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 or four possible answer choices. Test questions come from the Iowa 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
1. Do not base your decision to shift gears on:
Explanation
One way to know when it is time to shift gears is to learn your vehicle's operating rpm range. You should shift up when your engine reaches the top of that range. You can also learn which speeds each gear is good for and shift up based on your speedometer.
2. When traction is poor, a driver should accelerate especially slowly:
Explanation
You should accelerate very gradually when driving under slippery conditions. Using too much power in such conditions may cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
3. What is Gross Combination Weight?
Explanation
Gross Combination Weight (GCW) is the total weight of a powered unit, its trailer(s), and the cargo being carried.
4. How can you check hydraulic brakes?
Explanation
Check hydraulic brakes by pumping the brake pedal three times before applying firm pressure to the pedal for five seconds. The pedal should not move. If it does, there may be a leak or some other problem in the braking system.
5. When traveling long distances, you should:
Explanation
To avoid becoming fatigued on a long trip, you should take a break after every 100 miles or two hours of driving. Driving through the night, or during any other time when you would normally be asleep, raises the danger of fatigue.
6. Which of the following is not part of a vehicle’s air brake system?
Explanation
Components of an air brake system include an air compressor, an air compressor governor, air storage tanks, air tank drains, an alcohol evaporator, a safety valve, a brake pedal, foundation brakes, supply pressure gauges, an application pressure gauge, a low air pressure warning signal, a stop light switch, a front brake limiting valve (on some older vehicles), spring brakes, and parking brake controls.
7. During the driving test, the examiner will be scoring you on:
Explanation
During the on-road driving test, the examiner will be scoring you on specific driving maneuvers, as well as your general driving behavior.
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Frequently Asked Questions
A Class B CDL (Commercial Driver's License) in Iowa allows a driver to operate a single vehicle with a weight of 26,001 pounds or more, or a combination of vehicles where the total weight is less than 26,001 pounds but the trailer or other vehicle being towed weighs more than 10,000 pounds.
Here are the steps to obtain a Class B CDL license in Iowa:
1. Obtain a learner's permit: Before applying for a Class B CDL, you must first obtain a learner's permit. To get a learner's permit, you need to pass a written test that covers topics such as driving laws and safety regulations.
2. Get training: You must complete an approved training program for Class B CDL drivers. This training will cover topics such as vehicle control, safety procedures, and driving skills.
3. Take the skills test: After completing the training program, you must pass a skills test that includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test.
4. Pass a medical exam: You must pass a medical exam conducted by a licensed medical examiner to ensure that you meet the physical requirements to operate a commercial vehicle.
5. Submit your application: Once you have passed all the necessary tests and exams, you can submit your application for a Class B CDL license at your local Iowa DOT office.
6. Pay the fees: There will be fees associated with obtaining your Class B CDL license in Iowa. These fees vary depending on the type of license you are applying for and other factors.
7. Receive your license: Once you have completed all the steps and paid the fees, you will receive your Class B CDL license in Iowa.
Here are the steps to obtain a Class B CDL license in Iowa:
1. Obtain a learner's permit: Before applying for a Class B CDL, you must first obtain a learner's permit. To get a learner's permit, you need to pass a written test that covers topics such as driving laws and safety regulations.
2. Get training: You must complete an approved training program for Class B CDL drivers. This training will cover topics such as vehicle control, safety procedures, and driving skills.
3. Take the skills test: After completing the training program, you must pass a skills test that includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test.
4. Pass a medical exam: You must pass a medical exam conducted by a licensed medical examiner to ensure that you meet the physical requirements to operate a commercial vehicle.
5. Submit your application: Once you have passed all the necessary tests and exams, you can submit your application for a Class B CDL license at your local Iowa DOT office.
6. Pay the fees: There will be fees associated with obtaining your Class B CDL license in Iowa. These fees vary depending on the type of license you are applying for and other factors.
7. Receive your license: Once you have completed all the steps and paid the fees, you will receive your Class B CDL license in Iowa.
With a Class B CDL license in Iowa, you can operate a single vehicle with a weight of 26,001 pounds or more, or a combination of vehicles where the total weight is less than 26,001 pounds but the trailer or other vehicle being towed weighs more than 10,000 pounds. Some examples of vehicles that you can operate with a Class B CDL license include:
- Straight trucks (such as delivery trucks or dump trucks) that weigh more than 26,001 pounds
- Buses (such as school buses or city buses) that carry more than 15 passengers
- Combination vehicles (such as a truck pulling a trailer) with a total weight of less than 26,001 pounds, but where the trailer weighs more than 10,000 pounds
It's important to note that there may be additional endorsements required for certain types of vehicles or cargo. For example, if you want to operate a vehicle carrying hazardous materials, you will need to obtain a hazardous materials endorsement in addition to your Class B CDL license.
- Straight trucks (such as delivery trucks or dump trucks) that weigh more than 26,001 pounds
- Buses (such as school buses or city buses) that carry more than 15 passengers
- Combination vehicles (such as a truck pulling a trailer) with a total weight of less than 26,001 pounds, but where the trailer weighs more than 10,000 pounds
It's important to note that there may be additional endorsements required for certain types of vehicles or cargo. For example, if you want to operate a vehicle carrying hazardous materials, you will need to obtain a hazardous materials endorsement in addition to your Class B CDL license.
To obtain a Class B CDL (Commercial Driver's License) license in Iowa, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a Class B CDL license in Iowa. However, if you plan to transport hazardous materials or operate across state lines, you must be at least 21 years old.
2. Driver's license: You must have a valid Iowa driver's license.
3. Medical certification: You must pass a medical exam conducted by a licensed medical examiner to ensure that you meet the physical requirements to operate a commercial vehicle.
4. Knowledge test: You must pass a written knowledge test that covers topics such as driving laws and safety regulations.
5. Training: You must complete an approved training program for Class B CDL drivers. This training will cover topics such as vehicle control, safety procedures, and driving skills.
6. Skills test: You must pass a skills test that includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test.
7. Fees: There will be fees associated with obtaining your Class B CDL license in Iowa. These fees vary depending on the type of license you are applying for and other factors.
It's important to note that there may be additional requirements or endorsements needed depending on the type of vehicle or cargo you plan to transport.
1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a Class B CDL license in Iowa. However, if you plan to transport hazardous materials or operate across state lines, you must be at least 21 years old.
2. Driver's license: You must have a valid Iowa driver's license.
3. Medical certification: You must pass a medical exam conducted by a licensed medical examiner to ensure that you meet the physical requirements to operate a commercial vehicle.
4. Knowledge test: You must pass a written knowledge test that covers topics such as driving laws and safety regulations.
5. Training: You must complete an approved training program for Class B CDL drivers. This training will cover topics such as vehicle control, safety procedures, and driving skills.
6. Skills test: You must pass a skills test that includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test.
7. Fees: There will be fees associated with obtaining your Class B CDL license in Iowa. These fees vary depending on the type of license you are applying for and other factors.
It's important to note that there may be additional requirements or endorsements needed depending on the type of vehicle or cargo you plan to transport.
In Iowa, you must be at least 18 years old to obtain a Class B CDL license. However, if you plan to transport hazardous materials or operate across state lines, you must be at least 21 years old. It's important to note that even though the minimum age requirement is 18, some employers may require drivers to be at least 21 years old for certain positions. Additionally, there may be restrictions on the types of driving positions available to drivers under the age of 21.
You may need endorsements for a Class B CDL license depending on the type of cargo you plan to transport. The most common endorsements for Class B CDL drivers in Iowa include:
1. Hazardous materials (H): If you plan to transport hazardous materials, you will need to obtain a Hazmat endorsement. To obtain this endorsement, you must pass a written test and complete a background check.
2. Passenger (P): If you plan to drive a bus or other vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, you will need to obtain a Passenger endorsement. To obtain this endorsement, you must pass a written test and a skills test that includes a passenger vehicle.
3. School bus (S): If you plan to drive a school bus, you will need to obtain a School Bus endorsement. To obtain this endorsement, you must pass a written test and a skills test that includes a school bus.
4. Tanker (N): If you plan to transport liquid or gaseous materials in bulk, you will need to obtain a Tanker endorsement. To obtain this endorsement, you must pass a written test.
It's important to note that the requirements for obtaining endorsements may vary depending on the state and the type of cargo being transported.
1. Hazardous materials (H): If you plan to transport hazardous materials, you will need to obtain a Hazmat endorsement. To obtain this endorsement, you must pass a written test and complete a background check.
2. Passenger (P): If you plan to drive a bus or other vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, you will need to obtain a Passenger endorsement. To obtain this endorsement, you must pass a written test and a skills test that includes a passenger vehicle.
3. School bus (S): If you plan to drive a school bus, you will need to obtain a School Bus endorsement. To obtain this endorsement, you must pass a written test and a skills test that includes a school bus.
4. Tanker (N): If you plan to transport liquid or gaseous materials in bulk, you will need to obtain a Tanker endorsement. To obtain this endorsement, you must pass a written test.
It's important to note that the requirements for obtaining endorsements may vary depending on the state and the type of cargo being transported.
The Class B CDL skills test is a two-part test that includes a pre-trip inspection and a driving test. Here are the details of each part of the skills test:
1. Pre-trip inspection: During the pre-trip inspection, you will be asked to inspect your vehicle and identify any safety issues or potential problems. You will need to demonstrate your knowledge of the vehicle's components, including the engine, brakes, lights, mirrors, and tires. You will also need to show that you know how to check for leaks and other potential hazards.
2. Driving test: During the driving test, you will need to demonstrate your ability to operate your vehicle safely and efficiently. You will be asked to perform a variety of maneuvers, including backing up, turning, merging into traffic, and completing a simulated alley dock or parallel park. The driving test will also assess your ability to obey traffic signals and signs, maintain proper speed and following distance, and use your mirrors effectively.
Overall, the Class B CDL skills test is designed to ensure that you have the knowledge and skills needed to operate a commercial vehicle safely on the road. It's important to practice regularly and study the Iowa Commercial Driver's License Manual to prepare for the skills test.
1. Pre-trip inspection: During the pre-trip inspection, you will be asked to inspect your vehicle and identify any safety issues or potential problems. You will need to demonstrate your knowledge of the vehicle's components, including the engine, brakes, lights, mirrors, and tires. You will also need to show that you know how to check for leaks and other potential hazards.
2. Driving test: During the driving test, you will need to demonstrate your ability to operate your vehicle safely and efficiently. You will be asked to perform a variety of maneuvers, including backing up, turning, merging into traffic, and completing a simulated alley dock or parallel park. The driving test will also assess your ability to obey traffic signals and signs, maintain proper speed and following distance, and use your mirrors effectively.
Overall, the Class B CDL skills test is designed to ensure that you have the knowledge and skills needed to operate a commercial vehicle safely on the road. It's important to practice regularly and study the Iowa Commercial Driver's License Manual to prepare for the skills test.
Yes, there are some restrictions and limitations that apply to drivers with a Class B CDL license in Iowa. Here are a few examples:
1. Passenger restrictions: If you have a Class B CDL with a Passenger endorsement (P), you cannot drive a bus with more than 16 passengers (including the driver) unless you also have a School Bus endorsement (S). If you have an S endorsement, you can drive a school bus with more than 16 passengers.
2. Hazardous materials restrictions: If you have a Class B CDL with a Hazardous Materials endorsement (H), you must follow specific rules when transporting hazardous materials. For example, you must comply with federal regulations regarding the labeling, packaging, and handling of hazardous materials.
3. Vehicle weight restrictions: If you have a Class B CDL, you are typically only authorized to drive vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more. You may also be restricted from driving certain types of vehicles that require additional endorsements or specialized training.
It's important to note that each state may have different restrictions and limitations for Class B CDL drivers. Be sure to review the Iowa Commercial Driver's License Manual and speak with your employer or a qualified CDL instructor if you have any questions about the specific rules and regulations that apply to your license.
1. Passenger restrictions: If you have a Class B CDL with a Passenger endorsement (P), you cannot drive a bus with more than 16 passengers (including the driver) unless you also have a School Bus endorsement (S). If you have an S endorsement, you can drive a school bus with more than 16 passengers.
2. Hazardous materials restrictions: If you have a Class B CDL with a Hazardous Materials endorsement (H), you must follow specific rules when transporting hazardous materials. For example, you must comply with federal regulations regarding the labeling, packaging, and handling of hazardous materials.
3. Vehicle weight restrictions: If you have a Class B CDL, you are typically only authorized to drive vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more. You may also be restricted from driving certain types of vehicles that require additional endorsements or specialized training.
It's important to note that each state may have different restrictions and limitations for Class B CDL drivers. Be sure to review the Iowa Commercial Driver's License Manual and speak with your employer or a qualified CDL instructor if you have any questions about the specific rules and regulations that apply to your license.
Yes, you may be able to take the Class B CDL written test in a language other than English in Iowa. The Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) allows for the written tests to be taken in a variety of languages, including Spanish, Bosnian, Croatian, and Vietnamese.
However, it's important to note that not all Iowa DOT testing locations may offer tests in languages other than English. Before you schedule your test, be sure to check with your local testing location to confirm their language options.
Additionally, if you choose to take the test in a language other than English, you will need to bring a translator with you to the testing location. The translator must be fluent in both English and your chosen language and cannot be a family member or friend. The translator will be required to sign an affidavit confirming their fluency and impartiality.
Overall, taking the Class B CDL written test in a language other than English may be an option for you in Iowa, but it's important to confirm the availability of this option and follow the necessary requirements for using a translator.
However, it's important to note that not all Iowa DOT testing locations may offer tests in languages other than English. Before you schedule your test, be sure to check with your local testing location to confirm their language options.
Additionally, if you choose to take the test in a language other than English, you will need to bring a translator with you to the testing location. The translator must be fluent in both English and your chosen language and cannot be a family member or friend. The translator will be required to sign an affidavit confirming their fluency and impartiality.
Overall, taking the Class B CDL written test in a language other than English may be an option for you in Iowa, but it's important to confirm the availability of this option and follow the necessary requirements for using a translator.
Yes, you can request accommodations for the Class B CDL written test in Iowa due to a disability. The Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) is committed to providing equal access to services and programs for all individuals, including those with disabilities.
To request accommodations, you will need to complete the Request for Accommodation of Disabilities form, which is available on the Iowa DOT's website. This form asks for information about your disability and the specific accommodations you are requesting. You will also need to provide supporting documentation from a licensed healthcare provider or specialist that verifies your disability and explains how the requested accommodations will help you take the test.
Examples of accommodations that may be available for the Class B CDL written test include extended testing time, a separate testing room, or assistive technology such as a screen reader or magnifier.
Once you have submitted your request and supporting documentation, the Iowa DOT will review your application and determine if your requested accommodations are reasonable and appropriate. You can expect to receive a response within 30 days of submitting your request.
Overall, if you have a disability that may impact your ability to take the Class B CDL written test in Iowa, it is important to know that accommodations are available. Be sure to contact the Iowa DOT's Office of Driver Services for more information on how to request accommodations and what types of accommodations may be available.
To request accommodations, you will need to complete the Request for Accommodation of Disabilities form, which is available on the Iowa DOT's website. This form asks for information about your disability and the specific accommodations you are requesting. You will also need to provide supporting documentation from a licensed healthcare provider or specialist that verifies your disability and explains how the requested accommodations will help you take the test.
Examples of accommodations that may be available for the Class B CDL written test include extended testing time, a separate testing room, or assistive technology such as a screen reader or magnifier.
Once you have submitted your request and supporting documentation, the Iowa DOT will review your application and determine if your requested accommodations are reasonable and appropriate. You can expect to receive a response within 30 days of submitting your request.
Overall, if you have a disability that may impact your ability to take the Class B CDL written test in Iowa, it is important to know that accommodations are available. Be sure to contact the Iowa DOT's Office of Driver Services for more information on how to request accommodations and what types of accommodations may be available.
Yes, you can retake the Class B CDL written test if you fail it in Iowa. The Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) allows individuals to retake the written test as many times as necessary until they pass. However, there are some important things to keep in mind if you do fail the test.
First, there is a waiting period between attempts. If you fail the written test, you must wait at least one day before you can retake it. This waiting period gives you time to review your study materials and prepare for your next attempt.
Second, there is a fee for each attempt. As of 2021, the fee for a Class B CDL written test in Iowa is $11. If you fail the test and need to retake it, you will need to pay this fee again each time.
Finally, it's important to note that passing the written test is just one step in obtaining your Class B CDL in Iowa. You will also need to pass a skills test that includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. If you fail any part of the skills test, there may be additional waiting periods and fees involved in retaking those tests as well.
Overall, while failing the Class B CDL written test can be frustrating, it's important to remember that with additional study and preparation, you can retake the test and pass. Be sure to take advantage of any study materials or resources available to you and give yourself plenty of time to prepare before your next attempt.
First, there is a waiting period between attempts. If you fail the written test, you must wait at least one day before you can retake it. This waiting period gives you time to review your study materials and prepare for your next attempt.
Second, there is a fee for each attempt. As of 2021, the fee for a Class B CDL written test in Iowa is $11. If you fail the test and need to retake it, you will need to pay this fee again each time.
Finally, it's important to note that passing the written test is just one step in obtaining your Class B CDL in Iowa. You will also need to pass a skills test that includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. If you fail any part of the skills test, there may be additional waiting periods and fees involved in retaking those tests as well.
Overall, while failing the Class B CDL written test can be frustrating, it's important to remember that with additional study and preparation, you can retake the test and pass. Be sure to take advantage of any study materials or resources available to you and give yourself plenty of time to prepare before your next attempt.
