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Drivers who want to drive combination vehicles must pass the combination vehicles test. The California CDL combination test consists of 20 questions, and you'll need at least 16 correct answers to pass (80%). The test covers the combination vehicles section of the California CDL Manual. Take this practice test now to prepare for the actual CA CDL combination test!
1.
If the safety relief valve in the air brake system releases air:
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something is wrong.
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this will supply more power to the brakes.
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the valve is fully operational.
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2.
When driving a 50 foot combination vehicle at 50 mph in ideal conditions, you should keep at least ____ seconds of space in front of you.
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10
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5
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6
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3.
When you turn suddenly while pulling doubles, which trailer is most likely to turn over?
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The rear trailer is twice as likely to turn over as the tractor.
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All trailers are equally likely to turn over.
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The front trailer is twice as likely to turn over as the tractor.
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4.
When backing, as soon as you see the trailer getting off the proper path, you should:
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turn the top of the steering wheel in the opposite direction of the drift.
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turn the top of the steering wheel in the direction of the drift.
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to keep a firm grip on the steering wheel and continue backing.
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5.
To test the service brake:
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gently try to pull forward with the trailer parking brake on, then release the brake.
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shift your transmission to a low gear, pump the brake pedal three times, then hold it down for five seconds.
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push the brake pedal firmly while going about 5 mph.
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6.
If you cannot make a right turn without entering another traffic lane, you should:
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turn wide as you complete the turn.
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turn wide before you start the turn.
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swing wide to the left before starting the turn.
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7.
Cargo tie-downs are used to:
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prevent freezing.
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prevent right-turn accidents.
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keep cargo from shifting or falling.
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8.
When driving on slippery roads, you should NOT:
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use the engine brake.
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try to anticipate stops early.
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go slowly.
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9.
If the drive wheels begin to spin when accelerating, you should:
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continue to accelerate.
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take your foot off the accelerator.
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brake gently.
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10.
You are coupling a semi-trailer to your tractor but have not yet backed under. The trailer is at the right height when:
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the locking jaws are around the head of the kingpin.
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it will be raised slightly when the tractor is backed under it.
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the end of the kingpin is even with the top of the fifth wheel.
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Frequently Asked Questions
In California, the minimum age to apply for a DMV test is 15½ years old. If you are at least 17½ years old, you have the option to obtain a permit without completing driver training. When you turn 16, you can obtain a minor's driver license, and the provisional aspect of your class C driver's license comes to an end when you reach 18.
You can schedule an appointment through the official California DMV website to take the DMV written test in person. Alternatively, you can take the exam online during specific hours. You can select this option after filling out your application. If you are under 18, parental or guardian permission is necessary before taking the test. Additionally, this test requires a webcam and cannot be completed on a smartphone/tablet.
You'll need to bring specific documents:
- Application Form. You can fill out this form online or choose the paper version available at any California DMV office. If you're under 18, ensure that your parents/guardians sign the application.
- Proof of identity.
- Full name document.
- Two proofs of residency.
- Social Security Number (SSN).
- If you are under 18, you must also have a Certificate of Completion/Enrollment of Driver Education.
The online version of the DMV written test in California is offered in 35 languages. Although language options are provided, it is advisable to have a basic understanding of English since road signs are always in English.
The DMV written test covers various topics, such as road signs, parallel parking, turning, passing a vehicle, yielding the right of way, etc. Studying the official California Driver’s Handbook is the first step to pass the exam because it contains all of this information. Once you've read it, you can take our free practice tests to test your preparation!
For new drivers in California, there are specific restrictions based on their age and licensing stage. With an instruction permit, you can drive accompanied by a licensed California aged at least 18 (or 25 for minors). After obtaining a provisional license, driving alone is permitted if there are no collisions or traffic violations on your record. In the first 12 months:
- Driving alone is prohibited between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m., except for medical emergencies, school or employment activities, or when accompanied by a family member. A written note is required.
- Transporting passengers under 20 years old is not allowed, except when accompanied by a California-licensed parent or guardian, a driver aged 25 or older, or a certified driving instructor.
- Until you turn 18, the use of a cell phone or electronic wireless device is forbidden, except in emergencies when you need to contact law enforcement or the hospital.
At 18, the restrictions end and you may request a duplicate DL without the term "provisional", after paying a fee.
The driver’s license application remains valid for 12 months. Since you are required to hold the permit for 6 months before taking the road test, if your application expires, you must reapply at a DMV office. The time spent with the instruction permit counts towards the six-month requirement. Bring both the expired and current permits on the day of the driving test to demonstrate the accumulated credit.
If you do not pass your written test, you must wait for 7 days, excluding the day you failed the test, before retaking it. You are allowed three attempts to pass the exam. However, if you fail it three times, your application will no longer be valid, and you must start the application process again.