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 possible answer choices. Test questions come from the Virginia 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.
1. When driving in winter, which of the following should receive extra attention in a pre-trip inspection?
When doing a pre-trip inspection during the winter, you should pay extra attention to the coolant level and amount of antifreeze; the defrosting and heating equipment; the wiper blades and windshield washer; the tires and tire chains; the lights and reflectors; the windows and mirrors; the hand holds, steps, and deck plates; the radiator shuttles and winterfront; and exhaust system.
2. Strong winds usually cause the greatest issues for:
Strong winds can make it difficult for a driver to maintain control of their vehicle. Usually, this is especially true for drivers of lighter CMVs.
3. If a vehicle begins to hydroplane, the driver should:
If your vehicle begins to hydroplane, you can regain control by releasing the accelerator and pushing in the clutch.
4. What should be done to prevent cargo from sliding?
The shifting of cargo in transit can make steering and handling difficult for the driver, so cargo should be blocked to prevent it from moving. Blocking should be used in front of, behind, and/or to the sides of a piece of cargo to keep it from sliding.
5. Of the following, which is not a recommended way to spot potential signs of trouble?
During a trip, you should regularly make checks to ensure that your vehicle is operating properly. Check the instrument panel and gauges; look at your mirrors; and examine the tires, cargo, and lights. Use all of your senses and be alert for anything that could be an early indication of trouble.
6. Hydroplaning happens most often when:
Hydroplaning is most likely to occur when driving on wet roads with tire pressure that is too low and tire tread that is too worn. If there is enough water on the road, hydroplaning can occur at speeds as low as 30 mph.
7. During the driving test, when asked to make a lane change:
When asked to make a lane change during the on-road driving test, you should make the proper traffic checks, use your turn signal, and smoothly change lanes when it is safe to do so.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the steps to obtain a Class B CDL license in Virginia:
1. Obtain a Virginia commercial driver's license manual: The Virginia DMV provides a commercial driver's license manual that covers all the information required for the Class B CDL license.
2. Meet the eligibility requirements: To obtain a Class B CDL license in Virginia, you must be at least 18 years old, hold a valid Virginia driver's license, and have no disqualifying criminal history.
3. Get a medical examination: Drivers must have a medical examination and obtain a medical certificate to prove that they are physically fit to operate commercial vehicles.
4. Pass the written test: The written test covers general knowledge of commercial driving rules and regulations, as well as specific information related to Class B vehicles.
5. Obtain a learner's permit: After passing the written test, you will be issued a learner's permit that allows you to practice driving with a licensed CDL holder in the same class of vehicle.
6. Practice driving and take the road test: Once you feel comfortable operating the vehicle, you can schedule your road test. During this test, you will be required to demonstrate your ability to safely operate a Class B vehicle in various situations.
7. Pay the fees and receive your CDL: If you pass the road test and meet all other requirements, you will receive your Class B CDL license by mail after paying the necessary fees.
Here are some examples of vehicles that you can operate with a Class B CDL license:
1. Straight trucks: This includes large box trucks, dump trucks, and other vehicles that have a single cab and a cargo area.
2. Buses: Class B CDL holders can operate buses that are designed to transport more than 16 passengers, including the driver.
3. Tractor-trailers: These are combination vehicles that consist of a tractor unit and one or more trailers. Class B CDL holders can operate combination vehicles where the weight of the trailer(s) is less than 10,000 pounds.
4. Tanker trucks: These are vehicles that transport liquids or gases in tanks. Class B CDL holders can operate tanker trucks as long as they meet the weight requirements.
It's important to note that certain endorsements may be required to operate specialized types of vehicles, such as those carrying hazardous materials or passengers.
1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a Class B CDL license.
2. Driver's License: You must hold a valid Virginia driver's license.
3. Medical examination: You must pass a medical examination and obtain a medical certificate to prove that you are physically fit to operate commercial vehicles.
4. Written test: You must pass a written test covering general knowledge of commercial driving rules and regulations, as well as specific information related to Class B vehicles.
5. Learner's Permit: After passing the written test, you will be issued a learner's permit that allows you to practice driving with a licensed CDL holder in the same class of vehicle.
6. Road test: You must pass a road test that evaluates your ability to safely operate a Class B vehicle in various situations.
7. Fees: You must pay the necessary fees for obtaining a Class B CDL license.
It's important to note that additional endorsements may be required for certain types of commercial vehicles, such as those carrying hazardous materials or passengers.
Drivers who are 21 years old or older can operate commercial vehicles of any type and can transport hazardous materials if they obtain the necessary endorsements on their CDL license.
It's important to note that some employers may have their own age restrictions for hiring commercial drivers, so it's always a good idea to check with potential employers before pursuing a CDL license.
Here are the common endorsements for a Class B CDL license:
1. Passenger Endorsement (P): Required for drivers who plan to transport more than 16 passengers, including the driver.
2. School Bus Endorsement (S): Required for drivers who plan to operate a school bus.
3. Tank Vehicle Endorsement (N): Required for drivers who plan to transport liquids or gases in bulk containers with a capacity of 1,000 gallons or more.
4. Hazmat Endorsement (H): Required for drivers who plan to transport hazardous materials in amounts that require placards.
To obtain these endorsements, you'll need to pass additional written exams and meet other requirements, such as background checks and fingerprinting. The requirements for each endorsement may vary, so it's important to check with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles or a licensed CDL school for more information.
1. Vehicle Inspection: You will be required to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and identify any safety defects or mechanical issues before starting the engine.
2. Basic Control Skills: You will be tested on your ability to perform basic maneuvers such as backing up, turning, and parking the vehicle in a confined space.
3. Road Test: You will be evaluated on your ability to safely drive the vehicle on public roads, obey traffic laws, and communicate effectively with other drivers.
During the skills test, you will be required to demonstrate your proficiency in operating the commercial vehicle safely and efficiently. The test will typically take place in a controlled environment such as a DMV testing site or a licensed CDL school.
It's important to note that the specific requirements and procedures for the Class B CDL skills test may vary depending on your state's DMV regulations. Therefore, it is highly recommended that you consult with your state's DMV or a licensed CDL school for more information on the specific requirements for passing the Class B CDL skills test.
1. Vehicle Weight Rating: A Class B CDL allows you to operate a single vehicle with a weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more, or a combination of vehicles with a total weight rating of less than 26,001 pounds. Therefore, you are not allowed to operate vehicles that exceed the weight limit.
2. Passenger Limitations: If you have a Class B CDL with a passenger endorsement (P), you are only allowed to transport up to 16 passengers including the driver. However, if you have a school bus endorsement (S), you may be able to transport more than 16 passengers depending on your state's regulations.
3. Hazardous Materials Endorsement Limitations: If you have a Class B CDL with a hazmat endorsement (H), there may be additional restrictions and limitations on transporting hazardous materials. You may need to comply with federal regulations and obtain additional permits before transporting certain types of hazardous materials.
4. Medical Certification: All commercial drivers, including those who hold a Class B CDL license, must pass a medical examination and maintain a valid medical certificate to operate commercial vehicles.
It's important to note that violating any of these restrictions or limitations can result in fines, license suspension or revocation, and even criminal charges in some cases. Therefore, it's essential to understand and comply with all the rules and regulations related to your Class B CDL license.
If you need to take the Class B CDL written test in a language other than English, it's important to contact your state's DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) or licensing agency to find out if this option is available. Some states may offer translated versions of the written test or allow you to use an interpreter during the test.
In some cases, there may be additional fees or requirements for taking a translated version of the written test. You may need to provide your own interpreter or use a DMV-approved interpreter at an additional cost.
It's important to note that even if you are allowed to take the Class B CDL written test in a language other than English, you will still need to demonstrate your ability to read and understand English as part of your driving skills test. The ability to read and understand road signs and communicate with law enforcement officers and other drivers is critical for safe commercial driving.
To request accommodations, you will need to contact your state's DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) or licensing agency and provide documentation of your disability and the specific accommodations you need. The DMV may require the documentation to be completed by a licensed healthcare provider.
The types of accommodations that may be available for the CDL written test include additional time to complete the test, a separate testing room, or access to assistive technology such as a screen reader or magnifier. The DMV will work with you to determine the appropriate accommodations based on your disability and needs.
It's important to note that accommodations are not guaranteed and may depend on the availability of resources and equipment. Therefore, it's best to make your request for accommodations well in advance of your scheduled test date.
If you have any questions or concerns about requesting accommodations for the Class B CDL written test, you can contact your state's DMV or licensing agency for more information.
For example, in Virginia, if you fail the written test, you must wait at least one day before retaking it. If you fail the test three times, you must wait at least 15 days before retaking it again. Other states may have different waiting periods or limits on the number of times you can retake the test.
It's important to study and prepare thoroughly before retaking the Class B CDL written test. The DMV may provide study materials or practice tests to help you prepare. You may also want to consider taking a CDL training course or using other resources to improve your knowledge and skills.
If you are unable to pass the written test after multiple attempts, it may be necessary to reconsider your goals and whether obtaining a Class B CDL is right for you. However, it's important to remember that many people pass the test on their second or third attempt with additional preparation and study.