Examination Practice Questions And

Illinois Pilot Car Escort Certification Examination Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the primary purpose of a pilot car escort?
• To enforce traffic laws
• To transport cargo
• To ensure the safe movement of oversized loads
• To provide roadside assistance

Rationale: The primary role of a pilot car is to guide and ensure the

safety of oversized or wide loads on public roads.

• Which type of vehicles typically require a pilot car escort?
• Passenger cars
• Standard delivery trucks 1 / 4

• Oversized or overweight vehicles
• Motorcycles

Rationale: Pilot cars are specifically used for vehicles that exceed

legal size or weight limits.

• How far ahead should a pilot car typically travel in front of an

oversized load?

• 50-100 feet
• 100-200 feet
• 0.5-1 mile
• 2-3 miles

Rationale: Standard safety guidelines recommend a pilot car

maintain a distance of about 0.5-1 mile ahead to warn oncoming traffic.

• When following an oversized vehicle, the pilot car should maintain a

distance of:

• 5 feet
• 50 feet
• 200-500 feet
• 1 mile

Rationale: Maintaining an appropriate following distance ensures

safe reaction time and visibility.

• What type of warning devices should a pilot car display?
• None 2 / 4

• Headlights only
• Signs, lights, and flags as required by law
• Horn only

Rationale: Pilot cars must use legally required warning devices to

alert other drivers of an oversized load.

• What color is typically used for “OVERSIZE LOAD” signs on a pilot car?
• Blue
• Green
• Orange with black lettering
• Red

Rationale: Orange signs with black lettering are standard for

construction and load warnings.

7. A pilot car following an oversized vehicle at night must:

• Turn off all lights
• Use reflective lights and proper signage
• Flash headlights only
• Follow as normal

Rationale: Reflective devices and lights increase visibility and safety

during nighttime operations.

• Which radio frequency is commonly used for communication between

pilot cars and the oversized load driver?

• AM radio
• FM radio 3 / 4

• CB radio or designated frequencies
• Shortwave radio

Rationale: CB radios or other designated channels provide reliable

communication for coordinating movement.

9. Before starting a pilot car escort, the driver should:

• Check fuel only
• Start moving immediately
• Inspect all warning devices, lights, and communication equipment
• Drive at high speed to stay ahead

Rationale: Safety inspections ensure all equipment is functioning and

visible to other drivers.

• What should a pilot car do when approaching a steep hill?
• Speed up to pass the load
• Warn the driver of the oversized vehicle and oncoming traffic
• Stop in the middle of the road
• Drive slowly and quietly

Rationale: Pilot cars alert drivers and maintain safe passage,

especially on challenging terrain.

• What is the minimum legal age to operate a pilot car in Illinois?
• 16 years
• 17 years
• 18 years
• 21 years
• / 4