📚 How to Use This Study Guide
- Read each section carefully
- Take notes on key numbers
- Test yourself with our practice test
- Review weak areas
Section 1: Vehicle Inspection
Pre-Trip Inspection
Perform thorough pre-trip inspection before every trip.
Seven-Step Method:
- Vehicle Overview - Check for damage, leaks
- Engine Compartment - Oil, coolant, belts
- Start Engine - Check gauges, controls
- Turn Off Engine - Check lights
- Walk-Around - Tires, brakes, suspension
- Signal Lights - All functioning
- Start Engine - Check brake system
Critical Items:
- Tire tread: 4/32" front, 2/32" others
- Air brakes: 100-125 psi
- All lights working
- Mirrors clean and adjusted
Section 2: Basic Control
Shifting and Speed
Shift at recommended RPM. Downshift before hills.
Backing Safely:
- Get out and look (GOAL)
- Back slowly
- Use mirrors constantly
- Sound horn
- Back to driver's side when possible
Section 3: Braking Systems
Air Brake System
Critical Numbers:
- Normal pressure: 100-125 psi
- Low air warning: Before 60 psi
- Emergency brakes: Below 20-45 psi
- Pressure buildup: 85 to 100 psi in 45 seconds
- Air loss: Max 3 psi/min (single) or 4 psi (combination)
Section 4: Safe Driving
Following Distance
One second per 10 feet of vehicle length under 40 mph.
- 40-foot vehicle = 4 seconds minimum
- Add 1 second above 40 mph
- Add 1 second in bad weather
Night Driving:
- Clean headlights and windshield
- Reduce speed
- Don't overdrive headlights
- Watch for animals
Section 5: Cargo Securement
Weight Limits
- Maximum gross: 80,000 lbs Interstate
- Steer axle: 12,000 lbs max
- Single axle: 20,000 lbs max
- Tandem axle: 34,000 lbs max
Securement Rules:
- Minimum 2 tie-downs up to 10 feet
- Add 1 per additional 10 feet
- Check within 50 miles of start
- Re-check every 3 hours or 150 miles
Section 6: Hazardous Conditions
Weather Conditions
Rain:
- Reduce speed by 1/3 on wet roads
- Reduce by 1/2 in heavy rain
Ice and Snow:
- Black ice at 32°F
- Bridges freeze first
- Reduce speed 50% or more
- Don't use engine brake on ice
Fog:
- Use low-beam headlights
- Never use high beams
- Pull over if visibility too poor
Section 7: Rules and Regulations
Hours of Service
- 11-Hour Limit: Max 11 hours driving after 10 hours off
- 14-Hour Limit: Can't drive beyond 14th hour on duty
- Rest Break: 30-minute break after 8 hours driving
- 60/70-Hour Limit: Max 60/70 hours in 7/8 days
Required Documents:
- Valid CDL license
- Medical certificate
- Vehicle registration
- Proof of insurance
- Logbook/ELD records
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