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 or four possible answer choices. Test questions come from the South Dakota 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
8. Backing with a trailer is dangerous because:
Explanation
Backing up is always dangerous because it is impossible to see everything that is behind you. Only drive in reverse if it is absolutely necessary.
9. If brakes fail on a long downgrade, the driver should:
Explanation
If your brakes fail on a downgrade, your best option is to use an escape ramp. If no escape ramp is available, it is a good idea to look for a different escape route, such as a side road or open field.
10. Steering wheel play of more than ____ can make steering difficult.
Explanation
A steering wheel should have no more than 10 degrees of play. This is equal to about two inches of movement at the rim of a 20-inch wheel. If there is more play than this, it may be difficult to steer.
11. During a basic vehicle controls skills test exercise, your vehicle's final position should be:
Explanation
You should finish each exercise with your vehicle in the exact position described by the examiner. You can be penalized for failing to complete an exercise exactly in the manner described by the examiner, potentially resulting in failure of the basic control skills test.
12. In cold weather, an alcohol evaporator should be checked and filled:
Explanation
An alcohol evaporator can help prevent ice from building up in an air brake system. In cold weather, the evaporator should be checked and refilled every day.
13. For safety purposes, when should you turn off a retarder?
Explanation
Retarders are mechanisms in some vehicles that help slow a vehicle and reduce the need for braking. However, using a retarder may cause wheels to skid when they have poor traction. Turn off retarders when traveling under wet, snowy, or icy conditions.
14. Service brakes should:
Explanation
Before driving, you should always verify that your service brakes are in good working order. Testing the brakes before a trip allows you to locate any problems before you need to brake while on the road.
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Frequently Asked Questions
A Class A CDL (Commercial Driver's License) is a license that allows a driver to operate a combination of vehicles with a total weight of 26,001 pounds or more. This includes a towed unit with a weight of more than 10,000 pounds. In South Dakota, a Class A CDL is required for drivers who operate tractor-trailers, semi-trucks, and other large commercial vehicles.
To obtain a Class A CDL license in South Dakota, you must:
1. Be at least 18 years old (21 years old for interstate driving)
2. Possess a valid South Dakota driver's license
3. Provide proof of your identity and residency in the state
4. Pass a medical exam and obtain a medical certificate
5. Pass a written knowledge test on general driving knowledge and commercial driving regulations
6. Pass a skills test, which includes pre-trip inspections, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving
It's important to note that additional endorsements may be required for specialized types of commercial vehicles, such as hazardous materials or passenger transport.
To obtain a Class A CDL license in South Dakota, you must:
1. Be at least 18 years old (21 years old for interstate driving)
2. Possess a valid South Dakota driver's license
3. Provide proof of your identity and residency in the state
4. Pass a medical exam and obtain a medical certificate
5. Pass a written knowledge test on general driving knowledge and commercial driving regulations
6. Pass a skills test, which includes pre-trip inspections, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving
It's important to note that additional endorsements may be required for specialized types of commercial vehicles, such as hazardous materials or passenger transport.
With a Class A CDL license in South Dakota, you are authorized to operate combination vehicles with a total weight of 26,001 pounds or more. This includes:
1. Tractor-trailers: A combination of a tractor (also known as a cab) and a trailer, with the trailer weighing more than 10,000 pounds.
2. Tanker vehicles: A vehicle designed to transport liquids or gases in bulk, such as gasoline or propane.
3. Livestock carriers: A vehicle designed to transport live animals.
4. Flatbeds: A truck with an open bed for carrying goods.
5. Refrigerated trailers: A trailer with a refrigeration unit for transporting perishable goods.
6. Double/triple trailers: Vehicles with two or three trailers attached to the tractor.
It's important to note that additional endorsements may be required for specialized types of commercial vehicles, such as hazardous materials or passenger transport.
1. Tractor-trailers: A combination of a tractor (also known as a cab) and a trailer, with the trailer weighing more than 10,000 pounds.
2. Tanker vehicles: A vehicle designed to transport liquids or gases in bulk, such as gasoline or propane.
3. Livestock carriers: A vehicle designed to transport live animals.
4. Flatbeds: A truck with an open bed for carrying goods.
5. Refrigerated trailers: A trailer with a refrigeration unit for transporting perishable goods.
6. Double/triple trailers: Vehicles with two or three trailers attached to the tractor.
It's important to note that additional endorsements may be required for specialized types of commercial vehicles, such as hazardous materials or passenger transport.
To obtain a Class A CDL license in South Dakota, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Be at least 18 years old (21 years old for interstate driving).
2. Possess a valid South Dakota driver's license.
3. Provide proof of identity and residency in the state.
4. Obtain a Medical Examiner's Certificate to prove you are medically fit to drive a commercial vehicle.
5. Pass a written knowledge test on general driving knowledge and commercial driving regulations.
6. Pass a skills test, which includes pre-trip inspections, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
In addition to the above requirements, you may also need to obtain additional endorsements for specialized types of commercial vehicles such as hazardous materials or passenger transport.
It's important to note that obtaining a CDL license can be a lengthy and costly process. You may want to consider attending a truck driving school to prepare for the written and skills tests and gain valuable experience behind the wheel of a commercial vehicle.
1. Be at least 18 years old (21 years old for interstate driving).
2. Possess a valid South Dakota driver's license.
3. Provide proof of identity and residency in the state.
4. Obtain a Medical Examiner's Certificate to prove you are medically fit to drive a commercial vehicle.
5. Pass a written knowledge test on general driving knowledge and commercial driving regulations.
6. Pass a skills test, which includes pre-trip inspections, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
In addition to the above requirements, you may also need to obtain additional endorsements for specialized types of commercial vehicles such as hazardous materials or passenger transport.
It's important to note that obtaining a CDL license can be a lengthy and costly process. You may want to consider attending a truck driving school to prepare for the written and skills tests and gain valuable experience behind the wheel of a commercial vehicle.
The minimum age requirement for a Class A CDL license in South Dakota is 18 years old. However, drivers under the age of 21 are restricted to intrastate driving only, which means they cannot operate a commercial vehicle across state lines or transport hazardous materials.
To drive a commercial vehicle across state lines or transport hazardous materials, you must be at least 21 years old.
To drive a commercial vehicle across state lines or transport hazardous materials, you must be at least 21 years old.
Yes, you may need to obtain additional endorsements for a Class A CDL license to operate specialized types of commercial vehicles. Endorsements are additional qualifications that allow you to operate vehicles that require extra skills or knowledge.
The following endorsements are available for a Class A CDL license in South Dakota:
1. T - Double/Triple Trailers: This endorsement allows you to operate double or triple trailers, which are two or three trailers connected to one truck.
2. P - Passenger: This endorsement allows you to operate a commercial vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
3. N - Tank Vehicles: This endorsement allows you to operate a commercial vehicle used to transport liquids or gases in bulk containers.
4. H - Hazardous Materials: This endorsement allows you to transport hazardous materials as defined by federal law.
To obtain an endorsement, you must pass a written test specific to the type of vehicle you wish to operate. You may also need to undergo additional training or meet other requirements, such as a background check or fingerprinting.
The following endorsements are available for a Class A CDL license in South Dakota:
1. T - Double/Triple Trailers: This endorsement allows you to operate double or triple trailers, which are two or three trailers connected to one truck.
2. P - Passenger: This endorsement allows you to operate a commercial vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
3. N - Tank Vehicles: This endorsement allows you to operate a commercial vehicle used to transport liquids or gases in bulk containers.
4. H - Hazardous Materials: This endorsement allows you to transport hazardous materials as defined by federal law.
To obtain an endorsement, you must pass a written test specific to the type of vehicle you wish to operate. You may also need to undergo additional training or meet other requirements, such as a background check or fingerprinting.
The Class A CDL skills test in South Dakota consists of three parts: the pre-trip inspection, the basic vehicle control, and the on-road driving test. Here's what you can expect for each part:
1. Pre-trip Inspection: You'll be asked to inspect your vehicle to ensure it is safe to drive. You'll need to identify and explain each item you are inspecting, such as the engine compartment, brakes, tires, and lights.
2. Basic Vehicle Control: You'll be asked to demonstrate your ability to control your commercial vehicle in a controlled environment. This may include backing up, turning around, or maneuvering through an obstacle course.
3. On-road Driving Test: You'll be asked to demonstrate your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle on public roads. You'll need to follow the examiner's instructions while obeying traffic laws and driving defensively.
The skills test may take several hours to complete, and you'll need to bring a properly licensed and insured commercial vehicle with you for the test. It's important to practice beforehand and ensure you are familiar with your vehicle's operations and handling characteristics.
1. Pre-trip Inspection: You'll be asked to inspect your vehicle to ensure it is safe to drive. You'll need to identify and explain each item you are inspecting, such as the engine compartment, brakes, tires, and lights.
2. Basic Vehicle Control: You'll be asked to demonstrate your ability to control your commercial vehicle in a controlled environment. This may include backing up, turning around, or maneuvering through an obstacle course.
3. On-road Driving Test: You'll be asked to demonstrate your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle on public roads. You'll need to follow the examiner's instructions while obeying traffic laws and driving defensively.
The skills test may take several hours to complete, and you'll need to bring a properly licensed and insured commercial vehicle with you for the test. It's important to practice beforehand and ensure you are familiar with your vehicle's operations and handling characteristics.
Yes, there are some restrictions and limitations for drivers with a Class A CDL license in South Dakota. Here are some of the most common:
1. Weight Restrictions: Depending on your endorsement and the type of vehicle you are operating, there may be weight restrictions that limit the amount of cargo you can transport.
2. Speed Restrictions: Some commercial vehicles may have speed limiters that prevent you from driving faster than a certain speed.
3. Passenger Restrictions: If you have a Class A CDL with a passenger endorsement, there may be restrictions on the number of passengers you can carry and where you can drive.
4. Hazmat Restrictions: If you have a hazardous materials endorsement, there may be restrictions on the types of materials you can transport and where you can drive.
5. Time Restrictions: Depending on the type of commercial vehicle you are operating, there may be restrictions on how many hours you can drive in a day and how many days in a row you can drive without taking a break.
It's important to be aware of any restrictions or limitations that apply to your Class A CDL license and to comply with all applicable rules and regulations.
1. Weight Restrictions: Depending on your endorsement and the type of vehicle you are operating, there may be weight restrictions that limit the amount of cargo you can transport.
2. Speed Restrictions: Some commercial vehicles may have speed limiters that prevent you from driving faster than a certain speed.
3. Passenger Restrictions: If you have a Class A CDL with a passenger endorsement, there may be restrictions on the number of passengers you can carry and where you can drive.
4. Hazmat Restrictions: If you have a hazardous materials endorsement, there may be restrictions on the types of materials you can transport and where you can drive.
5. Time Restrictions: Depending on the type of commercial vehicle you are operating, there may be restrictions on how many hours you can drive in a day and how many days in a row you can drive without taking a break.
It's important to be aware of any restrictions or limitations that apply to your Class A CDL license and to comply with all applicable rules and regulations.
No, in South Dakota, all CDL written tests are given in English. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires that all CDL applicants be able to read and speak English well enough to communicate with the general public, understand highway traffic signs and signals, respond to official inquiries, and make entries on reports and records.
Therefore, all CDL tests, including the written test, are only offered in English. However, you may be able to bring a translator with you to assist you during the testing process if you need help understanding the instructions. It's important to contact your local South Dakota DMV office ahead of time to inquire about any accommodations or resources that may be available to you.
Therefore, all CDL tests, including the written test, are only offered in English. However, you may be able to bring a translator with you to assist you during the testing process if you need help understanding the instructions. It's important to contact your local South Dakota DMV office ahead of time to inquire about any accommodations or resources that may be available to you.
Yes, you can request accommodations for the Class A CDL written test if you have a disability that affects your ability to take the test. The South Dakota Department of Public Safety, Driver Licensing Program provides reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
To request accommodations, you will need to complete a Request for Accommodations form and submit it to your local South Dakota DMV office. The form requires documentation of your disability and how it affects your ability to take the test. The DMV will review your request and determine what accommodations can be provided based on your individual needs.
Examples of accommodations that may be available include extended testing time, a separate testing room, the use of assistive technology or software, or a sign language interpreter. It's important to make your request for accommodations as early as possible so that appropriate arrangements can be made for your testing session.
To request accommodations, you will need to complete a Request for Accommodations form and submit it to your local South Dakota DMV office. The form requires documentation of your disability and how it affects your ability to take the test. The DMV will review your request and determine what accommodations can be provided based on your individual needs.
Examples of accommodations that may be available include extended testing time, a separate testing room, the use of assistive technology or software, or a sign language interpreter. It's important to make your request for accommodations as early as possible so that appropriate arrangements can be made for your testing session.
Yes, if you fail the Class A CDL written test in South Dakota, you can retake it. However, you must wait at least one day before taking the test again.
If you fail the test three times, you will need to wait at least 14 days before retaking it. If you fail the test six times, you will need to wait at least 30 days before retaking it.
Each time you take the test, you will need to pay a testing fee. The fee for the Class A CDL written test is $8.00 in South Dakota.
It's important to prepare thoroughly for the test and review the CDL handbook and any other study materials before taking it again. If you continue to have difficulty passing the written test, consider seeking additional training or assistance from a reputable CDL training program or instructor.
If you fail the test three times, you will need to wait at least 14 days before retaking it. If you fail the test six times, you will need to wait at least 30 days before retaking it.
Each time you take the test, you will need to pay a testing fee. The fee for the Class A CDL written test is $8.00 in South Dakota.
It's important to prepare thoroughly for the test and review the CDL handbook and any other study materials before taking it again. If you continue to have difficulty passing the written test, consider seeking additional training or assistance from a reputable CDL training program or instructor.
