying, you may be restricted from operating that vehicle.
3. Medical restrictions: To obtain and maintain a CDL license, you must pass a medical examination to ensure that you are physically capable of operating a commercial vehicle. If you have certain medical conditions, such as a history of seizures or insulin-dependent diabetes, you may be restricted from operating a commercial vehicle.
4. Alcohol and drug restrictions: Commercial drivers are subject to strict alcohol and drug testing requirements to ensure safe operation of commercial vehicles. If you fail an alcohol or drug test, or refuse to take one, your CDL license may be suspended or revoked.
5. Hours of service restrictions: Federal regulations limit the amount of time that commercial drivers can spend behind the wheel each day and each week to prevent fatigue-related accidents. It's important to follow these regulations and take required rest breaks to ensure safe operation of your vehicle.
1. Age restrictions: In Alaska, you must be at least 21 years old to obtain a Class A CDL license. If you are between the ages of 18 and 21, you may be able to obtain a Class A CDL for intrastate (within Alaska) driving only.
2. Endorsement restrictions: As I mentioned earlier, endorsements are additional certifications that allow you to operate certain types of commercial vehicles. If you do not have the appropriate endorsement for the vehicle or cargo you are carrying, you may be restricted from operating that vehicle.
3. Medical restrictions: To obtain and maintain a CDL license, you must pass a medical examination to ensure that you are physically capable of operating a commercial vehicle. If you have certain medical conditions, such as a history of seizures or insulin-dependent diabetes, you may be restricted from operating a commercial vehicle.
4. Alcohol and drug restrictions: Commercial drivers are subject to strict alcohol and drug testing requirements to ensure safe operation of commercial vehicles. If you fail an alcohol or drug test, or refuse to take one, your CDL license may be suspended or revoked.
5. Hours of service restrictions: Federal regulations limit the amount of time that commercial drivers can spend behind the wheel each day and each week to prevent fatigue-related accidents. It's important to follow these regulations and take required rest breaks to ensure safe operation of your vehicle.
No, in Alaska, the Class A CDL (Commercial Driver's License) written test is only available in English. This is because all road signs, traffic signals, and other communication related to driving on public roads are in English. Therefore, it's important that drivers have a sufficient understanding of the language to be able to read and interpret these signs and signals.
However, if you have difficulty reading or understanding English, you may be able to use an interpreter during the test. The interpreter must be approved by the Alaska DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) and must not be a family member or friend. You will be responsible for the cost of the interpreter.
It's important to note that the CDL skills test, which measures your ability to operate a commercial vehicle, is conducted in English only. Therefore, it's essential that you have a good understanding of English to pass both the written and skills tests and obtain a CDL license.
However, if you have difficulty reading or understanding English, you may be able to use an interpreter during the test. The interpreter must be approved by the Alaska DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) and must not be a family member or friend. You will be responsible for the cost of the interpreter.
It's important to note that the CDL skills test, which measures your ability to operate a commercial vehicle, is conducted in English only. Therefore, it's essential that you have a good understanding of English to pass both the written and skills tests and obtain a CDL license.
Yes, if you have a disability that would make it difficult for you to take the Class A CDL (Commercial Driver's License) written test under standard conditions, you may request accommodations from the Alaska DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles).
Examples of accommodations that may be provided include extra time to complete the test, a separate testing room, or a test in an alternate format (such as Braille or large print). You will need to provide documentation of your disability and the specific accommodations you are requesting.
To request accommodations, you should contact the Alaska DMV's Driver Services Division. They can provide you with information on the specific accommodation request process, including any forms or documentation that may be required. It's important to make your request well in advance of your scheduled test date to allow time for processing and approval of your accommodation request.
Examples of accommodations that may be provided include extra time to complete the test, a separate testing room, or a test in an alternate format (such as Braille or large print). You will need to provide documentation of your disability and the specific accommodations you are requesting.
To request accommodations, you should contact the Alaska DMV's Driver Services Division. They can provide you with information on the specific accommodation request process, including any forms or documentation that may be required. It's important to make your request well in advance of your scheduled test date to allow time for processing and approval of your accommodation request.
Yes, if you fail the Class A CDL (Commercial Driver's License) written test in Alaska, you can retake it after a certain period of time. The waiting period between attempts varies depending on the specific test you failed. Here are the waiting periods for each test:
- General Knowledge: 1 day
- Air Brakes: 1 day
- Combination Vehicles: 1 day
- Pre-trip Inspection: 1 day
- Hazardous Materials: 7 days
- Tank Vehicles: 7 days
It's important to note that you will need to pay a fee each time you take the written test, even if you are retaking it. The fee for each written test is currently $20 in Alaska.
It's also a good idea to study and prepare thoroughly before retaking the test. You can use study materials provided by the Alaska DMV or take a CDL preparation course to help you prepare. Remember that passing the written test is just one step in obtaining a CDL license - you will also need to pass a skills test demonstrating your ability to operate a commercial vehicle.
- General Knowledge: 1 day
- Air Brakes: 1 day
- Combination Vehicles: 1 day
- Pre-trip Inspection: 1 day
- Hazardous Materials: 7 days
- Tank Vehicles: 7 days
It's important to note that you will need to pay a fee each time you take the written test, even if you are retaking it. The fee for each written test is currently $20 in Alaska.
It's also a good idea to study and prepare thoroughly before retaking the test. You can use study materials provided by the Alaska DMV or take a CDL preparation course to help you prepare. Remember that passing the written test is just one step in obtaining a CDL license - you will also need to pass a skills test demonstrating your ability to operate a commercial vehicle.
