A Exam Practice Questions And Correct

Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class A Exam Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

1. When backing a commercial vehicle, you should:

• Use only your mirrors
• Rely on a spotter if available
• Look directly backward through the rear window
• Back quickly to save time
• Rely on a spotter if available

Rationale: Using a spotter provides an extra set of eyes, improving safety

when maneuvering in tight spaces.

• What is the main purpose of the air brake system in a commercial

vehicle?

• Reduce fuel consumption 1 / 4

• Help slow or stop the vehicle
• Increase engine power
• Operate the horn
• Help slow or stop the vehicle

Rationale: Air brakes use compressed air to safely stop heavy vehicles and

trailers.

• How often should you check your mirrors while driving?
• Only when changing lanes
• Every 5-8 seconds
• Every 20-30 seconds
• Only when stopping
• Every 5-8 seconds

Rationale: Frequent mirror checks help maintain awareness of surrounding

traffic and hazards.

• Which factor has the greatest effect on stopping distance?
• Vehicle color
• Road conditions
• Tire brand
• Vehicle height
• Road conditions

Rationale: Wet, icy, or uneven roads greatly increase stopping distance,

requiring slower speeds. 2 / 4

• What is the proper way to secure a load?
• Use only bungee cords
• Tie loosely for easy removal
• Use appropriate tie-downs and check weight limits
• Rely on gravity to hold it
• Use appropriate tie-downs and check weight limits

Rationale: Proper load securement prevents shifting that can cause

accidents or fines.

• When should you use your high beams?
• In foggy conditions
• On open roads at night with no traffic ahead
• In city traffic
• When following another vehicle closely
• On open roads at night with no traffic ahead

Rationale: High beams improve visibility but can blind oncoming drivers if

used improperly.

• What is the minimum tread depth for front tires on a commercial

vehicle?

• 1/32 inch
• 2/32 inch
• 4/32 inch
• 6/32 inch 3 / 4

• 4/32 inch

Rationale: Front tires must have at least 4/32 inch tread for safe handling

and braking.

• How should you handle a tire blowout while driving?
• Slam on the brakes immediately
• Grip the steering wheel firmly and gradually slow down
• Turn sharply to the shoulder
• Accelerate to maintain control
• Grip the steering wheel firmly and gradually slow down

Rationale: Gradually reducing speed while maintaining control prevents

accidents.

9. When driving through a construction zone, you should:

• Increase speed to pass quickly
• Follow posted speed limits and watch for workers
• Ignore flaggers
• Change lanes immediately
• Follow posted speed limits and watch for workers

Rationale: Construction zones have reduced speeds to protect workers and

drivers.

• What is the most important reason for performing a pre-trip

inspection?

• To meet legal requirements
• / 4