Usually, people have testing anxiety for a driving exam. Prepare yourself by previewing the testing area and the testing instrument. Practice with someone to have a mock experience of what it will feel like when the examiner sits with you in the vehicle.
You can also take CDL classes through a community or technical college in your area. Some schools offer several driving courses with only one that has been approved by the PTDI, so do research before deciding which one to sign up for. [5] X Research source
You can take training courses with fewer hours, but these are generally meant for people with some experience under their belts who need a refresher course. Training programs that have been approved by the PTDI average $4,200, in addition to the cost of books, license fees, and other expenses. [6] X Research source
make controlled turns without putting cars and other vehicles in danger. shift gears. stay in your lane or switch lanes. manage your speed on the highway. deal with traffic congestion. handle obstacles in the road. navigate narrow city streets. back up and reverse the semi truck. park the truck.
How to keep a logbook to record your hours on the road. [7] X Research source Knowledge about Department of Transportation requirements you must follow. How to safely transport hazardous materials. How to operate air brakes. [8] X Research source Other behind-the-wheel instruction.
The General Knowledge Test is taken by all applicants, no matter what type of vehicle they will be driving. [10] X Research source The Air Brakes Test must be taken if you wish to drive a truck with air brakes. [11] X Research source The Combination Vehicles Test has to be taken if you want to drive tractor-trailer combinations. [12] X Research source The Hazardous Materials Test is required if you will be transporting hazardous materials. [13] X Research source The Tanker Test is required for hauling liquids in a tanker truck. [14] X Research source The Doubles/Triples Test is required if you want to pull two or three trailers at a time. [15] X Research source
be at least 18 years of age. have a valid driver’s license. pass the knowledge tests. have a federal medical card.
Pre-trip vehicle inspection - This mandatory tests determines whether you understand how to check to make sure your vehicle is safe to drive. You’ll perform a check in front of the examiner. Basic vehicle control - For this test you’ll get inside the vehicle and operate it in front of the examiner. You’ll be asked to move it forward, backward, and to make turns without veering too far from your lane or hitting cones or barriers. On-road driving - For this test you’ll be asked to drive your vehicle on the road through a variety of traffic situations. You’ll make turns, move through railroad crossings, shift to go up and down grades, and navigate city streets and highways.
