California Road Test for Commercial

California Road Test for Commercial Driver License (CDL) Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2025 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

1. During the pre-trip inspection, you should check the oil level using:

• The engine light
• The engine oil dipstick
• The coolant level indicator
• The transmission fluid stick

The dipstick allows you to accurately measure the engine oil level before starting the vehicle.

• What is the proper hand position on the steering wheel during

driving?

• One hand on top, one at the bottom
• 3 and 6 o'clock
• 9 and 3 o'clock or 10 and 2 o'clock
• Both hands low at 5 and 7 o'clock

These positions provide maximum control and leverage for safe maneuvering. 1 / 3

3. When making a lane change, you must:

• Signal only
• Signal, check mirrors, and check blind spots
• Honk your horn
• Speed up to avoid traffic

Proper lane changes require multiple checks to ensure it is safe.

• What is the minimum following distance you should maintain behind

another vehicle?

• 1 second per 10 feet of vehicle
• 1 second per 10 feet of vehicle, plus 1 extra second over 40 mph
• 5 seconds always
• 2 seconds

This rule accounts for the increased stopping distance needed for large vehicles.

5. When stopping at a railroad crossing, stop:

• Right on the tracks
• No closer than 15 feet and no farther than 50 feet from the tracks
• 5 feet before the track
• Wherever the road sign indicates

This range ensures safety while allowing enough clearance from the tracks.

6. When driving a combination vehicle, you must ensure:

• Trailer brakes are disconnected
• The cab windows are open
• The glad hands are securely connected and not leaking
• The trailer doors are locked shut

Glad hands connect the air brake systems and must be secure and leak-free. 2 / 3

7. Before descending a steep grade, you should:

• Use the brakes heavily
• Downshift to a lower gear
• Coast in neutral
• Speed up

Downshifting helps control speed using engine braking, reducing brake wear.

• What is the purpose of the air governor in an air brake system?
• Measures pressure
• Controls when the compressor pumps air
• Acts as a warning buzzer
• Applies emergency brakes

The air governor regulates compressor cycles to maintain air pressure.

9. During the road test, examiners are observing:

• Your sense of direction
• Control of the vehicle and adherence to traffic laws
• How fast you can drive
• Your reaction time only

The examiner evaluates safe and lawful vehicle operation.

10. If the low air pressure warning activates:

• Keep driving to the nearest station
• Stop immediately and check the system
• Shift to a higher gear
• Honk the horn

Loss of air pressure may lead to brake failure. Immediate action is required.

11. When backing, you should:

• Use mirrors only
• / 3