Getting a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is the first step toward becoming a professional truck driver, and the Class A CDL is needed to drive a semi-truck. The test you will take to obtain that license may vary from state to state, but always includes three key portions: the pre-trip inspection, backing, and road skills test. 

Before taking your test, be sure you’ve had your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) for at least 14 days. Let’s explore what is covered in each portion of the test, and some strategies you can use to best prepare. 

Three Parts of the CDL Test and What They Cover

1. Pre-Trip Inspection: This first portion of the test will demonstrate that you understand parts of a truck and how they work, while also making sure that the truck is up to standards. You will be asked to check for leaks, verify the condition of your brakes, examine fluid levels under the hood, check that all lights are working, and inspect the tires. 
2. Backing: This second portion will cover the technique for backing up in a semi-truck, which can be one of the hardest skills to learn. For the test, you’ll be asked to navigate various backup scenarios with cones. Be sure you know the four backing-up techniques: straight line backing, alley docking, offset backing, and parallel parking. During the test, you’ll be given an opportunity to fix your parking job. 
3. Road Skills: This final portion of the test will resemble a standard driving test, and you’ll have to show that you can signal, enter an intersection, pass, observe speed limits, obey right of way, and make safe turns.¹ 

Five Tips for CDL Test Preparation ‍

1. Be Prepared and Know What to Expect

As mentioned above, there will be three parts to the test. Make sure you have a comprehensive understanding of what will be required with each step so that you can prepare adequately. To find out exactly what your test will entail, check your state’s DMV website, which will provide a specific breakdown of the process. 

2. Make the Most of Your Resources

You will have access to preparation and study tools, including the CDL Manual. Use the manual to study for a CDL, including how to master each of the three parts of the test. Memorize as much of the content as you can and practice applying it so that you are more likely to retain all of the information. During the test, some states even allow you to bring a memory aid from the CDL manual to help you, so check on your individual state’s requirements.² 

3. Study in Multiple Formats (including practice)

To make sure you become fluent with the information, it’s smart to study in multiple formats, including reading the manual, taking notes, doing practice tests online, watching videos and demonstrations, and speaking to professionals if you know any. Most of all, it’s essential to practice all three parts of the test so that there are no surprises on the day and you will be able to tap into some personal experience in order to succeed and pass. 

4. Get there early 

States may have various rules around what time you can arrive for your test. Check with your state, as some locations allow test takers to practice one of the backup maneuvers beforehand. Even if you are not allowed to practice beforehand in your state, still plan to get there early to have all of your paperwork ready and avoid missing your appointment. 

5. Relax and Stay Positive 

Even though you are allowed some mistakes in your test, try not to dwell on this and go in with the intention of doing each part as well as possible. Set yourself up for success in the days before the test as well by getting a good night of sleep beforehand, managing your coffee intake to avoid jitters, spending the night before relaxing, and keeping your mind off the test to reduce anxiety. ³

Register with ACV Transportation to Get Driving Jobs

Once you pass your CDL test and are ready to go, register with us at ACV Transportation to get access to thousands of loads daily. ACV works with a network of car dealers all over the U.S. that need vehicles transported to and from different dealerships. And by working as an auto transporter with ACV, you’ll be paid quickly within five days of submitting a BOL, plus you’ll be assigned a dedicated account manager to make your experience seamless. Get started today to learn more.  

Sources

1. Prime Inc. “What do I need to know for my CDL exam?” Prime Inc. Retrieved September 15, 2024. https://www.primeinc.com/trucking-blogs/cdl-test-prep/ 
2. The Schneider Guy. “8 CDL Road test tips to help you pass.” Schneider. Retrieved September 15, 2024. https://schneiderjobs.com/blog/cdl-road-test-tips 
3.  Truckstop. “7 Tips to pass your CDL test.” Truckstop. Retrieved September 15, 2024. https://truckstop.com/blog/7-tips-to-help-you-pass-your-cdl-test/ 

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