CDL Endorsement for your Commercial Drivers License

1. An example of a key suspension part is the __________

• A. hydraulic shock absorber.
• B. spindle.
• C. drag link.
• D. none of the above

Explanation:
Examples of key suspension parts are: hydraulic shock absorber, leaf spring, vehicle frame, front axle hanger, bearing plates, auxiliary spring, torque rod, axle, main spring, and spring shackle.

In the handbook:
2.1.3: Vehicle Inspection - What to Look For

2. The maximum GVW specified by the manufacturer for a single vehicle plus its load is the __________

• A. Gross Combination Weight.
• B. Gross Combination Weight Rating.
• C. Gross Vehicle Weight.
• D. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating.

Explanation:
You must understand basic cargo safety rules to get a CDL. If you load cargo wrong or do not secure it, it can be a danger to others and yourself. You are responsible for not being overloaded. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating is the maximum Gross Vehicle Weight specified by the manufacturer for a single vehicle plus its load.

In the handbook:
3.2.1: Weight and Balance - Definitions You Should Know

3. Your vehicle's right turn signal should be __________ at the rear.

• A. yellow
• B. amber
• C. red
• D. any of the above

Explanation:
Conduct a walk-around inspection of your vehicle during step five of the Seven-step Inspection Method. When you check the rear of the vehicle, check the lights and reflectors. Make sure the rear clearance and identification lights, reflectors, taillights, and right rear turn signal are clean, operating, and the proper color. Rear clearance and identification lights, reflectors, and taillights should be red at rear. The right rear turn signal should be red, yellow, or amber. Make sure that the license plate(s) are present, clean, and secured. Be sure the splash guards are present, undamaged, properly fastened, and not dragging on the ground or rubbing tires. Make sure the cargo is properly blocked, braced, tied or chained, that tailboards are up and properly secured, and that the end gates are free of damage and properly secured in the stake sockets. Secure the canvas or tarp to prevent tearing or billowing that might block the rearview mirrors or cover the rear lights. If over-length or under-width, make sure all signs and/or additional lights/flags are safely and properly mounted and that all required permits are in the driver's possession. Make sure the rear doors are securely closed and locked or latched.

In the handbook:
2.1.5: Vehicle Inspection - Seven-step Inspection Method

4. When you conduct your walk-around inspection of the left front side of the vehicle using the Seven-step Vehicle Inspection Method, check __________

• A. that door latches or locks work properly.
• B. the condition of the front axle.
• C. the lights and reflectors.
• D. all of the above

Explanation:
Conduct a walk-around inspection of your vehicle during step five of the Seven-step Inspection Method. When you check the left front side of the vehicle, make sure the driver's door glass is clean. Make sure that door latches or locks work properly. On the left front wheel, check the wheel and rim for missing, bent, or broken studs, clamps, lugs, or any signs of misalignment. Check the tires to ensure that they are properly inflated, that the valve stem and cap are OK, and that there are no serious cuts, bulges, or tread wear. Use a wrench to test rust-streaked lug nuts for looseness. Make sure that the hub oil level is OK and that there are no leaks. Check the left front suspension next. Look at the condition of the spring, spring hangers, shackles, u-bolts, and shock absorber. On the left front brake, check the condition of the brake drum or disc and hoses.

In the handbook:
2.1.5: Vehicle Inspection - Seven-step Inspection Method

5. If something is blocking your path and you are blocked on both sides, __________

• A. steer right.
• B. brake hard and hold the wheel straight.
• C. brake lightly and hold the wheel straight.
• D. steer left.

Explanation:
Stopping is not always the safest thing to do in an emergency. When you don't have enough room to stop, you may have to steer away from what's ahead. Remember, you can almost always turn to miss an obstacle more quickly than you can stop. If an oncoming driver has drifted into your lane, a move to your right is best. If that driver realizes what has happened, the natural response will be to return to his or her own lane. If something is blocking your path, the best direction to steer will depend on the situation. If you have been using your mirrors, you'll know which lane is empty and can be safely used. If the shoulder is clear, going right may be best. No one is likely to be driving on the shoulder but someone may be passing you on the left. You will know if you have been using your mirrors. If you are blocked on both sides, a move to the right may be best. At least you won't force anyone into an opposing traffic lane and a possible head-on collision.

In the handbook:
2.17.1: Driving Emergencies - Steering to Avoid a Crash