Study guide
CDL study guide
Contents
Chapter 1: CDL Overview, CLP, and Federal Licensing Regulations
- 1.1 CDL Classes, Endorsements, Restrictions, and Testing Architecture (49 CFR Part 383)
- 1.2 Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) and the Training Provider Registry (49 CFR Part 380)
- 1.3 Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) Rules and Driver Disqualifications
- 1.4 Medical Self-Certification Categories, Other CDL Rules, and the International Registration Plan
Chapter 2: Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance
Chapter 3: Basic Vehicle Control and Operating Fundamentals
Chapter 4: Speed Management and Stopping Distances
Chapter 5: Space Management and Defensive Driving
Chapter 6: Visual Search, Hazard Perception, and Communication
- 6.1 Visual Search: Looking 12-15 Seconds Ahead and Mirror Monitoring (5-8 Seconds)
- 6.2 Identifying Hazards: Work Zones, Pedestrians, Distracted Drivers, and Slow Vehicles
- 6.3 Communicating Intent: Signaling, Flasher Use, Horn, and Breakdown Warning Triangles (49 CFR 392.22)
- 6.4 Distracted Driving and the Federal Mobile Phone and Texting Rules (49 CFR 392.80 and 392.82)
- 6.5 Aggressive Drivers and Road Rage: Recognition, Prevention, and Response
Chapter 7: Driving in Extreme and Adverse Conditions
Chapter 8: Emergency Maneuvers, Skid Control, and Accident Procedures
Chapter 9: Mountain Driving and Downgrade Techniques
Chapter 10: Railroad-Highway Grade Crossings and Special Intersections
Chapter 11: Cargo Securement and Weight Distribution
- 11.1 Federal Weight Limits (GVWR, GCWR, Axle Limits, Bridge Formula) and Center of Gravity
- 11.2 Cargo Securement Rules, Working Load Limits, Tiedowns, and Covering Requirements
- 11.3 Cargo Types: Liquids/Baffles, Dry Bulk, Over-Dimensional Loads, and Inspection Intervals (50 mi / 3 hr / 150 mi)
- 11.4 Blocking, Bracing, Header Boards, Covering Loads, and Sealed or Containerized Cargo
Chapter 12: Air Brake Systems Overview and Operation
- 12.1 Air Brake System Components: Compressor, Governor, Air Tanks, Safety Valves, and Drain Valves
- 12.2 Brake Chambers, S-Cam Mechanism, Slack Adjusters, and Spring Parking Brakes
- 12.3 Dual Air Brake Systems, Low Air Warning (60 psi), and Emergency Spring Brake Pop-Out (20-45 psi)
- 12.4 Air Brake Pre-Trip Inspection and Step-by-Step Leak Rate Testing
- 12.5 Antilock Braking Systems (ABS): Required Vehicles, Malfunction Lamps, and Braking With and Without ABS
Chapter 13: Combination Vehicles Overview and Coupling
- 13.1 Combination Vehicle Dynamics: Rollover Risk, Rearward Amplification, and Trailer Jackknifing
- 13.2 Coupling and Uncoupling Step-by-Step Procedures: Fifth Wheel, Kingpin, Air and Electrical Lines
- 13.3 Trailer Air Lines (Service vs. Emergency/Supply), Glad Hands, and Trailer Protection Valves
- 13.4 Inspecting Combination Vehicles: Walk-Around Additions and the Combination Vehicle Air Brake Check
Chapter 14: Driver Wellness, Hours of Service, and Drug/Alcohol Rules
- 14.1 Hours of Service (HOS) Regulations: 11-Hour, 14-Hour, 30-Minute Break, 60/70-Hour Rules & ELD Mandate
- 14.2 Driver Physical Qualifications, Medical Certification (Part 391), Fatigue, and Sleep Apnea
- 14.3 Drug and Alcohol Regulations (49 CFR Part 382): 0.04% BAC Limit, Testing Types, and Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse