The trucking industry is growing rapidly. There are more and more types of trucks that are produced to adapt to the transportation need. Thus, the more trucks and trailers you can drive, the more opportunities you get in this industry. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for a combination truck driver is about $39,520/year and job outlooks are expected to rise nearly 5% by 2024. What a good deal! Let’s have an insight look at the CDL Combination test Study Guide and find out what to do with it.

 

cdl combination vehicle
What is the CDL combination vehicle?

 

1. What is the CDL Combination test?

A combination vehicle is a vehicle that contains a tractor with multiple trailers of different sizes and layouts. This type of truck is popularly called a “semi” or “semi-truck.” The tractor is linked to the trailers by a fifth wheel and/or a converter dolly. The combined vehicle may bend in the middle due to the fifth wheel. Setup, driving, dashboard controls, braking, and backing are all made more difficult as a result of this.

CDL combination vehicle test is a subpart of CDL test. You are required to take it to get your CDL done. In brief, this test is used to check your understanding of the truck’s compilation and how to operate them. Candidates might find it quite difficult because it contains a large area of knowledge and skills. 

 

2. What’s on the CDL Combination test?

 

2.1. CDL Combination test structure

Like the CDL School bus or CDL Passenger Endorsement test, the CDL Combination test includes 20 multiple choice questions, which cover the whole knowledge of the truck combination part. To pass this test, you must have at least 16 correct questions, which means at least 80% of your knowledge. We suggest you to read the CDL School Bus Study Guide and CDL Passenger Endorsement Study Guide to get more information about those endorsements in order to apply them easier. 

 

2.2. CDL Combination test content area and study guide

Depending on which state you are living, the test will be different. To know exactly what can appear in your test, you can check your state manual. Because it might include the actual questions, that can raise your passing opportunity. Even so, most of the states often include the following topics:  

  • Different combination vehicles: you are required to understand how to operate a combination vehicle. It can not be denied that it is not easy to utilize one, because of the complicated composition. However, try to remember them to pass it perfectly.
  • Rollover risks: This is one safety concern that drivers should notice, especially drive a combination truck. To eliminate the rollover risks, you should check on your cargo position. It should be as close to the ground as possible. In addition, using gentle steering is a need to avoid unsafety risks.
  • Early braking: A combination truck takes a long time to stop than other vehicles due to its height and weight. It would be more dangerous to not only drivers but also to other people on the road when it is transporting materials. That’s why should keep in mind that always brake early to avoid crushing problems. 
  • Skids: You should know how to use the combination truck mirrors.
  • Railroad crossings: It’s a reminder for all truck drivers that you are not allowed to stop on the railroad. However, in some emergency situations, your truck’s engine might not work right on railroad tracks, there are some support equipment to use: lowboy trailers, car carriers, moving vans, single axle tractors pulling long trailers (especially if the trailer’s landing gear is arranged for a double axle tractor)
  • Turning and  Backing up: It is always not easy to back up a combination vehicle. Always keep an eye on your route and back up cautiously, utilizing both mirrors. If at all feasible, enlist the assistance of a companion as you return. If the trailer starts to deviate off course, instantly correct it by twisting the wheel or pulling ahead. Return in a straight path if at all feasible. Curve on the driver’s side if you need to “curve back.” The driver’s side is considerably simpler to observe than the passenger’s side.
  • ABS: When the system is turned on, the ABS indicator light in the driver’s side mirror will blink numerous times. After that, the indication light will turn off (if the ABS system is running normally). If the ABS indicator light continues to flash (or remains “on”), your ABS system is malfunctioning; consult a professional.
  • Coupling and uncoupling: It is critical to know how to pair and uncouple a combination vehicle in order to drive safely. Although procedures differ from rig to rig, there are certain similar measures to follow.
  • Air brakes on combination vehicles: you can check the CDL Air brake study guide to know more about it.
cdl combination vehicle
Types of CDL Combination

 

3. Tips to optimize the CDL Combination test

 

3.1. Pay attention 

People who do not pay enough attention and do not devote themselves to studying will perform on the CDL Combination test badly. If you study when you’re tired, you won’t be able to recall the knowledge as well. When you don’t feel rushed, study when it’s convenient for you. If you have to work, study throughout your lunch breaks. Besides, you can minimize distractions such as your phone or television. If at all feasible, isolate yourself from the rest of your family, even if it’s only for a few hours.

 

3.2. Take the online practice test

Many may be found on the internet simply by searching, whatever search engine you like. One thing to keep in mind is that, while there are many, not all of them are up to date. All of the trucking rules, legislation, and regulations are continually changing. Our CDL Practice test includes the great CDL combo practice tests and flashcards, all of which are updated with the most up-to-date material. They’re also totally free to use. You may also get a number of applications for your iPhone or Android smartphone that feature CDL Combination practice test questions in a variety of topics.

 

cdl combination test
Take the practice to master CDL Combination Test

 

3.3. Follow the study guide

You can search for the study guide on the internet, and they will properly appear in a thousand choices. We also provide a brief CDL Combination study guide above, hope it helps you with the flying color score.

 

In conclusion, the CDL Combination test is not hard, but you may fail if you do not focus on it. By stating the important points of the test and some tips, our main objective is to help you conquer this test in the easiest way. Good luck with your test!