CDL AIR BRAKES PRACTICE TEST - ALABAMA

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The air brakes endorsement applies to applicants who wish to drive a vehicle with air brakes in Class A, B, or C CDL. To drive a vehicle with air brakes, you must pass the air brake component of the Alabama CDL knowledge test. The AL CDL air brakes test consists of 25 questions, and you'll need at least 20 correct answers to pass (80%). The test covers the information found in the air brakes section of the Alabama CDL Manual. Take this AL CDL practice test now to prepare for the actual air brakes test!
1. The air compressor is connected to:
the radiator.
the suspension system.
the engine.
the transmission.
2. Stepping on and off the brake pedal several times:
reduces the air pressure in the tanks.
may cause air leaks.
may result in dangerously thin linings.
All of the above.
3. Front-end header boards:
protect drivers from cargo in case of an accident or emergency stop.
should never be used.
reduce traction.
protect drivers from spilled cargo.
4. A low air pressure warning signal must come on when the air pressure in the tanks falls below:
10 psi.
60 psi.
15 psi.
100 psi.
5. The alcohol evaporator:
shows how much air pressure you are applying to the brakes.
eliminates the need for daily air tank drainage.
ensures the coolant temperature gauge remains in the normal range.
helps to reduce the risk of ice in air brake valves and other parts in cold weather.
6. You are driving on a steep downgrade. If your safe speed is 35 mph, you should apply the brakes when your speed reaches:
25 mph
30 mph
45 mph
35 mph
7. The safety relief valve is located:
on the dashboard.
in the first tank the air compressor pumps air to.
on each end of the vehicle's axles.
in the front brake.
8. You are coming down a long, steep downgrade. Which of the following is a sign that your brakes may have started to fade?
You have to apply your brakes harder and harder to get the same stopping power.
The brake pedal feels spongy or goes to the floor.
You hear a loud "bang".
The steering feels heavy.
9. In a vehicle with a dual air brake system:
both systems typically operate the regular brakes on the rear axle.
each system has its own air tanks.
one system supplies air to the trailer.
All of the above.
10. Before starting down a hill, you should slow down and shift down:
so you can coast downhill.
to a gear that will cause your engine to exceed its redline.
to a speed that you can control without using the brakes hard.
to a gear that will cause your brakes to overheat.
 
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Frequently Asked Questions

Make sure you've got all you need when applying. Ensure you bring the following documents to fulfill the necessary requirements:

  • Proof of identity, such as a passport or a certified birth certificate
  • Proof of Social Security Number
  • Proof of residency (at least two documents)
  • Proof of school enrollment (if you are younger than 19)

If you are a non-U.S. citizen, you will also need a valid passport and a proof of your legal presence in the U.S.

To obtain a class D driver's license in Alabama, teens must follow the three steps of the Graduated Driver License (GDL) system. Here are the age requirements:
  • For a learner's permit, you must be at least 15 years old.
  • For a restricted license, you must be 16 years old or older.
  • For an unrestricted or regular license, you must be at least 17 years old. However, individuals aged 17 must hold a restricted license for at least six months before applying for a regular license. If you are 18 years old or older, you may apply for a driver’s license immediately (the road skills exam is required).

Individuals who are 18 or older, those aged 17 or older with valid licenses for six months or more, individuals 16 or older who are married and the head of the household, and emancipated individuals are exempt from the GDL program.




After completing a pre-application online for your first license or permit, you can check where the nearest Alabama DMV office is located and its business hours. Call the office or go in person to take your knowledge test.

Alabama provides the option to take the DMV written test in several foreign languages, including Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, French, German, Greek, Japanese, Korean, Russian, Spanish, Thai, and Vietnamese. For those who are hearing impaired, exams are offered also in American Sign Language at certain driver license offices.

The DMV written test test is based on the Alabama Driver's Manual. Focus on road signs, safe driving practices and road rules. Take our free practice tests to prepare for the test, or sign up for DMV Premium to unlock more resources and prepare for your exam faster!
After passing the required examination, new drivers receive a driver's license with the 'Y' restriction. This allows them to drive accompanied by a driver aged 21 or older or a certified driving instructor seated beside them. For drivers who are 16 years old or 17 with a license of less than 6 months, specific restrictions apply:
  • No more than 1 non-family passenger, excluding parents, guardians, or supervising licensed drivers at least 21 years old.
  • No driving between 12 midnight and 6 a.m., unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian or under certain exceptions like work, school events, religious events, or emergencies.
  • It is unlawful to use handheld communication devices while driving.

Upon passing the road test, a regular license is issued, and the 'Y' restriction is removed.


In Alabama, the learner's license is valid for four years, with the option to renew it once. This waiting period ensures you have ample time to gain valuable driving experience and feel confident before the road exam.

AL CDL Air Brakes Test

Number of questions: 25
Correct answers to pass:20
Passing score:80%
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