Free CDL General Knowledge: Basic Controls Practice Test (2026)

50 questions · 60 min · 80% to pass

50 Questions · 60 Minutes · 80% to Pass

Question 1 of 5

Sample Questions

Question 1

What is 'steer axle weight limit' and why does it matter for basic vehicle control?

Answer: It is the maximum legal weight that can be placed on the front (steer) axle. Overloading it can make steering heavy and difficult, reducing the driver's ability to control the vehicle.

Question 2

What is 'off-tracking' in relation to large commercial vehicles?

Answer: Off-tracking is when the rear wheels of a vehicle follow a different (shorter) path than the front wheels during a turn, causing the rear to cut corners.

Question 3

What technique should a driver use to recover from a front-wheel skid caused by over-steering?

Answer: Stop turning and/or braking so hard. Straighten the front wheels and allow traction to return; do not jerk the wheel in the opposite direction.

Question 4

Why must a CMV driver make a wider turn when turning right at an intersection?

Answer: Because the rear wheels off-track and cut the corner, swinging wide before completing the turn helps prevent the rear of the vehicle from hitting curbs, signs, or other objects.

Question 5

What is the proper hand position recommended for steering a commercial vehicle?

Answer: Keep both hands on the steering wheel on opposite sides, typically at the 9 and 3 o'clock or 8 and 4 o'clock positions.