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 two, three or four possible answer choices. Test questions come from the South Carolina 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
15. When traction is poor, a driver should accelerate slowly:
Explanation
Speeding up too quickly on a road with poor traction could cause a driver to lose control of their vehicle. In conditions that cause poor traction, a driver should accelerate especially smoothly and gradually.
16. Using a helper when backing is:
Explanation
When backing up, it is always a good idea for a driver to use a helper who can watch the vehicle's blind spots. The helper should stand near the back of the vehicle in a location where they are visible to the driver.
17. How much distance will an air brake-equipped vehicle need to come to a complete stop if it is traveling at 55 mph under ideal driving conditions?
Explanation
A vehicle's total stopping distance is made up of perception distance, reaction distance, brake lag distance, and braking distance. With all of these factors included, an air brake-equipped vehicle traveling at a speed of 55 mph under ideal driving conditions will need approximately 450 feet to come to a complete stop.
18. If there is a fire in your vehicle, you should not:
Explanation
In the event of a vehicle fire, you should leave the road and stop in an open area. Do not pull into a service station as fuels at the service station could catch fire. Report the fire and your location to emergency services.
19. You should check and adjust your mirrors:
Explanation
Be sure to check your mirrors before beginning a drive. Your posture may change day to day and your mirrors may need to be adjusted.
20. To avoid a collision with a hazard on the roadway:
Explanation
Swerving out of the way of a hazard is sometimes safer than trying to stop before reaching the hazard. You can usually turn away from something more quickly than you can come to a complete stop.
21. When traveling down a downgrade, the speed of a vehicle will likely:
Explanation
The force of gravity will cause a vehicle's speed to increase when traveling downhill.
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Frequently Asked Questions
A Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) in South Carolina allows drivers to operate a combination of vehicles with a total weight of 26,001 pounds or more, with the vehicle being towed having a weight of more than 10,000 pounds. This license is required for drivers who plan to operate tractor-trailers, truck and trailer combinations, and other large commercial vehicles.
Here are the steps to obtain a Class A CDL license in South Carolina:
1. Obtain a South Carolina commercial learner's permit (CLP) by passing a written test. To be eligible for a CLP, you must have a valid driver's license, be at least 18 years old (21 years old for interstate driving), and pass a medical examination.
2. Practice driving with your CLP while accompanied by someone who holds a valid Class A CDL license.
3. Schedule and pass the skills test, which includes three parts: pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and on-road driving.
4. Submit your CLP and pass the road test in the vehicle type you plan to operate with your Class A CDL license.
5. Provide proof of identification, residency, and Social Security number to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
6. Pay the appropriate fees.
Upon completing these steps, you will be issued a South Carolina Class A CDL license. It is important to note that CDL holders must also meet additional requirements such as medical examinations and periodic training to maintain their license.
Here are the steps to obtain a Class A CDL license in South Carolina:
1. Obtain a South Carolina commercial learner's permit (CLP) by passing a written test. To be eligible for a CLP, you must have a valid driver's license, be at least 18 years old (21 years old for interstate driving), and pass a medical examination.
2. Practice driving with your CLP while accompanied by someone who holds a valid Class A CDL license.
3. Schedule and pass the skills test, which includes three parts: pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and on-road driving.
4. Submit your CLP and pass the road test in the vehicle type you plan to operate with your Class A CDL license.
5. Provide proof of identification, residency, and Social Security number to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
6. Pay the appropriate fees.
Upon completing these steps, you will be issued a South Carolina Class A CDL license. It is important to note that CDL holders must also meet additional requirements such as medical examinations and periodic training to maintain their license.
With a Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) in South Carolina, you can operate a combination of vehicles with a total weight of 26,001 pounds or more, with the vehicle being towed having a weight of more than 10,000 pounds. Here are some examples of vehicles that you can operate with a Class A CDL license:
1. Tractor-trailers or semi-trucks
2. Truck and trailer combinations
3. Livestock carriers
4. Flatbeds
5. Tanker trucks
6. Cement mixers
7. Double and triple trailers
It is important to note that specific endorsements may be required for certain types of vehicles or cargo, such as hazardous materials or passenger transport. Make sure to check the South Carolina DMV website or speak to a representative to determine the necessary endorsements for your intended type of operation.
1. Tractor-trailers or semi-trucks
2. Truck and trailer combinations
3. Livestock carriers
4. Flatbeds
5. Tanker trucks
6. Cement mixers
7. Double and triple trailers
It is important to note that specific endorsements may be required for certain types of vehicles or cargo, such as hazardous materials or passenger transport. Make sure to check the South Carolina DMV website or speak to a representative to determine the necessary endorsements for your intended type of operation.
To obtain a Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) in South Carolina, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to operate a commercial vehicle within South Carolina and at least 21 years old to operate a commercial vehicle across state lines or transport hazardous materials.
2. Valid driver's license: You must have a valid driver's license. If you are from another state, you must transfer your driver's license to South Carolina before applying for a CDL.
3. Medical certification: You must pass a medical examination and obtain a medical certification from an approved healthcare provider.
4. Commercial learner's permit (CLP): You must obtain a South Carolina CLP by passing a written test.
5. Training: You are not required to complete formal training, but it is highly recommended to increase your chances of passing the CDL skills test.
6. Skills test: You must pass a three-part skills test that includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and on-road driving.
7. Background check: You will be subject to a background check, which may include criminal history, driving record, and drug and alcohol testing.
8. Fees: You must pay the appropriate fees to obtain your CDL.
It is important to note that specific endorsements may be required for certain types of vehicles or cargo, such as hazardous materials or passenger transport. Make sure to check the South Carolina DMV website or speak to a representative to determine the necessary endorsements for your intended type of operation.
1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to operate a commercial vehicle within South Carolina and at least 21 years old to operate a commercial vehicle across state lines or transport hazardous materials.
2. Valid driver's license: You must have a valid driver's license. If you are from another state, you must transfer your driver's license to South Carolina before applying for a CDL.
3. Medical certification: You must pass a medical examination and obtain a medical certification from an approved healthcare provider.
4. Commercial learner's permit (CLP): You must obtain a South Carolina CLP by passing a written test.
5. Training: You are not required to complete formal training, but it is highly recommended to increase your chances of passing the CDL skills test.
6. Skills test: You must pass a three-part skills test that includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and on-road driving.
7. Background check: You will be subject to a background check, which may include criminal history, driving record, and drug and alcohol testing.
8. Fees: You must pay the appropriate fees to obtain your CDL.
It is important to note that specific endorsements may be required for certain types of vehicles or cargo, such as hazardous materials or passenger transport. Make sure to check the South Carolina DMV website or speak to a representative to determine the necessary endorsements for your intended type of operation.
In South Carolina, the minimum age requirement for a Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is 18 years old. However, drivers who are 18-20 years old will only be able to operate commercial vehicles within the state of South Carolina and cannot transport hazardous materials. They also may be subject to additional restrictions and requirements, such as obtaining a commercial learner's permit and completing a minimum amount of supervised driving time.
Drivers who are 21 years old or older can operate commercial vehicles across state lines and transport hazardous materials. It is important to note that some employers may have their own age requirements for certain types of driving positions, so it is recommended to check with potential employers for their specific requirements.
Drivers who are 21 years old or older can operate commercial vehicles across state lines and transport hazardous materials. It is important to note that some employers may have their own age requirements for certain types of driving positions, so it is recommended to check with potential employers for their specific requirements.
Yes, you may need endorsements for a Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) depending on the type of vehicle or cargo you plan to transport. The following are the endorsements that are available in South Carolina:
1. Hazmat endorsement (H): This endorsement is required if you plan to transport hazardous materials. You will need to pass a written test and undergo a background check.
2. Combination Tanker and Hazardous Materials endorsement (X): This endorsement is required if you plan to transport both hazardous materials and liquids or gases in bulk containers. You will need to pass the written test for both the tanker and hazmat endorsements.
3. Tanker endorsement (N): This endorsement is required if you plan to transport liquids or gases in bulk containers. You will need to pass a written test.
4. Doubles/triples endorsement (T): This endorsement is required if you plan to drive combination vehicles with two or three trailers attached. You will need to pass a written test.
5. Passenger endorsement (P): This endorsement is required if you plan to transport passengers in a vehicle with more than 15 seats, including the driver's seat. You will need to pass a written test and a driving skills test.
6. School Bus endorsement (S): This endorsement is required if you plan to drive a school bus that seats more than 15 passengers, including the driver's seat. You will need to pass a written test, a driving skills test, and a background check.
It is important to note that each endorsement has its own set of requirements and fees, so make sure to check with the South Carolina DMV or speak with a representative for more information on the specific endorsements you may need for your intended type of operation.
1. Hazmat endorsement (H): This endorsement is required if you plan to transport hazardous materials. You will need to pass a written test and undergo a background check.
2. Combination Tanker and Hazardous Materials endorsement (X): This endorsement is required if you plan to transport both hazardous materials and liquids or gases in bulk containers. You will need to pass the written test for both the tanker and hazmat endorsements.
3. Tanker endorsement (N): This endorsement is required if you plan to transport liquids or gases in bulk containers. You will need to pass a written test.
4. Doubles/triples endorsement (T): This endorsement is required if you plan to drive combination vehicles with two or three trailers attached. You will need to pass a written test.
5. Passenger endorsement (P): This endorsement is required if you plan to transport passengers in a vehicle with more than 15 seats, including the driver's seat. You will need to pass a written test and a driving skills test.
6. School Bus endorsement (S): This endorsement is required if you plan to drive a school bus that seats more than 15 passengers, including the driver's seat. You will need to pass a written test, a driving skills test, and a background check.
It is important to note that each endorsement has its own set of requirements and fees, so make sure to check with the South Carolina DMV or speak with a representative for more information on the specific endorsements you may need for your intended type of operation.
The Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) skills test is designed to assess your ability to safely operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) of the type you intend to drive. The skills test consists of three parts:
1. Pre-trip inspection: You will be asked to do a thorough inspection of your CMV to ensure that it is safe to operate. This includes checking the brakes, tires, lights, steering, suspension, and other components. You will need to identify any defects or potential problems.
2. Basic control skills: You will be asked to demonstrate your ability to control your CMV in tight spaces and under specific conditions. This includes straight-line backing, offset backing, and parallel parking.
3. Road test: You will be asked to demonstrate your ability to safely operate your CMV on public roads. This includes performing tasks such as lane changes, turns, intersections, and merging onto highways.
During the skills test, you will be evaluated on your ability to follow proper procedures and techniques for each part of the test. The examiner will also assess your overall safety performance, including your use of mirrors and signals, speed management, and following distance.
It is important to note that the skills test must be taken in a vehicle that is representative of the type of CMV that you plan to operate with your Class A CDL. Additionally, you must pass all three parts of the skills test in order to obtain your Class A CDL.
1. Pre-trip inspection: You will be asked to do a thorough inspection of your CMV to ensure that it is safe to operate. This includes checking the brakes, tires, lights, steering, suspension, and other components. You will need to identify any defects or potential problems.
2. Basic control skills: You will be asked to demonstrate your ability to control your CMV in tight spaces and under specific conditions. This includes straight-line backing, offset backing, and parallel parking.
3. Road test: You will be asked to demonstrate your ability to safely operate your CMV on public roads. This includes performing tasks such as lane changes, turns, intersections, and merging onto highways.
During the skills test, you will be evaluated on your ability to follow proper procedures and techniques for each part of the test. The examiner will also assess your overall safety performance, including your use of mirrors and signals, speed management, and following distance.
It is important to note that the skills test must be taken in a vehicle that is representative of the type of CMV that you plan to operate with your Class A CDL. Additionally, you must pass all three parts of the skills test in order to obtain your Class A CDL.
Yes, there are restrictions and limitations for drivers with a Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) in South Carolina. The following are some of the most common restrictions:
1. Air Brake Restriction: If you take the CDL skills test in a vehicle without air brakes, you will be restricted to driving vehicles without air brakes.
2. Manual Transmission Restriction: If you take the CDL skills test in a vehicle with an automatic transmission, you will be restricted to driving vehicles with automatic transmissions.
3. Intrastate Only Restriction: If you are not 21 years old yet, your CDL will be restricted to driving within South Carolina only.
4. Hazmat Endorsement Restriction: If you fail the hazmat endorsement test or your background check reveals a disqualifying offense, you will be restricted from transporting hazardous materials.
5. Passenger Endorsement Restriction: If you fail the passenger endorsement test or your driving record reveals certain offenses, you may be restricted from transporting passengers.
It is important to note that these restrictions and limitations may vary depending on the specific circumstances of each driver and their CDL. Make sure to check with the South Carolina DMV or speak with a representative for more information on any restrictions or limitations that may apply to your CDL.
1. Air Brake Restriction: If you take the CDL skills test in a vehicle without air brakes, you will be restricted to driving vehicles without air brakes.
2. Manual Transmission Restriction: If you take the CDL skills test in a vehicle with an automatic transmission, you will be restricted to driving vehicles with automatic transmissions.
3. Intrastate Only Restriction: If you are not 21 years old yet, your CDL will be restricted to driving within South Carolina only.
4. Hazmat Endorsement Restriction: If you fail the hazmat endorsement test or your background check reveals a disqualifying offense, you will be restricted from transporting hazardous materials.
5. Passenger Endorsement Restriction: If you fail the passenger endorsement test or your driving record reveals certain offenses, you may be restricted from transporting passengers.
It is important to note that these restrictions and limitations may vary depending on the specific circumstances of each driver and their CDL. Make sure to check with the South Carolina DMV or speak with a representative for more information on any restrictions or limitations that may apply to your CDL.
No, in South Carolina, the Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) written test is only available in English. The South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requires all applicants to take the written test in English, regardless of their native language or fluency in other languages.
However, the DMV does offer audio versions of the CDL written test for those who have difficulty reading or understanding written English. Additionally, you can bring an interpreter with you to help translate during the written test. However, the interpreter must be at least 18 years old and cannot be a family member or friend.
It is important to note that all drivers with a CDL are required to be able to read and understand English well enough to read road signs, communicate with law enforcement officers and other drivers, and complete required paperwork. If you have difficulty with English, it is recommended that you take classes or practice materials to improve your English skills before attempting the CDL written test.
However, the DMV does offer audio versions of the CDL written test for those who have difficulty reading or understanding written English. Additionally, you can bring an interpreter with you to help translate during the written test. However, the interpreter must be at least 18 years old and cannot be a family member or friend.
It is important to note that all drivers with a CDL are required to be able to read and understand English well enough to read road signs, communicate with law enforcement officers and other drivers, and complete required paperwork. If you have difficulty with English, it is recommended that you take classes or practice materials to improve your English skills before attempting the CDL written test.
Yes, if you have a disability that makes it difficult for you to take the Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) written test, you can request accommodations from the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
To request accommodations for the CDL written test, you will need to fill out a Request for Accommodations form and provide documentation of your disability from a licensed medical or mental health professional. The form and documentation should be submitted to the DMV at least two weeks before your scheduled test date.
The DMV will review your request and determine what accommodations are appropriate based on your specific needs and the requirements of the CDL written test. Some common accommodations that may be available include:
- Extended time to complete the test
- A separate testing room or workstation
- Audio or large-print versions of the test
- Use of assistive technology, such as a screen reader or Braille display
It is important to note that accommodations are not guaranteed and may depend on the nature of your disability and the DMV's ability to provide appropriate accommodations while maintaining the integrity of the CDL written test. If you have any questions or concerns about requesting accommodations, it is recommended that you contact the South Carolina DMV directly.
To request accommodations for the CDL written test, you will need to fill out a Request for Accommodations form and provide documentation of your disability from a licensed medical or mental health professional. The form and documentation should be submitted to the DMV at least two weeks before your scheduled test date.
The DMV will review your request and determine what accommodations are appropriate based on your specific needs and the requirements of the CDL written test. Some common accommodations that may be available include:
- Extended time to complete the test
- A separate testing room or workstation
- Audio or large-print versions of the test
- Use of assistive technology, such as a screen reader or Braille display
It is important to note that accommodations are not guaranteed and may depend on the nature of your disability and the DMV's ability to provide appropriate accommodations while maintaining the integrity of the CDL written test. If you have any questions or concerns about requesting accommodations, it is recommended that you contact the South Carolina DMV directly.
Yes, if you fail the Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) written test in South Carolina, you can retake it. However, there are certain rules and restrictions that apply.
If you fail the CDL written test, you will be required to wait at least one day before you can retake it. You will also be required to pay another testing fee.
If you fail the CDL written test three times, you will be required to wait at least two weeks before you can retake it again. Additionally, if you fail the test three times, you will be required to complete additional training or instruction before you are eligible to retake the test.
It is important to note that passing the CDL written test is just one step in obtaining a Class A CDL. You will also need to pass a skills test, which includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills test, and road test. Additionally, there are other requirements for obtaining a CDL, such as meeting age and medical requirements and submitting to a background check.
If you are having difficulty passing the CDL written test or need additional training or instruction, it is recommended that you seek out resources such as study materials or classes to help prepare for the test.
If you fail the CDL written test, you will be required to wait at least one day before you can retake it. You will also be required to pay another testing fee.
If you fail the CDL written test three times, you will be required to wait at least two weeks before you can retake it again. Additionally, if you fail the test three times, you will be required to complete additional training or instruction before you are eligible to retake the test.
It is important to note that passing the CDL written test is just one step in obtaining a Class A CDL. You will also need to pass a skills test, which includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills test, and road test. Additionally, there are other requirements for obtaining a CDL, such as meeting age and medical requirements and submitting to a background check.
If you are having difficulty passing the CDL written test or need additional training or instruction, it is recommended that you seek out resources such as study materials or classes to help prepare for the test.
