CDL TESTING

What To expect

 

To obtain a Commercial Driver License (CDL) you must pass all 3 sections of the CDL Skills Test. These tests include:

PRE-TRIP INSPECTION

During the Vehicle Inspection, you must show that the vehicle is safe to drive. You will have to walk around the vehicle, name and point to/touch each item, and explain to the examiner what you are checking and why.

Any vehicle that has components marked or labeled cannot be used for the vehicle inspection test.

Each pre-trip inspection test is a timed-limited test. The maximum time allowed to complete the test is thirty minutes.

BASIC CONTROLS TEST

Your basic control skills may be tested using one or more of the following exercises off-road or somewhere on the street during the road test:

  • Straight-line backing

  • Offset back/right

  • Offset back/left

  • Parallel park (driver side)

  • Parallel park (conventional)

  • Alley dock

The Basic Vehicle Control Test is a time-limited test. The maximum tire allowed to complete the test is forty minutes.

ROAD SKILLS TEST

You will drive over a test route that has a variety of traffic situations. At all times during the test, you must drive in a safe and responsible manner; and you must:

  • Wear your safety belt.

  • Obey all traffic signs, signals, and laws.

  • Complete the test without an accident or moving violation.

During the driving test, the examiner will be scoring you on specific driving maneuvers as well as on your general driving behavior. Directions will be given to you so you will have plenty of time to do what the examiner has asked. You will not be asked to drive in an unsafe manner.

If your test route does not have certain traffic situations, you may be asked to simulate one or more. You will do this by telling the examiner what you are or would be doing if you were in that situation.

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CDL Classes

  • Class A: Multiple vehicles with a GCWR of 26,001 or more. This also requires the tow vehicle to have a GVWR of 10,001 or more.

  • Class B: Used to drive any one vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more. Cannot have at trailer over 10,000 pounds.

  • Class C: Small vehicle that is not a Class A or B vehicle but is:

    • Designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver

    • Carrying hazardous materials in an amount requiring placarding

    • Any school bus that is not considered a Class A or B.

HOW TO PREPARE

 

REVIEW OHIO BMV REQUIREMENTS

Review the list of requirements on the Ohio BMV Website to ensure that you meet all qualifications and that can pass the vision and hearing exam, OR that you can obtain a waiver for one or both.

Download and study the Ohio Commercial Driver License Manual, and take a Knowledge test at a certified Driver Exam facility in Ohio.

SCHEDULE YOUR CDL TEST

Once you are ready, call us to schedule your road test. This is the final step to receive your CDL and the start of your exciting and fulfilling career as a Commercial Driver.

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