MICHIGAN

MICHIGAN
COMMERCIAL
MICHIGAN
COMMERCIAL
COMMERCIAL
DRIVER LICENSE
DRIVER LICENSE
DRIVER LICENSE
MANUAL
MANUAL
MANUAL

JOCELYN BENSON
JOCELYN BENSON
SECRETARY OF STATE
SECRETARY OF STATE
JOCELYN BENSON
SECRETARY OF STATE

5/21/21 9:13 AM
2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Note: Throughout this manual, a commercial motor vehicle will be referred to as

a “CMV” and a Commercial Driver License as a “CDL.”

Due to frequent changes in federal and state regulations, the Michigan Department of
State cannot ensure the accuracy of the material contained in the Michigan
Commercial Driver License Manual beyond the date of publication.

To obtain current information, please visit Michigan.gov/SOS.

This document is not intended for legal purposes.

This material is based upon work supported by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety
Administration under Cooperative Agreement No. DTFH61-9-X-00017. Any opinions,
finding, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of
the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the Federal Motor Carrier
Safety Administration.

COPYRIGHT © 2005 AAMVA. All rights reserved

This material has been created for and provided to State Driver License Agencies (SDLAs) by AAMVA for the
purpose of educating Driver License applicants (Commercial or Non-Commercial). Permission to reproduce, use,
distribute or sell this material has been granted to SDLAs only. No part of this book may be reproduced or
transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any
information storage and retrieval system without express written permission from the author/publisher. Any
unauthorized reprint, use, distribution or sale of this material is prohibited.
 Human trafficking is modern-day slavery. Traffickers use force, fraud, and coercion to control their victims.
Any minor engaged in commercial sex is a victim of human trafficking. Trafficking can occur in many
locations, including truck stops, restaurants, rest areas, brothels, strip clubs, private homes, etc. Truckers
are the eyes and the ears of our nation’s highways. If you see a minor working any of those areas or suspect
pimp control, call the National Hotline and report your tip:

1-888-373-7888 (US)
1-800-222-TIPS (Canada)

For law enforcement to open an investigation on your tip, they need “actionable information.” Specific tips
helpful when reporting to the hotline would include:
▪ Descriptions of cars (make, model, color, license plate number, etc.) and people (height, weight, hair
color, eye color, age, etc.)
▪ Take a picture if you can
▪ Specific times and dates (When did you see the event in question take place? What day was it?)
▪ Addresses and locations where suspicious activity took place

Trafficking Red Flags to Look for:

▪ Lack of knowledge of their community or whereabouts
▪ Not in control of own identification documents (ID/passport)
▪ Restricted or controlled communication--not allowed to speak for self
▪ Demeanor: fear, anxiety, depression, submissive, tense, nervous

Questions to Ask:
▪ Are you being paid?
▪ Are you being watched or followed?
▪ Are you free to leave? Come and go as you please?
▪ Are you physically or sexually abused? Are you or your family threatened? What is the nature of the
threats?

Report by Email: Report@PolarisProject.org

Warning: Please do not approach traffickers. Call the hotline, and they will call the FBI and local police
to deal with them and rescue the victims. Approaching traffickers is not only dangerous for you and
their victims but could lead to problems in the eventual prosecution of traffickers. Go to
www.truckersagainsttrafficking.org for more information.
2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

 Table of Contents
PART ONE - Overview

Section 1: Introduction to Michigan’s Commercial Driver License Program ....................................... 1

Section 2: Driving Safely .................................................................................................................. 19
Section 3: Transporting Cargo Safely .............................................................................................. 63

PART TWO - Endorsements

Section 4: Transporting Passengers Safely ..................................................................................... 67

Section 5: Air Brakes ....................................................................................................................... 71
Section 6: Combination Vehicles ..................................................................................................... 81
Section 7: Doubles and Triples ........................................................................................................ 95
Section 8: Tank Vehicles ................................................................................................................. 99
Section 9: Hazardous Materials ..................................................................................................... 101
Section 10: School Buses .............................................................................................................. 121

PART THREE – Skills Tests

Section 11: Vehicle Inspection Test ............................................................................................... 131

Section 12: Basic Vehicle Control Skills Test................................................................................. 139
Section 13: On-Road Driving ......................................................................................................... 141

APPENDICES

Appendix A: Applying for a Commercial Driver License ................................................................. 145

Appendix B: Sample Test Questions ............................................................................................. 148
Appendix C: Vehicle Inspection Memory Aid ................................................................................. 149
2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Introduction: Michigan’s Commercial

Driver License Program

This Section Covers:

✓ Who Needs a CDL
✓ Eligibility Requirements
✓ Medical/Physical Requirements
✓ CDL Groups/Endorsements/Exemptions
✓ Application Procedures
✓ Tests
✓ Fees
✓ Restrictions
✓ Serious Traffic and RRX Violations
✓ Drug/Alcohol-Related Violations

Please read this section very carefully to determine if you need a CDL.
This manual will help you pass the CDL knowledge and skills tests, but it is not a substitute for a truck driver training class or
program. Formal training is the most reliable way to learn the skills required to safely operate a commercial vehicle.

Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of this information, laws and procedures are subject to change. For
exact wording of a law or a specific guideline, contact the Department of State Information Center at 888-SOS-MICH (767-
6424).

Who Needs a CDL?

Is the GCWR 26,001 Is the GVWR of
You do if you intend to operate: or more pounds? the trailer/tow
unit 10,001 or
✓ Vehicles more pounds?
• Having a gross vehicle weight rating
(GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more.
Is the GVWR of
✓ Combination Vehicles the power unit
• Towing a trailer or other vehicles with a 26,001 or more
GVWR of 10,001 pounds or more with a gross pounds?

combination weight rating of 26,001 pounds

or more.
Is the vehicle
✓ Any Vehicles transporting
hazardous
• Designed to transport 16 or more people materials in a
(Including the driver). placardable
quantity?
• Carrying hazardous materials in amounts
requiring placards.
Is the vehicle
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is the designed to
recommended maximum total weight of the vehicle transport 16 or
more
and load as designated by the vehicle manufacturer. passengers,
The GVWR label is usually found on the driver-side including the
door post of the power unit and on or near the front of driver?
the trailer. The GVWR should not be confused with the
elected GVW, which is declared by the vehicle owner
for registration purposes.

Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) means

the value specified by the manufacturer as the maximum loaded weight of a combination vehicle. In the absence of a label, the
GCWR will be calculated by adding the GVWR of the power unit to the GVWR of all vehicles or trailers being towed.

Section 1 – Introduction 1
2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

What are the Driving Record Eligibility Requirements?

Do you, or will you, use a CDL to operate a CMV in interstate or intrastate commerce?

Interstate commerce is when you drive a CMV:

✓ From one state to another state or a foreign country.

✓ Between two places within a state, but during part of the trip, the CMV crosses into another state or foreign
country; or

✓ Between two places within a state, but the cargo or passengers are part of a trip that began or will end in another
state or foreign country.

Intrastate commerce is when you drive a CMV within a state and you do not meet any of the descriptions above for
interstate commerce.

If you operate in both intrastate commerce and interstate commerce, you must choose interstate commerce.

Before you may apply for an original CDL, you must qualify for the CDL based on your driving record. Any of the following
will disqualify you from applying for a CDL:

✓ The inability to make required certifications on the CDL Certification Form (BFS-103). See Appendix A.
• Effective Jan. 30, 2012, in accordance with state law and federal regulations, a driver applying for an original or
renewal of a CDL must certify to one of four federally defined types of CMV operation. They are:

1. Non-excepted interstate. Operates a CMV outside of Michigan and must provide a legible copy of one of the
following medical certification documents to the Secretary of State:
• A completed Medical Examiner’s Certificate signed by a federally approved medical professional. The Medical
Examiner’s Certificate must be carried with you when operating a CMV for up to 14 days after its issuance to
allow for processing by the Secretary of State.

• A Medical Examiner’s Certificate and a FMCSA Skills Performance Evaluation Certificate, 49 CFR 391, or,

• An FMCSA waiver or FMSCA exemption, 49 CFR 381, Subpart C, authorizing the operation of a CMV.

The FMCSA Skills Performance Evaluation certificate, FMCSA waiver or FMCSA exemption must always be in your
possession when operating a CMV.

2. Excepted interstate. Operates a CMV outside of Michigan, only for “excepted” purposes listed below.
• 49 CFR §390.3(f): State and federal transportation, occasional transportation of personal property not for
compensation, transportation of human corpses or sick/injured persons, fire trucks and rescue vehicles,
commercial vehicles designed or used to transport between 9 and 15 passengers (including the driver),
transportation of propane winter heating fuel.

• 49 CFR §391.2: Farm custom operations, apiary industries (beekeepers seasonally transporting bees), certain
farm vehicle drivers.

• 49 CFR §391.68: Private motor carrier of passengers (nonbusiness).

• 49 CFT §398.3: Driver of migrant workers.

3. Non-excepted intrastate. Operates a CMV only within Michigan (intrastate commerce). Your medical
certification or a Motor Carrier Division Medical Waiver does not need to be provided to the Department of State
However, the medical certification or a Motor Carrier Division Medical Waiver must be in your possession when
operating a commercial vehicle.

2 Section 1 – Introduction
 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

4. Excepted intrastate. Operates a CMV only within Michigan (intrastate commerce) for an excepted purpose listed.
Excepted Intrastate Purpose [MCL 480.15(2)-(4)]: A self-propelled implement of husbandry or an implement of
husbandry being drawn by a farm tractor, or another implement of husbandry, public utility, telephone and cable
television company service vehicles that do not meet the definition of a CMV in 49 CFR §383, or a public utility service
vehicle used in cases of emergency.
• The CDL portion of a driver’s operator or chauffeur’s license is valid for the same amount of time as the
medical certificate or SPE; however, the time can vary, up to a maximum of 2 years.
• If a driver fails to certify to a type of CMV operation, and if required by driving type certification, fails to submit a
medical examiner’s certificate or SPE, the driver may only apply for a noncommercial motor vehicle driver’s
license.
• You can find additional information regarding certification to driving type and medical certifications at the
Secretary of State website at www.michigan.gov/sos.

✓ Having a license from more than one state.

✓ An active Michigan or out-state suspension, revocation, denial or cancellation of your driving privilege. The license
action must be resolved before you can apply for an original CDL.

✓ A suspension or revocation in the 36 months immediately preceding application.

Note: Suspensions for Failure to Appear in Court (FAC), Failure to Comply with a Court Judgment (FCJ), failure to
appear for a Driver Assessment re-examination, financial responsibility, nonsufficient funds and a suspension or
revocation for a temporary medical condition will not disqualify you for a CDL.

✓ Conviction of any six-point violation in the 24 months immediately preceding application. Conviction for operating a
CMV while impaired in the 24 months immediately preceding application.

How Old Must I Be to Obtain a CDL?

You must be age 21 to drive a CMV across state lines (interstate). You may drive a CMV in Michigan (intrastate) at age
18, except when transporting hazardous materials in a quantity that requires the vehicle be marked or placarded. To
transport hazardous materials, you must be 21 or older.

What are the Driver Qualification Requirements for the CDL?

Unless exempt, you must comply with the federal commercial driver qualification requirements, including the medical and
physical qualifications found in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations, 49 CFR §383 – CDL Standards,
Requirements and Penalties and §391 – Qualifications of Drivers. This includes drivers who operate commercial vehicles
only in Michigan. When applying for your CDL, you will certify by signing a CDL Certification Form (BFS-103 – See
Appendix A) stating that you meet these requirements before receiving your CDL.

Beginning February 7, 2022, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety (FMCSA) requires customers applying for a first-time CDL
or upgrading a CDL to complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) through an approved driver education provider.
Information about finding a provider can be found on FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry. ELDT must be completed
before you can take a hazardous materials endorsement knowledge test. For other CDL classes and endorsements, you
may take knowledge tests and obtain a commercial learner’s permit (CLP), but you must complete ELDT before
scheduling a CDL skills test through a driver testing business. Proof of completion of ELDT will show up in our system
automatically through the federal government’s Commercial Skills Test Information Management System. Entry Level
Driving Training providers may be found at the following website: fmcsa.dot.gov

Before taking any CDL skills tests, you must provide one of the following four items to the third-party examiner, allowing
you to operate your truck or bus. Ask your employer about the medical, physical, and other driver qualification
requirements.
• A valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate (commonly known as a DOT card)
• FMCSA waiver
• FMCSA exemption
• Valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate (DOT card) and a FMCSA Skills Performance Evaluation certificate

Section 1 – Introduction 3
2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

How Can I Get Additional Information on Medical and Physical Requirements?

Intrastate (in Michigan) medical and physical requirements, state commercial truck and bus rules and regulations,
contact: Michigan Center for Truck Safety at www.trucksafety.org.

✓ Interstate (across state lines) medical and physical requirements and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations
for trucks and buses, contact: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, 315 W. Allegan St. Room 205, Lansing,
Michigan 48933; 517-853-5990 or at www.fmcsa.dot.gov. Note: The Lansing FMCSA office does not distribute any
forms or sell the FMCSR rule books.
✓ School bus medical and physical requirements and other school bus regulations, contact: Michigan Department of
Education, Pupil Transportation Program, P.O. Box 30008, Lansing, Michigan 48909; 517-373-6388 or at
Michigan.gov/MDE.

What Type of CDL do I Need?

You will need the appropriate group designation on your CDL to operate the following vehicles:

✓ Group A
• Any combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more,
provided the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of any towed vehicles is 10,001 pounds or more.

Group A designation will allow you to operate a Group B or Group C vehicle provided you have the required endorsement.

✓ Group B
• Any single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, or any such vehicle
towing a vehicle with a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or less.

Group B designation will allow you to operate a Group C vehicle provided you have the required endorsement.

✓ Group C
• Any single vehicle, or combination of vehicles, that meets neither the definition of Group A nor that of Group B,
but is either designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, or is used in the transportation of
materials found to be hazardous and require the motor vehicle to be placarded under the Hazardous Materials
Regulations (49 CFR, part 172, subpart F).

What Endorsements do I Need?

In addition to the appropriate CDL vehicle group designation, endorsements are required to operate the following:
✓ T - Double or Triple Trailers: (Triple trailer combinations are not permitted in Michigan).

✓ P - Passenger: For vehicles which are designed to carry 16 or more people (including the driver).

✓ N - Tank: For commercial vehicles designed to transport any liquid or gaseous material within a tank or tanks having
an individual rated capacity of more than 119 gallons and an aggregate rated capacity of 1,000 gallons or more that
are either permanently or temporarily attached to the vehicle or the chassis. If a commercial motor
vehicle transports 1 or more tanks manifested either as being empty or containing only residue, those tanks shall
not be considered in determining whether the vehicle is a tank vehicle.

✓ H - Hazardous Materials: To carry hazardous materials in amounts requiring placards.

✓ X - Combined Tank and Hazardous Materials: For hauling liquids, liquefied gases and hazardous materials.

✓ S - School Bus: For CMVs used to transport pre-primary, primary or secondary school students from home to
school, school to home or to-and-from school-sponsored events.

4 Section 1 – Introduction
 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Are There CDL Exemptions?

You do not need a CDL for the following:
✓ Individuals: Operating motor homes or other vehicles used exclusively to transport personal possessions or
family members for nonbusiness purposes.

✓ Active-Duty Military: Operating military vehicles with military licenses (includes the National Guard).

✓ Police and Firefighters: Operating authorized emergency vehicles.

✓ Farmers: Operating vehicles within a 150-mile radius of their farm.

Farmers will need either an F-endorsement or a CDL under the following conditions:
• An F-endorsement is needed when operating combination vehicles whose towing vehicle has a GVWR of
26,001 pounds or more. A knowledge test, but no skills test, is required to obtain the F-endorsement. The
F-endorsement is not a CDL.

• A CDL with a hazardous materials endorsement is required when carrying hazardous materials in amounts
requiring placards while operating combination vehicles whose towing vehicles has a GVWR of 26,001 pounds
or more, or a single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more.

How do I Obtain a CDL?

When ready to apply for your first CDL, come to a local Secretary of State office and present:

✓ Your driver’s license.

✓ Proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, payroll check stub, W-2 Form).

✓ Proof of Legal Presence in the United States. Acceptable proof for Legal Presence is:

Acceptable Proof of Legal Presence Acceptable Proof of Legal Presence

for U.S. Citizenship for Non-U.S. Citizenship
Valid, unexpired U.S. passport or passport card **Valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card issued by
USCIS or INS (I-551)
**Foreign unexpired passport with Machine Readable
Immigrant Visa with Temporary I-551 Language
Original or certified copy of birth certificate issued **Temporary I-551 stamp in valid, unexpired foreign
by a state, county, municipal authority, or an outlying passport or passport card
possession of the U.S., bearing an official seal **Employment Authorization Card (I-766) (unexpired)
Consular Report of Birth Abroad issued by the U.S. **Refugee Travel Document (I-571) (valid, unexpired)
Department of State (FS-240, DS-1350, or FS-545) with stamped I-94
**Foreign passport (unexpired) with an I-94 Arrival/
Departure form
**Certificate of Naturalization (N-550, N-570 or N-578) **Foreign passport (unexpired) with an admission stamp
and/or U.S. visa
**Approved U.S. Department of Labor Certification with
Foreign Passport (unexpired) with a port-of-entry stamp
or U.S. visa (unexpired)
**Certificate of U.S. Citizenship (N-560 or N-561) **Currently expired USCIS documents accompanied by
an I-797 receipt showing a request-in-process to extend
or adjust status may be accepted if the adjustment or
change in status can be verified in SAVE.
Documents annotated with an (**) must be verified in SAVE
✓ Fill out the CDL Certification Form (BFS-103, see Appendix A), which includes a statement certifying that you
meet the commercial driver medical qualifications. If you have had any change in your physical condition that
could affect your ability to drive since your last driver’s license renewal, the service agent may give you a
physician’s statement to be completed by your physician before you can apply for a driver’s license renewal.

Section 1 – Introduction 5
2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

✓ Meet the driver eligibility requirements. (See pages 2 and 3)

✓ Pass the required knowledge and vision tests. You must pass all required knowledge tests to obtain a Commercial
Learner’s Permit (CLP). This allows you to practice driving under the supervision of a driver who has a CDL for the
type of vehicle you are operating. A CLP is also required for taking the CDL skills tests.

✓ Prior to scheduling your skills test, you must pass all applicable Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements

✓ Schedule your skills test (must be 14 days after issuance of your CLP).

✓ Pay your CDL Group Designation and Endorsement fees.

CDL Group Designations and Endorsement Fees

Operator License $25 – Standard $45 – Enhanced
Chauffeur License $35 – Standard $50 – Enhanced
Fees for Group Designation or Endorsement
CDL Vehicle Group Designation $25
CDL Endorsements (if any) $5 ($10 for an “X” endorsement)
Correction Fees
Operator License $18 – Standard $24 – Enhanced
Chauffeur License $18 – Standard $33 – Enhanced

✓ Contact an approved third-party testing organization to schedule and take your CDL skills test. These public and
private organizations are certified by the state to administer the CDL skills tests.

Call the Department of State Information Center at 888-SOS-MICH (767-6424) or visit the department website at
www.michigan.gov/sos for information about approved third-party testing organizations in your area.

✓ After passing your CDL skills test, you will:

• Need to visit a Secretary of State office. Please note: Results from road skills tests are valid for one year from the
date the test was taken. If you have not applied for your CDL within one year of passing your road skills tests, you
will have to re-take and pass all required tests before your CDL can be issued.

• Pay a correction fee to receive a temporary CDL permit allowing you to operate a CMV for the CDL tests
passed.

• Receive the photo CDL in the mail in approximately 10-14 business days from the time the CDL permit was
issued.

What Tests do I Need to Take?

State and federal regulations require that any new CDL applicant caught cheating or making fraudulent statements on
their application will be denied a new application for 60 days. Any current CDL applicant applying to upgrade their license
caught cheating or making fraudulent statements on their application will have their CDL privileges suspended for 60 days
from the date of the incident.

All drivers applying for their original (first) CDL must take and pass the appropriate CDL written knowledge tests
and a skills test.

Drivers with a CDL from another state must always take the H-Hazardous Materials endorsement written test to keep the
H-endorsement. Transferring drivers must also pass the appropriate knowledge tests when changing their vehicle group,
removing vehicle group restrictions, or adding vehicle endorsements. They may also need to take the CDL skills tests if
upgrading their vehicle group, removing vehicle group restrictions, or adding a vehicle endorsement of either
P-Passenger or S-School Bus to their CDL.

6 Section 1 – Introduction
 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

CDL Tests
CDL Group Knowledge Tests Skills Test
Group A 70 Questions* Yes
Group B 50 Questions Yes
Group C 50 Questions Yes

*The Group A knowledge test

includes a 20-question
combination vehicle test.
Endorsements Knowledge Tests Skills Tests
T – Double Trailer 20 Questions No
P – Passenger 20 Questions Yes
S – School Bus 20 Questions Yes
N – Tank 20 Questions No
H – Hazardous 30 Questions No
Air Brakes Test
If you want to be licensed to drive vehicles with air brakes, you must pass a
25-question air brake knowledge test. The vehicle you use for the skills test
must equipped with air brakes. If either of these conditions has not been
met, you will be restricted from operating vehicles with air brakes.

Knowledge Tests
You will take one or more knowledge tests. The following chart summarizes the type of tests and number of
questions you are required to pass depending on the type of vehicle you drive and the type of cargo you haul. It is
recommended that you study this manual very carefully as it contains the information you need to pass the CDL tests.
See Appendix B for sample test questions.

All CDL knowledge tests are administered in written form. A minimum passing score of 80 percent is required to pass each
test. Anyone applying for the H-Hazardous Materials or S-School Bus endorsement must pass a written knowledge test.
Applicants are only allowed to take one test per day from each testing category.

CDL Skills Test

If a CDL skills test is required, you must obtain a CLP and wait 14 days to take the test. The CDL skills test will consist
of three parts:

1. A vehicle inspection test to measure your ability to perform a vehicle safety check. A Vehicle Inspection Memory
Aid is available in Appendix C in the back of this book and may be used during the test.

2. A basic control skills test performed off the road.

3. An on-road driving test.

All three test segments must be passed, in the order listed above. The test is terminated after failure of any test
segment, and you will need to schedule a retest attempt. You are not required to retest with the same tester. You will
receive credit for any segment you passed, but the credit expires on the date your CLP expires. For example, if you fail
the on-road segment after passing the vehicle inspection and the basic control, your retest will include only the on-road
segment, as long as you retest on the same CLP. When you schedule a retest after you passed one or two test
segments, tell the tester about the segments you passed so they can confirm that they are on your record. Call the
Department of State Information Center at 888-SOS-MICH (767-6424) or visit the department website at
www.michigan.gov/sos for information about approved third-party testing organizations in your area.

Skills Test Fees and Refund Policies

Skills test fees and refund policies vary. Be sure to discuss and understand your test fees and scheduling
requirements with the third-party testing organization before taking your test.

Section 1 – Introduction 7
2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

When Taking Your CDL Skills Test

✓ You must supply an empty vehicle with a GVWR representative of the type you plan to drive (including a trailer if
required). Any vehicle or trailer used for a skills test must have a manufacturer’s data plate showing the GVWR. You
must have a valid CLP to operate the vehicle.
✓ The vehicle must be equipped with at least two permanently mounted seats for yourself and the examiner. Safety belts
are also required for both the driver and examiner (except for the examiner on buses).

✓ Applicants applying for the P-Passenger endorsement must pass the skills test in a vehicle with a seating capacity of
16 or more passengers, including the driver. Drivers who are training to become school bus drivers cannot operate a
school bus with students on board if they only hold a commercial learner’s permit.

✓ You must show valid registration and proof of insurance for your test vehicle.

✓ You must also be able to furnish the third-party testing organization with your Michigan photo driver’s license, CLP and
Medical Examiner’s Certificate (DOT card, School Bus card) or medical waiver.

See Sections 11, 12 and 13 at the end of this manual for more information about CDL skills tests and the
third-party skills testing program.

Adding CDL Privileges – Removing a CDL Restriction – Upgrading a CDL Group

Adding CDL privileges, including adding a passenger endorsement, removing a restriction and changing a lower group
designation to a higher group designation requires new skills tests in the appropriate vehicle. These are considered new
CDLs and are charged accordingly, along with a correction fee.

What CDL Restrictions Could I Receive?

✓ Restriction Code L: “No Air brake equipped CMV”
• If you do not pass the air brake knowledge test, do not correctly identify the air brake system components, do
not properly conduct an air brake system check, or if the vehicle you use for the CDL skills tests is not equipped
with air brakes, you will be restricted from operating vehicles with air brakes.

✓ Restriction Code M: “No Class A Passenger vehicle”

• Adding a P-Passenger endorsement to your current Group A vehicle group designation and completing the CDL
skills test in a Group B bus will limit the operation of buses to Groups B and C buses.

• Adding the P-Passenger and S-School Bus endorsement to your current Group A designation and completing the
CDL skills test in a Group B school bus will limit the operation of buses to Group B or C school buses.

✓ Restriction Code N: “No Class A and B Passenger vehicle”

• Adding a P-Passenger endorsement to your current Group A or B designation and completing your CDL skills test
in a Group C bus will limit the P-Passenger endorsement to operation of a Group C bus.

• Adding a P-Passenger and S-School Bus endorsement to your current Group A or B designation and
completing your CDL skills test in a Group C school bus will limit the P-Passenger and S-School Bus
endorsement to operation of Group C school buses.

✓ Restriction Code V: “CDL Medical Variance”

• If the State is notified by the FMCSA that a medical variance has been issued to the driver, the State must
indicate the existence of such a medical variance on the CDLIS driving record and the CDL document using a
restriction code “V” to indicate that there is information about the medical variance on the CDLIS record.

✓ Restriction Code K: “CDL Intrastate Only”

• This restriction is displayed if you are under 21 or if you self-certify to either “excepted intrastate” or
“non-excepted intrastate” as your commercial driving type.

✓ Restriction Code E: “No Manual transmission equipped CMV”

• If the driver takes the Skills Test in a vehicle that has an automatic transmission, then an “E” no manual
transmission restriction is placed on their license.

8 Section 1 – Introduction
 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

✓ Restriction Code O: “No Tractor-trailer CMV”

• If the driver takes the Skills Test in a Class A vehicle that is not a tractor-type, or that has a pintle hook or other
non-fifth wheel connection, they will have an “O” restriction placed on their license restricting them from driving
any Class A tractor-type vehicle with a fifth wheel connection.

✓ Restriction Code Z: “No full air brake equipped CMV”

• If the driver takes the CDL skills test in a vehicle with an air over hydraulic brake system, then they will have a
“Z” no full air brake restriction placed on their license.

The following restrictions are valid only for a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP):
✓ Restriction Code X: “No Cargo in CMV tank vehicle CMV”
• If you have a tank vehicle endorsement on your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) you will be restricted from
hauling any cargo in the CMV tank vehicle.

✓ Restriction Code P: “No Passengers in CMV bus”

• If you have a passenger/school bus vehicle endorsement on your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) you will
be restricted from transporting passengers in the CMV bus.

Seasonal Restricted CDL

A special seasonal restricted CDL is available for agri-business employees operating Group B and C vehicles on
routes within 150 miles from the place of business. Buses and school buses cannot be operated with this restricted
license.

Although CDL knowledge and skills tests are not required, applicants must have held a valid driver’s license for at
least one year and possess a clean driving record for the three-year period preceding application for the seasonal
CDL.

This limited CDL must be applied for each calendar year. Within a one-year period, applicants can choose to have the
CDL valid for 180 days from date of issue or valid for the seasonal periods from April 2 through June 20 and
September 2 through November 20.

The restricted CDL permits the driver to transport the following limited amounts of hazardous materials without the H-
or X-endorsements.
✓ Diesel motor fuel in quantities of 1,000 gallons or less.

✓ Liquid fertilizers in quantities of 3,000 gallons or less.

✓ Solid fertilizers that are not transported with any organic substance.

What About Major and Serious Traffic Violation Convictions While Driving a CMV?
If you have a CDL and are convicted of certain major or serious traffic offenses (as defined by federal regulations, 49
CFR §383.51) while operating either a CMV or noncommercial vehicle, your CDL will be subject to suspension or
revocation.

Your operator or chauffeur license may also be affected, depending on the traffic offense, and your privilege to operate
a noncommercial vehicle may be restricted, suspended, or revoked.

Other traffic convictions that result in the suspension or revocation of your operator or chauffeur license when you
were driving a noncommercial vehicle will also suspend or revoke your license to operate a CMV.

The following information explains the various traffic offenses, convictions for major and serious offenses, drug or
alcohol-related offenses and railroad crossing offenses if those offenses were committed while operating a CMV.

Section 1 – Introduction 9
2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Major Traffic Violations

Major Traffic Violations
Having an alcohol concentration of 0.04 or greater while
Under the influence of alcohol.
operating a CMV.

Operating under the influence of a controlled substance. Refusing to take an alcohol test.

Leaving the scene of an accident. Using the vehicle to commit a felony.

Using the vehicle in the commission of a felony involving
Causing a fatality through the negligent operation of a CMV. the manufacturing, distributing, or dispensing a controlled
substance.
Operating a CMV only while CMV privileges are suspended, revoked, cancelled or disqualified.

If charged and convicted for any of the major traffic offenses listed above while driving *any type of motor vehicle,
your privileges to operate a CMV for a:
• First conviction: 1-year suspension; 3-year suspension if transporting hazardous materials when stopped.

• Two convictions, separate incidents, 10-year revocation minimum.

Conviction for:
• Negligent Homicide, Fleeing/Eluding Law Enforcement: 1-year suspension of CMV privileges.

• Committing a felony involving the manufacture, distribution or dispensing of a controlled substance: CMV
privileges revoked for life.

Serious Traffic Violations

Serious Traffic Violations
Speeding 15 mph or more over the posted limit. A traffic violation connected with a fatal accident.
Following too closely. Reckless driving.
Improper or erratic lane changes. Operating a CMV without a CDL.
Operating a CMV without a CDL in the driver’s possession. Driving a CMV without proper class of CDL and/or
endorsements.
Drove a CMV with no license in possession. Moving violation causing death.
Texting while driving a CMV. Using hand-held mobile telephone while operating a CMV.

If charged and convicted for any of the serious traffic violations while operating a CMV, your privilege to operate a
CMV will be suspended for the following.
• Two convictions, separate incidents within 3 years: 60 days.

• Three or more convictions, separate incidents within 3 years: 120 days suspension of your CMV privileges.

Also, depending on the severity of the traffic conviction, your noncommercial vehicle privileges may also be
suspended, which will include your privilege to operate a CMV.

Railroad Crossing Violations

Railroad Crossing Violations
For Drivers Who are Not Required to Always Stop
Failing to slow down and check that the tracks are Failing to stop before reaching the crossing when
clear of an approaching train. the tracks are not clear.
For Drivers Who are Always Required to Stop
Failing to stop before driving onto the crossing.
For All Drivers
Failing to have sufficient space to drive completely Failing to obey a traffic control device or the directions of an
through the crossing without stopping. enforcement official at the crossing.
Failing to negotiate a crossing because of insufficient undercarriage clearance.

10 Section 1 – Introduction
 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

If charged and convicted for a railroad crossing violation, your CDL will be suspended for:
• First conviction: 60 days.
• Second conviction within three years: 120 days.
• Three or more convictions within three years, separate incidents: 1 year.

Points Assessed for Convictions

A major, serious or railroad crossing conviction will also be assessed for points and posted to your driving record. If you
accumulate a total of 12 or more points within a two-year period, Driver Assessment, by law, may require your
appearance at a re-examination to assess your driving activities and to determine if a suspension or revocation of your
driving privilege is required.

What About Serious Alcohol Violations While Operating a CMV?

You will be ordered out-of-service for 24 hours if you:
✓ Refuse to take a preliminary breath test (PBT).

✓ Consume alcohol within four hours prior to operating a CMV.

✓ Consume alcohol while operating a CMV; or

✓ Have a bodily alcohol content (BAC) of 0.015 grams or more per 100 milliliters of blood, per 210 liters of breath or
per 67 milliliters of urine.

Other alcohol violations: If you have consumed too much alcohol, you may be charged with:
✓ Operating while intoxicated.

✓ Operating with a BAC of 0.04 < 0.08 grams per 100 milliliters of blood, per 210 liters of breath or per 67 milliliters
of urine.

✓ Operating with a high bodily alcohol content of 0.017.

✓ Operating while impaired by liquor.

✓ Operating while under the influence, while intoxicated or with a high bodily alcohol content causing serious injury
or death.

✓ Operating under the influence or while impaired by controlled substances.

Refusal to submit to a chemical test (Implied Consent): Implied consent means that any person who holds a CDL is
considered to have agreed to such testing; consent is implied by operating a motor vehicle. If you refuse to submit to a
chemical test (Implied Consent), or if you are convicted of any of the alcohol offenses listed above, your CDL will be:
✓ Suspended for one year for a first offense, or three years if transporting hazardous materials; and

✓ Revoked for a minimum of 10 years for a second or third offense.

What are the CDL Consequences for Violations Committed While Operating Noncommercial
Vehicles?
Your CDL is a special privilege attached to your operator or chauffeur license. Therefore, if while operating a non-
commercial motor vehicle (including your personal vehicle), you are convicted of a traffic violation that suspends or
revokes your operator or chauffeur license, it will also suspend or revoke your privilege to operate a CMV.

The length of the suspension or revocation of driving privileges will vary from 90 days to five years, depending on the
current conviction posted to your driving record and how many and the type of convictions already on your driving
record. Complete conviction information is in the Michigan Vehicle Code or on the Secretary of State website at
www.michigan.gov/sos. Following is a partial list of convictions.
✓ Refusal to submit to a chemical test (Michigan’s Implied Consent law).

✓ Operating under the influence of liquor or controlled substance.

Section 1 – Introduction 11
2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

✓ Operating while impaired by liquor or controlled substance.

✓ Under 21 with a bodily alcohol content of 0.02 < 0.08.

What are the CMV Operator’s Responsibilities Regarding Notification of Convictions and
Suspensions?
You must notify your employer in writing of:
✓ Traffic violations (other than a parking ticket) committed in any motor vehicle within 30 days of conviction. The
notification must include:
• Your full name and signature.
• Your driver’s license number.
• Date of conviction.
• Specific violations committed.
• Whether the violation was in a CMV.
• The location of the violation.

You should also notify your employer in writing of:

✓ Any driver’s license action, such as a suspension, revocation, cancellation, other loss of driving privileges or a driving
privilege disqualification by the end of the first business day that follows the day you received notice of the license
action.

✓ Any out-of-service order within 24 hours.

How do I Renew My CDL? Can I Renew My CDL by Mail?

CDLs cannot be renewed by mail. An operator or chauffeur CDL must be renewed every 4 years. To renew (or request a
duplicate) CDL online, you will need your driver’s license or renewal notice, your updated DOT medical card (if applicable)
and a credit or debit card or e-check/bank account number for payment. Hazardous materials endorsements cannot be
renewed online. CDLs may also be renewed at a Secretary of State office.

At the Secretary of State’s office, you will do the following:

✓ Complete a BFS-103 CDL Certification Form (BFS-103, Appendix A) at every CDL application.

✓ If required, present proof of Legal Presence in the United States. Acceptable proof is listed on page 13 of this manual.

✓ Take a vision test after the branch receives clearance from both a state and national check:

• If the commercial driver portion of your driver’s license has expired for two or more years, you will be required to
retake all applicable vision, knowledge, and road skills tests.

• If the state or national checks reflect that your driving privilege is suspended, revoked, canceled or denied, you
cannot apply for an original or a renewal of a CDL until the state and national checks reflect clear.

What Tests do I Need to Take to Renew My CDL?

Unless your CDL has been expired over two years, or you have a Hazmat Endorsement, no other tests are required.

If you currently have a hazardous materials endorsement on your CDL (H or X), you will be required to take the
hazardous materials endorsement test again, and pass it with a score of 80 percent or higher, to renew the
endorsement. The hazardous materials endorsement test is a written knowledge test consisting of 30 multiple choice
questions. An oral test for this endorsement is not permitted.

All information needed to pass this test is in this manual. You must present a Federal Security Threat Assessment letter
from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and proof of U.S. Citizenship or Lawful Permanent Residence to
apply for or renew a CDL with a hazardous materials endorsement. Acceptable proof for U.S. Citizenship or Lawful
Permanent Residence is outlined in the following chart.

12 Section 1 – Introduction
 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Acceptable Proof of U.S. Citizenship Acceptable Proof of Lawful Permanent Residency

Unexpired U.S. passport or passport card. Valid Permanent Resident Card issued by USCIS or INS.*
Original or certified copy of birth certificate issued by
a state, county, municipal authority, or an outlying
possession of the U.S., bearing an official seal.
Consular Report of Birth Abroad issued by the U.S.
Department of State (FS-240, DS-1350 or FS-545).
Certificate of Naturalization (N-550, N-570 or N-578).*
*Documents marked with an asterisk are subject to
Certificate of U.S. Citizenship (N-560 or N-561).* verification using the Systematic Alien Verification for
Entitlements System (SAVE).

Hazardous materials endorsement (H) – additional requirements: When applying for or renewing a CDL that will include a
hazardous material endorsement (H), you must apply for a background record check with the Transportation Security
Administration (TSA) and receive TSA approval to include a H-endorsement on your four-year CDL. Enrollment information
is available on the Secretary of State website at Michigan.gov/SOS or on the TSA website at:
UniversalEnroll.dhs.gov/Programs/hme. You may also contact TSA at 855-347-8371.

What Happens if I Fail the Hazardous Materials Endorsement Test?

You may continue using your CDL and hazardous materials endorsement until your driver’s license expires (on your
birthday). If you fail to pass the hazardous materials endorsement test, you may take it again on the same day only
with approval by the Secretary of State branch manager. If your driver’s license has not expired, you will be
encouraged to delay its renewal for as long as possible while trying to pass the hazardous materials endorsement
exam.

However, if your CDL is about to expire, you may want to renew it without the hazardous materials endorsement. This will
allow you to continue to operate private and commercial motor vehicles but not transport hazardous materials that require
placards. If you pass the hazardous materials endorsement test after you renewed your driver’s license, you may add the
H-endorsement to your CDL by paying an $18 correction fee and a $5 endorsement fee.

What Else do I Need to Know?

State of Domicile Requirement

To qualify for a Michigan CDL, Michigan must be your state of domicile. The state of domicile is defined as the State
where a person has his/her true, fixed, and permanent home and principal residence and to which he/she intends to
return whenever he/she is absent.

Do I Need a Chauffeur License?

A chauffeur license is required when a person is:
✓ Employed for the principal purpose of operating a motor vehicle or combination of vehicles with a GVWR, GCWR,
GCW or GVW of 10,000 pounds or more.

✓ Operating a motor vehicle as a carrier of passengers or as a common or contract carrier of property.

✓ Operating a bus or school bus.

✓ Drivers operating a single vehicle or a combination of vehicles with a GVW, GVWR, GCW or GCWR of 10,000
pounds or more must meet the commercial driver medical requirements (including possession of the appropriate
medical card or medical waiver).

✓ Operating a commercial vehicle that requires a CDL with a Hazardous materials endorsement (H).

If required, the CDL group designations and CDL endorsements are added to the chauffeur license.

Section 1 – Introduction 13
2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

What is Required to Convert My Out-of-State CDL to a Michigan CDL?

When moving to Michigan from another state, you must apply for a Michigan CDL to operate a CMV. To obtain a
Michigan CDL, you must visit a Secretary of State office and complete the following requirements.

✓ Surrender your out-of-state CDL.

✓ Complete a computer check of your driving eligibility status through national and state records. If your driving privilege
is suspended, revoked, denied, or canceled for any reason in any other state, you cannot receive your Michigan CDL
until the out-of-state licensing issues are resolved. The driving record check must be completed by the branch office
before your CDL can be issued.

✓ Pass the vision test.

✓ If your unexpired out-of-state license includes a hazardous materials endorsement, you will be required to show
proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency (see the CDL Certificate Form and the BFS-103 in Appendix A
for acceptable proof).

✓ Take and pass the appropriate Michigan CDL written test if you are upgrading your group designation, adding
endorsements, or removing the air brake restriction. To keep your H-endorsement, you must always take and pass
the hazmat written test. Otherwise, written tests are not required if you are not upgrading your CDL.

✓ Take and pass the Michigan CDL skills test if you are upgrading your group designation, adding the
P-endorsement or removing a CDL limitation, such as the air brake restriction. If a CDL skills test is required, you
must obtain a CLP and wait 14 days to take the test. Your Michigan photo driver’s license must be presented to the
third-party testing organization before your CDL skills test can be administered. Generally, your regular driver’s
license (operator or chauffeur) will be mailed to you within 10 days.

✓ Receive your Michigan CDL upon proper and successful completion of any necessary CDL tests and payment of fees.

Do “Incidental” Drivers Need a CDL?

Unless exempt, any driver who operates a CMV on roads or highways that are accessible to the public must have a
CDL regardless of the distance driven or the amount of driving time.

Where Can I Get Additional Information?

The following organizations can provide information regarding CDLs, commercial driver qualification requirements and
the operation of CMVs in Michigan:

Michigan Trucking Association

1131 Centennial Way
Lansing, MI 48917
517-321-1951
www.mitrucking.org

Michigan Center for Truck Safety

1131 Centennial Way, Suite 2
Lansing MI 48917
Lansing office – 800-682-4682
Upper Peninsula office – 800-469-7364
www.truckingsafety.org

Michigan Department of State

Department of State Information Center
Lansing, MI 48918
888-SOS-MICH (767-6424)
Michigan.gov/SOS

14 Section 1 – Introduction
Michigan CDL Guide: The following chart is designed to help you determine the type of CDL you need.
KNOWLEDGE TESTS SECTIONS OF CDL SKILLS TESTS
GROUP VEHICLE DESCRIPTION TYPICAL VEHICLES IN GROUP POSSIBLE RESTRICTIONS
REQUIRED MANUAL TO STUDY REQUIRED
CDL not valid for vehicle with air
brakes (Code 28)
Combination vehicles
1, 2, 3
5 Vehicle Inspection CDL P or S endorsement valid in
Any vehicle towing a vehicle or trailer General Knowledge
A Basic Control Skills Group B or C vehicle only (Code
when the towed vehicle’s GVWR is Combination Vehicles 6
Driving 29)
over 10,001 lbs and the GCWR is
Air Brakes (if equipped) 11, 12, 13
26,001 lbs or more
Appendices CDL P or S endorsement valid in
Group C vehicle only (Code 30)
Single vehicle having a GVWR of 1, 2, 3 CDL not valid for vehicle with air
26,001 pounds or more General Knowledge Vehicle Inspection brakes (Code 28)
5
B Air Brakes (if equipped) Basic Control Skills
Towing trailers or other vehicles with 11, 12, 13 CDL P or S endorsement valid in
Driving
a GVWR of 10,000 lbs or less Appendices Group C vehicle only (Code 30)
Small vehicles designed to carry 16
or more people, including the driver 1, 2, 3, 4
Vehicle Inspection
General Knowledge 5 CDL not valid for vehicle with air
C Basic Control Skills
Small vehicles that carry hazardous Air Brakes (if equipped) 11, 12, 13 brakes (Code 28)
materials in amounts requiring Driving
placarding Appendices

ENDORSEMENTS – VEHICLE DESCRIPTION

Double or Triple Trailer: (Triple 6, 7

T Doubles None None
trailers are not permitted in Michigan) Appendices

CDL P or S endorsement valid in

4 Group B or C vehicle only (Code
Passenger: For vehicles designed to Vehicle Inspection
29)
P carry 16 or more people, including Passenger Transport 11, 12, 13 Basic Control Skills
the driver Driving
Appendices CDL P or S endorsement valid in
Group C vehicle only (Code 30)
School bus: Commercial motor CDL P or S endorsement valid in
vehicle used to transport pre- 4, 10 Group B or C vehicle only (Code
Vehicle Inspection
primary, primary, or secondary 29)
S School Bus 11, 12, 13 Basic Control Skills
school students from home or
school, school to home, and to or Appendices Driving CDL P or S endorsement valid in
from school sponsored events Group C vehicle only (Code 30)

Tank Vehicle: To haul liquids or

liquefied gases in bulk in
8
N permanently mounted tanks rated at Tank Vehicle None None
119 gallons or portable tanks rated at Appendices
1,000 gallons or more

Hazardous Materials: To carry

9
H hazardous materials in amounts Hazardous Materials None None
requiring placarding Appendices

An “X” will appear on the license when an applicant receives both the N-Tank and H-Hazardous Materials endorsements
THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 1 – Introduction 17
THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

2.1.2 – Types of Vehicle Inspection

Section 2
DRIVING SAFELY Vehicle Inspection
This Section Covers: A Vehicle inspection will help you find problems that could
cause a crash or breakdown.
✓ Vehicle Inspection
✓ Basic Control of Your Vehicle During a Trip
✓ Shifting Gears
✓ Seeing For safety you should:
✓ Communicating ✓ Watch gauges for signs of trouble.
✓ Space Management
✓ Use your senses to check for problems (look, listen,
✓ Controlling Your Speed smell, feel).
✓ Seeing Hazards
✓ Distracted Driving ✓ Check critical items when you stop:
✓ Aggressive Drivers/Road Rage • Tires, wheels and rims.
✓ Night Driving & Driver Fatigue • Brakes.
• Lights and reflectors.
✓ Driving in Fog
• Brake and electrical connections to trailer.
✓ Winter Driving • Trailer coupling devices.
✓ Hot Weather Driving • Cargo securement devices.
✓ Railroad-highway Crossings
✓ Mountain Driving After-trip Inspection and Report
✓ Driving Emergencies
✓ Antilock Braking Systems You should do an after-trip inspection at the end of the trip,
day, or tour of duty on each vehicle you operated. It may
✓ Skid Control and Recovery include filling out a vehicle condition report listing any
✓ Accident Procedures problems you find. The inspection report helps a motor
✓ Fires carrier know when the vehicle needs repairs.
✓ Alcohol, Other Drugs, and Driving
✓ Hazardous Materials Rules 2.1.3 – What to Look For

This section contains knowledge and safe driving Tire Problems

information that all commercial drivers should know. You
must pass a test on this information to get a CDL. This ✓ Too much or too little air pressure.
section does not have specific information on air brakes,
combination vehicles, doubles, or passenger vehicles. ✓ Bad wear. You need at least 4/32-inch tread depth in
When preparing for the Vehicle Inspection Test, you must every major groove on front tires. You need 2/32 inch
review the material in Section 11 in addition to the on other tires. No fabric should show through the tread
information in this section. This section does have basic or sidewall.
information on hazardous materials (HazMat) that all
drivers should know. If you need a HazMat endorsement, ✓ Cuts or other damage.
you should study Section 9.
✓ Tread separation.
2.1 – Vehicle Inspection
✓ Dual tires that come in contact with each other or parts
of the vehicle.
2.1.1 – Why Inspect
✓ Mismatched sizes.
Safety is the most important reason you inspect your
vehicle, safety for yourself and for other road users.
✓ Radial and bias-ply tires used together.
A vehicle defect found during an inspection could save you
problems later. You could have a breakdown on the road
✓ Cut or cracked valve stems.
that will cost time and dollars, or even worse, a crash
caused by the defect.
✓ Re-grooved, recapped, or retreaded tires on the front
Federal and state laws require that drivers inspect their wheels of a bus are prohibited.
vehicles. Federal and state inspectors also may inspect
your vehicles. If they judge the vehicle to be unsafe, they
will put it "out of service" until it is fixed.

Section 2 – Driving Safely 19

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Wheel and Rim Problems Suspension System Defects

✓ Damaged rims. The suspension system holds up the vehicle and its load.
It keeps the axles in place. Therefore, broken suspension
✓ Rust around wheel nuts may mean the nuts are loose- parts can be extremely dangerous. Look for:
-check tightness. After a tire has been changed, stop a ✓ Spring hangers that allow movement of axle from
short while later and re-check tightness of nuts. proper position. See Figure 2.2.

✓ Missing clamps, spacers, studs, or lugs means

danger.

✓ Mismatched, bent, or cracked lock rings are

dangerous.

✓ Wheels or rims that have had welding repairs are not

safe.

Bad Brake Drums or Shoes

✓ Cracked drums.

✓ Shoes or pads with oil, grease, or brake fluid on them.

✓ Shoes worn dangerously thin, missing, or broken.

Steering System Defects

✓ Missing nuts, bolts, cotter keys, or other parts.

✓ Bent, loose, or broken parts, such as steering column,

steering gear box, or tie rods.
Figure 2.2
✓ If power steering equipped, check hoses, pumps, and
fluid level; check for leaks. ✓ Cracked or broken spring hangers.

✓ Steering wheel play of more than 10 degrees ✓ Missing or broken leaves in any leaf spring. If one-
(approximately 2 inches movement at the rim of a 20- fourth or more are missing, it will put the vehicle "out of
inch steering wheel) can make it hard to steer. service", but any defect could be dangerous. See
Figure 2.3.
Figure 2.1 illustrates a typical steering system.

Figure 2.1 Figure 2.3

20 Section 2 – Driving Safely

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

✓ Broken leaves in a multi-leaf spring or leaves that have Cargo (Trucks)

shifted so they might hit a tire or other part.
You must make sure the truck is not overloaded and the
✓ Leaking shock absorbers. cargo is balanced and secured before each trip. If the
cargo contains hazardous materials, you must inspect for
✓ Torque rod or arm, u-bolts, spring hangers, or other proper papers and placarding.
axle positioning parts that are cracked, damaged, or
missing. 2.1.4 – CDL Vehicle Inspection Test
✓ Air suspension systems that are damaged and/or In order to obtain a CDL you will be required to pass a
leaking. See Figure 2.4. Vehicle inspection test. You will be tested to see if you
know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be
asked to do a Vehicle inspection of your vehicle. You
must point to/touch and name the item you are inspecting
and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and
why. The following seven-step inspection method should
be useful.

2.1.5 – Seven-step Inspection Method

Method of Inspection
You should do a Vehicle inspection the same way each
time so you will learn all the steps and be less likely to
forget something.

Figure 2.4 Approaching the Vehicle

✓ Any loose, cracked, broken, or missing frame Notice general condition. Look for damage or vehicle
members. leaning to one side. Look under the vehicle for fresh oil,
coolant, grease, or fuel leaks. Check the area around the
Exhaust System Defects vehicle for hazards to vehicle movement (people, other
vehicles, objects, low-hanging wires, limbs, etc.).
A broken exhaust system can let poison fumes into the
cab or sleeper berth. Look for: Vehicle Inspection Guide
✓ Loose, broken, or missing exhaust pipes, mufflers,
tailpipes, or vertical stacks. Note: For the purposes of the CDL skills test you will be
required to begin the test in the cab of the test vehicle.
✓ Loose, broken, or missing mounting brackets, clamps,
bolts, or nuts. Step 1: Vehicle Overview
✓ Exhaust system parts rubbing against fuel system
parts, tires, or other moving parts of vehicle.
Review Last Vehicle Inspection Report
Drivers may have to make a vehicle inspection report in
✓ Exhaust system parts that are leaking.
writing each day. The motor carrier must repair any items
in the report that affect safety and certify on the report that
Emergency Equipment repairs were made or were unnecessary. You must sign
the report only if defects were noted and certified to be
Vehicles must be equipped with emergency equipment. repaired or not needed to be repaired.
Look for:
✓ Fire extinguisher(s).
Step 2: Check Engine Compartment
✓ Spare electrical fuses (unless equipped with circuit
Check That the Parking Brakes are On and/or Wheels
breakers).
Chocked
✓ Warning devices for parked vehicles: three reflective
You may have to raise the hood, tilt the cab (secure loose
triangles or at least 6 fuses or 3 liquid burning flares).
things so they don't fall and break something), or open the
engine compartment door. Check the following:
✓ Engine oil level.

Section 2 – Driving Safely 21

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

✓ Coolant level in radiator; condition of hoses. ✓ Warning lights and buzzers. Oil, coolant, charging
circuit warning, and antilock brake system lights
✓ Power steering fluid level; hose condition (if so should go out right away.
equipped).
Check Condition of Controls
✓ Windshield washer fluid level.
Check all of the following for looseness, sticking, damage,
✓ Battery fluid level, connections and tie downs (battery or improper setting:
may be located elsewhere. ✓ Steering wheel.

✓ Automatic transmission fluid level (may require engine ✓ Clutch.

to be running).
✓ Accelerator ("gas pedal").
✓ Check belts for tightness and excessive wear
(alternator, water pump, air compressor). Learn how ✓ Brake controls:
much "give" the belts should have when adjusted right • Foot brake.
and check each one. • Trailer brake (if vehicle has one).
• Parking brake.
✓ Leaks in the engine compartment (fuel, coolant, oil, • Retarder controls (if vehicle has them).
power steering fluid, hydraulic fluid, battery fluid).
✓ Transmission controls.
✓ Cracked, worn electrical wiring insulation.
✓ Interaxle differential lock (if vehicle has one).
✓ Lower and secure hood, cab, or engine compartment
door. ✓ Horn(s).

Step 3: Start Engine and Inspect Inside the ✓ Windshield wiper/washer.

Cab ✓ Lights:
• Headlights.
Get in and Start Engine • Dimmer switch.
• Turn signal.
✓ Make sure parking brake is on.
• Four-way flashers.
• Parking, clearance, identification, marker
✓ Put gearshift in neutral (or "park" if automatic).
switch(es).
✓ Start engine; listen for unusual noises.

If equipped, check the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

indicator lights. Light on dash should come on and then
turn off. If it stays on the ABS is not working properly. For
trailers only, if the yellow light on the left rear of the trailer
stays on, the ABS is not working properly.

Look at the Gauges

✓ Oil pressure. Should come up to normal within
seconds after engine is started. See Figure 2.5

✓ Air pressure. Pressure should build from 50 to 90 psi

within 3 minutes. Build air pressure to governor cut-
out (usually around 120 – 140 psi. Know your
vehicle’s requirements.

✓ Ammeter and/or voltmeter. Should be in normal

range(s).

✓ Coolant temperature. Should begin gradual rise to Figure 2.5

normal operating range.

✓ Engine oil temperature. Should begin gradual rise to

normal operating range.

22 Section 2 – Driving Safely

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Check Mirrors and Windshield

✓ Left front wheel:
Inspect mirrors and windshield for cracks, dirt, illegal • Condition of wheel and rim--missing, bent, broken
stickers, or other obstructions to seeing clearly. Clean and studs, clamps, lugs, or any signs of misalignment.
adjust as necessary. • Condition of tires--properly inflated, valve stem
and cap OK, no serious cuts, bulges, or tread
Check Emergency Equipment wear.
• Use wrench to test rust-streaked lug nuts,
✓ Check for safety equipment: indicating looseness.
• Spare electrical fuses (unless vehicle has circuit • Hub oil level OK, no leaks.
breakers).
• Three red reflective triangles, 6 fuses or 3 liquid ✓ Left front suspension:
burning flares. • Condition of spring, spring hangers, shackles,
• Properly charged and rated fire extinguisher. u-bolts.
• Shock absorber condition.
✓ Check for optional items such as:
• Chains (where winter conditions require). ✓ Left front brake:
• Tire changing equipment. • Condition of brake drum or disc.
• Condition of hoses.
✓ List of emergency phone numbers
Front
✓ Accident reporting kit (packet).
✓ Condition of front axle.
✓ Check Safety Belt. Check that the safety belt is
securely mounted, adjusts; latches properly and is not ✓ Condition of steering system.
ripped or frayed. • No loose, worn, bent, damaged or missing parts.
• Must grab steering mechanism to test for
Step 4: Turn Off Engine and Check Lights looseness.

Make sure the parking brake is set, turn off the engine, ✓ Condition of windshield.
and take the key with you. Turn on headlights (low beams) • Check for damage and clean if dirty.
and four-way emergency flashers and get out of the • Check windshield wiper arms for proper spring
vehicle. tension.
• Check wiper blades for damage, "stiff" rubber, and
Step 5: Do Walk-around Inspection securement.

✓ Go to front of vehicle and check that low beams are ✓ Lights and reflectors.
on, and both of the four-way flashers are working. • Parking, clearance, and identification lights clean,
operating, and proper color (amber at front).
✓ Push dimmer switch and check that high beams work. • Reflectors clean and proper color (amber at front).
• Right front turn signal light clean, operating, and
✓ Turn off headlights and four-way emergency flashers. proper color (amber or white on signals facing
forward).
✓ Turn on parking, clearance, side-marker, and
identification lights. Right Side
✓ Turn on right turn signal and start walk-around ✓ Right front: check all items as done on left front.
inspection.
✓ Primary and secondary safety cab locks engaged (if
General cab-over-engine design).

✓ Walk around and inspect. ✓ Right fuel tank(s).

• Securely mounted, not damaged, or leaking.
✓ Clean all lights, reflectors, and glass as you go along. • Fuel crossover line secure.
• Tank(s) contain enough fuel.
Left Front Side • Cap(s) on and secure.

✓ Driver's door glass should be clean. ✓ Condition of visible parts.

• Rear of engine--not leaking.
✓ Door latches or locks should work properly. • Transmission--not leaking.

Section 2 – Driving Safely 23

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

• Exhaust system--secure, not leaking, not touching • Side-marker reflectors clean and proper color (red
wires, fuel, or air-lines. at rear, others amber).
• Frame and cross members--no bends or cracks.
• Air-lines and electrical wiring--secured against Rear
snagging, rubbing, wearing.
• Spare tire carrier or rack not damaged (if so ✓ Lights and reflectors.
equipped). • Rear clearance and identification lights clean,
• Spare tire and/or wheel securely mounted in rack. operating, and proper color (red at rear).
• Spare tire and wheel adequate (proper size, • Reflectors clean and proper color (red at rear).
properly inflated). • Taillights clean, operating, and proper color (red at
rear).
✓ Cargo securement (trucks). • Right rear turn signal operating, and proper color
• Cargo properly blocked, braced, tied, chained, etc. (red, yellow, or amber at rear).
• Header board adequate, secure (if required).
• Side boards, stakes strong enough, free of ✓ License plate(s) present, clean, and secured.
damage, properly set in place (if so equipped).
• Canvas or tarp (if required) properly secured to ✓ Splash guards present, not damaged, properly
prevent tearing, billowing, or blocking of mirrors. fastened, not dragging on ground, or rubbing tires.
• If oversize, all required signs (flags, lamps, and
reflectors) safely and properly mounted and all ✓ Cargo secure (trucks).
required permits in driver's possession.
• Curbside cargo compartment doors in good ✓ Cargo properly blocked, braced, tied, chained, etc.
condition, securely closed, latched/locked and
required security seals in place. ✓ Tailboards up and properly secured.

Right Rear ✓ End gates free of damage, properly secured in stake

sockets.
✓ Condition of wheels and rims--no missing, bent, or
broken spacers, studs, clamps, or lugs. ✓ Canvas or tarp (if required) properly secured to
prevent tearing, billowing, or blocking of either the
✓ Condition of tires--properly inflated, valve stems and rearview mirrors or rear lights.
caps OK, no serious cuts, bulges, tread wear, tires not
rubbing each other, and nothing stuck between them. ✓ If over-length, or over-width, make sure all signs
and/or additional lights/flags are safely and properly
✓ Tires same type, e.g., not mixed radial and bias types. mounted, and all required permits are in driver's
possession.
✓ Tires evenly matched (same sizes).
✓ Rear doors securely closed, latched/locked.
✓ Wheel bearing/seals not leaking.
Left Side
✓ Suspension.
• Condition of spring(s), spring hangers, shackles, ✓ Check all items as done on right side, plus:
and u-bolts. • Battery(ies) (if not mounted in engine
• Axle secure. compartment).
• Powered axle(s) not leaking lube (gear oil). • Battery box(es) securely mounted to vehicle.
• Condition of torque rod arms, bushings. • Box has secure cover.
• Condition of shock absorber(s). • Battery(ies) secured against movement.
• If retractable axle equipped, check condition of lift • Battery(ies) not broken or leaking.
mechanism. If air powered, check for leaks. • Fluid in battery(ies) at proper level (except
• Condition of air ride components. maintenance-free type).
• Cell caps present and securely tightened (except
✓ Brakes. maintenance-free type).
• Brake adjustment. • Vents in cell caps free of foreign material (except
• Condition of brake drum(s) or discs. maintenance-free type).
• Condition of hoses--look for any wear due to
rubbing.

✓ Lights and reflectors.

• Side-marker lights clean, operating, and proper
color (red at rear, others amber).

24 Section 2 – Driving Safely

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Step 6: Check Signal Lights If it doesn't hold vehicle, it is faulty; get it fixed.

Get In and Turn Off Lights Test Service Brake Stopping Action

✓ Turn off all lights. ✓ Go about five miles per hour.

✓ Turn on stop lights (apply trailer hand brake or have a ✓ Push brake pedal firmly
helper put on the brake pedal).
✓ "Pulling" to one side or the other can mean brake
✓ Turn on left turn signal lights. trouble.

Get Out and Check Lights ✓ Any unusual brake pedal "feel" or delayed stopping
action can mean trouble.
✓ Left front turn signal light clean, operating, and proper
color (amber or white on signals facing the front). If you find anything unsafe during the Vehicle inspection,
get it fixed. Federal and state laws forbid operating an
✓ Left rear turn signal light and both stop lights clean, unsafe vehicle.
operating, and proper color (red, yellow, or amber).
2.1.6 – Inspection During a Trip
Get In Vehicle
Check Vehicle Operation Regularly
✓ Turn off lights not needed for driving.
You should check:
✓ Check for all required papers, trip manifests, permits, ✓ Instruments.
etc.
✓ Air pressure gauge (if you have air brakes).
✓ Secure all loose articles in cab (they might interfere
with operation of the controls or hit you in a crash). ✓ Temperature gauges.

✓ Start the engine. ✓ Pressure gauges.

Step 7: Start the Engine and Check ✓ Ammeter/voltmeter.

✓ Mirrors.
Test for Hydraulic Leaks
✓ Tires.
If the vehicle has hydraulic brakes, pump the brake pedal
three times. Then apply firm pressure to the pedal and ✓ Cargo, cargo covers.
hold for five seconds. The pedal should not move. If it
does, there may be a leak or other problem. Get it fixed ✓ Lights, etc.
before driving. If the vehicle has air brakes, do the checks
described in Sections 5 and 6 of this manual. If you see, hear, smell, or feel anything that might mean
trouble, check it out.
Brake System
Safety Inspection
Test Parking Brake(s)
Drivers of trucks and truck tractors when transporting
✓ Fasten safety belt cargo must inspect the securement of the cargo within the
first 50 miles of a trip and every 150 miles or every three
✓ Set parking brake (power unit only). hours (whichever comes first) after.
✓ Release trailer parking brake (if applicable).
2.1.7 – After-trip Inspection and Report
✓ Place vehicle into a low gear.
You may have to make a written report each day on the
✓ Gently pull forward against parking brake to make sure condition of the vehicle(s) you drove. Report anything
the parking brake holds. affecting safety or possibly leading to mechanical
breakdown.
✓ Repeat the same steps for the trailer with trailer
parking brake set and power unit parking brakes
released (if applicable).

Section 2 – Driving Safely 25

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

the brake. Put on the parking brake whenever necessary

Subsection 2.1 to keep from rolling back. Release the parking brake only
Test Your Knowledge when you have applied enough engine power to keep from
rolling back. On a tractor-trailer equipped with a trailer
The vehicle inspection report tells the motor carrier about brake hand valve, the hand valve can be applied to keep
problems that may need fixing. Keep a copy of your report from rolling back.
in the vehicle for one day. That way, the next driver can
learn about any problems you have found. Speed up smoothly and gradually so the vehicle does not
jerk. Rough acceleration can cause mechanical damage.
1. What is the most important reason for doing a vehicle When pulling a trailer, rough acceleration can damage the
inspection? coupling.

2. What things should you check during a trip? Speed up very gradually when traction is poor, as in rain or
snow. If you use too much power, the drive wheels may
3. Name some key steering system parts. spin. You could lose control. If the drive wheels begin to
spin, take your foot off the accelerator.
4. Name some suspension system defects.
2.2.2 – Steering
5. What three kinds of emergency equipment must you
have? Hold the steering wheel firmly with both hands. Your hands
should be on opposite sides of the wheel. If you hit a curb
6. What is the minimum tread depth for front tires? For or a pothole (chuckhole), the wheel could pull away from
other tires? your hands unless you have a firm hold.

7. Name some things you should check on the front of 2.2.3 – Stopping
your vehicle during the walk around inspection.
Push the brake pedal down gradually. The amount of
8. What should wheel bearing seals be checked for? brake pressure you need to stop the vehicle will depend on
the speed of the vehicle and how quickly you need to stop.
9. How many red reflective triangles should you carry? Control the pressure so the vehicle comes to a smooth,
safe stop. If you have a manual transmission, push the
10. How do you test hydraulic brakes for leaks? clutch in when the engine is close to idle.

11. Why put the starter switch key in your pocket during 2.2.4 – Backing Safely
the Vehicle inspection?
Because you cannot see everything behind your vehicle,
These questions may be on your test. If you cannot backing is always dangerous. Avoid backing whenever you
answer them all, re-read subsection 2.1. can. When you park, try to park so you will be able to pull
forward when you leave. When you have to back, here are
a few simple safety rules:
2.2 – Basic Control of Your Vehicle ✓ Start in the proper position.

To drive a vehicle safely, you must be able to control its ✓ Look at your path.
speed and direction. Safe operation of a commercial
vehicle requires skill in: ✓ Use mirrors on both sides.
✓ Accelerating.
✓ Back slowly.
✓ Steering.
✓ Back and turn toward the driver's side whenever
✓ Stopping. possible.

✓ Backing safely. ✓ Use a helper whenever possible.

Fasten your seatbelt when on the road. Apply the parking These rules are discussed in turn below.
brake when you leave your vehicle.
Start in the Proper Position
2.2.1 – Accelerating
Put the vehicle in the best position to allow you to back
Do not roll back when you start. You may hit someone safely. This position will depend on the type of backing to
behind you. If you have a manual transmission vehicle, be done.
partly engage the clutch before you take your right foot off

26 Section 2 – Driving Safely

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Look at Your Path ✓ Push in clutch and shift to the higher gear at the same
time.
Look at your line of travel before you begin. Get out and
walk around the vehicle. Check your clearance to the sides ✓ Release clutch and press accelerator at the same
and overhead, in and near the path your vehicle will take. time.

Use Mirrors on Both Sides Shifting gears using double clutching requires practice. If
you remain too long in neutral, you may have difficulty
Check the outside mirrors on both sides frequently. Get putting the vehicle into the next gear. If so, do not try to
out of the vehicle and check your path if you are unsure. force it. Return to neutral, release clutch, increase engine
speed to match road speed, and try again.
Back Slowly
Knowing When to Shift Up
Always back as slowly as possible. Use the lowest reverse
gear. That way you can more easily correct any steering There are two ways of knowing when to shift:
errors. You also can stop quickly if necessary.
1. Use Engine Speed (rpm)
Back and Turn Toward the Driver's Side Study the driver's manual for your vehicle and learn the
operating rpm range. Watch your tachometer and shift up
Back to the driver's side so that you can see better. when your engine reaches the top of the range. (Some
Backing toward the right side is very dangerous because newer vehicles use "progressive" shifting: the rpm at
you cannot see as well. If you back and turn toward the which you shift becomes higher as you move up in the
driver's side, you can watch the rear of your vehicle by gears. Find out what is right for the vehicle you will
looking out the side window. Use driver-side backing--even operate.)
if it means going around the block to put your vehicle in
this position. The added safety is worth it. 2. Use Road Speed (mph)

Use a Helper Learn what speeds each gear is good for. Then, by using
the speedometer, you will know when to shift up.
Use a helper when you can. There are blind spots you With either method, you may learn to use engine sounds
cannot see. That is why a helper is important. The helper to know when to shift.
should stand near the back of your vehicle where you can
see the helper. Before you begin backing, work out a set of Basic Procedures for Shifting Down
hand signals that you both understand. Agree on a signal
for "stop." ✓ Release accelerator, push in clutch, and shift to
neutral at the same time.
2.3 – Shifting Gears
✓ Release clutch.
Correct shifting of gears is important. If you cannot get
your vehicle into the right gear while driving, you will have ✓ Press accelerator, increase engine and gear speed to
less control. the rpm required in the lower gear.

2.3.1 – Manual Transmissions ✓ Push in clutch and shift to lower gear at the same time.

Basic Method for Shifting Up ✓ Release clutch and press accelerator at the same
time.
Most heavy vehicles with unsynchronized manual
transmissions require double clutching to change gears. If ✓ Downshifting, like upshifting, requires knowing when to
equipped with a synchronized manual transmission, shift. Use either the tachometer or the speedometer
double clutching is NOT required. This is the basic and downshift at the right rpm or road speed.
method:
✓ Release accelerator, push in clutch and shift to neutral Special conditions where you should downshift are:
at the same time.
1. Before Starting Down a Hill
✓ Release clutch.
Slow down and shift down to a speed that you can control
✓ Let engine and gears slow down to the rpm required without using the brakes hard. Otherwise, the brakes can
for the next gear (this takes practice). overheat and lose their braking power.

Section 2 – Driving Safely 27

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Downshift before starting down the hill. Make sure you are
in a low enough gear, usually lower than the gear required Subsections 2.2 and 2.3
to climb the same hill. Test Your Knowledge
2. Before Entering a Curve 1. Why should you back toward the driver's side?

Slow down to a safe speed, and downshift to the right gear 2. If stopped on a hill, how can you start moving without
before entering the curve. This lets you use some power rolling back?
through the curve to help the vehicle be more stable while
turning. It also allows you to speed up as soon as you are 3. When backing, why is it important to use a helper?
out of the curve.
4. What's the most important hand signal that you and
2.3.2 – Multi-speed Rear Axles and Auxiliary the helper should agree on?
Transmissions 5. What are the two special conditions where you should
downshift?
Multi-speed rear axles and auxiliary transmissions are
used on many vehicles to provide extra gears. You usually 6. When should you downshift automatic transmissions?
control them by a selector knob or switch on the gearshift
lever of the main transmission. There are many different 7. Retarders keep you from skidding when the road is
shift patterns. Learn the right way to shift gears in the slippery. True or False?
vehicle you will drive.
8. What are the two ways to know when to shift?
2.3.3 – Automatic Transmissions
These questions may be on the test. If you cannot answer
Some vehicles have automatic transmissions. You can them all, re-read subsections 2.2 and 2.3.
select a low range to get greater engine braking when
going down grades. The lower ranges prevent the
transmission from shifting up beyond the selected gear 2.4 – Seeing
(unless the governor rpm is exceeded). It is very important
to use this braking effect when going down grades. To be a safe driver you need to know what's going on all
around your vehicle. Not looking properly is a major cause
2.3.4 – Retarders of accidents.

Some vehicles have "retarders." Retarders help slow a 2.4.1 – Seeing Ahead
vehicle, reducing the need for using your brakes. They
reduce brake wear and give you another way to slow All drivers look ahead; but many do not look far enough
down. There are four basic types of retarders (exhaust, ahead.
engine, hydraulic, and electric). All retarders can be turned
on or off by the driver. On some vehicles the retarding Importance of Looking Far Enough Ahead
power can be adjusted. When turned "on," retarders apply
their braking power (to the drive wheels only) whenever Because stopping or changing lanes can take a lot of
you let up on the accelerator pedal all the way. Because distance, knowing what the traffic is doing on all sides of
these devices can be noisy, be sure you know where their you is very important. You need to look well ahead to
use is permitted. make sure you have room to make these moves safely.

Caution How Far Ahead to Look

When your drive wheels have poor traction, the retarder Most good drivers look at least 12 to 15 seconds ahead.
may cause them to skid. Therefore, you should turn the That means looking ahead the distance you will travel in
retarder off whenever the road is wet, icy, or snow 12 to 15 seconds. At lower speeds, that's about one block.
covered. At highway speeds it's about a quarter of a mile. If you are
not looking that far ahead, you may have to stop too
quickly or make quick lane changes. Looking 12 to 15
seconds ahead doesn't mean not paying attention to things
that are closer. Good drivers shift their attention back and
forth, near and far. Figure 2.6 illustrates how far to look
ahead.

28 Section 2 – Driving Safely

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

use the mirrors to check it. Look for loose straps, ropes, or
chains. Watch for a flapping or ballooning tarp.

Special Situations
Special situations require more than regular mirror checks.
These are lane changes, turns, merges, and tight
maneuvers.

Lane Changes
You need to check your mirrors to make sure no one is
alongside you or about to pass you. Check your mirrors:
✓ Before you change lanes to make sure there is enough
Figure 2.6 room.

Look for Traffic ✓ After you have signaled, to check that no one has
moved into your blind spot.
Look for vehicles coming onto the highway, into your lane,
or turning. Watch for brake lights from slowing vehicles. By ✓ Right after you start the lane change, to double-check
seeing these things far enough ahead, you can change that your path is clear.
your speed, or change lanes if necessary to avoid a
problem. If a traffic light has been green for a long time it ✓ After you complete the lane change.
will probably change before you get there. Start slowing
down and be ready to stop. Turns

2.4.2 – Seeing to the Sides and Rear In turns, check your mirrors to make sure the rear of your
vehicle will not hit anything.
It's important to know what's going on behind and to the
sides. Check your mirrors regularly. Check more often in Merges
special situations.
When merging, use your mirrors to make sure the gap in
Mirror Adjustment traffic is large enough for you to enter safely.

Mirror adjustment should be checked prior to the start of Tight Maneuvers

any trip and can only be checked accurately when the
trailer(s) are straight. You should check and adjust each Any time you are driving in close quarters, check your
mirror to show some part of the vehicle. This will give you mirrors often. Make sure you have enough clearance.
a reference point for judging the position of the other
images. How to Use Mirrors

Regular Checks Use mirrors correctly by checking them quickly and

understanding what you see.
You need to make regular checks of your mirrors to be ✓ When you use your mirrors while driving on the road,
aware of traffic and to check your vehicle. check quickly. Look back and forth between the
mirrors and the road ahead. Don't focus on the mirrors
Traffic for too long. Otherwise, you will travel quite a distance
without knowing what's happening ahead.
Check your mirrors for vehicles on either side and in back
of you. In an emergency, you may need to know whether Many large vehicles have curved (convex, "fisheye,"
you can make a quick lane change. Use your mirrors to "spot," "bug-eye") mirrors that show a wider area than flat
spot overtaking vehicles. There are "blind spots" that your mirrors. This is often helpful. But everything appears
mirrors cannot show you. Check your mirrors regularly to smaller in a convex mirror than it would if you were looking
know where other vehicles are around you, and to see if at it directly. Things also seem farther away than they
they move into your blind spots. really are. It is important to realize this and to allow for it.
Figure 2.7 shows the field of vision using a convex mirror.
Check Your Vehicle
Use the mirrors to keep an eye on your tires. It is one way
to spot a tire fire. If you're carrying open cargo, you can

Section 2 – Driving Safely 29

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Slowing Down
Warn drivers behind you when you see you'll need to slow
down. A few light taps on the brake pedal -- enough to
flash the brake lights -- should warn following drivers. Use
the four-way emergency flashers for times when you are
driving very slowly or are stopped. Warn other drivers in
any of the following situations:
✓ Trouble Ahead. The size of your vehicle may make it
hard for drivers behind you to see hazards ahead. If
you see a hazard that will require slowing down, warn
the drivers behind by flashing your brake lights.

✓ Tight Turns. Most car drivers don't know how slowly

you have to go to make a tight turn in a large vehicle.
Give drivers behind you warning by braking early and
slowing gradually.

✓ Stopping on the Road. Truck and bus drivers

sometimes stop in the roadway to unload cargo or
passengers, or to stop at a railroad crossing. Warn
following drivers by flashing your brake lights. Don't
stop suddenly.

✓ Driving Slowly. Drivers often do not realize how fast

they are catching up to a slow vehicle until they are
Figure 2.7 very close. If you must drive slowly, alert following
drivers by turning on your emergency flashers if it is
legal. (Laws regarding the use of flashers differ from
2.5 – Communicating one state to another. Check the laws of the states
where you will drive.)
2.5.1 – Signal Your Intentions
Other drivers cannot know what you are going to do until Don't Direct Traffic
you tell them.
Some drivers try to help out others by signaling when it is
Signaling what you intend to do is important for safety. safe to pass. You should not do this. You could cause an
Here are some general rules for signaling. accident. You could be blamed, and it could cost you many
thousands of dollars.
Turns
2.5.2 – Communicating Your Presence
There are three good rules for using turn signals:
✓ Signal early. Signal well before you turn. It is the best Other drivers may not notice your vehicle even when it's in
way to keep others from trying to pass you. plain sight. To help prevent accidents, let them know
you're there.
✓ Signal continuously. You need both hands on the
wheel to turn safely. Don't cancel the signal until you When Passing
have completed the turn.
✓ Cancel your signal. Don't forget to turn off your turn Whenever you are about to pass a vehicle, pedestrian, or
signal after you've turned (if you don't have self- bicyclist, assume they don't see you. They could suddenly
canceling signals). move in front of you. When it is legal, tap the horn lightly
or, at night, flash your lights from low to high beam and
Lane Changes back. And, drive carefully enough to avoid a crash even if
they don't see or hear you.
Put your turn signal on before changing lanes. Change
lanes slowly and smoothly. That way a driver you didn't When It's Hard to See
see may have a chance to honk his/her horn or avoid your
vehicle. At dawn, dusk, in rain, or snow, you need to make yourself
easier to see. If you are having trouble seeing other
vehicles, other drivers will have trouble seeing you. Turn
on your lights. Use the headlights, not just the identification

30 Section 2 – Driving Safely

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

or clearance lights. Use the low beams; high beams can ✓ If you stop on a two-lane road carrying traffic in both
bother people in the daytime as well as at night. directions or on an undivided highway, place warning
devices within 10 feet of the front or rear corners to
When Parked at the Side of the Road mark the location of the vehicle and 100 feet behind
and ahead of the vehicle, on the shoulder or in the
When you pull off the road and stop, be sure to turn on the lane you stopped in. See Figure 2.9.
four-way emergency flashers. This is important at night.

Don't trust the taillights to give warning. Drivers have

crashed into the rear of a parked vehicle because they
thought it was moving normally.

If you must stop on a road or the shoulder of any road, you

must put out your emergency warning devices within ten
minutes. Place your warning devices at the following
locations:
✓ If you must stop on or by a one-way or divided
highway, place warning devices 10 feet, 100 feet, and
200 feet toward the approaching traffic. See Figure
2.8.

Figure 2.9
✓ Back beyond any hill, curve, or other obstruction that
prevents other drivers from seeing the vehicle within
500 feet. If line of sight view is obstructed due to hill or
curve, move the rear-most triangle to a point back
down the road so warning is provided. See Figure
2.10.

Figure 2.8

Figure 2.10

When putting out the triangles, hold them between yourself

and the oncoming traffic for your own safety. (So other
drivers can see you.)

Section 2 – Driving Safely 31

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Use Your Horn When Needed

Your horn can let others know you're there. It can help to
avoid a crash. Use your horn when needed. However, it
can startle others and could be dangerous when used
unnecessarily.

2.6 – Controlling Speed

Driving too fast is a major cause of fatal crashes. You must
adjust your speed depending on driving conditions. These
include traction, curves, visibility, traffic, and hills.

2.6.1 – Stopping Distance

Perception Distance + Reaction Distance + Braking
Distance = Total Stopping Distance

Perception Distance Figure 2.11

The distance your vehicle travels, in ideal conditions; from The Effect of Speed on Stopping Distance
the time your eyes see a hazard until your brain
recognizes it. Keep in mind certain mental and physical The faster you drive, the greater the impact or striking
conditions can affect your perception distance. It can be power of your vehicle. When you double your speed from
affected greatly depending on visibility and the hazard 20 to 40 mph the impact is 4 times greater. The braking
itself. The average perception time for an alert driver is distance is also 4 times longer. Triple the speed from 20
1¾ seconds. At 55 mph this accounts for 142 feet to 60 mph and the impact and braking distance is 9 times
traveled. greater. At 60 mph, your stopping distance is greater than
the length of a football field. Increase the speed to 80 mph
Reaction Distance and the impact and braking distance are 16 times greater
than at 20 mph. High speeds greatly increase the severity
The distance you will continue to travel, in ideal conditions; of crashes and stopping distances. By slowing down, you
before you physically hit the brakes, in response to a can reduce braking distance.
hazard seen ahead. The average driver has a reaction
time of ¾ second to 1 second. At 55 mph this accounts for The Effect of Vehicle Weight on Stopping
61 feet traveled. Distance
Braking Distance The heavier the vehicle, the more work the brakes must do
to stop it and the more heat they absorb. But the brakes,
The distance your vehicle will travel, in ideal conditions; tires, springs, and shock absorbers on heavy vehicles are
while you are braking. At 55 mph on dry pavement with designed to work best when the vehicle is fully loaded.
good brakes, it can take about 216 feet. Empty trucks require greater stopping distances because
an empty vehicle has less traction.
Total Stopping Distance
2.6.2 – Matching Speed to the Road Surface
The total minimum distance your vehicle has traveled, in
ideal conditions; with everything considered, including You can't steer or brake a vehicle unless you have
perception distance, reaction distance and braking traction. Traction is friction between the tires and the road.
distance, until you can bring your vehicle to a complete There are some road conditions that reduce traction and
stop. At 55 mph, your vehicle will travel a minimum of 419 call for lower speeds.
feet. See Figure 2.11.
Slippery Surfaces
It will take longer to stop, and it will be harder to turn
without skidding, when the road is slippery. Wet roads can
double stopping distance. You must drive slower to be
able to stop in the same distance as on a dry road.
Reduce speed by about one-third (e.g., slow from 55 to
about 35 mph) on a wet road. On packed snow, reduce
speed by a half, or more. If the surface is icy, reduce

32 Section 2 – Driving Safely

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

speed to a crawl and stop driving as soon as you can the vehicle rolls over. Tests have shown that trucks with a
safely do so. high center of gravity can roll over at the posted speed
limit for a curve.
Identifying Slippery Surfaces
Slow to a safe speed before you enter a curve. Braking in
Sometimes it's hard to know if the road is slippery. Here a curve is dangerous because it is easier to lock the
are some signs of slippery roads: wheels and cause a skid. Slow down as needed. Don't
✓ Shaded Areas. Shady parts of the road will remain icy ever exceed the posted speed limit for the curve. Be in a
and slippery long after open areas have melted. gear that will let you accelerate slightly in the curve. This
will help you keep control.
✓ Bridges. When the temperature drops, bridges will
freeze before the road will. Be especially careful when 2.6.4 – Speed and Distance Ahead
the temperature is close to 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
You should always be able to stop within the distance you
✓ Melting Ice. Slight melting will make ice wet. Wet ice is can see ahead. Fog, rain, or other conditions may require
much more slippery than ice that is not wet. that you slow down to be able to stop in the distance you
can see. At night, you can't see as far with low beams as
✓ Black Ice. Black ice is a thin layer that is clear enough you can with high beams. When you must use low beams,
that you can see the road underneath it. It makes the slow down.
road look wet. Any time the temperature is below
freezing, and the road looks wet, watch out for black 2.6.5 – Speed and Traffic Flow
ice.
When you're driving in heavy traffic, the safest speed is the
✓ Vehicle Icing. An easy way to check for ice is to open speed of other vehicles. Vehicles going the same direction
the window and feel the front of the mirror, mirror at the same speed are not likely to run into one another. In
support, or antenna. If there's ice on these, the road many states, speed limits are lower for trucks and buses
surface is probably starting to ice up. than for cars. It can vary as much as 15 mph. Use extra
caution when you change lanes or pass on these
✓ Just After Rain Begins. Right after it starts to rain, the roadways. Drive at the speed of the traffic, if you can
water mixes with oil left on the road by vehicles. This without going at an illegal or unsafe speed. Keep a safe
makes the road very slippery. If the rain continues, it following distance.
will wash the oil away.
The main reason drivers exceed speed limits is to save
✓ Hydroplaning. In some weather, water or slush collects time. But anyone trying to drive faster than the speed of
on the road. When this happens, your vehicle can traffic will not be able to save much time. The risks
hydroplane. It's like water skiing--the tires lose their involved are not worth it. If you go faster than the speed of
contact with the road and have little or no traction. You other traffic, you'll have to keep passing other vehicles.
may not be able to steer or brake. You can regain This increases the chance of a crash, and it is more tiring.
control by releasing the accelerator and pushing in the Fatigue increases the chance of a crash. Going with the
clutch. This will slow your vehicle and let the wheels flow of traffic is safer and easier.
turn freely. If the vehicle is hydroplaning, do not use
the brakes to slow down. If the drive wheels start to 2.6.6 – Speed on Downgrades
skid, push in the clutch to let them turn freely.
Your vehicle's speed will increase on downgrades because
It does not take a lot of water to cause hydroplaning. of gravity. Your most important objective is to select and
Hydroplaning can occur at speeds as low as 30 mph if maintain a speed that is not too fast for the:
there is a lot of water. Hydroplaning is more likely if tire ✓ Total weight of the vehicle and cargo.
pressure is low, or the tread is worn. (The grooves in a tire
carry away the water; if they aren't deep, they don't work ✓ Length of the grade.
well.)
✓ Steepness of the grade.
Road surfaces where water can collect can create
conditions that cause a vehicle to hydroplane. Watch for ✓ Road conditions.
clear reflections, tire splashes, and raindrops on the road.
These are indications of standing water. ✓ Weather.

2.6.3 – Speed and Curves If a speed limit is posted, or there is a sign indicating
Drivers must adjust their speed for curves in the road. If "Maximum Safe Speed," never exceed the speed shown.
you take a curve too fast, two things can happen. The tires Also, look for and heed warning signs indicating the length
can lose their traction and continue straight ahead, so you and steepness of the grade. You must use the braking
skid off the road. Or the tires may keep their traction and effect of the engine as the principal way of controlling your

Section 2 – Driving Safely 33

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

speed on downgrades. The braking effect of the engine is To have space available when something goes wrong, you
greatest when it is near the governed rpms and the need to manage space. While this is true for all drivers, it
transmission is in the lower gears. Save your brakes so is very important for large vehicles. They take up more
you will be able to slow or stop as required by road and space and they require more space for stopping and
traffic conditions. Shift your transmission to a low gear turning.
before starting down the grade and use the proper braking
techniques. 2.7.1 – Space Ahead
Please carefully read the section on going down long, Of all the space around your vehicle, it is the area ahead
steep downgrades safely in "Mountain Driving." of the vehicle--the space you're driving into --that is most
important.
2.6.7 – Roadway Work Zones
The Need for Space Ahead
Speeding traffic is the number one cause of injury and
death in roadway work zones. Observe the posted speed You need space ahead in case you must suddenly stop.
limits at all times when approaching and driving through a According to accident reports, the vehicle that trucks and
work zone. buses most often run into is the one in front of them. The
most frequent cause is following too closely. Remember, if
Watch your speedometer, and don’t allow your speed to the vehicle ahead of you is smaller than yours, it can
creep up as you drive through long sections of road probably stop faster than you can. You may crash if you
construction. Decrease your speed for adverse weather or are following too closely.
road conditions. Decrease your speed even further when a
worker is close to the roadway. How Much Space?
How much space should you keep in front of you? One
Subsections 2.4, 2.5, and 2.6
good rule says you need at least one second for each 10
Test Your Knowledge feet of vehicle length at speeds below 40 mph. At greater
speeds, you must add 1 second for safety. For example, if
1. How far ahead does the manual say you should look? you are driving a 40-foot vehicle, you should leave 4
seconds between you and the vehicle ahead. In a 60-foot
2. What are two main things to look for ahead? rig, you'll need 6 seconds. Over 40 mph, you'd need 5
seconds for a 40-foot vehicle and 7 seconds for a 60-foot
3. What's your most important way to see the sides and vehicle. See Figure 2.12.
rear of your vehicle?
To know how much space you have, wait until the vehicle
4. What does "communicating" mean in safe driving? ahead passes a shadow on the road, a pavement marking,
or some other clear landmark. Then count off the seconds
5. Where should you place reflectors when stopped on a like this: "one thousand- and-one, one thousand-and-two"
divided highway? and so on, until you reach the same spot. Compare your
count with the rule of one second for every ten feet of
6. What three things add up to total stopping distance? length.
7. If you go twice as fast, will your stopping distance If you are driving a 40-foot truck and only counted up to 2
increase by two or four times? seconds, you're too close. Drop back a little and count
again until you have 4 seconds of following distance (or 5
8. Empty trucks have the best braking. True or False? seconds, if you're going over 40 mph). After a little
practice, you will know how far back you should be.
9. What is hydroplaning? Remember to add 1 second for speeds above 40 mph.
Also remember that when the road is slippery, you need
10. What is "black ice”? much more space to stop.
These questions may be on the test. If you can't answer
them all, re-read subsections 2.4, 2.5, and 2.6.

2.7 – Managing Space

To be a safe driver, you need space all around your
vehicle. When things go wrong, space gives you time to
think and to take action.

34 Section 2 – Driving Safely

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

✓ Increase your following distance. Opening up room in

front of you will help you to avoid having to make
sudden speed or direction changes. It also makes it
easier for the tailgater to get around you.

✓ Don't speed up. It's safer to be tailgated at a low speed

than a high speed.

✓ Avoid tricks. Don't turn on your taillights or flash your

brake lights. Follow the suggestions above.

2.7.3 – Space to the Sides

Commercial vehicles are often wide and take up most of a
lane. Safe drivers will manage what little space they have.
You can do this by keeping your vehicle centered in your
lane and avoid driving alongside others.

Staying Centered in a Lane

You need to keep your vehicle centered in the lane to keep
safe clearance on either side. If your vehicle is wide, you
have little room to spare.

Traveling Next to Others

There are two dangers in traveling alongside other
Figure 2.12 vehicles:
✓ Another driver may change lanes suddenly and turn
into you.
2.7.2 – Space Behind
✓ You may be trapped when you need to change lanes.
You can't stop others from following you too closely. But
there are things you can do to make it safer. Find an open spot where you aren't near other traffic.
When traffic is heavy, it may be hard to find an open spot.
Stay to the Right If you must travel near other vehicles, try to keep as much
space as possible between you and them. Also, drop back
Heavy vehicles are often tailgated when they can't keep up or pull forward so that you are sure the other driver can
with the speed of traffic. This often happens when you're see you.
going uphill. If a heavy load is slowing you down, stay in
the right lane if you can. Going uphill, you should not pass Strong Winds
another slow vehicle unless you can get around quickly
and safely. Strong winds make it difficult to stay in your lane. The
problem is usually worse for lighter vehicles. This problem
Dealing with Tailgaters Safely can be especially bad coming out of tunnels. Don't drive
alongside others if you can avoid it.
In a large vehicle, it's often hard to see whether a vehicle
is close behind you. You may be tailgated: 2.7.4 – Space Overhead
✓ When you are traveling slowly. Drivers trapped behind
slow vehicles often follow closely. Hitting overhead objects is a danger. Make sure you
always have overhead clearance.
✓ In bad weather. Many car drivers follow large vehicles ✓ Don't assume that the heights posted at bridges and
closely during bad weather, especially when it is hard overpasses are correct. Re-paving or packed snow
to see the road ahead. may have reduced the clearances since the heights
were posted.
If you find yourself being tailgated, here are some things
you can do to reduce the chances of a crash: ✓ The weight of a cargo van changes its height. An
✓ Avoid quick changes. If you have to slow down or turn, empty van is higher than a loaded one. That you got
signal early, and reduce speed very gradually. under a bridge when you were loaded does not mean
that you can do it when you are empty.

Section 2 – Driving Safely 35

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

✓ If you doubt you have safe space to pass under an

object, go slowly. If you aren't sure you can make it,
take another route. Warnings are often posted on low
bridges or underpasses, but sometimes they are not.

✓ Some roads can cause a vehicle to tilt. There can be a

problem clearing objects along the edge of the road,
such as signs, trees, or bridge supports. Where this is
a problem, drive a little closer to the center of the road.

✓ Before you back into an area, get out and check for
overhanging objects such as trees, branches, or
electric wires. It's easy to miss seeing them while you
are backing. (Also check for other hazards at the same
time.)
Figure 2.13
2.7.5 – Space Below
Left Turns
Many drivers forget about the space under their vehicles.
That space can be very small when a vehicle is heavily On a left turn, make sure you have reached the center of
loaded. This is often a problem on dirt roads and in the intersection before you start the left turn. If you turn too
unpaved yards. Don't take a chance on getting hung up. soon, the left side of your vehicle may hit another vehicle
Drainage channels across roads can cause the ends of because of off-tracking.
some vehicles to drag. Cross such depressions carefully.
Railroad tracks can also cause problems, particularly when If there are two turning lanes, always take the right turn
pulling trailers with a low underneath clearance. Don’t take lane. Don't start in the inside lane because you may have
a chance on getting hung up halfway across. to swing right to make the turn. Drivers on your left can be
more readily seen. See Figure 2.14.
2.7.6 – Space for Turns
The space around a truck or bus is important in turns.
Because of wide turning and off-tracking, large vehicles
can hit other vehicles or objects during turns.

Right Turns
Here are some rules to help prevent right-turn crashes:
✓ Turn slowly to give yourself and others more time to
avoid problems.

✓ If you are driving a truck or bus that cannot make the

right turn without swinging into another lane, turn wide
as you complete the turn. Keep the rear of your vehicle Figure 2.14
close to the curb. This will stop other drivers from
passing you on the right. 2.7.7 – Space Needed to Cross or Enter
Traffic
✓ Don't turn wide to the left as you start the turn. A
following driver may think you are turning left and try to Be aware of the size and weight of your vehicle when you
pass you on the right. You may crash into the other cross or enter traffic. Here are some important things to
vehicle as you complete your turn. keep in mind.
✓ Because of slow acceleration and the space large
✓ If you must cross into the oncoming lane to make a vehicles require, you may need a much larger gap to
turn, watch out for vehicles coming toward you. Give enter traffic than you would in a car.
them room to go by or to stop. However, don't back up
for them, because you might hit someone behind you. ✓ Acceleration varies with the load. Allow more room if
See Figure 2.13. your vehicle is heavily loaded.

✓ Before you start across a road, make sure you can get
all the way across before traffic reaches you.

36 Section 2 – Driving Safely

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

2.8 – Seeing Hazards Work Zones

2.8.1 – Importance of Seeing Hazards When people are working on the road, it is a hazard. There
may be narrower lanes, sharp turns, or uneven surfaces.
What is a Hazard? Other drivers are often distracted and drive unsafely.
Workers and construction vehicles may get in the way.
A hazard is any road condition or other road user (driver, Drive slowly and carefully near work zones. Use your four-
bicyclist, pedestrian) that is a possible danger. For way flashers or brake lights to warn drivers behind you.
example, a car in front of you is headed toward the
freeway exit, but his brake lights come on and he begins Drop Off
braking hard. This could mean that the driver is uncertain
about taking the off ramp. He might suddenly return to the Sometimes the pavement drops off sharply near the edge
highway. This car is a hazard. If the driver of the car cuts of the road. Driving too near the edge can tilt your vehicle
in front of you, it is no longer just a hazard; it is an toward the side of the road. This can cause the top of your
emergency. vehicle to hit roadside objects (signs, tree limbs). Also, it
can be hard to steer as you cross the drop off, going off
Seeing Hazards Lets You Be Prepared the road, or coming back on.

You will have more time to act if you see hazards before Foreign Objects
they become emergencies. In the example above, you
might make a lane change or slow down to prevent a Things that have fallen on the road can be hazards. They
crash if the car suddenly cuts in front of you. Seeing this can be a danger to your tires and wheel rims. They can
hazard gives you time to check your mirrors and signal a damage electrical and brake lines. They can be caught
lane change. Being prepared reduces the danger. A driver between dual tires and cause severe damage. Some
who did not see the hazard until the slow car pulled back obstacles that appear to be harmless can be very
on the highway in front of him would have to do something dangerous. For example, cardboard boxes may be empty,
very suddenly. Sudden braking or a quick lane change is but they may also contain some solid or heavy material
much more likely to lead to a crash. capable of causing damage. The same is true of paper
and cloth sacks. It is important to remain alert for objects
Learning to See Hazards of all sorts, so you can see them early enough to avoid
them without making sudden, unsafe moves.
There are often clues that will help you see hazards. The
more you drive, the better you can learn to see hazards. Off Ramps/On Ramps
This section will talk about hazards that you should be
aware of. Freeway and turnpike exits can be particularly dangerous
for commercial vehicles. Off ramps and on ramps often
2.8.2 – Hazardous Roads have speed limit signs posted. Remember, these speeds
may be safe for automobiles, but may not be safe for
larger vehicles or heavily loaded vehicles. Exits that go
Move-over Laws downhill and turn at the same time can be especially
dangerous. The downgrade makes it difficult to reduce
The incidents of law enforcement officers, emergency speed. Braking and turning at the same time can be a
medical services, fire department personnel and people dangerous practice. Make sure you are going slowly
working on the road are being struck while performing enough before you get on the curved part of an off ramp or
duties at the roadside are increasing at a frightening pace. on ramp.
To lessen the problem, move-over laws have been
enacted, which require drivers to slow and change lanes
when approaching a roadside incident or emergency
2.8.3 – Drivers Who are Hazards
vehicle. Signs are posted on roadways in states that have
such laws. In order to protect yourself and others, you must know
when other drivers may do something hazardous. Some
When approaching an authorized emergency vehicle clues to this type of hazard are discussed below.
stopped on the roadside or a work zone, you should
proceed with caution by slowing and yielding the right-of- Blocked Vision
way by making a lane change into a lane not next to that of
the authorized emergency vehicle or work zone if safety People who can't see others are a very dangerous hazard.
and traffic conditions permit. If a lane change is unsafe, Be alert for drivers whose vision is blocked. Vans, loaded
slow down and proceed with caution while maintaining a station wagons, and cars with the rear window blocked are
safe speed for traffic conditions. examples. Rental trucks should be watched carefully.
Their drivers are often not used to the limited vision they
Slow down and be very careful if you see any of the have to the sides and rear of the truck. In winter, vehicles
following road hazards.
Section 2 – Driving Safely 37
2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

with frosted, ice-covered, or snow-covered windows are Workers

hazards.
People working on or near the roadway are a hazard clue.
Vehicles may be partly hidden by blind intersections or The work creates a distraction for other drivers and the
alleys. If you only can see the rear or front end of a vehicle workers themselves may not see you.
but not the driver, then he or she can't see you. Be alert
because he/she may back out or enter into your lane. Ice Cream Trucks
Always be prepared to stop.
Someone selling ice cream is a hazard clue. Children may
Delivery Trucks Can Present a Hazard be nearby and may not see you.

Packages or vehicle doors often block the driver’s vision. Disabled Vehicles
Drivers of step vans, postal vehicles, and local delivery
vehicles often are in a hurry and may suddenly step out of Drivers changing a tire or fixing an engine often do not pay
their vehicle or drive their vehicle into the traffic lane. attention to the danger that roadway traffic is to them.
They are often careless. Jacked up wheels or raised
Parked Vehicles Can Be Hazards hoods are hazard clues.

Parked vehicles can be hazards, especially when people Accidents

start to get out of them. Or, they may suddenly start up
and drive into your way. Watch for movement inside the Accidents are particularly hazardous. People involved in
vehicle or movement of the vehicle itself that shows people the accident may not look for traffic. Passing drivers tend
are inside. Watch for brake lights or backup lights, to look at the accident. People often run across the road
exhaust, and other clues that a driver is about to move. without looking. Vehicles may slow or stop suddenly.
Be careful of a stopped bus. Passengers may cross in
front of or behind the bus, and they often can't see you.
Shoppers
People in and around shopping areas are often not
Pedestrians and Bicyclists Can Also Be watching traffic because they are looking for stores or
Hazards looking into store windows.

Walkers, joggers, and bicyclists may be on the road with Confused Drivers
their back to the traffic, so they can't see you. Sometimes
they wear portable stereos with headsets, so they can't Confused drivers often change direction suddenly or stop
hear you either. This can be dangerous. On rainy days, without warning. Confusion is common near freeway or
pedestrians may not see you because of hats or turnpike interchanges and major intersections. Tourists
umbrellas. They may be hurrying to get out of the rain and unfamiliar with the area can be very hazardous. Clues to
may not pay attention to the traffic. tourists include car-top luggage and out-of-state license
plates. Unexpected actions (stopping in the middle of a
Distractions block, changing lanes for no apparent reason, backup
lights suddenly going on) are clues to confusion. Hesitation
People who are distracted are hazards. Watch for where is another clue, including driving very slowly, using brakes
they are looking. If they are looking elsewhere, they can't often, or stopping in the middle of an intersection. You may
see you. But be alert even when they are looking at you. also see drivers who are looking at street signs, maps, and
They may believe that they have the right of way. house numbers. These drivers may not be paying attention
to you.
Children
Slow Drivers
Children tend to act quickly without checking traffic.
Children playing with one another may not look for traffic Motorists who fail to maintain normal speed are hazards.
and are a serious hazard. Seeing slow moving vehicles early can prevent a crash.
Some vehicles, by their nature, are slow and seeing them
Talkers is a hazard clue (mopeds, farm machinery, construction
machinery, tractors, etc.). Some of these will have the
Drivers or pedestrians talking to one another may not be "slow moving vehicle" symbol to warn you. This is a red
paying close attention to the traffic. triangle with an orange center. Watch for it.

38 Section 2 – Driving Safely

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Drivers Signaling a Turn May Be a Hazard because they are a hazard to you. When they react to this
conflict, they may do something that will put them in
Drivers signaling a turn may slow more than expected or conflict with you.
stop. If they are making a tight turn into an alley or
driveway, they may go very slowly. If pedestrians or other 2.8.4 – Always Have a Plan
vehicles block them, they may have to stop on the
roadway. Vehicles turning left may have to stop for You should always be looking for hazards. Continue to
oncoming vehicles. learn to see hazards on the road. However, don't forget
why you are looking for the hazards--they may turn into
Drivers in a Hurry emergencies. You look for the hazards in order to have
time to plan a way out of any emergency. When you see a
Drivers may feel your commercial vehicle is preventing hazard, think about the emergencies that could develop
them from getting where they want to go on time. Such and figure out what you would do. Always be prepared to
drivers may pass you without a safe gap in the oncoming take action based on your plans. In this way, you will be a
traffic, cutting too close in front of you. Drivers entering the prepared, defensive driver who will improve your own
road may pull in front of you in order to avoid being stuck safety as well as the safety of all road users.
behind you, causing you to brake. Be aware of this and
watch for drivers who are in a hurry.
Subsections 2.7 and 2.8
Impaired Drivers Test Your Knowledge

Drivers who are sleepy, have had too much to drink, are 1. How do you find out how many seconds of following
on drugs, or who are ill are hazards. Some clues to these distance space you have?
drivers are:
✓ Weaving across the road or drifting from one side to 2. If you are driving a 30-foot vehicle at 55 mph, how
another. many seconds of following distance should you allow?

✓ Leaving the road (dropping right wheels onto the 3. You should decrease your following distance if
shoulder or bumping across a curb in a turn). somebody is following you too closely. True or False?

✓ Stopping at the wrong time (stopping at a green light 4. If you swing wide to the left before turning right,
or waiting for too long at a stop). another driver may try to pass you on the right. True or
False?
✓ Open window in cold weather.
5. What is a hazard?
✓ Speeding up or slowing down suddenly, driving too
fast or too slow. 6. Why make emergency plans when you see a hazard?

Be alert for drunk drivers and sleepy drivers late at night. These questions may be on the test. If you can’t answer
them all, re-read subsections 2.7 and 2.8
Driver Body Movement as a Clue
2.9 – Distracted Driving
Drivers look in the direction they are going to turn. You
may sometimes get a clue from a driver's head and body A driver distraction is anything that takes your attention
movements that a driver may be going to make a turn, away from driving. Whenever you are driving a vehicle and
even though the turn signals aren't on. Drivers making your full attention is not on the driving task, you are putting
over-the-shoulder checks may be going to change lanes. yourself, your passengers, other vehicles, and pedestrians
These clues are most easily seen in motorcyclists and in danger. Distracted driving can cause collisions, resulting
bicyclists. Watch other road users and try to tell whether in injury, death or property damage.
they might do something hazardous.
Activities inside of the vehicle that can distract your
Conflicts attention include: talking to passengers; adjusting the
radio, CD player or climate controls; eating, drinking or
You are in conflict when you have to change speed and/or smoking; reading maps or other literature; picking up
direction to avoid hitting someone. Conflicts occur at something that fell; talking on a cell phone or CB radio;
intersections where vehicles meet, at merges (such as reading or sending text messages; using any type of
turnpike on ramps) and where there are needed lane telematic or electronic devices (such as navigation
changes (such as the end of a lane, forcing a move to systems, pagers, personal digital assistant, computers,
another lane of traffic). Other situations include slow etc.); daydreaming or being occupied with other mental
moving or stalled traffic in a traffic lane, and accident distractions; and many others.
scenes. Watch for other drivers who are in conflict

Section 2 – Driving Safely 39

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Possible distractions that could occur outside a moving disqualification sanctions for drivers of CMVs who fail to
vehicle: outside traffic, vehicles or pedestrians; outside comply with this Federal restriction; or who have multiple
events such as police pulling someone over or a crash convictions for violating a State or local law or ordinance
scene; sunlight/sunset; objects in roadway; road on motor vehicle traffic control that restricts the use of
construction; reading billboards or other road hand-held mobile telephones. Additionally, motor carriers
advertisements; and many others. are prohibited from requiring or allowing drivers of CMVs
to use hand-held mobile telephones.
2.9.1 – The Distracted Driving Crash Problem
The use of hand-held mobile telephones means, ‘‘using at
The Large Truck Crash Causation Study (LTCCS) least one hand to hold a mobile telephone to conduct a
reported that 8 percent of large-truck crashes occurred voice communication; “dialing a mobile telephone by
when Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) drivers were pressing more than a single button”; or “moving from a
externally distracted and 2 percent of large truck crashes seated driving position while restrained by a seat belt to
occurred when the driver was internally distracted. reach for a mobile telephone”. If you choose to use a
mobile phone while operating a CMV, you may only use a
Approximately 5,500 people are killed each year on U.S. hands-free mobile phone that is located close to you and
roadways and an estimated 448,000 are injured in motor that can be operated in compliance with the rule to
vehicle crashes involving distracted driving (NHTSA Traffic conduct a voice communication.
Safety Facts: Distracted Driving).
Your CDL will be disqualified after two or more convictions
Research indicates that the burden of talking on a cell of any state law on hand-held mobile telephone use while
phone - even if it's hands-free - saps the brain of 39% of operating a CMV. Disqualification is 60 days for the
the energy it would ordinarily devote to safe driving. second offense within 3 years and 120 days for three or
Drivers who use a hand-held device are more likely to get more offenses within 3 years. In addition, the first and
into a crash serious enough to cause injury. (NHTSA each subsequent violation of such a prohibition are subject
distracted driving website at distraction.gov). to civil penalties imposed on such drivers, in an amount up
to $2,750. Motor carriers must not allow nor require drivers
2.9.2 – Effects of Distracted Driving to use a hand-held mobile telephone while driving.
Employers may also be subject to civil penalties in an
Effects of distracted driving include slowed perception, amount up to $11,000. There is an emergency exception
which may cause you to be delayed in perceiving or that allows you to use your hand-held mobile telephones if
completely fail to perceive an important traffic event; necessary to communicate with law enforcement officials
delayed decision making and improper action, which can or other emergency services.
cause you to be delayed in taking the proper action or
make incorrect inputs to the steering, accelerator or Research shows that the odds of being involved in a
brakes. safety-critical event (e.g., crash, near-crash, unintentional
lane deviation) is 6 times greater for CMV drivers who
engage in dialing a mobile telephone while driving than for
2.9.3 – Types of Distractions those who do not. Dialing drivers took their eyes off the
forward roadway for an average of 3.8 seconds. At 55 mph
There are many causes of distraction, all with the potential (or 80.7 feet per second), this equates to a driver traveling
to increase risk. 306 feet, the approximate length of a football field, without
✓ Physical distraction – one that causes you to take your looking at the roadway.
hands off the wheel or eyes off the road, such as
reaching for an object. Your primary responsibility is to operate a motor vehicle
safely. To do this, you must focus your full attention on the
✓ Mental distraction – activities that take your mind away driving task.
from the road, such as engaging in conversation with a
passenger or thinking about something that happened Note that hands-free devices are no less likely than hand-
during the day. held cell phones to cause you to become distracted.
Attention is diverted from the driving task while using either
✓ Both physical and mental distraction – even greater device.
chance a crash could happen, such as talking on a cell
phone; or sending or reading text messages.
2.9.5 –Texting
2.9.4 – Cell/Mobile Phones 49 CFR Part 383, 384, 390, 391, 392, the Federal Motor
Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR) prohibits texting by
49 CFR Part 383, 384, 390, 391 and 392 of the Federal commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers while operating in
Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) and the interstate commerce; and implements new driver
Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) restricts the use disqualification sanctions for drivers of CMVs who fail to
of hand-held mobile telephones by drivers of commercial comply with this Federal prohibition; or who have multiple
motor vehicles (CMVs); and implements new driver

40 Section 2 – Driving Safely

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

convictions for violating a State or local law or ordinance Based on the assessment of potential distractions, you can
on motor vehicle traffic control that prohibits texting while formulate a preventative plan to reduce/eliminate possible
driving. Additionally, motor carriers are prohibited from distractions. If drivers react a half-second slower because
requiring or allowing their drivers to engage in texting while of distractions, crashes double. Some tips to follow so you
driving. won’t become distracted:
✓ Turn off all communication devices.
Texting means manually entering text into, or reading text
from, an electronic device. This includes, but is not limited ✓ If you must use a mobile phone, make sure it is within
to, short message service, e-mailing, instant messaging, a close proximity, that it is operable while you are
command or request to access a World Wide Web page, restrained, use an earpiece or the speaker phone
or engaging in any other form of electronic text retrieval or function, use voice-activated dialing; or use the hands-
entry, for present or future communication. free feature. Drivers are not in compliance if they
unsafely reach for a mobile phone, even if they intend
Electronic device includes, but is not limited to, a cellular to use the hands-free function.
telephone; personal digital assistant; pager; computer; or
any other device used to enter, write, send, receive, or ✓ Do not type or read a text message on a mobile device
read text. while driving.

Your CDL will be disqualified after two or more convictions ✓ Familiarize yourself with your vehicle’s features and
of any state law on texting while operating a CMV. equipment, before you get behind the wheel.
Disqualification is 60 days for the second offense within 3
years and 120 days for three or more offenses within 3 ✓ Adjust all vehicle controls and mirrors to your
years. In addition, the first and each subsequent violation preferences prior to driving.
of such a prohibition are subject to civil penalties imposed
on such drivers, in an amount up to $2,750. No motor ✓ Pre-program radio stations and pre-load your favorite
carrier shall allow or require its drivers to engage in texting CDs.
while driving. There is an emergency exception that allows
you text if necessary to communicate with law ✓ Clear the vehicle of any unnecessary objects and
enforcement officials or other emergency services. secure cargo.

Evidence suggests that text messaging is even riskier than ✓ Review maps, program the GPS and plan your route
talking on a cell phone because it requires you to look at a before you begin driving.
small screen and manipulate the keypad with one’s hands.
Texting is the most alarming distraction because it involves ✓ Don’t attempt to read or write while you drive.
both physical and mental distraction simultaneously.
✓ Avoid smoking, eating and drinking while you drive.
Research shows that the odds of being involved in a Leave early to allow yourself time to stop to eat.
safety-critical event (e.g., crash, near-crash, unintentional
lane deviation) is 23.2 times greater for CMV drivers who ✓ Don’t engage in complex or emotionally intense
engage in texting while driving than for those who do not. conversations with other occupants.
Sending or receiving text takes your eyes from the road for
an average of 4.6 seconds. At 55 mph, you would travel ✓ Secure commitment from other occupants to behave
371 feet, or the length of an entire football field – without responsibly and to support the driver in reducing
looking at the roadway. distractions.

2.9.6 – Don’t Drive Distracted 2.9.7 – Watch Out for Other Distracted
Drivers
Your goal should be to eliminate all in-vehicle distractions
before driving begins. Accomplishing this goal can be done You need to be able to recognize other drivers who are
by: engaged in any form of driving distraction. Not recognizing
✓ Assessing all potential in-vehicle distractions before other distracted drivers can prevent you from perceiving or
driving reacting correctly in time to prevent a crash. Watch for:
✓ Vehicles that may drift over the lane divider lines or
✓ Developing a preventative plan to reduce/eliminate within their own lane.
possible distractions
✓ Vehicles traveling at inconsistent speeds.
✓ Expecting distractions to occur
✓ Drivers who are preoccupied with maps, food,
✓ Discussing possible scenarios before getting behind cigarettes, cell phones, or other objects.
the wheel
✓ Drivers who appear to be involved in conversations
with their passengers.
Section 2 – Driving Safely 41
2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Give a distracted driver plenty of room and maintain your ✓ Be a cautious and courteous driver. If another driver
safe following distance. Be very careful when passing a seems eager to get in front of you, say, “Be my guest.”
driver who seems to be distracted. The other driver may This response will soon become a habit and you won’t
not be aware of your presence, and they may drift in front be as offended by other drivers’ actions.
of you.
2.10.3 – What You Should do When
2.10 – Aggressive Drivers/Road Rage Confronted by an Aggressive Driver
2.10.1 – What is It? ✓ First and foremost, make every attempt to get out of
their way.
Aggressive driving and road rage is not a new problem.
However, in today’s world, where heavy and slow-moving ✓ Put your pride in the back seat. Do not challenge them
traffic and tight schedules are the norm, more and more by speeding up or attempting to hold-your-own in your
drivers are taking out their anger and frustration in their travel lane.
vehicles.
✓ Avoid eye contact.
Crowded roads leave little room for error, leading to
suspicion and hostility among drivers and encouraging ✓ Ignore gestures and refuse to react to them.
them to take personally the mistakes of other drivers.
✓ Report aggressive drivers to the appropriate
Aggressive driving is the act of operating a motor vehicle authorities by providing a vehicle description, license
in a selfish, bold, or pushy manner, without regard for the number, location and, if possible, direction of travel.
rights or safety of others (i.e. changing lanes frequently
and abruptly without notice). ✓ If you have a cell phone, and can do it safely, call the
police.
Road rage is operating a motor vehicle with the intent of
doing harm to others or physically assaulting a driver or ✓ If an aggressive driver is involved in a crash farther
their vehicle. down the road, stop a safe distance from the crash
scene, wait for the police to arrive, and report the
2.10.2 – Don’t Be an Aggressive Driver driving behavior that you witnessed.

How you feel before you even start your vehicle has a lot Subsections 2.9 and 2.10
to do with how stress will affect you while driving. Test Your Knowledge
✓ Reduce your stress before and while you drive. Listen
to “easy listening” music. 1. What are some tips to follow so you won’t become a
distracted driver?
✓ Give the drive your full attention. Don’t allow yourself
to become distracted by talking on your cell phone, 2. How do you use in-vehicle communications equipment
eating, etc. cautiously?

✓ Be realistic about your travel time. Expect delays 3. How do you recognize a distracted driver?
because of traffic, construction, or bad weather and
make allowances. 4. What is the difference between aggressive driving and
road rage?
✓ If you’re going to be later than you expected – deal
with it. Take a deep breath and accept the delay. 5. What should you do when confronted with an
aggressive driver?
✓ Give other drivers the benefit of the doubt. Try to
imagine why he or she is driving that way. Whatever 6. What are some things you can do to reduce your
their reason, it has nothing to do with you. stress before and while you drive?

✓ Slow down and keep your following distance These questions may be on the test. If you can’t answer
reasonable. them all, re-read subsections 2.9 and 2.10.

✓ Don’t drive slowly in the left lane of traffic.

✓ Avoid gestures. Keep your hands on the wheel. Avoid

making any gestures that might anger another driver,
even seemingly harmless expressions of irritation like
shaking your head.

42 Section 2 – Driving Safely

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

you could fall asleep behind the wheel and crash, injuring
2.11 – Driving at Night or killing yourself or others.
Fatigued or drowsy driving is one of the leading causes of
traffic collisions. NHTSA estimates that 100,000 police-
2.11.1 – It's More Dangerous reported crashes a year are the result of drowsy driving.
According to the National Sleep Foundation’s Sleep in
You are at greater risk when you drive at night. Drivers America poll, 60% of Americans have driven while feeling
cannot see hazards as quickly as in daylight, so they have sleepy and more than one third (36 percent or 103 million
less time to respond. Drivers caught by surprise are less people) admit to having actually fallen asleep at the wheel.
able to avoid a crash. The problems of night driving involve Drivers may experience short bursts of sleep lasting only a
the driver, the roadway, and the vehicle. few seconds or fall asleep for longer periods of time.
Either way, the chance of a collision increases
2.11.2 – Driver Factors dramatically.

Vision At-Risk Groups

Good vision is critical for safe driving. Your control of the The risk of having a crash due to drowsy driving is not
brake, accelerator, and steering wheel is based on what uniformly distributed across the population. Crashes tend
you see. If you cannot see clearly, you will have trouble to occur at times when sleepiness is most pronounced, for
identifying traffic and roadway conditions, spotting example, during the night and in the mid-afternoon. Most
potential trouble or responding to problems in a timely people are less alert at night, especially after midnight.
manner. This is particularly true if you have been driving for a long
time. Thus, individuals who drive at night are much more
Because seeing well is so critical to safe driving, you likely to have fall-asleep crashes.
should have your eyes checked regularly by an eye
specialist. You may never know you have poor vision Research has identified young males, shift workers,
unless your eyes are tested. If you need to wear glasses commercial drivers, especially long-haul drivers and
or contact lenses for driving, remember to: people with untreated sleep disorders or with short-term or
✓ Always wear them when driving, even if driving short chronic sleep deprivation as being at increased risk for
distances. If your driver license says corrective lenses having a fall-asleep crash. At least 15% of all heavy truck
are required, it is illegal to move a vehicle without crashes involve fatigue.
using corrective lenses.
A congressionally mandated study of 80 long-haul truck
✓ Keep an extra set of corrective lenses in your vehicle. drivers in the United States and Canada found that drivers
If your normal corrective lenses are broken or lost, you averaged less than 5 hours of sleep per day. (Federal
can use the spare lenses to drive safely. Motor Carrier Safety Administration, 1996) It is no surprise
then that the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB)
✓ Avoid using dark or tinted corrective lenses at night, reported that drowsy driving was probably the cause of
even if you think they help with glare. Tinted lenses more than half of crashes leading to a truck driver’s death.
cut down the light that you need to see clearly under (NTSB, 1990) For each truck driver fatality, another three
night driving conditions. to four people are killed. (NHTSA, 1994)

Glare Warning Signs of Fatigue

Drivers can be blinded for a short time by bright light. It According to the National Sleep Foundation’s Sleep in
can take several seconds to recover from glare. Even two America poll, 60% of Americans have driven while feeling
seconds of glare blindness can be dangerous. A vehicle sleepy and 36% admit to actually having fallen asleep at
going 55 mph will travel more than half the distance of a the wheel in the past year. However, many people cannot
football field during that time. tell if or when they are about to fall asleep. Here are some
signs that should tell you to stop and rest:
Fatigue and Lack of Alertness ✓ Difficulty focusing, frequent blinking or heavy eyelids

Fatigue is physical or mental tiredness that can be caused ✓ Yawning repeatedly or rubbing eyes
by physical or mental strain, repetitive tasks, illness or lack
of sleep. Just like alcohol and drugs, it impairs your vision ✓ Daydreaming or wandering/disconnected thoughts
and judgment.
✓ Trouble remembering the last few miles driven;
Fatigue causes errors related to speed and distance, missing exits or traffic signs
increases your risk of being in a crash, causes you to not
see and react to hazards as quickly; and affects your ✓ Trouble keeping head up
ability to make critical decisions. When you are fatigued,

Section 2 – Driving Safely 43

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

✓ Drifting from your lane, following too closely or hitting a Maintaining Alertness While Driving
shoulder rumble strip
✓ Protect yourself from glare and eyestrain with
✓ Feeling restless and irritable sunglasses

When you are tired, trying to “push on” is far more ✓ Keep cool by opening the window or using the air
dangerous than most drivers think. It is a major cause of conditioner
fatal accidents. If you notice any signs of fatigue, stop
driving and go to sleep for the night or take a 15 – 20 ✓ Avoid heavy foods
minute nap.
✓ Be aware of down time during the day
Are You at Risk?
✓ Have another person ride with you, and take turns
Before you drive, consider whether you are: driving
✓ Sleep-deprived or fatigued (6 hours of sleep or less
triples your risk) ✓ Take periodic breaks – about every 100 miles or 2
hours during long trips
✓ Suffering from sleep loss (insomnia), poor quality
sleep, or a sleep debt ✓ Stop driving and get some rest or take a nap

✓ Driving long distances without proper rest breaks ✓ Caffeine consumption can increase awareness for a
few hours, but do not drink too much. It will eventually
✓ Driving through the night, mid-afternoon or when you wear off. Do not rely on caffeine to prevent fatigue
would normally be asleep. Many heavy motor vehicle
accidents occur between midnight and 6 a.m. ✓ Avoid drugs. While they may keep you awake for a
while, they won’t make you alert.
✓ Taking sedating medications (antidepressants, cold
tablets, antihistamines) If you are drowsy, the only safe cure is to get off the road
and get some sleep. If you don't, you risk your life and the
✓ Working more than 60 hours a week (increases your lives of others.
risk by 40%)
2.11.3 – Roadway Factors
✓ Working more than one job, and your main job
involves shift work Poor Lighting
✓ Driving alone or on a long, rural, dark or boring road In the daytime there is usually enough light to see well.
This is not true at night. Some areas may have bright
✓ Flying, changing time zone streetlights, but many areas will have poor lighting. On
most roads you will probably have to depend entirely on
Preventing Drowsiness Before a Trip your headlights.

✓ Get adequate sleep – adults need 8 to 9 hours to Less light means you will not be able to see hazards as
maintain alertness well as in daytime. Road users who do not have lights are
hard to see. There are many accidents at night involving
✓ Prepare route carefully to identify total distance, pedestrians, joggers, bicyclists, and animals.
stopping points and other logistic considerations
Even when there are lights, the road scene can be
✓ Schedule trips for the hours you are normally awake, confusing. Traffic signals and hazards can be hard to see
not the middle of the night against a background of signs, shop windows, and other
lights.
✓ Drive with a passenger
Drive slower when lighting is poor or confusing.
✓ Avoid medications that cause drowsiness
Drive slowly enough to be sure you can stop in the
✓ Consult your physician if you suffer from daytime distance you can see ahead.
sleepiness, have difficulty sleeping at night or take
frequent naps

✓ Incorporate exercise into your daily life to give you

more energy.

44 Section 2 – Driving Safely

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Drunk Drivers experienced driving toward the sun just as it has risen or is
about to set and found that they can barely see through a
Drunk drivers and drivers under the influence of drugs are windshield that seemed to look OK in the middle of the
a hazard to themselves and to you. Be especially alert day. Clean your windshield on the inside and outside for
around the closing times for bars and taverns. Watch for safe driving at night.
drivers who have trouble staying in their lane or
maintaining speed, who stop without reason, or show other 2.11.5 – Night Driving Procedures
signs of being under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Vehicle Procedures
2.11.4 – Vehicle Factors
Make sure you are rested and alert. If you are drowsy,
Headlights sleep before you drive! Even a nap can save your life or
the lives of others. If you wear eyeglasses, make sure they
At night your headlights will usually be the main source of are clean and unscratched. Don't wear sunglasses at
light for you to see by and for others to see you. You can't night. Do a complete Vehicle inspection of your vehicle.
see nearly as much with your headlights as you see in the Pay attention to checking all lights and reflectors, and
daytime. With low beams you can see ahead about 250 cleaning those you can reach.
feet and with high beams about 350-500 feet. You must
adjust your speed to keep your stopping distance within Avoid Blinding Others
your sight distance. This means going slowly enough to be
able to stop within the range of your headlights. Otherwise, Glare from your headlights can cause problems for drivers
by the time you see a hazard, you will not have time to coming toward you. They can also bother drivers going in
stop. the same direction you are when your lights shine in their
rearview mirrors. Dim your lights before they cause glare
Night driving can be more dangerous if you have problems for other drivers. Dim your lights within 500 feet of an
with your headlights. Dirty headlights may give only half oncoming vehicle and when following another vehicle
the light they should. This cuts down your ability to see within 500 feet.
and makes it harder for others to see you. Make sure your
lights are clean and working. Headlights can be out of Avoid Glare from Oncoming Vehicles
adjustment. If they don't point in the right direction, they
won't give you a good view and they can blind other Do not look directly at lights of oncoming vehicles. Look
drivers. Have a qualified person make sure they are slightly to the right at a right lane or edge marking, if
adjusted properly. available. If other drivers don't put their low beams on,
don't try to "get back at them" by putting your own high
Other Lights beams on. This increases glare for oncoming drivers and
increases the chance of a crash.
In order for you to be seen easily, the following must be
clean and working properly: Use High Beams When You Can
✓ Reflectors.
Some drivers make the mistake of always using low
✓ Marker lights. beams. This seriously cuts down on their ability to see
ahead. Use high beams when it is safe and legal to do so.
✓ Clearance lights. Use them when you are not within 500 feet of an
approaching vehicle. Also, don't let the inside of your cab
✓ Taillights. get too bright. This makes it harder to see outside. Keep
the interior light off and adjust your instrument lights as low
✓ Identification lights. as you can to still be able to read the gauges.

Turn Signals and Brake Lights If You Get Sleepy, Stop at the Nearest Safe
Place.
At night your turn signals and brake lights are even more
important for telling other drivers what you intend to do. People often don't realize how close they are to falling
Make sure you have clean, working turn signals and stop asleep even when their eyelids are falling shut. If you can
lights. safely do so, look at yourself in a mirror. If you look sleepy,
or you just feel sleepy, stop driving! You are in a very
Windshield and Mirrors dangerous condition. The only safe cure is to sleep.

It is more important at night than in the daytime to have a

clean windshield and clean mirrors. Bright lights at night
can cause dirt on your windshield or mirrors to create a
glare of its own, blocking your view. Most people have

Section 2 – Driving Safely 45

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

2.12 – Driving in Fog Wipers and Washers

Fog can occur at any time. Fog on highways can be Make sure the windshield wiper blades are in good
extremely dangerous. Fog is often unexpected, and condition. Make sure the wiper blades press against the
visibility can deteriorate rapidly. You should watch for window hard enough to wipe the windshield clean,
foggy conditions and be ready to reduce your speed. Do otherwise they may not sweep off snow properly. Make
not assume that the fog will thin out after you enter it. sure the windshield washer works and there is washing
fluid in the washer reservoir.
The best advice for driving in fog is don’t. It is preferable Use windshield washer antifreeze to prevent freezing of
that you pull off the road into a rest area or truck stop until the washer liquid. If you can't see well enough while
visibility is better. If you must drive, be sure to consider the driving (for example, if your wipers fail), stop safely and fix
following: the problem.
✓ Obey all fog-related warning signs.
Tires
✓ Slow down before you enter fog.
Make sure you have enough tread on your tires. The drive
✓ Use low-beam headlights and fog lights for best tires must provide traction to push the rig over wet
visibility even in daytime and be alert for other drivers pavement and through snow. The steering tires must have
who may have forgotten to turn on their lights. traction to steer the vehicle. Enough tread is especially
important in winter conditions. You must have at least
✓ Turn on your 4-way flashers. This will give vehicles 4/32-inch tread depth in every major groove on front tires
approaching you from behind a quicker opportunity to and at least 2/32 inch on other tires. More would be better.
notice your vehicle. Use a gauge to determine if you have enough tread for
safe driving.
✓ Watch for vehicles on the side of the roadway. Seeing
taillights or headlights in front of you may not be a true Tire Chains
indication of where the road is ahead of you. The
vehicle may not be on the road at all. You may find yourself in conditions where you can't drive
without chains, even to get to a place of safety. Carry the
✓ Use roadside highway reflectors as guides to right number of chains and extra cross-links. Make sure
determine how the road may curve ahead of you. they will fit your drive tires. Check the chains for broken
hooks, worn or broken cross-links, and bent or broken side
✓ Listen for traffic you cannot see. chains. Learn how to put the chains on before you need to
do it in snow and ice.
✓ Avoid passing other vehicles.
Lights and Reflectors
✓ Don’t stop along the side of the road, unless absolutely
necessary. Make sure the lights and reflectors are clean. Lights and
reflectors are especially important during bad weather.
2.13 – Driving in Winter Check from time to time during bad weather to make sure
they are clean and working properly.
2.13.1 – Vehicle Checks
Windows and Mirrors
Make sure your vehicle is ready before driving in winter
weather. You should make a regular Vehicle inspection, Remove any ice, snow, etc., from the windshield, windows,
paying extra attention to the following items. and mirrors before starting. Use a windshield scraper,
snow brush, and windshield defroster as necessary.
Coolant Level and Antifreeze Amount
Hand Holds, Steps, and Deck Plates
Make sure the cooling system is full and there is enough
antifreeze in the system to protect against freezing. This Remove all ice and snow from hand holds, steps, and
can be checked with a special coolant tester. deck plates. This will reduce the danger of slipping.

Defrosting and Heating Equipment Radiator Shutters and Winterfront

Make sure the defrosters work. They are needed for safe Remove ice from the radiator shutters. Make sure the
driving. Make sure the heater is working, and that you winterfront is not closed too tightly. If the shutters freeze
know how to operate it. If you use other heaters and shut or the winterfront is closed too much, the engine may
expect to need them (e.g., mirror heaters, battery box overheat and stop.
heaters, fuel tank heaters), check their operation.

46 Section 2 – Driving Safely

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Exhaust System cause lack of braking power, wheel lockups, pulling to one
side or the other, and jackknife if you pull a trailer.
Exhaust system leaks are especially dangerous when cab
ventilation may be poor (windows rolled up, etc.). Loose Avoid driving through deep puddles or flowing water if
connections could permit poisonous carbon monoxide to possible. If not, you should:
leak into your vehicle. Carbon monoxide gas will cause ✓ Slow down and place transmission in a low gear.
you to be sleepy. In large enough amounts it can kill you.
Check the exhaust system for loose parts and for sounds ✓ Gently put on the brakes. This presses linings against
and signs of leaks. brake drums or discs and keeps mud, silt, sand, and
2.13.2 – Driving water from getting in.

✓ Increase engine rpm and cross the water while

Slippery Surfaces keeping light pressure on the brakes.
Drive slowly and smoothly on slippery roads. If it is very ✓ When out of the water, maintain light pressure on the
slippery, you shouldn't drive at all. Stop at the first safe brakes for a short distance to heat them up and dry
place. them out.

Start Gently and Slowly ✓ Make a test stop when safe to do so. Check behind to
make sure no one is following, then apply the brakes
When first starting, get the feel of the road. Don't hurry. to be sure they work well. If not, dry them out further
as described above. (CAUTION: Do not apply too
Check for Ice much brake pressure and accelerator at the same
time, or you can overheat brake drums and linings.
Check for ice on the road, especially bridges and
overpasses. A lack of spray from other vehicles indicates 2.14 – Driving in Very Hot Weather
ice has formed on the road. Also, check your mirrors and
wiper blades for ice. If they have ice, the road most likely 2.14.1 – Vehicle Checks
will be icy as well.
Do a normal vehicle inspection but pay special attention to
Adjust Turning and Braking to Conditions the following items.

Make turns as gently as possible. Don't brake any harder Tires

than necessary, and don't use the engine brake or speed
retarder. (They can cause the driving wheels to skid on Check the tire mounting and air pressure. Inspect the tires
slippery surfaces.) every two hours or every 100 miles when driving in very
hot weather. Air pressure increases with temperature. Do
Adjust Speed to Conditions not let air out or the pressure will be too low when the tires
cool off. If a tire is too hot to touch, remain stopped until
Don't pass slower vehicles unless necessary. Go slowly the tire cools off. Otherwise the tire may blow out or catch
and watch far enough ahead to keep a steady speed. fire.
Avoid having to slow down and speed up. Take curves at
slower speeds and don't brake while in curves. Be aware Engine Oil
that as the temperature rises to the point where ice begins
to melt, the road becomes even more slippery. Slow down The engine oil helps keep the engine cool, as well as
more. lubricating it. Make sure there is enough engine oil. If you
have an oil temperature gauge, make sure the
Adjust Space to Conditions temperature is within the proper range while you are
driving.
Don't drive alongside other vehicles. Keep a longer
following distance. When you see a traffic jam ahead, slow Engine Coolant
down or stop to wait for it to clear. Try hard to anticipate
stops early and slow down gradually. Watch for Before starting out, make sure the engine cooling system
snowplows, as well as salt and sand trucks, and give them has enough water and antifreeze according to the engine
plenty of room. manufacturer's directions. (Antifreeze helps the engine
under hot conditions as well as cold conditions.) When
Wet Brakes driving, check the water temperature or coolant
temperature gauge from time to time. Make sure that it
When driving in heavy rain or deep standing water, your remains in the normal range. If the gauge goes above the
brakes will get wet. Water in the brakes can cause the highest safe temperature, there may be something wrong
brakes to be weak, to apply unevenly, or to grab. This can that could lead to engine failure and possibly fire. Stop

Section 2 – Driving Safely 47

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

driving as soon as safely possible and try to find out what it is dangerous. The heat will increase chances of tire
is wrong. failure or even fire, and engine failure.

Some vehicles have sight glasses, see-through coolant

overflow containers, or coolant recovery containers. These Subsections 2.11, 2.12, 2.13, and 2.14
permit you to check the coolant level while the engine is Test Your Knowledge
hot. If the container is not part of the pressurized system,
the cap can be safely removed and coolant added, even 1. You should use low beams whenever you can. True
when the engine is at operating temperature. or False?

Never remove the radiator cap or any part of the 2. What should you do before you drive if you are
pressurized system until the system has cooled. Steam drowsy?
and boiling water can spray under pressure and cause
severe burns. If you can touch the radiator cap with your 3. What effects can wet brakes cause? How can you
bare hand, it is probably cool enough to open. avoid these problems?

If coolant has to be added to a system without a recovery 4. You should let air out of hot tires so the pressure
tank or overflow tank, follow these steps: goes back to normal. True or False?
✓ Shut engine off.
5. You can safely remove the radiator cap as long as
✓ Wait until engine has cooled. the engine isn't overheated. True or False?

✓ Protect hands (use gloves or a thick cloth). These questions may be on the test. If you can’t answer all
of them, re-read subsections 2.11, 2.12, 2.13, and 2.14.
✓ Turn radiator cap slowly to the first stop, which
releases the pressure seal.
2.15 – Railroad-highway Crossings
✓ Step back while pressure is released from cooling
system. Railroad-highway grade crossings are a special kind of
intersection where the roadway crosses train tracks. These
✓ When all pressure has been released, press down on crossings are always dangerous. Every such crossing
the cap and turn it further to remove it. must be approached with the expectation that a train is
coming. It is extremely difficult to judge the distance of the
✓ Visually check level of coolant and add more coolant if train from the crossing as well as the speed of an
necessary. approaching train.

✓ Replace cap and turn all the way to the closed 2.15.1 – Types of Crossings
position.
Passive Crossings
Engine Belts This type of crossing does not have any type of traffic
control device. The decision to stop or proceed rests
Learn how to check v-belt tightness on your vehicle by
entirely in your hands. Passive crossings require you to
pressing on the belts. Loose belts will not turn the water
recognize the crossing, search for any train using the
pump and/or fan properly. This will result in overheating.
tracks and decide if there is sufficient clear space to cross
Also, check belts for cracking or other signs of wear.
safely.
Hoses. Make sure coolant hoses are in good condition. A
broken hose while driving can lead to engine failure and Active Crossings
even fire. This type of crossing has a traffic control device installed
at the crossing to regulate traffic at the crossing. These
2.14.2 – Driving active devices include flashing red lights, with or without
bells and flashing red lights with bells and gates.
Watch for Bleeding Tar
2.15.2 – Warning Signs and Devices
Tar in the road pavement frequently rises to the surface in
very hot weather. Spots where tar "bleeds" to the surface Advance Warning Signs
are very slippery.
The round, black-on-yellow warning sign is placed ahead
Go Slowly Enough to Prevent Overheating of a public railroad-highway crossing. The advance
High speeds create more heat for tires and the engine. In warning sign tells you to slow down, look and listen for the
desert conditions the heat may build up to the point where train, and be prepared to stop at the tracks if a train is

48 Section 2 – Driving Safely

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

coming. All passenger and hazmat carrying vehicles are

required to stop. See Figure 2.15.

Figure2.17
Flashing Red Light Signals
Figure 2.15
At many highway-rail grade crossings, the cross-buck sign
Pavement Markings has flashing red lights and bells. When the lights begin to
flash, stop! A train is approaching. You are required to
Pavement markings mean the same as the advance
yield the right-of-way to the train. If there is more than one
warning sign. They consist of an “X” with the letters ”RR”
track, make sure all tracks are clear before crossing. See
and a no-passing marking on two-lane roads. See Figure
Figure 2.18.
2.16.
Gates
Many railroad-highway crossings have gates with flashing
red lights and bells. Stop when the lights begin to flash and
before the gate lowers across the road lane. Remain
stopped until the gates go up and the lights have stopped
flashing. Proceed when it is safe. See Figure 2.18.

Figure 2.16

There is also a no passing zone sign on two-lane roads.

There may be a white stop line painted on the pavement
before the railroad tracks. The front of the school bus must
remain behind this line while stopped at the crossing.
Cross-buck Signs
This sign marks the grade crossing. It requires you to yield Figure 2.18
the right-of-way to the train. If there is no white stop line
painted on the pavement, vehicles that are required to stop 2.15.3 – Driving Procedures
must stop no closer than 15 feet or more than 50 feet from
the nearest rail of the nearest track. When the road Never Race a Train to a Crossing
crosses over more than one track, a sign below the cross-
buck indicates the number of tracks. See Figure 2.17. Never attempt to race a train to a crossing. It is extremely
difficult to judge the speed of an approaching train.

Reduce Speed

Speed must be reduced in accordance with your ability to

see approaching trains in any direction, and speed must
be held to a point which will permit you to stop short of the
tracks in case a stop is necessary.

Section 2 – Driving Safely 49

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Don't Expect to Hear a Train 2.15.6 – Special Situations

Trains may not or are prohibited from sounding horns Be Aware! These trailers can get stuck on raised
when approaching some crossings. Public crossings crossings:
where trains do not sound horns should be identified by ✓ Low slung units (lowboy, car carrier, moving van,
signs. Noise inside your vehicle may, also prevent you possum-belly livestock trailer).
from hearing the train horn until the train is dangerously
close to the crossing. ✓ Single-axle tractor pulling a long trailer with its landing
gear set to accommodate a tandem-axle tractor.
Don't Rely on Signals
If for any reason you get stuck on the tracks, get out of the
You should not rely solely upon the presence of warning vehicle and away from the tracks. Check signposts or
signals, gates, or flagmen to warn of the approach of signal housing at the crossing for emergency notification
trains. Be especially alert at crossings that do not have information. Call 911 or other emergency number. Give the
gates or flashing red light signals. location of the crossing using all identifiable landmarks,
especially the DOT number, if posted.
Double Tracks Require a Double Check
2.16 – Mountain Driving
Remember that a train on one track may hide a train on
the other track. Look both ways before crossing. After one In mountain driving, gravity plays a major role. On any
train has cleared a crossing, be sure no other trains are upgrade, gravity slows you down. The steeper the grade,
near before starting across the tracks. the longer the grade, and/or the heavier the load--the more
you will have to use lower gears to climb hills or
Yard Areas and Grade Crossings in Cities mountains.
and Towns In coming down long, steep downgrades, gravity causes
the speed of your vehicle to increase. You must select an
Yard areas and grade crossings in cities and towns are appropriate safe speed, then use a low gear, and proper
just as dangerous as rural grade crossings. Approach braking techniques. You should plan ahead and obtain
them with as much caution. information about any long, steep grades along your
planned route of travel. If possible, talk to other drivers
2.15.4 – Stopping Safely at Railroad- highway who are familiar with the grades to find out what speeds
Crossings are safe.

A full stop is required at grade crossings whenever: You must go slowly enough so your brakes can hold you
✓ The nature of the cargo makes a stop mandatory back without getting too hot. If the brakes become too hot,
under state or federal regulations. they may start to "fade." This means you have to apply
them harder and harder to get the same stopping power. If
✓ Such a stop is otherwise required by law. you continue to use the brakes hard, they can keep fading
until you cannot slow down or stop at all.
When stopping be sure to:
✓ Check for traffic behind you while stopping gradually. 2.16.1 – Select a "Safe" Speed
Use a pullout lane, if available.
Your most important consideration is to select a speed that
✓ Turn on your four-way emergency flashers. is not too fast for the:
✓ Total weight of the vehicle and cargo.
2.15.5 – Crossing the Tracks
✓ Length of the grade.
Railroad crossings with steep approaches can cause your
unit to hang up on the tracks. Never permit traffic ✓ Steepness of the grade.
conditions to trap you in a position where you have to stop
on the tracks. Be sure you can get all the way across the ✓ Road conditions.
tracks before you start across. It takes a typical tractor-
trailer unit at least 14 seconds to clear a single track and ✓ Weather.
more than 15 seconds to clear a double track.
If a speed limit is posted, or there is a sign indicating
Do not shift gears while crossing railroad tracks. "Maximum Safe Speed," never exceed the speed shown.
Also, look for and heed warning signs indicating the length
and steepness of the grade.

50 Section 2 – Driving Safely

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

You must use the braking effect of the engine as the 2. When your speed has been reduced to approximately
principal way of controlling your speed. The braking effect five mph below your "safe" speed, release the brakes.
of the engine is greatest when it is near the governed rpms (This brake application should last for about three
and the transmission is in the lower gears. Save your seconds.)
brakes so you will be able to slow or stop as required by
road and traffic conditions. 3. When your speed has increased to your "safe" speed,
repeat steps 1 and 2.
2.16.2 – Select the Right Gear Before Starting
Down the Grade For example, if your "safe" speed is 40 mph, you would not
apply the brakes until your speed reaches 40 mph. You
Shift the transmission to a low gear before starting down now apply the brakes hard enough to gradually reduce
the grade. Do not try to downshift after your speed has your speed to 35 mph and then release the brakes.
already built up. You will not be able to shift into a lower Repeat this as often as necessary until you have reached
gear. You may not even be able to get back into any gear the end of the downgrade.
and all engine braking effect will be lost. Forcing an
automatic transmission into a lower gear at high speed Escape ramps have been built on many steep mountain
could damage the transmission and also lead to loss of all downgrades. Escape ramps are made to stop runaway
engine braking effect. vehicles safely without injuring drivers and passengers.
With older trucks, a rule for choosing gears is to use the Escape ramps use a long bed of loose, soft material to
same gear going down a hill that you would need to climb slow a runaway vehicle, sometimes in combination with an
the hill. However, new trucks have low friction parts and upgrade. Know escape ramp locations on your route.
streamlined shapes for fuel economy. They may also have Signs show drivers where ramp are located. Escape
more powerful engines. This means they can go up hills in ramps save lives, equipment and cargo.
higher gears and have less friction and air drag to hold
them back going down hills. For that reason, drivers of Subsections 2.15 and 2.16
modern trucks may have to use lower gears going down a Test Your Knowledge
hill than would be required to go up the hill. You should
know what is right for your vehicle. 1. What factors determine your selection of a "safe"
speed when going down a long, steep downgrade?
2.16.3 – Brake Fading or Failure
2. Why should you be in the proper gear before starting
Brakes are designed so brake shoes or pads rub against down a hill?
the brake drum or disks to slow the vehicle. Braking
creates heat, but brakes are designed to take a lot of heat. 3. Describe the proper braking technique when going
However, brakes can fade or fail from excessive heat down a long, steep downgrade.
caused by using them too much and not relying on the
engine braking effect. 4. What type of vehicles can get stuck on a railroad-
highway crossing?
Brake fade is also affected by adjustment. To safely
control a vehicle, every brake must do its share of the 5. How long does it take for a typical tractor-trailer unit to
work. Brakes out of adjustment will stop doing their share clear a double track?
before those that are in adjustment. The other brakes can
then overheat and fade, and there will not be enough These questions may be on the test. If you can’t answer
braking available to control the vehicle. Brakes can get out them all, re-read subsections 2.15 and 2.16.
of adjustment quickly, especially when they are used a lot;
also, brake linings wear faster when they are hot.
Therefore, brake adjustment must be checked frequently. 2.17 – Driving Emergencies

2.16.4 – Proper Braking Technique Traffic emergencies occur when two vehicles are about to
collide. Vehicle emergencies occur when tires, brakes, or
other critical parts fail. Following the safety practices in this
Remember: manual can help prevent emergencies. But if an
emergency does happen, your chances of avoiding a
The use of brakes on a long and/or steep downgrade is crash depend upon how well you take action. Actions you
only a supplement to the braking effect of the engine. can take are discussed below.
Once the vehicle is in the proper low gear, the following
are the proper braking techniques:
2.17.1 – Steering to Avoid a Crash
1. Apply the brakes just hard enough to feel a definite
slowdown. Stopping is not always the safest thing to do in an
emergency. When you don't have enough room to stop,
you may have to steer away from what's ahead.

Section 2 – Driving Safely 51

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Remember, you can almost always turn to miss an Avoid Braking

obstacle more quickly than you can stop. (However, top-
heavy vehicles and tractors with multiple trailers may flip If possible, avoid using the brakes until your speed has
over.) dropped to about 20 mph. Then brake very gently to avoid
skidding on a loose surface.
Keep Both Hands on the Steering Wheel
Keep One Set of Wheels on the Pavement, if
In order to turn quickly, you must have a firm grip on the Possible
steering wheel with both hands. The best way to have both
hands on the wheel, if there is an emergency, is to keep This helps to maintain control.
them there all the time.

How to Turn Quickly and Safely Stay on the Shoulder

A quick turn can be made safely, if it's done the right way. If the shoulder is clear, stay on it until your vehicle has
Here are some points that safe drivers use: come to a stop. Signal and check your mirrors before
✓ Do not apply the brake while you are turning. It's very pulling back onto the road.
easy to lock your wheels while turning. If that happens,
you may skid out of control.
✓ Do not turn any more than needed to clear whatever is Returning to the Road
in your way. The more sharply you turn, the greater
the chances of a skid or rollover. If you are forced to return to the road before you can stop,
use the following procedure:
✓ Be prepared to "counter-steer," that is, to turn the ✓ Hold the wheel tightly and turn sharply enough to get
wheel back in the other direction, once you've passed right back on the road safely. Don't try to edge
whatever was in your path. Unless you are prepared to gradually back on the road. If you do, your tires might
counter-steer, you won't be able to do it quickly grab unexpectedly, and you could lose control.
enough. You should think of emergency steering and
counter-steering as two parts of one driving action. ✓ When both front tires are on the paved surface,
counter-steer immediately. The two turns should be
made as a single "steer-counter-steer" move.
Where to Steer
If an oncoming driver has drifted into your lane, a move to 2.17.2 – How to Stop Quickly and Safely
your right is best. If that driver realizes what has
happened, the natural response will be to return to his or If somebody suddenly pulls out in front of you, your natural
her own lane. response is to hit the brakes. This is a good response if
there's enough distance to stop, and you use the brakes
If something is blocking your path, the best direction to correctly.
steer will depend on the situation.
✓ If you have been using your mirrors, you'll know You should brake in a way that will keep your vehicle in a
which lane is empty and can be safely used. straight line and allow you to turn if it becomes necessary.
You can use the "controlled braking" method or the "stab
✓ If the shoulder is clear, going right may be best. No braking" method.
one is likely to be driving on the shoulder, but
someone may be passing you on the left. You will Controlled Braking
know if you have been using your mirrors.
With this method, you apply the brakes as hard as you can
✓ If you are blocked on both sides, a move to the right without locking the wheels. Keep steering wheel
may be best. At least you won't force anyone into an movements very small while doing this. If you need to
opposing traffic lane and a possible head-on collision. make a larger steering adjustment or if the wheels lock,
release the brakes. Re-apply the brakes as soon as you
Leaving the Road can.

In some emergencies, you may have to drive off the road. Stab Braking
It may be less risky than facing a collision with another
vehicle. With this method, you apply your brakes all the way and
release brakes when wheels lock up. As soon as the
Most shoulders are strong enough to support the weight of wheels start rolling, apply the brakes fully again. (It can
a large vehicle and, therefore, offer an available escape take up to one second for the wheels to start rolling after
route. Here are some guidelines, if you do leave the road. you release the brakes. If you re-apply the brakes before
the wheels start rolling, the vehicle won't straighten out.)

52 Section 2 – Driving Safely

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Don't Jam on the Brakes year, hundreds of drivers avoid injury to themselves or
damage to their vehicles by using escape ramps. Some
Emergency braking does not mean pushing down on the escape ramps use soft gravel that resists the motion of the
brake pedal as hard as you can. That will only keep the vehicle and brings it to a stop. Others turn uphill, using the
wheels locked up and cause a skid. If the wheels are hill to stop the vehicle and soft gravel to hold it in place.
skidding, you cannot control the vehicle.
Any driver who loses brakes going downhill should use an
escape ramp if it's available. If you don't use it, your
2.17.3 – Brake Failure chances of having a serious crash may be much greater.
If no escape ramp is available, take the least hazardous
Brakes kept in good condition rarely fail. Most hydraulic escape route you can--such as an open field or a side road
brake failures occur for one of two reasons: (Air brakes are that flattens out or turns uphill. Make the move as soon as
discussed in Section 5.) you know your brakes don't work. The longer you wait, the
✓ Loss of hydraulic pressure. faster the vehicle will go, and the harder it will be to stop.
✓ Brake fade on long hills.
2.17.4 – Tire Failure
Loss of Hydraulic Pressure
Recognize Tire Failure
When the system won't build up pressure, the brake pedal
will feel spongy or go to the floor. Here are some things Quickly knowing you have a tire failure will let you have
you can do. more time to react. Having just a few extra seconds to
remember what it is you're supposed to do can help you.
The major signs of tire failure are:
Downshift ✓ Sound. The loud "bang" of a blowout is an easily
recognized sign. Because it can take a few seconds
Putting the vehicle into a lower gear will help to slow the for your vehicle to react, you might think it was some
vehicle. other vehicle. But any time you hear a tire blow, you'd
be safest to assume it is yours.
Pump the Brakes
✓ Vibration. If the vehicle thumps or vibrates heavily, it
Sometimes pumping the brake pedal will generate enough may be a sign that one of the tires has gone flat. With
hydraulic pressure to stop the vehicle. a rear tire, that may be the only sign you get.

Use the Parking Brake. ✓ Feel. If the steering feels "heavy," it is probably a sign
that one of the front tires has failed. Sometimes, failure
The parking or emergency brake is separate from the of a rear tire will cause the vehicle to slide back and
hydraulic brake system. Therefore, it can be used to slow forth or "fishtail." However, dual rear tires usually
the vehicle. However, be sure to press the release button prevent this.
or pull the release lever at the same time you use the
emergency brake so you can adjust the brake pressure Respond to Tire Failure
and keep the wheels from locking up.
When a tire fails, your vehicle is in danger. You must
Find an Escape Route immediately:
✓ Hold the Steering Wheel Firmly. If a front tire fails, it
While slowing the vehicle, look for an escape route--an can twist the steering wheel out of your hand. The only
open field, side-street, or escape ramp. Turning uphill is a way to prevent this is to keep a firm grip on the
good way to slow and stop the vehicle. Make sure the steering wheel with both hands at all times.
vehicle does not start rolling backward after you stop. Put
it in low gear, apply the parking brake, and, if necessary, ✓ Stay off the Brake. It's natural to want to brake in an
roll back into some obstacle that will stop the vehicle. emergency. However, braking when a tire has failed
could cause loss of control. Unless you're about to run
Brake Failure on Downgrades into something, stay off the brake until the vehicle has
slowed down. Then brake very gently, pull off the road,
Going slow enough and braking properly will almost and stop.
always prevent brake failure on long downgrades. Once
the brakes have failed, however, you are going to have to ✓ Check the Tires. After you've come to a stop, get out
look outside your vehicle for something to stop it. and check all the tires. Do this even if the vehicle
seems to be handling all right. If one of your dual tires
Your best hope is an escape ramp. If there is one, there'll goes, the only way you may know it is by getting out
be signs telling you about it. Use it. Ramps are usually and looking at it.
located a few miles from the top of the downgrade. Every

Section 2 – Driving Safely 53

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

2.18 – Antilock Braking Systems (ABS) If the lamp stays on after the bulb check, or goes on once
you are under way, you may have lost ABS control.
ABS is a computerized system that keeps your wheels
from locking up during hard brake applications. In the case of towed units manufactured before it was
required by the Department of Transportation, it may be
ABS is an addition to your normal brakes. It does not difficult to tell if the unit is equipped with ABS. Look under
decrease or increase your normal braking capability. ABS the vehicle for the ECU and wheel speed sensor wires
only activates when wheels are about to lock up. coming from the back of the brakes.

ABS does not necessarily shorten your stopping distance, 2.18.4 – How ABS Helps You
but it does help you keep the vehicle under control during
hard braking. When you brake hard on slippery surfaces in a vehicle
without ABS, your wheels may lock up. When your
2.18.1 – How Antilock Braking Systems Work steering wheels lock up, you lose steering control. When
your other wheels lock up, you may skid, jackknife, or even
Sensors detect potential wheel lock up. An electronic spin the vehicle.
control unit (ECU) will then decrease brake pressure to ABS helps you avoid wheel lock up and maintain control.
avoid wheel lockup. Brake pressure is adjusted to provide You may or may not be able to stop faster with ABS, but
the maximum braking without danger of lockup. you should be able to steer around an obstacle while
braking, and avoid skids caused by over braking.
ABS works far faster than the driver can respond to
potential wheel lockup. At all other times the brake system 2.18.5 – ABS on the Tractor Only or Only on
will operate normally. the Trailer
2.18.2 – Vehicles Required to Have Antilock Having ABS on only the tractor, only the trailer, or even on
Braking Systems only one axle, still gives you more control over the vehicle
during braking. Brake normally.
The Department of Transportation requires that ABS be
on: When only the tractor has ABS, you should be able to
✓ Truck tractors with air brakes built on or after March 1, maintain steering control, and there is less chance of
1997. jackknifing. But keep your eye on the trailer and let up on
the brakes (if you can safely do so) if it begins to swing
✓ Other air brake vehicles, (trucks, buses, trailers, and out.
converter dollies) built on or after March 1, 1998.
When only the trailer has ABS, the trailer is less likely to
✓ Hydraulically braked trucks and buses with a gross swing out, but if you lose steering control or start a tractor
vehicle weight rating of 10,000 lbs or more built on or jackknife, let up on the brakes (if you can safely do so)
after March 1, 1999. until you regain control.

Many commercial vehicles built before these dates have 2.18.6 – Braking with ABS
been voluntarily equipped with ABS.
When you drive a vehicle with ABS, you should brake as
2.18.3 – How to Know if Your Vehicle is you always have. In other words:
Equipped with ABS ✓ Use only the braking force necessary to stop safely
and stay in control.
Tractors, trucks, and buses will have yellow ABS
malfunction lamps on the instrument panel. ✓ Brake the same way, regardless of whether you have
ABS on the bus, tractor, the trailer, or both.
Trailers will have yellow ABS malfunction lamps on the left
side, either on the front or rear corner. ✓ As you slow down, monitor your tractor and trailer and
back off the brakes (if it is safe to do so) to stay in
Dollies manufactured on or after March 1, 1998, are control.
required to have a lamp on the left side.
There is only one exception to this procedure. If you drive
As a system check on newer vehicles, the malfunction a straight truck or combination with working ABS on all
lamp comes on at start-up for a bulb check, and then goes axles, in an emergency stop, you can fully apply the
out quickly. On older systems, the lamp could stay on until brakes.
you are driving over five mph.

54 Section 2 – Driving Safely

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

2.18.7 – Braking if ABS is Not Working ✓ Over-braking. Braking too hard and locking up the
wheels. Skids also can occur when using the speed
Without ABS you still have normal brake functions. Drive retarder when the road is slippery.
and brake as you always have.
✓ Over-steering. Turning the wheels more sharply than
Vehicles with ABS have yellow malfunction lamps to tell the vehicle can turn.
you if something isn’t working.
✓ Over-acceleration. Supplying too much power to the
As a system check on newer vehicles, the malfunction drive wheels, causing them to spin.
lamp comes on at start-up for a bulb check and then goes
out quickly. On older systems, the lamp could stay on until ✓ Driving Too Fast. Most serious skids result from
you are driving over five mph. driving too fast for road conditions. Drivers who adjust
their driving to conditions don't over-accelerate and
If the lamp stays on after the bulb check, or goes on once don't have to over-brake or over-steer from too much
you are under way, you may have lost ABS control on one speed.
or more wheels.
2.19.1 – Drive-wheel Skids
Remember, if your ABS malfunctions, you still have
regular brakes. Drive normally, but get the system serviced By far the most common skid is one in which the rear
soon. wheels lose traction through excessive braking or
acceleration. Skids caused by acceleration usually happen
2.18.8 – Safety Reminders on ice or snow. Taking your foot off the accelerator can
easily stop them. (If it is very slippery, push the clutch in.
✓ ABS won’t allow you to drive faster, follow more Otherwise, the engine can keep the wheels from rolling
closely, or drive less carefully. freely and regaining traction.)

✓ ABS won’t prevent power or turning skids–ABS should Rear wheel braking skids occur when the rear drive
prevent brake-induced skids or jackknifes, but not wheels lock. Because locked wheels have less traction
those caused by spinning the drive wheels or going than rolling wheels, the rear wheels usually slide sideways
too fast in a turn. in an attempt to "catch up" with the front wheels. In a bus
or straight truck, the vehicle will slide sideways in a "spin
✓ ABS won’t necessarily shorten stopping distance. ABS out." With vehicles towing trailers, a drive-wheel skid can
will help maintain vehicle control, but not always let the trailer push the towing vehicle sideways, causing a
shorten stopping distance. sudden jackknife. See Figure 2.19.

✓ ABS won’t increase or decrease ultimate stopping 2.19.2 – Correcting a Drive-wheel Braking
power–ABS is an “add-on” to your normal brakes, not Skid
a replacement for them.
Do the following to correct a drive-wheel braking skid:
✓ ABS won’t change the way you normally brake. Under ✓ Stop Braking. This will let the rear wheels roll again
normal brake conditions, your vehicle will stop as it and keep the rear wheels from sliding.
always stopped. ABS only comes into play when a
wheel would normally have locked up because of over ✓ Counter-steer. As a vehicle turns back on course, it
braking. has a tendency to keep on turning. Unless you turn the
steering wheel quickly the other way, you may find
✓ ABS won’t compensate for bad brakes or poor brake yourself skidding in the opposite direction.
maintenance.
Learning to stay off the brake, turn the steering wheel
✓ Remember: The best vehicle safety feature is still a quickly, push in the clutch, and counter-steer in a skid
safe driver. takes a lot of practice. The best place to get this practice is
on a large driving range or "skid pad."
✓ Remember: Drive so you never need to use your ABS.
2.19.3 – Front-wheel Skids
✓ Remember: If you need it, ABS could help to prevent a
serious crash. Driving too fast for conditions causes most front-wheel
skids. Other causes include lack of tread on the front tires
2.19 – Skid Control and Recovery and cargo loaded so not enough weight is on the front
axle. In a front-wheel skid, the front end tends to go in a
A skid happens whenever the tires lose their grip on the straight line regardless of how much you turn the steering
road. This is caused in one of four ways: wheel. On a very slippery surface, you may not be able to
steer around a curve or turn.

Section 2 – Driving Safely 55

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

When a front-wheel skid occurs, the only way to stop the

skid is to let the vehicle slow down. Stop turning and/or ✓ Notify authorities.
braking so hard. Slow down as quickly as possible without
skidding. ✓ Care for the injured.

2.20.1 – Protect the Area

The first thing to do at an accident scene is to keep
another accident from happening in the same spot. To
protect the accident area:
✓ If your vehicle is involved in the accident, try to get it to
the side of the road. This will help prevent another
accident and allow traffic to move.

✓ If you're stopping to help, park away from the accident.

The area immediately around the accident will be
needed for emergency vehicles.

✓ Put on your flashers.

✓ Set out reflective triangles to warn other traffic. Make

sure other drivers can see them in time to avoid the
accident.

2.20.2 – Notify Authorities

If you have a cell phone or CB, call for assistance before
Figure 2.19 you get out of your vehicle. If not, wait until after the
accident scene has been properly protected, then phone
or send someone to phone the police. Try to determine
Subsections 2.17, 2.18, and 2.19 where you are so you can give the exact location.
Test Your Knowledge
1. Stopping is not always the safest thing to do in an 2.20.3 – Care for the Injured
emergency. True or False?
If a qualified person is at the accident and helping the
2. What are some advantages of going right instead of injured, stay out of the way unless asked to assist.
left around an obstacle? Otherwise, do the best you can to help any injured parties.
Here are some simple steps to follow in giving assistance:
3. What is an "escape ramp?" ✓ Don't move a severely injured person unless the
danger of fire or passing traffic makes it necessary.
4. If a tire blows out, you should put the brakes on hard
to stop quickly. True or False? ✓ Stop heavy bleeding by applying direct pressure to the
wound.
5. How do you know if your vehicle has antilock
brakes? ✓ Keep the injured person warm.

6. What is the proper braking technique when driving a 2.21 – Fires

vehicle with antilock brakes?
Truck fires can cause damage and injury. Learn the
7. How do antilock brakes help you? causes of fires and how to prevent them. Know what to do
to extinguish fires.
These questions may be on the test. If you can’t answer
them all, re-read subsections 2.17, 2.18, and 2.19. 2.21.1 – Causes of Fire
The following are some causes of vehicle fires:
2.20 – Accident Procedures
✓ After Accidents. Spilled fuel, improper use of flares.
When you're in an accident and not seriously hurt, you
✓ Tires. Under-inflated tires and duals that touch.
need to act to prevent further damage or injury. The basic
steps to be taken at any accident are to:
✓ Electrical System. Short circuits due to damaged
✓ Protect the area.
insulation, loose connections.

56 Section 2 – Driving Safely

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

materials. Opening the van doors will supply the fire

✓ Fuel. Driver smoking, improper fueling, loose fuel with oxygen and can cause it to burn very fast.
connections.
Extinguish the Fire
✓ Cargo. Flammable cargo improperly sealed or loaded
cargo, poor ventilation. Here are some rules to follow in putting out a fire:
✓ When using the extinguisher, stay as far away from
2.21.2 – Fire Prevention the fire as possible.

Pay attention to the following: ✓ Aim at the source or base of the fire, not up in the
✓ Vehicle Inspection. Make a complete inspection of the flames.
electrical, fuel, and exhaust systems, tires, and cargo.
Be sure to check that the fire extinguisher is charged. Use the Right Fire Extinguisher
✓ En Route Inspection. Check the tires, wheels, and Figures 2.20 and 2.21 detail the type of fire extinguisher to
truck body for signs of heat whenever you stop during use by class of fire.
a trip. ✓ The B:C type fire extinguisher is designed to work on
electrical fires and burning liquids.
✓ Follow Safe Procedures. Follow correct safety
procedures for fueling the vehicle, using brakes, ✓ The A:B:C type is designed to work on burning wood,
handling flares, and other activities that can cause a paper, and cloth as well.
fire.
✓ Water can be used on wood, paper, or cloth, but don't
✓ Monitoring. Check the instruments and gauges often use water on an electrical fire (can cause shock) or a
for signs of overheating and use the mirrors to look for gasoline fire (it will spread the flames).
signs of smoke from tires or the vehicle.
✓ A burning tire must be cooled. Lots of water may be
✓ Caution. Use normal caution in handling anything required.
flammable.
✓ If you're not sure what to use, especially on a
2.21.3 – Fire Fighting hazardous materials fire, wait for firefighters.

Knowing how to fight fires is important. Drivers who didn’t ✓ Position yourself upwind. Let the wind carry the
know what to do have made fires worse. Know how the fire extinguisher to the fire.
extinguisher works. Study the instructions printed on the
extinguisher before you need it. Here are some ✓ Continue until whatever was burning has been cooled.
procedures to follow in case of fire. Absence of smoke or flame does not mean the fire
cannot restart.
Pull Off the Road
Class/Type of Fires
The first step is to get the vehicle off the road and stop. In
doing so: Class Type
✓ Park in an open area, away from buildings, trees, Wood, Paper, Ordinary Combustibles
brush, other vehicles, or anything that might catch fire. A Extinguish by Cooling and Quenching Using
Water or Dry Chemicals
✓ Don't pull into a service station! Gasoline, Oil, Grease, Other Greasy Liquids
Extinguish by Smothering, Cooling or Heat
✓ Notify emergency services of your problem and your B
Shielding using carbon Dioxide or Dry
location. Chemicals
Electrical Equipment Fires
Keep the Fire from Spreading Extinguish with Non-conducting Agents such
C
as Carbon Dioxide or Dry Chemicals.
Before trying to put out the fire, make sure that it doesn't DO NOT USE WATER.
spread any further. Fires in Combustible Metals
✓ With an engine fire, turn off the engine as soon as you D Extinguish by Using Specialized Extinguishing
can. Don't open the hood if you can avoid it. Shoot Powders
foam through louvers, radiator, or from the vehicle’s Figure 2.20
underside.

✓ For a cargo fire in a van or box trailer, keep the doors

shut, especially if your cargo contains hazardous

Section 2 – Driving Safely 57

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Class of Fire/Type of Extinguisher than your body can get rid of them, you will have more
alcohol in your body, and your driving will be more
Class of Fire Fire Extinguisher Type affected. The Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC)
B or C Regular Dry Chemical commonly measures the amount of alcohol in your body.
A, B, C, or D Multi-Purpose Dry Chemical See Figure 2.22.
D Purple K Dry Chemical All of the following drinks contain the same amount of
B or C KCL Dry Chemical alcohol:
D Dry Powder Special Compound ✓ A 12-ounce glass of 5% beer.
B or C Carbon Dioxide (Dry)
✓ A 5-ounce glass of 12% wine.
B or C Halogenated Agent (Gas)
A Water ✓ A 1 1/2-ounce shot of 80 proof liquor.
A Water With Anti-Freeze
A or B Water, Loaded Steam Style What Is a Drink?
B, On Some A Foam
It is the alcohol in drinks that affects human performance. It
Figure 2.21 doesn't make any difference whether that alcohol comes
from "a couple of beers,” or from two glasses of wine, or two
Subsections 2.20 and 2.21 shots of hard liquor.

Test Your Knowledge Body Weight in Pounds

Effects
Drinks
100 120 140 160 180 200 220 240
1. What are some things to do at an accident scene to
prevent another accident? Approximate Blood Alcohol Content

Driving
Limit

Only
Safe
2. Name two causes of tire fires. 0 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00

3. What kinds of fires is a B:C extinguisher not good for?

Impairment
Begins
4. When using your extinguisher, should you get as
1 .04 .03 .03 .02 .02 .02 .02 .02
close as possible to the fire?

5. Name some causes of vehicle fires.

2 .08 .06 .05 .05 .04 .04 .03 .03

Significantly Affected
These questions may be on the test. If you can't answer

Criminal Penalties

Driving Skills
them all, re-read subsections 2.20 and 2.21. 3 .11 .09 .08 .07 .06 .06 .05 .05

4 .15 .12 .11 .09 .08 .08 .07 .06

2.22 – Alcohol, Other Drugs, and Driving
5 .19 .16 .13 .12 .11 .09 .09 .08
2.22.1 – Alcohol and Driving
6 .23 .19 .16 .14 .13 .11 .10 .09
Drinking alcohol and then driving is very dangerous and a
serious problem. People who drink alcohol are involved in Legally Intoxicated
Criminal Penalties
7 .26 .22 .19 .16 .15 .13 .12 .11
traffic accidents resulting in over 20,000 deaths every
year. Alcohol impairs muscle coordination, reaction time, 8 .30 .25 .21 .19 .17 .15 .14 .13
depth perception, and night vision. It also affects the parts
of the brain that control judgment and inhibition. For some 9 .34 .28 .24 .21 .19 .17 .15 .14
people, one drink is all it takes to show signs of
impairment. 10 .38 .31 .27 .23 .21 .19 .17 .16

How Alcohol Works Subtract .01% for each 40 minutes of drinking. One
drink is 1.5 oz. of 80 proof liquor, 12 oz. of beer, or 5
Alcohol goes directly into the blood stream and is carried oz. of table wine.
to the brain. After passing through the brain, a small
Figure 2.22
percentage is removed in urine, perspiration, and by
breathing, while the rest is carried to the liver. The liver
can only process one-third an ounce of alcohol per hour,
which is considerably less than the alcohol in a standard
drink. This is a fixed rate, so only time, not black coffee or
a cold shower, will sober you up. If you have drinks faster

58 Section 2 – Driving Safely

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

What Determines Blood Alcohol Effects of Increasing Blood Alcohol Content

Concentration?
Blood Alcohol Content is the amount of alcohol in your
blood recorded in milligrams of alcohol per 100 milliliters of
BAC is determined by the amount of alcohol you drink blood. Your BAC depends on the amount of blood (which
(more alcohol means higher BAC), how fast you drink increases with weight) and the amount of alcohol you
(faster drinking means higher BAC), and your weight (a consume over time (how fast you drink). The faster you
small person doesn't have to drink as much to reach the drink, the higher your BAC, as the liver can only handle
same BAC). about one drink per hour—the rest builds up in your blood.

Effects on Driving
Alcohol and the Brain BAC Effects on Body
Condition

Alcohol affects more and more of the brain as BAC builds 0.02 Mellow feeling, Less inhibited.
up. The first part of the brain affected controls judgment slight body warmth.
and self-control. One of the bad things about this is it can 0.05 Noticeable Less alert, less self-
keep drinkers from knowing they are getting drunk. And, of relaxation. focused, coordination
course, good judgment and self-control are absolutely impairment begins.
necessary for safe driving. 0.08 Definite impairment Drunk driving limit,
in coordination & impaired coordination &
As BAC continues to build up, muscle control, vision, and judgment judgment.
coordination are affected more and more. Effects on 0.10* Noisy, possible Reduction in reaction
driving may include: embarrassing time.
✓ Straddling lanes. behavior, mood
swings.
✓ Quick, jerky starts. 0.15 Impaired balance & Unable to drive.
movement, clearly
✓ Not signaling, failure to use lights. drunk.
0.30 Many lose
✓ Running stop signs and red lights. consciousness.
0.40 Most lose
✓ Improper passing (See Figure 2.23). consciousness,
some die.
These effects mean increased chances of a crash and 0.50 Breathing stops,
chances of losing your driver's license. Accident statistics many die.
show that the chance of a crash is much greater for drivers *BAC of .10 means that 1/10 of 1 % (or 1/1000) of your
who have been drinking than for drivers who have not. total blood content is alcohol.
Figure 2.23
How Alcohol Affects Driving
2.22.2 – Other Drugs
All drivers are affected by drinking alcohol. Alcohol affects
judgment, vision, coordination, and reaction time. It causes Besides alcohol, other legal and illegal drugs are being
serious driving errors, such as: used more often. Laws prohibit possession or use of many
✓ Increased reaction time to hazards. drugs while on duty. They prohibit being under the
influence of any "controlled substance," amphetamines
✓ Driving too fast or too slow. (including "pep pills," “uppers,” and "bennies"), narcotics,
or any other substance, which can make the driver unsafe.
✓ Driving in the wrong lane. This could include a variety of prescription and over-the-
counter drugs (cold medicines), which may make the
✓ Running over the curb. driver drowsy or otherwise affect safe driving ability.
However, possession and use of a drug given to a driver
✓ Weaving. by a doctor is permitted if the doctor informs the driver that
it will not affect safe driving ability.

Pay attention to warning labels for legitimate drugs and

medicines, and to doctor's orders regarding possible
effects. Stay away from illegal drugs.

Don't use any drug that hides fatigue--the only cure for
fatigue is rest. Alcohol can make the effects of other drugs
much worse. The safest rule is don't mix drugs with driving
at all.

Section 2 – Driving Safely 59

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Use of drugs can lead to traffic accidents resulting in To Contain the Product
death, injury, and property damage. Furthermore, it can
lead to arrest, fines, and jail sentences. It can also mean Many hazardous products can injure or kill on contact. To
the end of a person's driving career. protect drivers and others from contact, the rules tell
shippers how to package safely. Similar rules tell drivers
2.22.3 – Illness how to load, transport, and unload bulk tanks. These are
containment rules.
Once in a while, you may become so ill that you cannot
operate a motor vehicle safely. If this happens to you, you To Communicate the Risk
must not drive. However, in case of an emergency, you
may drive to the nearest place where you can safely stop. The shipper uses a shipping paper and diamond shaped
hazard labels to warn dockworkers and drivers of the risk.
2.23 – Hazardous Materials Rules for All
Commercial Drivers After an accident or hazardous material spill or leak, you
may be injured and unable to communicate the hazards of
All drivers should know something about hazardous the materials you are transporting. Firefighters and police
materials. You must be able to recognize hazardous can prevent or reduce the amount of damage or injury at
cargo, and you must know whether or not you can haul it the scene if they know what hazardous materials are being
without having a hazardous materials endorsement on transported. Your life, and the lives of others, may depend
your CDL license. on quickly locating the hazardous materials shipping
papers. For that reason, you must identify shipping papers
2.23.1 – What Are Hazardous Materials? related to hazardous materials or keep them on top of
other shipping papers. You must also keep shipping
Hazardous materials are products that pose a risk to papers:
health, safety, and property during transportation. See ✓ In a pouch on the driver's door, or
Figure 2.24.
✓ In clear view within reach while driving, or
Hazard Class Definitions
✓ On the driver's seat when out of the vehicle.
Class Class Name Example

1
Explosives Ammunition, Dynamite, 2.23.3 – Lists of Regulated Products
Fireworks
2 Gases Propane, Oxygen, Helium Placards
3 Flammable Gasoline, Acetone
4 Flammable Solids Matches, Fuses Placards are used to warn others of hazardous materials.
Oxidizers Ammonium Nitrate, Placards are signs put on the outside of a vehicle that
5 identify the hazard class of the cargo. A placarded vehicle
Hydrogen Peroxide
must have at least four identical placards. They are put on
6 Poisons Pesticides, Arsenic
the front, rear, and both sides.
7 Radioactive Uranium, Plutonium
Corrosives Hydrochloric Acid, Battery Placards must be readable from all four directions. They
8
Fluid must be at least 9.8” (250mm) inches square, turned
9
Miscellaneous Formaldehyde, Asbestos upright on a point, in a diamond shape. Cargo tanks and
Hazardous Materials other bulk packaging display the identification number of
ORM-D (Other Hair Spray or Charcoal their contents on placards or orange panels.
None Regulated Material-
Domestic)
Identification Numbers
None Combustible Liquids Fuel Oils, Lighter Fluid
Figure 2.24 Identification numbers are a four-digit code used by first
responders to identify hazardous materials. An
2.23.2 – Why Are There Rules? identification number may be used to identify more than
one chemical on shipping papers. The identification
You must follow the many rules about transporting number will be preceded by the letters “NA” or “UN”. The
hazardous materials. The intent of the rules is to: US DOT Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG) lists the
✓ Contain the product. chemicals and the identification numbers assigned to
them.
✓ Communicate the risk.
Not all vehicles carrying hazardous materials need to have
✓ Ensure safe drivers and equipment. placards. The rules about placards are given in Section 9
of this manual. You can drive a vehicle that carries

60 Section 2 – Driving Safely

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

hazardous materials if it does not require placards. If it Hazardous materials drivers must also know which
requires placards, you cannot drive it unless your driver products they can load together, and which they cannot.
license has the hazardous materials endorsement. See These rules are also in Section 9. Before loading a truck
Figure 2.25. with more than one type of product, you must know if it is
safe to load them together. If you do not know, ask your
employer and consult the regulations.

Subsections 2.22 and 2.23

Test Your Knowledge

1. Common medicines for colds can make you sleepy.

True or False?

2. Coffee and a little fresh air will help a drinker sober up.
True or False?

3. What is a hazardous materials placard?

4. Why are placards used?

These questions may be on the test. If you can't answer
them all, re-read subsections 2.22 and 2.23.

Figure 2.25

The rules require all drivers of placarded vehicles to learn

how to safely load and transport hazardous products. They
must have a commercial driver license with the hazardous
materials endorsement. To get the
required endorsement, you must pass a written test on
material found in Section 9 of this manual.

A tank endorsement is required for any commercial vehicle

that is designed to transport any liquid or gaseous
materials in a tank or tanks having an individual rated
capacity of more than 119 gallons and an aggregate
capacity of 1,000 gallons or more that is either
permanently or temporarily attached to the vehicle or
chassis. The liquid or gas does not have to be a
hazardous material.

Drivers who need the hazardous materials endorsement

must learn the placard rules. If you do not know if your
vehicle needs placards, ask your employer. Never drive a
vehicle needing placards unless you have the hazardous
materials endorsement. To do so is a crime. When
stopped, you will be cited, and you will not be allowed to
drive your truck. It will cost you time and money. A failure
to placard when needed may risk your life and others if
you have an accident. Emergency help will not know of
your hazardous cargo.

Section 2 – Driving Safely 61

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Federal, state, and local regulations for commercial vehicle

Section 3 weight, securing cargo, covering loads, and where you can
drive large vehicles vary from place to place. Know the
TRANSPORTING CARGO SAFELY rules where you will be driving.
This Section Covers:
3.2 – Weight and Balance
✓ Inspecting Cargo
✓ Cargo Weight and Balance You are responsible for not being overloaded. The
✓ Securing Cargo following are some definitions of weight you should know.
✓ Cargo Needing Special Attention
3.2.1 – Definitions You Should Know
This section tells you about hauling cargo safely. You must
understand basic cargo safety rules to get a CDL. ✓ Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The value
specified by the manufacturer as the loaded weight of
If you load cargo wrong or do not secure it, it can be a a single vehicle.
danger to others and yourself. Loose cargo that falls off a
vehicle can cause traffic problems and others could be ✓ Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR). The
hurt or killed. Loose cargo could hurt or kill you during a value specified by the manufacturer of the power unit,
quick stop or crash. Your vehicle could be damaged by an if the value is displayed on the Federal Motor Vehicle
overload. Steering could be affected by how a vehicle is Safety Standard (FMVSS) certification label; or the
loaded, making it more difficult to control the vehicle. sum of the gross vehicle weight ratings (GVWRs) or
the gross vehicle weights (GVWs) of the power unit
Whether or not you load and secure the cargo yourself, and the towed unit(s), or any combination thereof, that
you are responsible for: produces the highest value.
✓ Inspecting your cargo.
(The underlined and italicized text above is for use by
✓ Recognizing overloads and poorly balanced weight. roadside enforcement only to determine whether the
driver/vehicle is subject to CDL regulations. It is not
✓ Knowing your cargo is properly secured and does not used to determine whether a vehicle is representative
obscure your view ahead or to the sides. for the purposes of Skills testing).

✓ Knowing your cargo does not restrict your access to ✓ Axle Weight. The weight transmitted to the ground by
emergency equipment. one axle or one set of axles.

If you intend to carry hazardous material that requires ✓ Tire Load. The maximum safe weight a tire can carry
placards on your vehicle, you will also need to have a at a specified pressure. This rating is stated on the
hazardous materials endorsement. Section 9 of this side of each tire.
manual has the information you need to pass the
hazardous materials test. ✓ Suspension Systems. Suspension systems have a
manufacturer's weight capacity rating.
3.1 – Inspecting Cargo
✓ Coupling Device Capacity. Coupling devices are rated
for the maximum weight they can pull and/or carry.
As part of your Vehicle inspection, make sure the truck is
not overloaded and the cargo is balanced and secured
3.2.2 – Legal Weight Limits
properly.
You must keep weights within legal limits. States have
After Starting maximums for GVWRs, GCWRs, and axle weights. Often,
maximum axle weights are set by a bridge formula. A
Inspect the cargo and its securing devices again within the bridge formula permits less maximum axle weight for axles
first 50 miles after beginning a trip. Make any adjustments that are closer together. This is to prevent overloading
needed. bridges and roadways.

Re-check Overloading can have bad effects on steering, braking,

and speed control. Overloaded trucks have to go very
Re-check the cargo and securing devices as often as slowly on upgrades. Worse, they may gain too much
necessary during a trip to keep the load secure. You need speed on downgrades. Stopping distance increases.
to inspect again: Brakes can fail when forced to work too hard.
✓ After you have driven for 3 hours or 150 miles.
During bad weather or in mountains, it may not be safe to
✓ After every break you take during driving. operate at legal maximum weights. Take this into account
before driving.
Section 3 – Transporting Cargo Safely 63
2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

3.2.3 – Don't Be Top-heavy 3.3.2 – Cargo Tie-down

The height of the vehicle's center of gravity is very On flatbed trailers or trailers without sides, cargo must be
important for safe handling. A high center of gravity (cargo secured to keep it from shifting or falling off. In closed
piled up high or heavy cargo on top) means you are more vans, tie-downs can also be important to prevent cargo
likely to tip over. It is most dangerous in curves, or if you shifting that may affect the handling of the vehicle. Tie-
have to swerve to avoid a hazard. It is very important to downs must be of the proper type and proper strength.
distribute the cargo so it is as low as possible. Put the Federal regulations require the aggregate working load
heaviest parts of the cargo under the lightest parts. limit of any securement system used to secure an article or
group of articles against movement must be at least one-
3.2.4 – Balance the Weight half times the weight of the article or group of articles.
Proper tie-down equipment must be used, including ropes,
Poor weight balance can make vehicle handling unsafe. straps, chains, and tensioning devices (winches, ratchets,
Too much weight on the steering axle can cause hard clinching components). Tie-downs must be attached to the
steering. It can damage the steering axle and tires. Under- vehicle correctly (hooks, bolts, rails, rings). See figure 3.2.
loaded front axles (caused by shifting weight too far to the
rear) can make the steering axle weight too light to steer
safely. Too little weight on the driving axles can cause
poor traction. The drive wheels may spin easily. During
bad weather, the truck may not be able to keep going.
Weight that is loaded so there is a high center of gravity
causes greater chance of rollover. On flat bed vehicles,
there is also a greater chance that the load will shift to the
side or fall off. See Figure 3.1.

Figure 3.2

Cargo should have at least one tie-down for each ten feet
of cargo. Make sure you have enough tie-downs to meet
this need. No matter how small the cargo, it should have at
least two tie-downs.

There are special requirements for securing various heavy

pieces of metal. Find out what they are if you are to carry
such loads.

3.3.3 – Header Boards

Front-end header boards ("headache racks") protect you
from your cargo in case of a crash or emergency stop.
Make sure the front-end structure is in good condition. The
front-end structure should block the forward movement of
any cargo you carry.

3.3.4 – Covering Cargo

Figure 3.1 There are two basic reasons for covering cargo:
✓ To protect people from spilled cargo.
3.3 – Securing Cargo
✓ To protect the cargo from weather.
3.3.1 – Blocking and Bracing
Spill protection is a safety requirement in many states. Be
Blocking is used in the front, back, and/or sides of a piece familiar with the laws in the states you drive in.
of cargo to keep it from sliding. Blocking is shaped to fit
snugly against cargo. It is secured to the cargo deck to You should look at your cargo covers in the mirrors from
prevent cargo movement. Bracing is also used to prevent time to time while driving. A flapping cover can tear loose,
movement of cargo. Bracing goes from the upper part of uncovering the cargo, and possibly block your view or
the cargo to the floor and/or walls of the cargo someone else's.
compartment.

64 Section 3 – Transporting Cargo Safely

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

3.3.5 – Sealed and Containerized Loads

Section 3
Containerized loads generally are used when freight is Test Your Knowledge
carried part way by rail or ship. Delivery by truck occurs at
the beginning and/or end of the journey. Some containers 1. What four things related to cargo are drivers
have their own tiedown devices or locks that attach directly responsible for?
to a special frame. Others have to be loaded onto flatbed
trailers. They must be properly secured just like any other 2. How often must you stop while on the road to check
cargo. your cargo?
You cannot inspect sealed loads, but you should check 3. How is Gross Combination Weight Rating different
that you don't exceed gross weight and axle weight limits. from Gross Combination Weight?

3.4 – Cargo Needing Special Attention 4. Name two situations where legal maximum weights
may not be safe.
3.4.1 – Dry Bulk
5. What can happen if you don't have enough weight on
Dry bulk tanks require special care because they have a the front axle?
high center of gravity, and the load can shift. Be extremely
cautious (slow and careful) going around curves and 6. What is the minimum number of tie-downs for any
making sharp turns. flatbed load?

3.4.2 – Hanging Meat 7. What is the minimum number of tie-downs for a 20-
foot load?
Hanging meat (suspended beef, pork, lamb) in a
refrigerated truck can be a very unstable load with a high 8. Name the two basic reasons for covering cargo on an
center of gravity. Particular caution is needed on sharp open bed.
curves such as off ramps and on ramps. Go slowly.
9. What must you check before transporting a sealed
load?
3.4.3 – Livestock
These questions may be on your test. If you can't answer
Livestock can move around in a trailer, causing unsafe
them all, re-read Section 3.
handling. With less than a full load, use false bulkheads to
keep livestock bunched together. Even when bunched,
special care is necessary because livestock can lean on
curves. This shifts the center of gravity and makes rollover
more likely.

3.4.4 – Oversized Loads

Over-length, over-width, over-height, and/or overweight
loads require special transit permits. Driving is usually
limited to certain times. Special equipment may be
necessary such as "wide load" signs, flashing lights, flags,
etc. Such loads may require a police escort or pilot
vehicles bearing warning signs and/or flashing lights.
These special loads require special driving care.

Section 3 – Transporting Cargo Safely 65

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

✓ Emergency equipment.
Section 4
Make sure your bus has the fire extinguisher and
TRANSPORTING PASSENGERS emergency reflectors (3 reflective triangles or at least 6
SAFELY fuses or 3 liquid burning flares) required by law. The bus
must also have spare electrical fuses, unless equipped
This Section Covers: with circuit breakers.

✓ Vehicle Inspection 4.1.2 – Access Doors and Panels

✓ Loading As you check the outside of the bus, close any open
✓ On the Road emergency exits. Also, close any open access panels (for
✓ After-trip Vehicle Inspection baggage, restroom service, engine, etc.) before driving.
✓ Prohibited Practices
✓ Use of Brake-door Interlocks 4.1.3 – Bus Interior

Bus drivers must have a commercial driver license if they People sometimes damage unattended buses. Always
drive a vehicle designed to seat more than 16 or more check the interior of the bus before driving to ensure rider
persons, including the driver. safety. Aisles and stairwells should always be clear. The
following parts of your bus must be in safe working
Bus drivers must have a passenger endorsement on their condition:
commercial driver license. To get the endorsement you ✓ Each handhold and railing.
must pass a knowledge test on Sections 2 and 4 of this
manual. If your bus has air brakes, you must also pass a ✓ Floor covering.
knowledge test on Section 5. You must also pass the skills
tests required for the class of vehicle you drive. ✓ Signaling devices, including the restroom
emergency buzzer, if the bus has a restroom.
4.1 – Vehicle Inspection
✓ Emergency exit handles.
Before driving your bus, you must be sure it is safe. You
must review the inspection report made by the previous The seats must be safe for riders. All seats must be
driver. Only if defects reported earlier have been certified securely fastened to the bus.
as repaired or not needed to be repaired, should you sign
the previous driver's report. This is your certification that Never drive with an open emergency exit door or window.
the defects reported earlier have been fixed. The "Emergency Exit" sign on an emergency door must be
clearly visible. If there is a red emergency door light, it
must work. Turn it on at night or any other time you use
4.1.1 – Vehicle Systems your outside lights.
Make sure these things are in good working order before
driving: 4.1.4 – Roof Hatches
✓ Service brakes, including air hose couplings (if your
bus has a trailer or semitrailer). You may lock some emergency roof hatches in a partly
open position for fresh air. Do not leave them open as a
✓ Parking brake. regular practice. Keep in mind the bus's higher clearance
while driving with them open.
✓ Steering mechanism.
4.1.5 – Use Your Seatbelt!
✓ Lights and reflectors.
The driver's seat should have a seat belt. Always use it for
✓ Tires (front wheels must not have recapped or re- safety.
grooved tires).
4.2 – Loading and Trip Start
✓ Horn.
Do not allow riders to leave carry-on baggage in a
✓ Windshield wiper or wipers. doorway or aisle. There should be nothing in the aisle that
might trip other riders. Secure baggage and freight in ways
✓ Rear-vision mirror or mirrors. that avoid damage and:
✓ Allow the driver to move freely and easily.
✓ Coupling devices (if present).
✓ Allow riders to exit by any window or door in an
✓ Wheels and rims. emergency.

Section 4 – Transporting Passengers Safely 67

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

✓ Protect riders from injury if carry-ons fall or shift. ✓ More than 500 pounds total of allowed hazardous
materials, and no more than 100 pounds of any one
4.2.1 – Hazardous Materials class.

Watch for cargo or baggage containing hazardous Riders sometimes board a bus with an unlabeled
materials. Most hazardous materials cannot be carried on hazardous material. Do not allow riders to carry on
a bus. common hazards such as car batteries or gasoline.

The Federal Hazardous Materials Table shows which 4.2.3 – Standee Line
materials are hazardous. They pose a risk to health,
safety, and property during transportation. The rules No rider may stand forward of the rear of the driver's seat.
require shippers to mark containers of hazardous material Buses designed to allow standing must have a two-inch
with the material's name, identification number, and hazard line on the floor or some other means of showing riders
label. There are nine different four-inch, diamond-shaped where they cannot stand. This is called the standee line.
hazard labels. See Figure 4.1. Watch for the diamond- All standing riders must stay behind it.
shaped labels. Do not transport any hazardous material
unless you are sure the rules allow it. 4.2.4 – At Your Destination
Hazard Class Definitions When arriving at the destination or intermediate stops
Class Class Name Example announce:
✓ The location.
1 Explosives Ammunition, Dynamite, Fireworks

2 Gases Propane, Oxygen, Helium ✓ Reason for stopping.

3 Flammable Gasoline Fuel, Acetone
✓ Next departure time.
4 Flammable Solids Matches, Fuses

5 Oxidizers
Ammonium Nitrate, Hydrogen ✓ Bus number.
Peroxide
6 Poisons Pesticides, Arsenic Remind riders to take carry-ons with them if they get off
7 Radioactive Uranium, Plutonium the bus. If the aisle is on a lower level than the seats,
8 Corrosives Hydrochloric Acid, Battery Acid remind riders of the step-down. It is best to tell them before
coming to a complete stop.
Miscellaneous
9 Hazardous Formaldehyde, Asbestos
Materials Charter bus drivers should not allow riders on the bus until
departure time. This will help prevent theft or vandalism of
ORM-D
the bus.
None (Other Regulated Hair Spray or Charcoal
Material-Domestic)
Combustible
4.3 – On the Road
None Fuel Oils, Lighter Fluid
Liquids
Figure 4.1 4.3.1 – Passenger Supervision

4.2.2 – Forbidden Hazardous Materials Many charter and intercity carriers have passenger
comfort and safety rules. Mention rules about smoking,
Buses may carry small-arms ammunition labeled ORM-D, drinking, or use of radio and tape players at the start of the
emergency hospital supplies, and drugs. You can carry trip. Explaining the rules at the start will help to avoid
small amounts of some other hazardous materials if the trouble later on.
shipper cannot send them any other way. Buses must
never carry: While driving, scan the interior of your bus as well as the
✓ Division 2.3 poison gas, liquid Class 6 poison, tear road ahead, to the sides, and to the rear. You may have to
gas, irritating material. remind riders about rules, or to keep arms and heads
inside the bus.
✓ More than 100 pounds of solid Class 6 poisons.
4.3.2 – At Stops
✓ Explosives in the space occupied by people, except
small arms ammunition. Riders can stumble when getting on or off, and when the
bus starts or stops. Caution riders to watch their step when
✓ Labeled radioactive materials in the space occupied by leaving the bus. Wait for them to sit down or brace
people. themselves before starting. Starting and stopping should
be as smooth as possible to avoid rider injury.

68 Section 4 – Transporting Passengers Safely

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Occasionally, you may have a drunk or disruptive rider. 4.3.6 – Drawbridges

You must ensure this rider's safety as well as that of
others. Don't discharge such riders where it would be Stop at Drawbridges
unsafe for them. It may be safer at the next scheduled stop
or a well-lighted area where there are other people. Many Stop at drawbridges that do not have a signal light or traffic
carriers have guidelines for handling disruptive riders. control attendant. Stop at least 50 feet before the draw of
the bridge. Look to make sure the draw is completely
4.3.3 – Common Accidents closed before crossing. You do not need to stop, but must
slow down and make sure it's safe, when:
The Most Common Bus Accidents ✓ There is a traffic light showing green.

Bus accidents often happen at intersections. Use caution, ✓ The bridge has an attendant or traffic officer who
even if a signal or stop sign controls other traffic. School controls traffic whenever the bridge opens.
and mass transit buses sometimes scrape off mirrors or hit
passing vehicles when pulling out from a bus stop. 4.4 – After-trip Vehicle Inspection
Remember the clearance your bus needs and watch for
poles and tree limbs at stops. Know the size of the gap Inspect your bus at the end of each shift. If you work for an
your bus needs to accelerate and merge with traffic. Wait interstate carrier, you must complete a written inspection
for the gap to open before leaving the stop. Never assume report for each bus driven. The report must specify each
other drivers will brake to give you room when you signal bus and list any defect that would affect safety or result in
or start to pull out. a breakdown. If there are no defects, the report should say
so.
4.3.4 – Speed on Curves
Riders sometimes damage safety-related parts such as
Crashes on curves that kill people and destroy buses handholds, seats, emergency exits, and windows. If you
result from excessive speed, often when rain or snow has report this damage at the end of a shift, mechanics can
made the road slippery. Every banked curve has a safe make repairs before the bus goes out again. Mass transit
"design speed." In good weather, the posted speed is safe drivers should also make sure passenger signaling
for cars, but it may be too high for many buses. With good devices and brake-door interlocks work properly.
traction, the bus may roll over; with poor traction, it might
slide off the curve. Reduce speed for curves! If your bus 4.5 – Prohibited Practices
leans toward the outside on a banked curve, you are
driving too fast. Avoid fueling your bus with riders on board unless
absolutely necessary. Never refuel in a closed building
4.3.5 – Railroad-highway Crossing/Stops with riders on board.

Stop at RR Crossings: Don't talk with riders, or engage in any other distracting
activity, while driving.
✓ Stop your bus between 15 and 50 feet before railroad
crossings. Do not tow or push a disabled bus with riders aboard the
vehicle, unless getting off would be unsafe. Only tow or
✓ Listen and look in both directions for trains. You should push the bus to the nearest safe spot to discharge
open your forward door if it improves your ability to see passengers. Follow your employer's guidelines on towing
or hear an approaching train. or pushing disabled buses.

✓ Before crossing after a train has passed, make sure 4.6 – Use of Brake-door Interlocks
there isn't another train coming in the other direction
on other tracks. Urban mass transit coaches may have a brake and
accelerator interlock system. The interlock applies the
✓ If your bus has a manual transmission, never change brakes and holds the throttle in idle position when the rear
gears while crossing the tracks. door is open. The interlock releases when you close the
rear door. Do not use this safety feature in place of the
✓ You do not have to stop, but must slow down and parking brake.
carefully check for other vehicles:
• At streetcar crossings.
• Where a policeman or flagman is directing traffic.
• If a traffic signal is green.
• At crossings marked as "exempt" or "abandoned."

Section 4 – Transporting Passengers Safely 69

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 4
Test Your Knowledge
1. Name some things to check in the interior of a bus
during a Vehicle inspection.

2. What are some hazardous materials you can transport

by bus?

3. What are some hazardous materials you can’t

transport by bus?

4. What is a standee line?

5. Does it matter where you make a disruptive passenger

get off the bus?

6. How far from a railroad crossing should you stop?

7. When must you stop before crossing a drawbridge?

8. Describe from memory the “prohibited practices” listed

in the manual.

9. The rear door of a transit bus has to be open to put on

the parking brake. True or False?

These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer

them all, re-read Section 4.

70 Section 4 – Transporting Passengers Safely

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

air. When the tank pressure falls to the "cut-in" pressure

Section 5 (around 100 psi), the governor allows the compressor to
start pumping again.
AIR BRAKES
5.1.3 – Air Storage Tanks
This Section Covers:
Air storage tanks are used to hold compressed air. The
✓ Air Brake System Parts number and size of air tanks varies among vehicles. The
✓ Dual Air Brake Systems tanks will hold enough air to allow the brakes to be used
✓ Inspecting Air Brakes several times, even if the compressor stops working.
✓ Using Air Brakes
5.1.4 – Air Tank Drains
This section tells you about air brakes. If you want to drive
a truck or bus with air brakes, or pull a trailer with air Compressed air usually has some water and some
brakes, you need to read this section. If you want to pull a compressor oil in it, which is bad for the air brake system.
trailer with air brakes, you also need to read Section 6, For example, the water can freeze in cold weather and
Combination Vehicles. cause brake failure. The water and oil tend to collect in the
bottom of the air tank. Be sure that you drain the air tanks
Air brakes use compressed air to make the brakes work. completely. Each air tank is equipped with a drain valve in
Air brakes are a good and safe way of stopping large and the bottom. There are two types:
heavy vehicles, but the brakes must be well maintained ✓ Manually operated by turning a quarter turn or by
and used properly. pulling a cable. You must drain the tanks yourself at
the end of each day of driving. See Figure 5.1.
Air brakes are really three different braking systems:
service brake, parking brake, and emergency brake. ✓ Automatic--the water and oil are automatically
✓ The service brake system applies and releases the expelled. These tanks may be equipped for manual
brakes when you use the brake pedal during normal draining as well.
driving.
Automatic air tanks are available with electric heating
✓ The parking brake system applies and releases the devices. These help prevent freezing of the automatic
parking brakes when you use the parking brake drain in cold weather.
control.

✓ The emergency brake system uses parts of the service

and parking brake systems to stop the vehicle in a
brake system failure.

The parts of these systems are discussed in greater detail

below.

5.1 – The Parts of an Air Brake System

There are many parts to an air brake system. You should
know about the parts discussed here. Figure 5.1

5.1.1 – Air Compressor 5.1.5 – Alcohol Evaporator

The air compressor pumps air into the air storage tanks Some air brake systems have an alcohol evaporator to put
(reservoirs). The air compressor is connected to the alcohol into the air system. This helps to reduce the risk of
engine through gears or a v-belt. The compressor may be ice in air brake valves and other parts during cold weather.
air cooled or may be cooled by the engine cooling system. Ice inside the system can make the brakes stop working.
It may have its own oil supply or be lubricated by engine
oil. If the compressor has its own oil supply, check the oil Check the alcohol container and fill up as necessary, every
level before driving. day during cold weather. Daily air tank drainage is still
needed to get rid of water and oil. (Unless the system has
5.1.2 – Air Compressor Governor automatic drain valves.)

The governor controls when the air compressor will pump 5.1.6 – Safety Valve
air into the air storage tanks. When air tank pressure rises
to the "cut-out" level (around 125 pounds per-square-inch A safety relief valve is installed in the first tank the air
or "psi"), the governor stops the compressor from pumping compressor pumps air to. The safety valve protects the
Section 5 – Air Brakes 71
2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

tank and the rest of the system from too much pressure. Wedge Brakes
The valve is usually set to open at 150 psi. If the safety
valve releases air, something is wrong. Have the fault fixed In this type of brake, the brake chamber push rod pushes
by a mechanic. a wedge directly between the ends of two brake shoes.
This shoves them apart and against the inside of the brake
5.1.7 – The Brake Pedal drum. Wedge brakes may have a single brake chamber, or
two brake chambers, pushing wedges in at both ends of
You put on the brakes by pushing down the brake pedal.
the brake shoes. Wedge type brakes may be self-adjusting
(It is also called the foot valve or treadle valve.) Pushing
or may require manual adjustment.
the pedal down harder applies more air pressure. Letting
up on the brake pedal reduces the air pressure and
releases the brakes. Releasing the brakes lets some Disc Brakes
compressed air go out of the system, so the air pressure in
the tanks is reduced. It must be made up by the air In air-operated disc brakes, air pressure acts on a brake
compressor. Pressing and releasing the pedal chamber and slack adjuster, like s-cam brakes. But
unnecessarily can let air out faster than the compressor instead of the s-cam, a "power screw" is used. The
can replace it. If the pressure gets too low, the brakes pressure of the brake chamber on the slack adjuster turns
won't work. the power screw. The power screw clamps the disc or
rotor between the brake lining pads of a caliper, similar to
a large c-clamp.
5.1.8 – Foundation Brakes
Foundation brakes are used at each wheel. The most Wedge brakes and disc brakes are less common than s-
common type is the s-cam drum brake. The parts of the cam brakes.
brake are discussed below.
5.1.9 – Supply Pressure Gauges
Brake Drums, Shoes, and Linings
All vehicles with air brakes have a pressure gauge
Brake drums are located on each end of the vehicle's
connected to the air tank. If the vehicle has a dual air
axles. The wheels are bolted to the drums. The braking
brake system, there will be a gauge for each half of the
mechanism is inside the drum. To stop, the brake shoes
system. (Or a single gauge with two needles.) Dual
and linings are pushed against the inside of the drum. This
systems will be discussed later. These gauges tell you
causes friction, which slows the vehicle (and creates heat).
how much pressure is in the air tanks.
The heat a drum can take without damage depends on
how hard and how long the brakes are used. Too much
heat can make the brakes stop working. 5.1.10 – Application Pressure Gauge
This gauge shows how much air pressure you are applying
S-cam Brakes
to the brakes. (This gauge is not on all vehicles.)
When you push the brake pedal, air is let into each brake Increasing application pressure to hold the same speed
chamber. Air pressure pushes the rod out, moving the means the brakes are fading. You should slow down and
slack adjuster, thus twisting the brake camshaft. This turns use a lower gear. The need for increased pressure can
the s-cam (so called because it is shaped like the letter also be caused by brakes out of adjustment, air leaks, or
"S"). The s-cam forces the brake shoes away from one mechanical problems.
another and presses them against the inside of the brake
drum. When you release the brake pedal, the s-cam 5.1.11 – Low Air Pressure Warning
rotates back and a spring pulls the brake shoes away from
the drum, letting the wheels roll freely again. See Figure A low air pressure warning signal is required on vehicles
5.2. with air brakes. A warning signal you can see must come
on before the air pressure in the tanks falls below 60 psi.
(Or one half the compressor governor cutout pressure on
older vehicles.) The warning is usually a red light. A buzzer
may also come on.

Another type of warning is the "wig wag." This device

drops a mechanical arm into your view when the pressure
in the system drops below 60 psi. An automatic wig wag
will rise out of your view when the pressure in the system
goes above 60 psi. The manual reset type must be placed
in the "out of view" position manually. It will not stay in
place until the pressure in the system is above 60 psi.

On large buses it is common for the low-pressure warning

Figure 5.2 devices to signal at 80-85 psi.

72 Section 5 – Air Brakes

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

5.1.12 – Stop Light Switch Caution

Never push the brake pedal down when the spring brakes
Drivers behind you must be warned when you put your
are on. If you do, the brakes could be damaged by the
brakes on. The air brake system does this with an electric
combined forces of the springs and the air pressure. Many
switch that works by air pressure. The switch turns on the
brake systems are designed so this will not happen. But
brake lights when you put on the air brakes.
not all systems are set up that way, and those that are
may not always work. It is much better to develop the habit
5.1.13 – Front Brake Limiting Valve of not pushing the brake pedal down when the spring
brakes are on.
Some older vehicles (made before 1975) have a front
brake limiting valve and a control in the cab. The control is
Modulating Control Valves
usually marked "normal" and "slippery." When you put the
control in the "slippery" position, the limiting valve cuts the In some vehicles a control handle on the dashboard may
"normal" air pressure to the front brakes by half. Limiting be used to apply the spring brakes gradually. This is called
valves were used to reduce the chance of the front wheels a modulating valve. It is spring-loaded so you have a feel
skidding on slippery surfaces. However, they actually for the braking action. The more you move the control
reduce the stopping power of the vehicle. Front wheel lever, the harder the spring brakes come on. They work
braking is good under all conditions. Tests have shown this way so you can control the spring brakes if the service
front wheel skids from braking are not likely even on ice. brakes fail. When parking a vehicle with a modulating
Make sure the control is in the "normal" position to have control valve, move the lever as far as it will go and hold it
normal stopping power. in place with the locking device.

Many vehicles have automatic front wheel limiting valves. Dual Parking Control Valves
They reduce the air to the front brakes except when the
brakes are put on very hard (60 psi or more application When main air pressure is lost, the spring brakes come on.
pressure). These valves cannot be controlled by the driver. Some vehicles, such as buses, have a separate air tank
which can be used to release the spring brakes. This is so
5.1.14 – Spring Brakes you can move the vehicle in an emergency. One of the
valves is a push-pull type and is used to put on the spring
All trucks, truck tractors, and buses must be equipped with brakes for parking. The other valve is spring loaded in the
emergency brakes and parking brakes. They must be held "out" position. When you push the control in, air from the
on by mechanical force (because air pressure can separate air tank releases the spring brakes so you can
eventually leak away). Spring brakes are usually used to move. When you release the button, the spring brakes
meet these needs. When driving, powerful springs are held come on again. There is only enough air in the separate
back by air pressure. If the air pressure is removed, the tank to do this a few times. Therefore, plan carefully when
springs put on the brakes. A parking brake control in the moving. Otherwise, you may be stopped in a dangerous
cab allows the driver to let the air out of the spring brakes. location when the separate air supply runs out. See Figure
This lets the springs put the brakes on. A leak in the air 5.3.
brake system, which causes all the air to be lost, will also
cause the springs to put on the brakes.

Tractor and straight truck spring brakes will come fully on

when air pressure drops to a range of 20 to 45 psi
(typically 20 to 30 psi). Do not wait for the brakes to come
on automatically. When the low air pressure warning light
and buzzer first come on, bring the vehicle to a safe stop
right away, while you can still control the brakes.

The braking power of spring brakes depends on the

brakes being in adjustment. If the brakes are not adjusted
properly, neither the regular brakes nor the
emergency/parking brakes will work right.

5.1.15 – Parking Brake Controls

In newer vehicles with air brakes, you put on the parking
brakes using a diamond-shaped, yellow, push-pull control
knob. You pull the knob out to put the parking brakes
(spring brakes) on and push it in to release them. On older
vehicles, the parking brakes may be controlled by a lever.
Use the parking brakes whenever you park.

Section 5 – Air Brakes 73

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

If the lamp stays on after the bulb check, or goes on once

you are under way, you may have lost ABS control at one
or more wheels.

In the case of towed units manufactured before it was

required by the Department of Transportation, it may be
difficult to tell if the unit is equipped with ABS. Look under
the vehicle for the electronic control unit (ECU) and wheel
speed sensor wires coming from the back of the brakes.

ABS is an addition to your normal brakes. It does not

decrease or increase your normal braking capability. ABS
only activates when wheels are about to lock up.

ABS does not necessarily shorten your stopping distance,

but it does help you keep the vehicle under control during
hard braking.

Subsection 5.1
Test Your Knowledge
1. Why must air tanks be drained?

2. What is a supply pressure gauge used for?

3. All vehicles with air brakes must have a low air

pressure warning signal. True or False?

4. What are spring brakes?

Figure 5.3 5. Front wheel brakes are good under all conditions.
True or False?
5.1.16 – Antilock Braking Systems (ABS) 6. How do you know if your vehicle is equipped with
antilock brakes?
Truck tractors with air brakes built on or after March 1,
1997, and other air brakes vehicles, (trucks, buses,
These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer
trailers, and converter dollies) built on or after March 1,
them all, re-read subsection 5.1.
1998, are required to be equipped with antilock brakes.
Many commercial vehicles built before these dates have
been voluntarily equipped with ABS. Check the
certification label for the date of manufacture to determine
if your vehicle is equipped with ABS. ABS is a
computerized system that keeps your wheels from locking
up during hard brake applications.

Vehicles with ABS have yellow malfunction lamps to tell

you if something isn’t working.

Tractors, trucks, and buses will have yellow ABS

malfunction lamps on the instrument panel.
Trailers will have yellow ABS malfunction lamps on the left
side, either on the front or rear corner. Dollies
manufactured on or after March 1, 1998 are required to
have a lamp on the left side.

On newer vehicles, the malfunction lamp comes on at

start-up for a bulb check, and then goes out quickly. On
older systems, the lamp could stay on until you are driving
over five mph.

74 Section 5 – Air Brakes

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Figure 5.4

5.2 – Dual Air Brake operating fully. This means it will take you longer to stop.
Bring the vehicle to a safe stop and have the air brakes
Most heavy-duty vehicles use dual air brake systems for system fixed.
safety. A dual air brake system has two separate air brake
systems, which use a single set of brake controls. Each 5.3 – Inspecting Air Brake Systems
system has its own air tanks, hoses, lines, etc. One
system typically operates the regular brakes on the rear You should use the basic seven-step inspection procedure
axle or axles. The other system operates the regular described in Section 2 to inspect your vehicle. There are
brakes on the front axle (and possibly one rear axle). Both more things to inspect on a vehicle with air brakes than
systems supply air to the trailer (if there is one). The first one without them. These things are discussed below, in
system is called the "primary" system. The other is called the order they fit into the seven-step method.
the "secondary" system. See Figure 5.4.
5.3.1 – During Step 2 Engine Compartment
Before driving a vehicle with a dual air system, allow time Checks
for the air compressor to build up a minimum of 100 psi
pressure in both the primary and secondary systems. Check Air Compressor Drive Belt (if compressor is belt-
Watch the primary and secondary air pressure gauges (or driven). If the air compressor is belt-driven, check the
needles, if the system has two needles in one gauge). condition and tightness of the belt. It should be in good
condition.
Pay attention to the low air pressure warning light and
buzzer. The warning light and buzzer should shut off when
air pressure in both systems rises to a value set by the 5.3.2 – During Step 5 Walk-around Inspection
manufacturer. This value must be greater than 60 psi.
Check Slack Adjusters on S-cam Brakes
The warning light and buzzer should come on before the
air pressure drops below 60 psi in either system. If this Park on level ground and chock the wheels to prevent the
happens while driving, you should stop right away and vehicle from moving. Release the parking brakes so you
safely park the vehicle. If one air system is very low on can move the slack adjusters. Use gloves and pull hard on
pressure, either the front or the rear brakes will not be each slack adjuster that you can reach. If a slack adjuster

Section 5 – Air Brakes 75

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

moves more than about one inch where the push rod Check Air Compressor Governor Cut-in and
attaches to it, it probably needs adjustment. Adjust it or Cut-out Pressures
have it adjusted. Vehicles with too much brake slack can
be very hard to stop. Out-of-adjustment brakes are the Pumping by the air compressor should start at about 100
most common problem found in roadside inspections. Be psi and stop at about 125 psi. (Check manufacturer's
safe. Check the slack adjusters. specifications.) Run the engine at a fast idle. The air
governor should cut-out the air compressor at about the
All vehicles built since 1994 have automatic slack manufacturer's specified pressure. The air pressure shown
adjustors. Even though automatic slack adjustors adjust by your gauge(s) will stop rising. With the engine idling,
themselves during full brake applications, they must be step on and off the brake to reduce the air tank pressure.
checked. The compressor should cut-in at about the manufacturer's
specified cut-in pressure. The pressure should begin to
Automatic adjusters should not have to be manually rise.
adjusted except when performing maintenance on the
brakes and during installation of the slack adjusters. In a If the air governor does not work as described above, it
vehicle equipped with automatic adjusters, when the may need to be fixed. A governor that does not work
pushrod stroke exceeds the legal brake adjustment limit, it properly may not keep enough air pressure for safe
is an indication that a mechanical problem exists in the driving.
adjuster itself, a problem with the related foundation brake
components, or that the adjuster was improperly installed.
Test Air Leakage Rate
The manual adjustment of an automatic adjuster to bring a
brake pushrod stroke within legal limits is generally With a fully charged air system (typically 125 psi), turn off
masking a mechanical problem and is not fixing it. the engine, release the parking brake (push in); and time
Further, routine adjustment of most automatic adjusters the air pressure drop. The loss rate should be less than
will likely result in premature wear of the adjuster itself. It two psi in one minute for single vehicles and less than
is recommended that when brakes equipped with three psi in one minute for combination vehicles.
automatic adjusters are found to be out of adjustment, the
driver take the vehicle to a repair facility as soon as With the air pressure built up to governor cutoff (120 – 140
possible to have the problem corrected. The manual psi), shut off the engine, chock your wheels (if necessary),
adjustment of automatic slack adjusters is dangerous release the parking brake (all vehicles), and the tractor
because it may give the driver a false sense of security protection valve (combination vehicle); and fully apply the
regarding the effectiveness of the braking system. foot brake. Hold the foot brake for one minute. Check the
air gauge to see if the air pressure drops more than three
The manual adjustment of an automatic adjuster should pounds in one minute (single vehicle) or four pounds in
only be used as a temporary measure to correct the one minute (combination vehicle). If the air pressure falls
adjustment in an emergency situation as it is likely the more than three psi in one minute for single vehicles (more
brake will soon be back out of adjustment since this than four psi for combination vehicles), the air loss rate is
procedure usually does not fix the underlying adjustment too much. Check for air leaks and fix before driving the
problem. vehicle. Otherwise, you could lose your brakes while
driving.
(Note: Automatic slack adjusters are made by different
manufacturers and do not all operate the same. Therefore, Test Low Pressure Warning Signal
the specific manufacturer’s Service Manual should be
consulted prior to troubleshooting a brake adjustment Shut the engine off when you have enough air pressure so
problem.) that the low-pressure warning signal is not on. Turn the
electrical power on and step on and off the brake pedal to
Check Brake Drums (or Discs), Linings, and reduce air tank pressure. The low air pressure warning
signal must come on before the pressure drops to less
Hoses than 60 psi in the air tank (or tank with the lowest air
pressure, in dual air systems). See Figure 5.5.
Brake drums (or discs) must not have cracks longer than
one half the width of the friction area. Linings (friction If the warning signal doesn't work, you could lose air
material) must not be loose or soaked with oil or grease. pressure and you would not know it. This could cause
They must not be dangerously thin. Mechanical parts must sudden emergency braking in a single-circuit air system. In
be in place, not broken or missing. Check the air hoses dual systems the stopping distance will be increased. Only
connected to the brake chambers to make sure they aren't limited braking can be done before the spring brakes come
cut or worn due to rubbing. on.

5.3.3 – Step 7 Final Air Brake Check

Do the following checks instead of the hydraulic brake
check shown in Section 2, Step 7: Check Brake System.
76 Section 5 – Air Brakes
 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Test Parking Brake

Stop the vehicle, put the parking brake on, and gently pull
against it in a low gear to test that the parking brake will
hold.

Test Service Brakes

Wait for normal air pressure, release the parking brake,
move the vehicle forward slowly (about five mph), and
apply the brakes firmly using the brake pedal. Note any
vehicle "pulling" to one side, unusual feel, or delayed
stopping action.

This test may show you problems, which you otherwise

wouldn't know about until you needed the brakes on the
road.

Subsections 5.2 and 5.3

Test Your Knowledge
1. What is a dual air brake system?

2. What are the slack adjusters?

3. How can you check slack adjusters?

4. How can you test the low-pressure warning signal?

5. How can you check that the spring brakes come on

automatically?
Figure 5.5
6. What are the maximum leakage rates?
Check That Spring Brakes Come On
Automatically These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer
them all, re-read subsections 5.2 and 5.3.
Continue to fan off the air pressure by stepping on and off
the brake pedal to reduce tank pressure. The tractor 5.4 – Using Air Brakes
protection valve and parking brake valve should close (pop
out) on a tractor-trailer combination vehicle and the
parking brake valve should close (pop out) on other
5.4.1 – Normal Stops
combination and single vehicle types when the air
Push the brake pedal down. Control the pressure so the
pressure falls to the manufacturer’s specification (20 – 45
vehicle comes to a smooth, safe stop. If you have a
psi). This will cause the spring brakes to come on.
manual transmission, don't push the clutch in until the
engine rpm is down close to idle. When stopped, select a
Check Rate of Air Pressure Buildup starting gear.
When the engine is at operating rpms, the pressure should
build from 85 to 100 psi within 45 seconds in dual air
5.4.2 – Braking with Antilock Brakes
systems. (If the vehicle has larger than minimum air tanks,
When you brake hard on slippery surfaces in a vehicle
the buildup time can be longer and still be safe. Check the
without ABS, your wheels may lock up. When your
manufacturer's specifications.) In single air systems (pre-
steering wheels lock up, you lose steering control. When
1975), typical requirements are pressure build-up from 50
your other wheels lock up, you may skid, jackknife, or even
to 90 psi within 3 minutes with the engine at an idle speed
spin the vehicle.
of 600-900 rpms.
ABS helps you avoid wheel lock up. The computer senses
If air pressure does not build up fast enough, your
impending lockup, reduces the braking pressure to a safe
pressure may drop too low during driving, requiring an
level, and you maintain control.
emergency stop. Don't drive until you get the problem
fixed.

Section 5 – Air Brakes 77

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

You may or may not be able to stop faster with ABS, but Stab Braking
you should be able to steer around an obstacle while
braking, and avoid skids caused by over braking. Apply your brakes all the way. Release brakes when
wheels lock up. As soon as the wheels start rolling, apply
Having ABS on only the tractor, only the trailer, or even on the brakes fully again. (It can take up to one second for the
only one axle, still gives you more control over the vehicle wheels to start rolling after you release the brakes. If you
during braking. Brake normally. re-apply the brakes before the wheels start rolling, the
vehicle won't straighten out.)
When only the tractor has ABS, you should be able to
maintain steering control, and there is less chance of 5.4.4 – Stopping Distance
jackknifing. But, keep your eye on the trailer and let up on
the brakes (if you can safely do so) if it begins to swing Stopping distance was described in Section 2 under
out. "Speed and Stopping Distance." With air brakes there is
an added delay - “Brake Lag”. This is the time required for
When only the trailer has ABS, the trailer is less likely to the brakes to work after the brake pedal is pushed. With
swing out, but if you lose steering control or start a tractor hydraulic brakes (used on cars and light/medium trucks),
jackknife, let up on the brakes (if you can safely do so) the brakes work instantly. However, with air brakes, it
until you gain control. takes a little time (one half second or more) for the air to
flow through the lines to the brakes. Thus, the total
When you drive a tractor-trailer combination with ABS, you stopping distance for vehicles with air brake systems is
should brake as you always have. In other words: made up of four different factors.
✓ Use only the braking force necessary to stop safely
and stay in control. Perception Distance + Reaction Distance + Brake Lag
Distance + Braking Distance = Total Stopping Distance.
✓ Brake the same way, regardless of whether you have
ABS on the tractor, the trailer, or both. The air brake lag distance at 55 mph on dry pavement
adds about 32 feet. So at 55 mph for an average driver
✓ As you slow down, monitor your tractor and trailer and under good traction and brake conditions, the total
back off the brakes (if it is safe to do so) to stay in stopping distance is over 450 feet. See Figure 5.6.
control.

There is only one exception to this procedure, if you

always drive a straight truck or combination with working
ABS on all axles, in an emergency stop, you can fully
apply the brakes.

Without ABS, you still have normal brake functions. Drive

and brake as you always have.
Remember, if your ABS malfunctions, you still have
regular brakes. Drive normally, but get the system serviced
soon.

5.4.3 – Emergency Stops

If somebody suddenly pulls out in front of you, your natural
response is to hit the brakes. This is a good response if
there's enough distance to stop, and you use the brakes
correctly.

You should brake in a way that will keep your vehicle in a Figure 5.6
straight line and allow you to turn if it becomes necessary.
You can use the "controlled braking" method or the "stab 5.4.5 – Brake Fading or Failure
braking" method.
Brakes are designed so brake shoes or pads rub against
Controlled Braking the brake drum or disks to slow the vehicle. Braking
creates heat, but brakes are designed to take a lot of heat.
With this method, you apply the brakes as hard as you can However, brakes can fade or fail from excessive heat
without locking the wheels. Keep steering wheel caused by using them too much and not relying on the
movements very small while doing this. If you need to engine braking effect.
make a larger steering adjustment or if the wheels lock,
release the brakes. Re-apply the brakes as soon as you Excessive use of the service brakes results in overheating
can. and leads to brake fade. Brake fade results from excessive

78 Section 5 – Air Brakes

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

heat causing chemical changes in the brake lining, which round blue knob or some other shape (including a lever
reduce friction, and also causing expansion of the brake that swings from side to side or up and down).
drums. As the overheated drums expand, the brake shoes
and linings have to move farther to contact the drums, and Don't use the parking brakes if the brakes are very hot
the force of this contact is reduced. Continued overuse (from just having come down a steep grade), or if the
may increase brake fade until the vehicle cannot be brakes are very wet in freezing temperatures. If they are
slowed down or stopped. used while they are very hot, they can be damaged by the
heat. If they are used in freezing temperatures when the
Brake fade is also affected by adjustment. To safely brakes are very wet, they can freeze so the vehicle cannot
control a vehicle, every brake must do its share of the move. Use wheel chocks on a level surface to hold the
work. Brakes out of adjustment will stop doing their share vehicle. Let hot brakes cool before using the parking
before those that are in adjustment. The other brakes can brakes. If the brakes are wet, use the brakes lightly while
then overheat and fade, and there will not be enough driving in a low gear to heat and dry them.
braking available to control the vehicle(s). Brakes can get
out of adjustment quickly, especially when they are hot. If your vehicle does not have automatic air tank drains,
Therefore, check brake adjustment often. drain your air tanks at the end of each working day to
remove moisture and oil. Otherwise, the brakes could fail.
5.4.6 – Proper Braking Technique
Never leave your vehicle unattended without applying
Remember. The use of brakes on a long and/or steep the parking brakes or chocking the wheels. Your
downgrade is only a supplement to the braking effect of vehicle might roll away and cause injury and damage.
the engine. Once the vehicle is in the proper low gear, the
following is the proper braking technique:
Subsection 5.4
✓ Step 1: Apply the brakes just hard enough to feel a
definite slowdown. Test Your Knowledge

✓ Step 2: When your speed has been reduced to 1. Why should you be in the proper gear before starting
approximately five mph below your "safe" speed, down a hill?
release the brakes. (This application should last for
about three seconds.) 2. What factors can cause brakes to fade or fail?

✓ Step 3: When your speed has increased to your "safe" 3. The use of brakes on a long, steep downgrade is
speed, repeat steps 1 and 2. only a supplement to the braking effect of the engine.
True or False?
For example, if your "safe" speed is 40 mph, you would not
apply the brakes until your speed reaches 40 mph. You 4. If you are away from your vehicle only a short time,
now apply the brakes hard enough to gradually reduce you do not need to use the parking brake. True or
your speed to 35 mph and then release the brakes. False?
Repeat this as often as necessary until you have reached
the end of the downgrade. 5. How often should you drain air tanks?

6. How should you brake when you drive a tractor-

5.4.7 – Low Air Pressure trailer combination with ABS?
If the low air pressure warning comes on, stop and safely
7. You still have normal brake functions if your ABS is
park your vehicle as soon as possible. There might be an
not working. True or False?
air leak in the system. Controlled braking is possible only
while enough air remains in the air tanks. The spring
These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer
brakes will come on when the air pressure drops into the
them all, re-read subsection 5.4.
range of 20 to 45 psi. A heavily loaded vehicle will take a
long distance to stop because the spring brakes do not
work on all axles. Lightly loaded vehicles or vehicles on
slippery roads may skid out of control when the spring
brakes come on. It is much safer to stop while there is
enough air in the tanks to use the foot brakes.

5.4.8 – Parking Brakes

Any time you park, use the parking brakes, except as
noted below. Pull the parking brake control knob out to
apply the parking brakes, push it in to release. The control
will be a yellow, diamond-shaped knob labeled "parking
brakes" on newer vehicles. On older vehicles, it may be a
Section 5 – Air Brakes 79
THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

the rearward amplification each has in a quick lane

Section 6 change. Rigs with the least crack-the-whip effect are
shown at the top and those with the most, at the bottom.
COMBINATION VEHICLES Rearward amplification of 2.0 in the chart means that the
rear trailer is twice as likely to turn over as the tractor. You
This Section Covers: can see that triples have a rearward amplification of 3.5.
This means you can roll the last trailer of triples 3.5 times
✓ Driving Combinations as easily as a five-axle tractor.
✓ Combination Vehicle Air Brakes
Steer gently and smoothly when you are pulling trailers. If
✓ Antilock Brake Systems you make a sudden movement with your steering wheel,
✓ Coupling and Uncoupling your trailer could tip over. Follow far enough behind other
✓ Inspecting Combinations vehicles (at least 1 second for each 10 feet of your vehicle
length, plus another second if going over 40 mph). Look
This section provides information needed to pass the tests far enough down the road to avoid being surprised and
for combination vehicles (tractor-trailer, doubles, triples, having to make a sudden lane change. At night, drive
straight truck with trailer). The information is only to give slowly enough to see obstacles with your headlights before
you the minimum knowledge needed for driving common it is too late to change lanes or stop gently. Slow down to a
combination vehicles. You should also study Section 7 if safe speed before going into a turn.
you need to pass the test for doubles and triples.
6.1.3 – Brake Early
6.1 – Driving Combination Vehicles Safely
Control your speed whether fully loaded or empty. Large
Combination vehicles are usually heavier, longer, and combination vehicles take longer to stop when they are
require more driving skill than single commercial vehicles. empty than when they are fully loaded. When lightly
This means that drivers of combination vehicles need loaded, the very stiff suspension springs and strong brakes
more knowledge and skill than drivers of single vehicles. In give poor traction and make it very easy to lock up the
this section, we talk about some important safety factors wheels. Your trailer can swing out and strike other
that apply specifically to combination vehicles. vehicles. Your tractor can jackknife very quickly. You also
must be very careful about driving "bobtail" tractors
6.1.1 – Rollover Risks (tractors without semitrailers). Tests have shown that
bobtails can be very hard to stop smoothly. It takes them
More than half of truck driver deaths in crashes are the longer to stop than a tractor-semitrailer loaded to
result of truck rollovers. When more cargo is piled up in a maximum gross weight.
truck, the "center of gravity" moves higher up from the
road. The truck becomes easier to turn over. Fully loaded In any combination rig, allow lots of following distance and
rigs are ten times more likely to roll over in a crash than look far ahead, so you can brake early. Don't be caught by
empty rigs. surprise and have to make a "panic" stop.

The following two things will help you prevent rollover-- 6.1.4 – Railroad-highway Crossings
keep the cargo as close to the ground as possible and
drive slowly around turns. Keeping cargo low is even more Railroad-highway crossings can also cause problems,
important in combination vehicles than in straight trucks. particularly when pulling trailers with low underneath
Also, keep the load centered on your rig. If the load is to clearance.
one side so it makes a trailer lean, a rollover is more likely.
Make sure your cargo is centered and spread out as much These trailers can get stuck on raised crossings:
as possible. (Cargo distribution is covered in Section 3 of ✓ Low slung units (lowboy, car carrier, moving van,
this manual.) possum-belly livestock trailer).

Rollovers happen when you turn too fast. Drive slowly ✓ Single-axle tractor pulling a long trailer with its landing
around corners, on ramps, and off ramps. Avoid quick gear set to accommodate a tandem-axle tractor.
lane changes, especially when fully loaded.
If for any reason you get stuck on the tracks, get out of the
6.1.2 – Steer Gently vehicle and away from the tracks. Check signposts or
signal housing at the crossing for emergency notification
Trucks with trailers have a dangerous "crack-the-whip" information. Call 911 or other emergency number. Give the
effect. When you make a quick lane change, the crack-the- location of the crossing using all identifiable landmarks,
whip effect can turn the trailer over. There are many especially the DOT number, if posted.
accidents where only the trailer has overturned.

"Rearward amplification" causes the crack-the-whip effect.

Figure 6.1 shows eight types of combination vehicles and
Section 6 – Combination Vehicles 81
2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Figure 6.1
* (From R.D. Ervin, R.L. Nisconger, C.C. MacAdam, and P.S. Fancher, “Influence of size and weight variables on the stability and control properties
of heavy trucks”, University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute, 1983).

6.1.5 – Prevent Trailer Skids 6.1.6 – Turn Wide

When the wheels of a trailer lock up, the trailer will tend to When a vehicle goes around a corner, the rear wheels
swing around. This is more likely to happen when the follow a different path than the front wheels. This is called
trailer is empty or lightly loaded. This type of jackknife is off-tracking or "cheating." Figure 6.3 shows how off-
often called a "trailer jackknife." See Figure 6.2. tracking causes the path followed by a tractor to be wider
than the rig itself. Longer vehicles will off-track more. The
The procedure for stopping a trailer skid is: rear wheels of the powered unit (truck or tractor) will off-
✓ Recognize the Skid. The earliest and best way to track some, and the rear wheels of the trailer will off-track
recognize that the trailer has started to skid is by even more. If there is more than one trailer, the rear
seeing it in your mirrors. Any time you apply the wheels of the last trailer will off-track the most. Steer the
brakes hard, check the mirrors to make sure the trailer front end wide enough around a corner so the rear end
is staying where it should be. Once the trailer swings does not run over the curb, pedestrians, etc. However,
out of your lane, it's very difficult to prevent a jackknife. keep the rear of your vehicle close to the curb. This will
stop other drivers from passing you on the right. If you
✓ Stop Using the Brake. Release the brakes to get cannot complete your turn without entering another traffic
traction back. Do not use the trailer hand brake (if lane, turn wide as you complete the turn. This is better
you have one) to "straighten out the rig." This is the than swinging wide to the left before starting the turn
wrong thing to do since the brakes on the trailer because it will keep other drivers from passing you on the
wheels caused the skid in the first place. Once the right. See Figure 6.4.
trailer wheels grip the road again, the trailer will start to
follow the tractor and straighten out.

82 Section 6 – Combination Vehicles

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

6.1.7 – Backing with a Trailer

When backing a car, straight truck, or bus, you turn the top
of the steering wheel in the direction you want to go. When
backing a trailer, you turn the steering wheel in the
opposite direction. Once the trailer starts to turn, you must
turn the wheel the other way to follow the trailer.

Whenever you back up with a trailer, try to position your

vehicle so you can back in a straight line. If you must back
on a curved path, back to the driver's side so you can see.
See Figure 6.5.

Figure 6.2

Figure 6.5

Look at Your Path

Figure 6.3
Look at your line of travel before you begin. Get out and
walk around the vehicle. Check your clearance to the sides
and overhead, in and near the path your vehicle.

Use Mirrors on Both Sides

Check the outside mirrors on both sides frequently. Get
out of the vehicle and re-inspect your path if you are
unsure.

Back Slowly
This will let you make corrections before you get too far off
course.
Figure 6.4
Section 6 – Combination Vehicles 83
2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Correct Drift Immediately 6.2.2 – Tractor Protection Valve

As soon as you see the trailer getting off the proper path, The tractor protection valve keeps air in the tractor or truck
correct it by turning the top of the steering wheel in the brake system should the trailer break away or develop a
direction of the drift. bad leak. The tractor protection valve is controlled by the
"trailer air supply" control valve in the cab. The control
Pull Forward valve allows you to open and shut the tractor protection
valve. The tractor protection valve will close automatically
When backing a trailer, make pull-ups to re-position your if air pressure is low (in the range of 20 to 45 psi). When
vehicle as needed. the tractor protection valve closes, it stops any air from
going out of the tractor. It also lets the air out of the trailer
emergency line. This causes the trailer emergency brakes
Subsection 6.1 to come on, with possible loss of control. (Emergency
Test Your Knowledge brakes are covered later.)

1. What two things are important to prevent rollover? 6.2.3 – Trailer Air Supply Control
2. When you turn suddenly while pulling doubles, The trailer air supply control on newer vehicles is a red
which trailer is most likely to turn over? eight-sided knob, which you use to control the tractor
protection valve. You push it in to supply the trailer with air
3. Why should you not use the trailer hand brake to and pull it out to shut the air off and put on the trailer
straighten out a jackknifing trailer? emergency brakes. The valve will pop out (thus closing the
tractor protection valve) when the air pressure drops into
4. What is off-tracking? the range of 20 to 45 psi. Tractor protection valve controls
or "emergency" valves on older vehicles may not operate
5. When you back a trailer, you should position your automatically. There may be a lever rather than a knob.
vehicle so you can back in a curved path to the The "normal" position is used for pulling a trailer. The
driver’s side. True or False? "emergency" position is used to shut the air off and put on
the trailer emergency brakes.
6. What type of trailers can get stuck on railroad-
highway crossings? 6.2.4 – Trailer Air Lines
These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer Every combination vehicle has two air lines, the service
them all, re-read subsection 6.1. line and the emergency line. They run between each
vehicle (tractor to trailer, trailer to dolly, dolly to second
6.2 – Combination Vehicle Air Brakes trailer, etc.)

You should study Section 5: Air Brakes before reading Service Air Line
this. In combination vehicles the braking system has parts
to control the trailer brakes, in addition to the parts The service line (also called the control line or signal line)
described in Section 5. These parts are described below. carries air, which is controlled by the foot brake or the
trailer hand brake. Depending on how hard you press the
6.2.1 – Trailer Hand Valve foot brake or hand valve, the pressure in the service line
will similarly change. The service line is connected to relay
valves. These valves allow the trailer brakes to be applied
The trailer hand valve (also called the trolley valve or
more quickly than would otherwise be possible.
Johnson bar) works the trailer brakes. The trailer hand
valve should be used only to test the trailer brakes. Do not
use it in driving because of the danger of making the trailer Emergency Air Line
skid. The foot brake sends air to all of the brakes on the
vehicle (including the trailer(s)). There is much less danger The emergency line (also called the supply line) has two
of causing a skid or jackknife when using just the foot purposes. First, it supplies air to the trailer air tanks.
brake. Second, the emergency line controls the emergency
brakes on combination vehicles. Loss of air pressure in the
Never use the hand valve for parking because all the air emergency line causes the trailer emergency brakes to
might leak out unlocking the brakes (in trailers that don't come on. The pressure loss could be caused by a trailer
have spring brakes). Always use the parking brakes when breaking loose, thus tearing apart the emergency air hose.
parking. If the trailer does not have spring brakes, use Or it could be caused by a hose, metal tubing, or other part
wheel chocks to keep the trailer from moving. breaking, letting the air out. When the emergency line
loses pressure, it also causes the tractor protection valve
to close (the air supply knob will pop out).

84 Section 6 – Combination Vehicles

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Emergency lines are often coded with the color red (red
hose, red couplers, or other parts) to keep from getting
them mixed up with the blue service line.

6.2.5 – Hose Couplers (Glad Hands)

Glad hands are coupling devices used to connect the
service and emergency air lines from the truck or tractor to
the trailer. The couplers have a rubber seal, which
prevents air from escaping. Clean the couplers and rubber
seals before a connection is made. When connecting the
glad hands, press the two seals together with the couplers
at a 90-degree angle to each other. A turn of the glad hand
attached to the hose will join and lock the couplers.

When coupling, make sure to couple the proper glad

hands together. To help avoid mistakes, colors are
sometimes used. Blue is used for the service lines and red
for the emergency (supply) lines. Sometimes, metal tags
are attached to the lines with the words "service" and
"emergency" stamped on them. See Figure 6.6.

If you do cross the air lines, supply air will be sent to the
service line instead of going to charge the trailer air tanks.
Air will not be available to release the trailer spring brakes
(parking brakes). If the spring brakes don't release when
you push the trailer air supply control, check the air-line
connections.

Older trailers do not have spring brakes. If the air supply in

the trailer air tank has leaked away there will be no Figure 6.6
emergency brakes, and the trailer wheels will turn freely.
6.2.6 – Trailer Air Tanks
If you crossed the air lines, you could drive away but you
wouldn't have trailer brakes. This would be very Each trailer and converter dolly has one or more air tanks.
dangerous. Always test the trailer brakes before driving They are filled by the emergency (supply) line from the
with the hand valve or by pulling the air supply (tractor tractor. They provide the air pressure used to operate
protection valve) control. Pull gently against them in a low trailer brakes. Air pressure is sent from the air tanks to the
gear to make sure the brakes work. brakes by relay valves.

Some vehicles have "dead end" or dummy couplers to The pressure in the service line tells how much pressure
which the hoses may be attached when they are not in the relay valves should send to the trailer brakes. The
use. This will prevent water and dirt from getting into the pressure in the service line is controlled by the brake pedal
coupler and the air lines. Use the dummy couplers when (and the trailer hand brake).
the air lines are not connected to a trailer. If there are no
dummy couplers, the glad hands can sometimes be locked It is important that you don't let water and oil build up in the
together (depending on the couplings). It is very important air tanks. If you do, the brakes may not work correctly.
to keep the air supply clean. Each tank has a drain valve on it and you should drain
each tank every day. If your tanks have automatic drains,
they will keep most moisture out. But you should still open
the drains to make sure.

6.2.7 – Shut-off Valves

Shut-off valves (also called cut-out cocks) are used in the
service and supply air lines at the back of trailers used to
tow other trailers. These valves permit closing the air lines
off when another trailer is not being towed. You must
check that all shut-off valves are in the open position
except the ones at the back of the last trailer, which must
be closed.

Section 6 – Combination Vehicles 85

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

6.2.8 – Trailer Service, Parking and In the case of vehicles manufactured before the required
Emergency Brakes date, it may be difficult to tell if the unit is equipped with
ABS. Look under the vehicle for the ECU and wheel speed
Newer trailers have spring brakes just like trucks and truck sensor wires coming from the back of the brakes.
tractors. However, converter dollies and trailers built
before 1975 are not required to have spring brakes. Those
that do not have spring brakes have emergency brakes,
which work from the air stored in the trailer air tank. The
emergency brakes come on whenever air pressure in the
emergency line is lost. These trailers have no parking
brake. The emergency brakes come on whenever the air
supply knob is pulled out or the trailer is disconnected. A
major leak in the emergency line will cause the tractor
protection valve to close and the trailer emergency brakes
to come on. But the brakes will hold only as long as there
is air pressure in the trailer air tank. Eventually, the air will
leak away and then there will be no brakes. Therefore, it is
very important for safety that you use wheel chocks when
you park trailers without spring brakes.

You may not notice a major leak in the service line until
you try to put the brakes on. Then, the air loss from the
leak will lower the air tank pressure quickly. If it goes low
enough, the trailer emergency brakes will come on.

Subsection 6.2
Test Your Knowledge
1. Why should you not use the trailer hand valve while
driving? Figure 6.7
2. Describe what the trailer air supply control does.
6.3.2 – Braking with ABS
3. Describe what the service line is for.
ABS is an addition to your normal brakes. It does not
4. What is the emergency air-line for? decrease or increase your normal braking capability. ABS
only activates when wheels are about to lock up.
5. Why should you use chocks when parking a trailer
without spring brakes? ABS does not necessarily shorten your stopping distance,
but it does help you keep the vehicle under control during
6. Where are shut-off valves? hard braking.

These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer ABS helps you avoid wheel lock up. The computer senses
them all, re-read subsection 6.2. impending lockup, reduces the braking pressure to a safe
level, and you maintain control.
Having ABS on only the trailer, or even on only one axle,
6.3 – Antilock Brake Systems still gives you more control over the vehicle during braking.

6.3.1 – Trailers Required to Have ABS When only the trailer has ABS, the trailer is less likely to
swing out, but if you lose steering control or start a tractor
All trailers and converter dollies built on or after March 1, jackknife, let up on the brakes (if you can safely do so)
1998, are required to have ABS. However, many trailers until you gain control.
and converter dollies built before this date have been
voluntarily equipped with ABS. When you drive a tractor-trailer combination with ABS, you
should brake as you always have. In other words:
Trailers will have yellow ABS malfunction lamps on the left ✓ Use only the braking force necessary to stop safely
side, either on the front or rear corner. See Figure 6.7. and stay in control.
Dollies manufactured on or after March 1, 1998, are
required to have a lamp on the left side. ✓ Brake the same way, regardless of whether you have
ABS on the tractor, the trailer, or both.

86 Section 6 – Combination Vehicles

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

✓ As you slow down, monitor your tractor and trailer and Step 4. Back Slowly
back off the brakes (if it is safe to do so) to stay in
control. ✓ Back until fifth wheel just touches the trailer.

Remember, if your ABS malfunctions, you still have ✓ Don't hit the trailer.
regular brakes. Drive normally, but get the system serviced
soon. Step 5. Secure Tractor
ABS won’t allow you to drive faster, follow more closely, or ✓ Put on the parking brake.
drive less carefully.
✓ Put transmission in neutral.
6.4 – Coupling and Uncoupling
Step 6. Check Trailer Height
Knowing how to couple and uncouple correctly is basic to
safe operation of combination vehicles. Wrong coupling ✓ The trailer should be low enough that it is raised
and uncoupling can be very dangerous. General coupling slightly by the tractor when the tractor is backed under
and uncoupling steps are listed below. There are it. Raise or lower the trailer as needed. (If the trailer is
differences between different rigs, so learn the details of too low, the tractor may strike and damage the trailer
coupling and uncoupling the truck(s) you will operate. nose; if the trailer is too high, it may not couple
correctly.)
6.4.1 – Coupling Tractor-Semitrailers
✓ Check that the kingpin and fifth wheel are aligned.
Step 1. Inspect Fifth Wheel
Step 7. Connect Air-lines to Trailer
✓ Check for damaged/missing parts.
✓ Check glad hand seals and connect tractor emergency
✓ Check to see that mounting to tractor is secure, no air-line to trailer emergency glad hand.
cracks in frame, etc.
✓ Check glad hand seals and connect tractor service air-
✓ Be sure that the fifth wheel plate is greased as line to trailer service glad hand.
required. Failure to keep the fifth wheel plate
lubricated could cause steering problems because of ✓ Make sure air-lines are safely supported where they
friction between the tractor and trailer. won't be crushed or caught while tractor is backing
under the trailer.
✓ Check if fifth wheel is in proper position for coupling:
• Wheel tilted down toward rear of tractor. Step 8. Supply Air to Trailer
• Jaws open.
• Safety unlocking handle in the automatic lock ✓ From cab, push in "air supply" knob or move tractor
position. protection valve control from the "emergency" to the
• If you have a sliding fifth wheel, make sure it is "normal" position to supply air to the trailer brake
locked. system.
• Make sure the trailer kingpin is not bent or broken.
✓ Wait until the air pressure is normal.
Step 2. Inspect Area and Chock Wheels
✓ Check brake system for crossed air lines.
✓ Make sure area around the vehicle is clear. • Shut engine off so you can hear the brakes.
• Apply and release trailer brakes and listen for
✓ Be sure trailer wheels are chocked or spring brakes sound of trailer brakes being applied and released.
are on. You should hear the brakes move when applied
and air escape when the brakes are released.
✓ Check that cargo (if any) is secured against movement • Check air brake system pressure gauge for signs
due to tractor being coupled to the trailer. of major air loss.

Step 3. Position Tractor ✓ When you are sure trailer brakes are working, start
engine.
✓ Put the tractor directly in front of the trailer. (Never
back under the trailer at an angle because you might ✓ Make sure air pressure is up to normal.
push the trailer sideways and break the landing gear.)

✓ Check position, using outside mirrors, by looking down

both sides of the trailer.

Section 6 – Combination Vehicles 87

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Step 9. Lock Trailer Brakes ✓ Make sure air and electrical lines will not hit any
moving parts of vehicle.
✓ Pull out the "air supply" knob or move the tractor
protection valve control from "normal" to "emergency." Step 15. Raise Front Trailer Supports
(Landing Gear)
Step 10. Back Under Trailer
✓ Use low gear range (if so equipped) to begin raising
✓ Use lowest reverse gear. the landing gear. Once free of weight, switch to the
high gear range.
✓ Back tractor slowly under trailer to avoid hitting the
kingpin too hard. ✓ Raise the landing gear all the way up. (Never drive
with landing gear only part way up as it may catch on
✓ Stop when the kingpin is locked into the fifth wheel. railroad tracks or other things.)

Step 11. Check Connection for Security ✓ After raising landing gear, secure the crank handle
safely.
✓ Raise trailer landing gear slightly off ground.
✓ When full weight of trailer is resting on tractor:
✓ Pull tractor gently forward while the trailer brakes are • Check for enough clearance between rear of
still locked to check that the trailer is locked onto the tractor frame and landing gear. (When tractor
tractor. turns sharply, it must not hit landing gear.)
• Check that there is enough clearance between the
Step 12. Secure Vehicle top of the tractor tires and the nose of the trailer.

✓ Put transmission in neutral. Step 16. Remove Trailer Wheel Chocks

✓ Put parking brakes on. ✓ Remove and store wheel chocks in a safe place.

✓ Shut off engine and take key with you so someone 6.4.2 – Uncoupling Tractor-Semitrailers
else won't move truck while you are under it.
The following steps will help you to uncouple safely.
Step 13. Inspect Coupling
Step 1. Position Rig
✓ Use a flashlight, if necessary.
✓ Make sure surface of parking area can support weight
✓ Make sure there is no space between upper and lower of trailer.
fifth wheel. If there is space, something is wrong
(kingpin may be on top of the closed fifth wheel jaws, ✓ Have tractor lined up with the trailer. (Pulling out at an
and trailer would come loose very easily). angle can damage landing gear.)
✓ Go under trailer and look into the back of the fifth
wheel. Make sure the fifth wheel jaws have closed Step 2. Ease Pressure on Locking Jaws
around the shank of the kingpin.
✓ Shut off trailer air supply to lock trailer brakes.
✓ Check that the locking lever is in the "lock" position.
✓ Ease pressure on fifth wheel locking jaws by backing
✓ Check that the safety latch is in position over locking up gently. (This will help you release the fifth wheel
lever. (On some fifth wheels the catch must be put in locking lever.)
place by hand.)
✓ Put parking brakes on while tractor is pushing against
✓ If the coupling isn't right, don't drive the coupled unit; the kingpin. (This will hold rig with pressure off the
get it fixed. locking jaws.)

Step 14. Connect the Electrical Cord and Step 3. Chock Trailer Wheels
Check Air-lines
✓ Chock the trailer wheels if the trailer doesn't have
spring brakes or if you're not sure. (The air could leak
✓ Plug the electrical cord into the trailer and fasten the
out of the trailer air tank, releasing its emergency
safety catch.
brakes. Without chocks, the trailer could move.)
✓ Check both air-lines and electrical line for signs of
damage.
88 Section 6 – Combination Vehicles
 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Step 4. Lower the Landing Gear 6.4.3 Coupling a Pintle Hook

✓ If trailer is empty, lower the landing gear until it makes Step 1. Inspect Pintle Hook
firm contact with the ground.
✓ Before operating, check for worn, damaged, or missing
✓ If trailer is loaded, after the landing gear makes firm parts, and make sure mount is secure.
contact with the ground, turn crank in low gear a few
extra turns. This will lift some weight off the tractor. ✓ If the pintle hook is not secured to the mounting
(Do not lift trailer off the fifth wheel.) This will: surface, the pintle hook could separate from the
• Make it easier to unlatch fifth wheel. vehicle which, if not avoided, could result in death or
• Make it easier to couple next time. serious injury.

Step 5. Disconnect Air-lines and Electrical Step 2. Unlock Lock Pin and Open Latch
Cable
✓ Unlock and remove the tethered lock pin, if applicable
✓ Disconnect air-lines from trailer. Connect air-line glad (Figure 6.8).
hands to dummy couplers at back of cab or couple
them together. ✓ Lift the lock handle away from the vehicle until the lock
clears the lock seat on the hook body.
✓ Hang electrical cable with plug down to prevent
moisture from entering it.

✓ Make sure lines are supported so they won't be

damaged while driving the tractor.

Step 6. Unlock Fifth Wheel

✓ Raise the release handle lock.

✓ Pull the release handle to "open" position.

Figure 6.8
✓ Keep legs and feet clear of the rear tractor wheels to
avoid serious injury in case the vehicle moves. ✓ Open the latch by rotating the latch assembly up
toward the vehicle until the latch is in its most upright
Step 7. Pull Tractor Partially Clear of Trailer position, then release the lock handle. (Figure 6.9 and
6.10).
✓ Pull tractor forward until fifth wheel comes out from
under the trailer.

✓ Stop with tractor frame under trailer (prevents trailer

from falling to ground if landing gear should collapse or
sink).

Step 8. Secure Tractor

✓ Apply parking brake.
Figure 6.9
✓ Place transmission in neutral.

Step 9. Inspect Trailer Supports

✓ Make sure ground is supporting trailer.

✓ Make sure landing gear is not damaged.

Step 10. Pull Tractor Clear of Trailer

✓ Release parking brakes. Figure 6.10

✓ Check the area and drive tractor forward until it clears.

Section 6 – Combination Vehicles 89

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Step 3. Lower Drawbar into Place Step 5. Rotate Jack Handle

✓ Position the drawbar eye over the horn of the pintle ✓ Rotate jack handle to extend the jack and transfer the
hook and lower it into place. weight of the trailer tongue to the jack.

Step 4. Lock Pintle Hook Step 6. Raise Trailer Coupler

✓ Push the latch closed. When correctly locked, the lock ✓ Raise the trailer coupler above the tow vehicle hitch.
handle will rotate and move up until it is flush with the
top of the latch (Figure 6.11). Step 7. Drive Forward
✓ Drive tow vehicle forward.

6.4.5 - Coupling a Drawbar

Figure 6.11

✓ Insert the tethered lock pin through the latch and lock
holes, and close the tethered wire lock pin, if
applicable (Figure 6.8).
Figure 6.12
Failure to correctly lock the latch can result in separation of
the trailer and vehicle which, if not avoided, could result in Step 1. Remove Safety Lock screw and
death or serious injury. Rotate Safety Cover Bar
6.4.4 - Uncoupling a Pintle Hook ✓ Remove safety lock screw (2), recover and keep the
relative self-locking nut (12) aside then also loosen
Step 1. Park on Level Surface safety lock screw (2a) and turn out the adjustment
screw (3) by at least five turns (Figure 6.12).
✓ Park the trailer on a firm level surface and block trailer
tires. ✓ Rotate the safety cover bar (4) outwards so that it is
completely open.
Step 2. Disconnect Electrical Connector,
Breakaway Brake Switch and Safety Chains Step 2. Reverse Truck

✓ Disconnect electrical connector. ✓ Reverse truck very slowly until the ball cup drawbar
eye (6) is in position exactly above the drawbar
✓ Disconnect breakaway brake switch lanyard. coupling ball (5).

✓ Disconnect safety chains from tow vehicle. Step 3. Lower the Drawbeam

Step 3. Unlock the Coupler ✓ Lower the drawbeam until the ball cup drawbar eye (6)
lies completely covering the drawbar coupling ball (5).
✓ Unlock the coupler and open it.
Step 4. Rotate the Safety Cover Bar
Step 4. Check Ground Surface for Correct
✓ Rotate the safety cover bar back inwards (4) and fit in
Support safety lock screw (2) together with its self-locking nut.
✓ Before extending jack, make certain the ground
✓ Tighten in both the lock screws (2, 2a) together with
surface below the jack pad will support the tongue
their relative self-locking nuts (12, 12a) at a 350 to 400
load.
Nm torque wrench setting.

90 Section 6 – Combination Vehicles

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Step 5. Adjust the Adjustment Screw Step 2. Remove Cover and Loosen Screws
✓ Adjust the adjustment screw (3) until a 0.3 - 0.5 mm ✓ Remove the rubber dust proof bellows protection cover
vertical clearance between the guard disk (13) and the (7).
ball cup (6) is reached. Lock setting with counter nut
(11) (Figure 6.13). ✓ Loosen the adjustment screw (3) and the counter nut
(11).

✓ Loosen safety lock screw (2a) and remove safety lock

screw (2) together with its self-locking nut (12).

Step 3. Rotate Safety Cover Bar and Lift

Trailer Drawbeam
✓ Rotate the safety cover bar (4) outwards so that it is
completely open.

✓ Lift the trailer drawbeam until the drawbar coupling ball

(5) is fully visible, then travel forward with the trailer
very slowly.

✓ Rotate the safety cover bar inwards (4) until it lodges

Figure 6.13
back in its housing.
In the event that the safety cover bar (4) will not perfectly
lodge into its seating appropriately, travel is strictly Step 4. Lock Safety Screw and Tighten Self-
forbidden. Locking Nut
✓ Fit in safety lock screw (2) and tighten in self-locking
nut (12).

6.4.7 - Coupling a Gooseneck Hitch

If you are hooking up a Gooseneck or a fifth wheel hitch,
the procedure is a little different from a receiver and ball,
but it is not more difficult.

Figure 6.14 Step 1. Open the Latch and Lubricate the

Gooseneck Ball
Step 6. Protect Coupling Ball and Anchor
✓ Open the clamp latch on the Gooseneck coupler.
Edge onto Ball
✓ Make sure that the Gooseneck ball is properly
✓ Protect the part that is still visible of the coupling ball
lubricated.
(5) with the rubber dust proof bellows protection cover
(7). Accurately anchor the edge directly onto the ball
itself. Step 2. Position Coupler and Latch the Clamp
✓ Position the trailer's coupler directly over the ball and
Step 7. Lubricate the Drawbar Eye lower the Gooseneck trailer into position and latch the
clamp.
✓ Lubricate the inside of the drawbar eye ball cup (6)
directly through the grease nipple (18).
Step 3. Attach Safety Chains
6.4.6 - Uncoupling a Drawbar ✓ Attach your safety chains. Remember that all trailers
are required by law to have safety chains.
Step 1. Turn Trailer Brake On
Step 4. Connect Trailer Light Wiring
✓ Make sure that the trailer brake is on.
✓ Connect your trailer light wiring to your vehicle's
connector.

Section 6 – Combination Vehicles 91

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

✓ Check all of your lights, including your brake lights. 6.5 – Inspecting a Combination Vehicle
Step 5. Lower and Stow the Trailer Jacks Use the seven-step inspection procedure described in
Section 2 to inspect your combination vehicle. There are
✓ Completely lower and stow the trailer jacks, allowing more things to inspect on a combination vehicle than on a
the weight to settle onto the tow vehicle. single vehicle. (For example, tires, wheels, lights,
reflectors, etc.) However, there are also some new things
6.4.8 Uncoupling a Gooseneck Hitch to check. These are discussed below.

Step 1. Remove Safety Pin and Clip 6.5.1 – Additional Things to Check during a
Walk-around Inspection
✓ Simply remove safety pin and clip.
Do these checks in addition to those already listed in
Step 2. Rotate Handle and Raise Trailer Off Section 2.
Ball
Coupling System Areas
✓ Rotate handle to this position (Figure 6.15) and raise
trailer off ball. Coupler will return to load position ✓ Check fifth wheel (lower).
automatically. • Securely mounted to frame.
• No missing or damaged parts.
Step 3. Install Safety Pin and Clip • Enough grease.
• No visible space between upper and lower fifth
✓ Install safety pin and clip (Figure 6.15). wheel.
• Locking jaws around the shank, not the head of
kingpin. See Figure 6.16.
• Release arm properly seated and safety latch/lock
engaged.

Figure 6.15
✓

Subsections 6.3 and 6.4

Test Your Knowledge
1. What might happen if the trailer is too high when you
try to couple?

2. After coupling, how much space should be between

the upper and lower fifth wheel?

3. You should look into the back of the fifth wheel to see Figure 6.16
if it is locked onto the kingpin. True or False?
✓ Check fifth wheel (upper).
4. To drive you need to raise the landing gear only until it • Glide plate securely mounted to trailer frame.
just lifts off the pavement. True or False? • Kingpin not damaged.
5. How do you know if your trailer is equipped with ✓ Air and electric lines to trailer.
antilock brakes? • Electrical cord firmly plugged in and secured.
These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer • Air-lines properly connected to glad hands, no air
them all, re-read subsections 6.3 and 6.4. leaks, properly secured with enough slack for
turns.
• All lines free from damage.

92 Section 6 – Combination Vehicles

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

✓ Sliding fifth wheel. Test Trailer Emergency Brakes

• Slide not damaged or parts missing.
• Properly greased. Charge the trailer air brake system and check that the
• All locking pins present and locked in place. trailer rolls freely. Then stop and pull out the trailer air
• If air powered--no air leaks. supply control (also called tractor protection valve control
• Check that fifth wheel is not so far forward that or trailer emergency valve), or place it in the "emergency"
tractor frame will hit landing gear, or the cab hit the position. Pull gently on the trailer with the tractor to check
trailer, during turns. that the trailer emergency brakes are on.

Landing Gear Test Trailer Service Brakes

✓ Fully raised, no missing parts, not bent or otherwise Check for normal air pressure, release the parking brakes,
damaged. move the vehicle forward slowly, and apply trailer brakes
with the hand control (trolley valve), if so equipped. You
✓ Crank handle in place and secured. should feel the brakes come on. This tells you the trailer
brakes are connected and working. (The trailer brakes
✓ If power operated, no air or hydraulic leaks. should be tested with the hand valve but controlled in
normal operation with the foot pedal, which applies air to
6.5.2 – Combination Vehicle Brake Check the service brakes at all wheels.)

Do these checks in addition to Section 5.3: Inspecting Air

Brake Systems. The following section explains how to Subsection 6.5
check air brakes on combination vehicles. Check the Test Your Knowledge
brakes on a double or triple trailer as you would any
combination vehicle. 1. Which shutoff valves should be open and which
closed?
Check That Air Flows to All Trailers
2. How can you test that air flows to all trailers?
Use the tractor parking brake and/or chock the wheels to
hold the vehicle. Wait for air pressure to reach normal, 3. How can you test the tractor protection valve?
then push in the red "trailer air supply" knob. This will
supply air to the emergency (supply) lines. Use the trailer 4. How can you test the trailer emergency brakes?
handbrake to provide air to the service line. Go to the rear
of the rig. Open the emergency line shut-off valve at the 5. How can you test the trailer service brakes?
rear of the last trailer. You should hear air escaping,
showing the entire system is charged. Close the These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer
emergency line valve. Open the service line valve to check all of them, re-read subsection 6.5.
that service pressure goes through all the trailers (this test
assumes that the trailer handbrake or the service brake
pedal is on), and then close the valve. If you do NOT hear
air escaping from both lines, check that the shut-off valves
on the trailer(s) and dolly(ies) are in the OPEN position.
You MUST have air all the way to the back for all the
brakes to work.

Test Tractor Protection Valve

Charge the trailer air-brake system. (That is, build up
normal air-pressure and push the "air supply" knob in.)
Shut the engine off. Step on and off the brake pedal
several times to reduce the air pressure in the tanks. The
trailer air supply control (also called the tractor protection
valve control) should pop out (or go from "normal" to
"emergency" position) when the air pressure falls into the
pressure range specified by the manufacturer. (Usually
within the range of 20 to 45 psi.)

If the tractor protection valve doesn't work right, an air

hose or trailer brake leak could drain all the air from the
tractor. This would cause the emergency brakes to come
on, with possible loss of control.

Section 6 – Combination Vehicles 93

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

need more space because they can't be turned or stopped

Section 7 suddenly. Allow more following distance. Make sure you
have large enough gaps before entering or crossing traffic.
DOUBLES AND TRIPLES Be certain you are clear at the sides before changing
lanes.
This Section Covers:
7.1.6 – Adverse Conditions
✓ Pulling Double/Triple Trailers
✓ Coupling and Uncoupling Be more careful in adverse conditions. In bad weather,
✓ Inspecting Doubles and Triples slippery conditions, and mountain driving, you must be
✓ Checking Air Brakes especially careful if you drive double and triple bottoms.
You will have greater length and more dead axles to pull
This section has information you need to pass the CDL with your drive axles than other drivers. There is more
knowledge test for driving safely with double and triple chance for skids and loss of traction.
trailers. It tells about how important it is to be very careful
when driving with more than one trailer, how to couple and 7.1.7 – Parking the Vehicle
uncouple correctly, and about inspecting doubles and
triples carefully. (You should also study Sections 2, 5, and Make sure you do not get in a spot you cannot pull straight
6.) through. You need to be aware of how parking lots are
arranged in order to avoid a long and difficult escape.
7.1 – Pulling Double/Triple Trailers
7.1.8 – Antilock Braking Systems on
Take special care when pulling two and three trailers. Converter Dollies
There are more things that can go wrong, and
doubles/triples are less stable than other commercial Converter dollies built on or after March 1, 1998, are
vehicles. Some areas of concern are discussed below. required to have antilock brakes. These dollies will have a
yellow lamp on the left side of the dolly.
7.1.1 – Prevent Trailer from Rolling Over
7.2 – Coupling and Uncoupling
To prevent trailers from rolling over, you must steer gently
and go slowly around corners, on ramps, off ramps, and Knowing how to couple and uncouple correctly is basic to
curves. A safe speed on a curve for a straight truck or a safe operation of doubles and triples. Wrong coupling and
single trailer combination vehicle may be too fast for a set uncoupling can be very dangerous. Coupling and
of doubles or triples. uncoupling steps for doubles and triples are listed below.

7.1.2 – Beware of the Crack-the-whip Effect 7.2.1 – Coupling Twin Trailers

Doubles and triples are more likely to turn over than other Secure Second (Rear) Trailer
combination vehicles because of the "crack-the-whip"
effect. You must steer gently when pulling trailers. The last If the second trailer doesn't have spring brakes, drive the
trailer in a combination is most likely to turn over. If you tractor close to the trailer, connect the emergency line,
don't understand the crack-the-whip effect, study charge the trailer air tank, and disconnect the emergency
subsection 6.1.2 of this manual. line. This will set the trailer emergency brakes (if the slack
adjusters are correctly adjusted). Chock the wheels if you
7.1.3 – Inspect Completely have any doubt about the brakes.

There are more critical parts to check when you have two For the safest handling on the road, the more heavily
or three trailers. Check them all. Follow the procedures loaded semitrailer should be in first position behind the
described later in this section. tractor. The lighter trailer should be in the rear.

7.1.4 – Look Far Ahead A converter gear on a dolly is a coupling device of one or
two axles and a fifth wheel by which a semitrailer can be
Doubles and triples must be driven very smoothly to avoid coupled to the rear of a tractor-trailer combination forming
rollover or jackknife. Therefore, look far ahead so you can a double bottom rig. See Figure 7.1.
slow down or change lanes gradually when necessary.

7.1.5 – Manage Space

Doubles and triples take up more space than other
commercial vehicles. They are not only longer, but also

Section 7 – Doubles and Triples 95

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

✓ Back converter dolly under rear trailer.

✓ Raise landing gear slightly off ground to prevent

damage if trailer moves.

✓ Test coupling by pulling against pin of the second

semitrailer.

✓ Make visual check of coupling. (No space between

upper and lower fifth wheel. Locking jaws closed on
kingpin.)
Figure 7.1
✓ Connect safety chains, air hoses, and light cords.
Position Converter Dolly in Front of Second
✓ Close converter dolly air tank petcock and shut-off
(Rear) Trailer
valves at rear of second trailer (service and
emergency shut-offs).
Release dolly brakes by opening the air tank petcock. (Or,
if the dolly has spring brakes, use the dolly parking brake
✓ Open shut-off valves at rear of first trailer (and on dolly
control.) If the distance is not too great, wheel the dolly into
if so equipped).
position by hand so it is in line with the kingpin.
✓ Raise landing gear completely.
Or use the tractor and first semitrailer to pick up the
converter dolly:
✓ Charge trailer brakes (push "air supply" knob in), and
✓ Position combination as close as possible to converter
check for air at rear of second trailer by opening the
dolly.
emergency line shut-off. If air pressure isn't there,
something is wrong and the brakes won't work.
Move dolly to rear of first semitrailer and couple it to the
trailer.
✓ Lock pintle hook. 7.2.2 – Uncoupling Twin Trailers

✓ Secure dolly support in raised position. Uncouple Rear Trailer

✓ Pull dolly into position as close as possible to nose of ✓ Park rig in a straight line on firm level ground.
the second semitrailer.
✓ Apply parking brakes so rig won't move.
✓ Lower dolly support.
✓ Chock wheels of second trailer if it doesn't have spring
Unhook dolly from first trailer. brakes.
✓ Wheel dolly into position in front of second trailer in
line with the kingpin. ✓ Lower landing gear of second semitrailer enough to
remove some weight from dolly.
Connect Converter Dolly to Front Trailer
✓ Close air shutoffs at rear of first semitrailer (and on
✓ Back first semitrailer into position in front of dolly dolly if so equipped).
tongue.
✓ Disconnect all dolly air and electric lines and secure
✓ Hook dolly to front trailer. them.

✓ Lock pintle hook. ✓ Release dolly brakes.

✓ Secure converter gear support in raised position. ✓ Release converter dolly fifth wheel latch.

✓ Slowly pull tractor, first semitrailer, and dolly forward to

Connect Converter Dolly to Rear Trailer
pull dolly out from under rear semitrailer.
✓ Make sure trailer brakes are locked and/or wheels
chocked. Uncouple Converter Dolly

✓ Make sure trailer height is correct. (It must be slightly ✓ Lower dolly landing gear.
lower than the center of the fifth wheel, so trailer is
raised slightly when dolly is pushed under.) ✓ Disconnect safety chains.

96 Section 7 – Doubles and Triples

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

✓ Apply converter gear spring brakes or chock wheels. Coupling System Areas
✓ Release pintle hook on first semi-trailer. ✓ Check fifth wheel (lower).
• Securely mounted to frame.
✓ Slowly pull clear of dolly. • No missing or damaged parts.
• Enough grease.
Never unlock the pintle hook with the dolly still under the
• No visible space between upper and lower fifth
rear trailer. The dolly tow bar may fly up, possibly causing wheel.
injury, and making it very difficult to re-couple.
• Locking jaws around the shank, not the head of
kingpin.
7.2.3 – Coupling and Uncoupling Triple • Release arm properly seated and safety latch/lock
Trailers engaged.

Couple Tractor/First Semitrailer to ✓ Check fifth wheel (upper).

Second/Third Trailers • Glide plate securely mounted to trailer frame.
• Kingpin not damaged.
Couple tractor to first trailer. Use the method already
described for coupling tractor-semitrailers. ✓ Air and electric lines to trailer.
• Electrical cord firmly plugged in and secured.
Move converter dolly into position and couple first trailer to • Air lines properly connected to glad hands, no air
second trailer using the method for coupling doubles. leaks, properly secured with enough slack for
Triples rig is now complete. turns.
• All lines free from damage.
Uncouple Triple-trailer Rig
✓ Sliding fifth wheel.
Uncouple third trailer by pulling the dolly out, then • Slide not damaged or parts missing.
unhitching the dolly using the method for uncoupling • Properly greased.
doubles. • All locking pins present and locked in place.
• If air powered, no air leaks.
Uncouple remainder of rig as you would any double- • Check that fifth wheel is not so far forward that the
bottom rig using the method already described. tractor frame will hit landing gear, or cab will hit the
trailer, during turns.
7.2.4 – Coupling and Uncoupling Other
Combinations Landing Gear

The methods described so far apply to the more common ✓ Fully raised, no missing parts, not bent or otherwise
tractor-trailer combinations. However, there are other ways damaged.
of coupling and uncoupling the many types of truck-trailer
and tractor-trailer combinations that are in use. There are ✓ Crank handle in place and secured.
too many to cover in this manual. You will need to learn
the correct way to couple and uncouple the vehicle(s) you ✓ If power operated, no air or hydraulic leaks.
will drive according to the manufacturer and/or owner
specifications. Double and Triple Trailers
7.3 – Inspecting Doubles and Triples ✓ Shut-off valves (at rear of trailers, in service and
emergency lines).
Use the seven-step inspection procedure described in • Rear of front trailers: OPEN.
Section 2 to inspect your combination vehicle. There are • Rear of last trailer: CLOSED.
more things to inspect on a combination vehicle than on a • Converter dolly air tank drain valve: CLOSED.
single vehicle. Many of these items are simply more of
what you would find on a single vehicle. (For example, ✓ Be sure air-lines are supported and glad hands are
tires, wheels, lights, reflectors, etc.) However, there are properly connected.
also some new things to check. These are discussed
below. ✓ If spare tire is carried on converter gear (dolly), make
sure it's secured.
7.3.1 – Additional Checks
✓ Be sure pintle-eye of dolly is in place in pintle hook of
Do these checks in addition to those already listed in trailer(s).
Section 2, Step 5: Do a Walk-around Inspection.
✓ Make sure pintle hook is latched.

Section 7 – Doubles and Triples 97

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

✓ Safety chains should be secured to trailer(s). or trailer emergency valve) or place it in the "emergency"
position. Pull gently on the trailer with the tractor to check
✓ Be sure light cords are firmly in sockets on trailers. that the trailer emergency brakes are on.

7.3.2 – Additional Things to Check during a Test Trailer Service Brakes

Walk-around Inspection Check for normal air pressure, release the parking brakes,
move the vehicle forward slowly, and apply trailer brakes
Do these checks in addition to subsection 5.3, Inspecting with the hand control (trolley valve), if so equipped. You
Air Brake Systems. should feel the brakes come on. This tells you the trailer
brakes are connected and working. (The trailer brakes
7.4 – Doubles/Triples Air Brake Check should be tested with the hand valve, but controlled in
normal operation with the foot pedal, which applies air to
Check the brakes on a double or triple trailer as you would the service brakes at all wheels.)
any combination vehicle. Subsection 6.5.2 explains how to
check air brakes on combination vehicles. You must also Section 7
make the following checks on your double or triple trailers
Test Your Knowledge
7.4.1 – Additional Air Brake Checks 1. What is a converter dolly?
2. Do converter dollies have spring brakes?
Check That Air Flows to All Trailers (Double and Triple
Trailers) 3. What three methods can you use to secure a second
trailer before coupling?
Use the tractor parking brake and/or chock the wheels to 4. How do you check to make sure trailer height is
hold the vehicle. Wait for air pressure to reach normal, correct before coupling?
then push in the red "trailer air supply" knob. This will
supply air to the emergency (supply) lines. Use the trailer 5. What do you check when making a visual check of
handbrake to provide air to the service line. Go to the rear coupling?
of the rig. Open the emergency line shut-off valve at the 6. Why should you pull a dolly out from under a trailer
rear of the last trailer. You should hear air escaping, before you disconnect it from the trailer in front?
showing the entire system is charged. Close the
emergency line valve. Open the service line valve to check 7. What should you check for when inspecting the
that service pressure goes through all the trailers (this test converter dolly? The pintle hook?
assumes that the trailer handbrake or the service brake 8. Should the shut-off valves on the rear of the last trailer
pedal is on), and then close the valve. If you do NOT hear be open or closed? On the first trailer in a set of
air escaping from both lines, check that the shut-off valves doubles? On the middle trailer of a set of triples?
on the trailer(s) and dolly(ies) are in the OPEN position.
You MUST have air all the way to the back for all the 9. How can you test that air flows to all trailers?
brakes to work. 10. How do you know if your converter dolly is equipped
with antilock brakes?
Test Tractor Protection Valve
These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer
Charge the trailer air brake system. (That is, build up them all, re-read Section 7.
normal air pressure and push the "air supply" knob in.)
Shut the engine off. Step on and off the brake pedal
several times to reduce the air pressure in the tanks. The
trailer air supply control (also called the tractor protection
valve control) should pop out (or go from "normal" to
"emergency" position) when the air pressure falls into the
pressure range specified by the manufacturer. (Usually
within the range of 20 to 45 psi.)

If the tractor protection valve doesn't work properly, an air

hose or trailer brake leak could drain all the air from the
tractor. This would cause the emergency brakes to come
on, with possible loss of control.

Test Trailer Emergency Brakes

Charge the trailer air brake system and check that the
trailer rolls freely. Then stop and pull out the trailer air
supply control (also called tractor protection valve control

98 Section 7 – Doubles and Triples

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

8.1.2 – Check Special Purpose Equipment

Section 8
TANK VEHICLES If your vehicle has any of the following equipment, make
sure it works:
✓ Vapor recovery kits.
This Section Covers:
✓ Grounding and bonding cables.
✓ Inspecting Tank Vehicles
✓ Driving Tank Vehicles ✓ Emergency shut-off systems.
✓ Safe Driving Rules
✓ Built in fire extinguisher.
This section has information needed to pass the CDL
knowledge test for driving a tank vehicle. (You should also Never drive a tank vehicle with open valves or manhole
study Sections 2, 5, 6, and 9). A tank endorsement is covers.
required for certain vehicles that transport liquids or gases.
The liquid or gas does not have to be a hazardous 8.1.3 – Special Equipment
material.
Check the emergency equipment required for your vehicle.
A tank endorsement is required if your vehicle needs a Find out what equipment you're required to carry and
Class A or B CDL and you want to haul a liquid or liquid make sure you have it (and it works).
gas in a tank or tanks having an individual rated capacity
of more than 119 gallons and an aggregate rated capacity 8.2 – Driving Tank Vehicles
of 1000 gallons or more that is either permanently or
temporarily attached to the vehicle or the chassis. Hauling liquids in tanks requires special skills because of
the high center of gravity and liquid movement. See Figure
A tank endorsement is also required for Class C vehicles 8.1.
when the vehicle is used to transport hazardous materials
in liquid or gas form in the above described rated tanks.

Before loading, unloading, or driving a tanker, inspect the

vehicle. This makes sure that the vehicle is safe to carry
the liquid or gas and is safe to drive.

8.1 – Inspecting Tank Vehicles

Tank vehicles have special items that you need to check.
Tank vehicles come in many types and sizes. You need to
check the vehicle's operator manual to make sure you
know how to inspect your tank vehicle. Figure 8.1

8.1.1 – Leaks 8.2.1 – High Center of Gravity

On all tank vehicles, the most important item to check for High center of gravity means that much of the load's
is leaks. Check under and around the vehicle for signs of weight is carried high up off the road. This makes the
any leaking. Don't carry liquids or gases in a leaking tank. vehicle top-heavy and easy to roll over. Liquid tankers are
To do so is a crime. You will be cited and prevented from especially easy to roll over. Tests have shown that tankers
driving further. You may also be liable for the clean-up of can turn over at the speed limits posted for curves. Take
any spill. In general, check the following: highway curves and on ramp/off ramp curves well below
✓ Check the tank's body or shell for dents or leaks. the posted speeds.

✓ Check the intake, discharge, and cut-off valves. Make 8.2.2 – Danger of Surge
sure the valves are in the correct position before
loading, unloading, or moving the vehicle. Liquid surge results from movement of the liquid in partially
filled tanks. This movement can have bad effects on
✓ Check pipes, connections, and hoses for leaks, handling. For example, when coming to a stop, the liquid
especially around joints. will surge back and forth. When the wave hits the end of
the tank, it tends to push the truck in the direction the wave
✓ Check manhole covers and vents. Make sure the is moving. If the truck is on a slippery surface such as ice,
covers have gaskets and they close correctly. Keep the wave can shove a stopped truck out into an
the vents clear so they work correctly. intersection. The driver of a liquid tanker must be very
familiar with the handling of the vehicle.

Section 8 – Tank Vehicles 99

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

8.2.3 – Bulkheads 8.3.2 – Controlling Surge

Some liquid tanks are divided into several smaller tanks by Keep a steady pressure on the brakes. Do not release too
bulkheads. When loading and unloading the smaller tanks, soon when coming to a stop. Brake far in advance of a
the driver must pay attention to weight distribution. Don't stop and increase your following distance.
put too much weight on the front or rear of the vehicle.
If you must make a quick stop to avoid a crash, use
8.2.4 – Baffled Tanks controlled or stab braking. If you do not remember how to
stop using these methods, review subsection 2.17.2. Also,
Baffled liquid tanks have bulkheads in them with holes that remember that if you steer quickly while braking, your
let the liquid flow through. The baffles help to control the vehicle may roll over.
forward and backward liquid surge. Side-to-side surge can
still occur. This can cause a roll over. 8.3.3 – Curves

8.2.5 – Un-baffled Tanks Slow down before curves, then accelerate slightly through
the curve. The posted speed for a curve may be too fast
Un-baffled liquid tankers (sometimes called "smooth bore" for a tank vehicle.
tanks) have nothing inside to slow down the flow of the
liquid. Therefore, forward-and-back surge is very strong. 8.3.4 – Stopping Distance
Un-baffled tanks are usually those that transport food
products (milk, for example). (Sanitation regulations forbid Keep in mind how much space you need to stop your
the use of baffles because of the difficulty in cleaning the vehicle. Remember that wet roads double the normal
inside of the tank.) Be extremely cautious (slow and stopping distance. Empty tank vehicles may take longer to
careful) in driving smooth bore tanks, especially when stop than full ones.
starting and stopping.
8.3.5 – Skids
8.2.6 – Outage
Don't over steer, over accelerate, or over brake. If you do,
Never load a cargo tank totally full. Liquids expand as they your vehicle may skid. On tank trailers, if your drive wheels
warm and you must leave room for the expanding liquid. or trailer wheels begin to skid, your vehicle may jackknife.
This is called "outage." Since different liquids expand by When any vehicle starts to skid, you must take action to
different amounts, they require different amounts of restore traction to the wheels.
outage. You must know the outage requirement when
hauling liquids in bulk.
Section 8
8.2.7 – How Much to Load? Test Your Knowledge
1. How are bulkheads different than baffles?
A full tank of dense liquid (such as some acids) may
exceed legal weight limits. For that reason, you may often 2. Should a tank vehicle take curves, on ramps, or off
only partially fill tanks with heavy liquids. The amount of ramps at the posted speed limits?
liquid to load into a tank depends on: 3. How are smooth bore tankers different to drive than
✓ The amount the liquid will expand in transit. those with baffles?

✓ The weight of the liquid. 4. What three things determine how much liquid you can
load?
✓ Legal weight limits. 5. What is outage?
6. How can you help control surge?
8.3 – Safe Driving Rules
7. What two reasons make special care necessary when
In order to drive tank vehicles safely, you must remember
driving tank vehicles?
to follow all the safe driving rules. A few of these rules are:
These questions may be on the test. If you can't answer
8.3.1 – Drive Smoothly them all, re-read Section 8.

Because of the high center of gravity and the surge of the

liquid, you must start, slow down, and stop very smoothly.
Also, make smooth turns and lane changes.

100 Section 8 – Tank Vehicles

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

rules applicable to hazardous materials, as well as,

Section 9 attending hazardous materials training courses. Your
employer, colleges and universities, and various
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS associations usually offer these courses. You can get
copies of the Federal Regulations (49 CFR) through your
This Section Covers: local Government Printing Office bookstore and various
industry publishers. Union or company offices often have
✓ The Intent of the Regulations copies of the rules for driver use. Find out where you can
✓ Bulk Tank Loading, Unloading, and get your own copy to use on the job.
Marking
The regulations require training and testing for all drivers
✓ Driver Responsibilities involved in transporting hazardous materials. Your
✓ Driving and Parking Rules employer or a designated representative is required to
✓ Communications Rules provide this training and testing. Hazardous materials
✓ Emergencies employers are required to keep a record of training for
✓ Loading and Unloading each employee as long as that employee is working with
hazardous materials, and for 90 days thereafter. The
Hazardous materials are products that pose a risk to regulations require that hazardous materials employees be
health, safety, and property during transportation. The trained and tested at least once every three years.
term often is shortened to HAZMAT, which you may see
on road signs, or to HM in government regulations. All drivers must be trained in the security risks of
Hazardous materials include explosives, various types of hazardous materials transportation. This training must
gas, solids, flammable and combustible liquid, and other include how to recognize and respond to possible security
materials. Because of the risks involved and the potential threats.
consequences these risks impose, all levels of government
regulate the handling of hazardous materials. The regulations also require that drivers have special
training before driving a vehicle transporting certain
The Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) is found in flammable gas materials or highway route-controlled
parts 171 - 180 of title 49 of the Code of Federal quantities of radioactive materials. In addition, drivers
Regulations. The common reference for these regulations transporting cargo tanks and portable tanks must receive
is 49 CFR 171 – 180. specialized training. Each driver’s employer or his or her
designated representative must provide such training.
The Hazardous Materials Table in the regulations contains
a list of these items. However, this list is not all-inclusive. Some locations require permits to transport certain
Whether or not a material is considered hazardous is explosives or bulk hazardous wastes. States and counties
based on its characteristics and the shipper's decision on also may require drivers to follow special hazardous
whether or not the material meets a definition of a materials routes. The federal government may require
hazardous material in the regulations. The regulations permits or exemptions for special hazardous materials
require vehicles transporting certain types or quantities of cargo such as rocket fuel. Find out about permits,
hazardous materials to display diamond-shaped, square exemptions, and special routes for the places you drive.
on point, warning signs called placards.
9.1 – The Intent of the Regulations
This section is designed to assist you in understanding
your role and responsibilities in hauling hazardous 9.1.1 – Contain the Material
materials. Due to the constantly changing nature of
government regulations, it is impossible to guarantee Transporting hazardous materials can be risky. The
absolute accuracy of the materials in this section. An up- regulations are intended to protect you, those around you,
to-date copy of the complete regulations is essential for and the environment. They tell shippers how to package
you to have. Included in these regulations is a complete the materials safely and drivers how to load, transport, and
glossary of terms. unload the material. These are called "containment rules."

You must have a commercial driver license (CDL) with a 9.1.2 – Communicate the Risk
hazardous materials endorsement before you drive any
size vehicle that is used to transport hazardous material as To communicate the risk, shippers must warn drivers and
defined in 49 CFR 383.5. You must pass a written test others about the material's hazards. The regulations
about the regulations and requirements to get this require shippers to put hazard warning labels on
endorsement. packages, provide proper shipping papers, emergency
response information, and placards. These steps
Everything you need to know to pass the written test is in communicate the hazard to the shipper, the carrier, and
this section. However, this is only a beginning. Most the driver.
drivers need to know much more on the job. You can learn
more by reading and understanding the federal and state

Section 9 – Hazardous Materials 101

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

9.1.3 – Assure Safe Drivers and Equipment ✓ Reports accidents and incidents involving hazardous
materials to the proper government agency.
In order to get a hazardous materials endorsement on a
CDL, you must pass a written test about transporting 9.2.3 – The Driver
hazardous materials. To pass the test, you must know how
to: ✓ Makes sure the shipper has identified, marked, and
✓ Identify what are hazardous materials. labeled the hazardous materials properly.

✓ Safely load shipments. ✓ Refuses leaking packages and shipments.

✓ Properly placard your vehicle in accordance with the ✓ Placards vehicle when loading, if required.
rules.
✓ Safely transports the shipment without delay.
✓ Safely transport shipments.
✓ Follows all special rules about transporting hazardous
Learn the rules and follow them. Following the rules materials.
reduces the risk of injury from hazardous materials. Taking
shortcuts by breaking rules is unsafe. Non-compliance with ✓ Keeps hazardous materials shipping papers and
regulations can result in fines and jail. emergency response information in the proper place.

Inspect your vehicle before and during each trip. Law 9.3 – Communication Rules
enforcement officers may stop and inspect your vehicle.
When stopped, they may check your shipping papers, 9.3.1 – Definitions
vehicle placards, and the hazardous materials
endorsement on your driver license, and your knowledge Some words and phrases have special meanings when
of hazardous materials. talking about hazardous materials. Some of these may
differ from meanings you are used to. The words and
9.2 – Hazardous Materials Transportation— phrases in this section may be on your test. The meanings
of other important words are in the glossary at the end of
Who Does What
Section 9.
9.2.1 – The Shipper A material's hazard class reflects the risks associated with
it. There are nine different hazard classes. The types of
✓ Sends products from one place to another by truck, materials included in these nine classes are in Figure 9.1.
rail, vessel, or airplane.
A shipping paper describes the hazardous materials being
✓ Uses the hazardous materials regulations to determine transported. Shipping orders, bills of lading, and manifests
the product’s: are all shipping papers. Figure 9.6 shows an example
• Identification number shipping paper.
• Proper shipping name.
• Hazard class. After an accident or hazardous materials spill or leak, you
• Packing group. may be injured and unable to communicate the hazards of
• Correct packaging. the materials you are transporting. Firefighters and police
• Correct label and markings. can prevent or reduce the amount of damage or injury at
• Correct placards. the scene if they know what hazardous materials are being
carried. Your life, and the lives of others, may depend on
✓ Must package, mark, and label the materials; prepare quickly locating the hazardous materials shipping papers.
shipping papers; provide emergency response For that reason the rules require:
information; and supply placards. ✓ Shippers to describe hazardous materials correctly
✓ Certify on the shipping paper that the shipment has and include an emergency response telephone
been prepared according to the rules (unless you are number on shipping papers.
pulling cargo tanks supplied by you or your employer).
✓ Carriers and drivers to quickly identify hazardous
9.2.2 – The Carrier materials shipping papers or keep them on top of other
shipping papers and keep the required emergency
✓ Takes the shipment from the shipper to its destination. response information with the shipping papers.

✓ Prior to transportation, checks that the shipper ✓ Drivers to keep hazardous materials shipping papers:
correctly described, marked, labeled, and otherwise • In a pouch on the driver's door, or
prepared the shipment for transportation. • In clear view within immediate reach while the seat
belt is fastened while driving, or
✓ Refuses improper shipments. • On the driver's seat when out of the vehicle.

102 Section 9 – Hazardous Materials

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Hazardous Materials Class

Division
Class

Name of Class or
Examples
Division

1.1 Mass Explosion Dynamite

1.2 Projection Hazard Flares
1.3 Fire Hazard Display Fireworks
1
1.4 Minor Explosion Ammunition
1.5 Very Insensitive Blasting Agents
1.6 Extremely Insensitive Explosive Devices
2.1 Flammable Gases Propane
2 2.2 Non-Flammable Gases Helium
2.3 Poisonous/Toxic Gases Fluorine, Compressed
Figure 9.2
3 -Flammable Liquids Gasoline
Flammable Solids Ammonium Picrate, 9.3.3 – Lists of Regulated Products
4.1
Spontaneously Wetted
4 4.2
Combustible White Phosphorus
4.3
Dangerous When Wet Sodium
Placards
Ammonium Nitrate
5.1 Oxidizers Placards are used to warn others of hazardous materials.
5 Methyl Ethyl Ketone
5.2 Organic Peroxides Placards are signs put on the outside of a vehicle and on
Peroxide bulk packages, which identify the hazard class of the
6.1 Poison (Toxic Material) Potassium Cyanide cargo. A placarded vehicle must have at least four
6
6.2 Infectious Substances Anthrax Virus identical placards.
7 - Radioactive Uranium
They are put on the front, rear, and both sides of the
8 - Corrosives Battery Fluid
vehicle. See Figure 9.3. Placards must be readable from
Miscellaneous Hazardous Polychlorinated Biphenyls all four directions. They are at least 250mm 9.84 inches
9 -
Materials (PCB) square, square-on-point, in a diamond shape. Cargo tanks
and other bulk packaging display the identification number
None

ORM-D (Other Regulated Food Flavorings,

- of their contents on placards or orange panels or white
Material-Domestic) Medicines
square-on-point displays that are the same size as
- - Combustible Liquids Fuel Oil placards.
Figure 9.1
Identification Numbers
9.3.2 – Package Labels
Identification numbers are a four-digit code used by first
responders to identify hazardous materials. An
Shippers put diamond-shaped hazard warning labels on
identification number may be used to identify more than
most hazardous materials packages. These labels inform
one chemical. The letters “NA or “UN” will precede the
others of the hazard. If the diamond label won't fit on the
identification number. The United States Department of
package, shippers may put the label on a tag securely
Transportation’s Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)
attached to the package. For example, compressed gas
lists the chemicals and the identification numbers assigned
cylinders that will not hold a label will have tags or decals.
to them.
Labels look like the examples in Figure 9.2.
There are three main lists used by shippers, carriers, and
drivers when trying to identify hazardous materials. Before
transporting a material, look for its name on three lists.
Some materials are on all lists, others on only one. Always
check the following lists:
✓ Section 172.101, the Hazardous Materials Table.

✓ Appendix A to Section 172.101, the List of Hazardous

Substances and Reportable Quantities.

✓ Appendix B to Section 172.101, the List of Marine

Pollutants.

Section 9 – Hazardous Materials 103

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

proper shipping names in regular type. The shipping paper

must show proper shipping names. Names shown in italics
are not proper shipping names.

Column 3 shows a material's hazard class or division, or

the entry "Forbidden." Never transport a "Forbidden"
material. Placard hazardous materials shipments based on
the quantity and hazard class. You can decide which
placards to use if you know these three things:
✓ Material's hazard class.

✓ Amount being shipped.

✓ Amount of all hazardous materials of all classes on

your vehicle.

Column 4 lists the identification number for each proper

Figure 9.3 shipping name. Identification numbers are preceded by the
letters “UN”, "NA." or “ID”. The letters "NA" are associated
with proper shipping names that are only used within the
The Hazardous Materials Table United States and to and from Canada. The letters “ID” are
associated with proper shipping names recognized by the
Figure 9.4 shows part of the Hazardous Materials Table.
International Civil Aviation Organization (IACO) Technical
instructions for transportation by air. The identification
Column 1 tells which shipping mode(s) the entry affects
number must appear on the shipping paper as part of the
and other information concerning the shipping description.
shipping description and also appear on the package. It
The next five columns show each material's shipping
also must appear on cargo tanks and other bulk
name, hazard class or division, identification number,
packaging. Police and firefighters use this number to
packaging group, and required labels.
quickly identify the hazardous materials.
Six different symbols may appear in Column 1 of the table.
Column 5 shows the packing group (in Roman numeral)
assigned to a material.
(+) Shows the proper shipping name, hazard class, and
packing group to use, even if the material doesn't meet
Column 6 shows the hazard warning label(s) shippers
the hazard class definition.
must put on packages of hazardous materials. Some
products require use of more than one label due to a
(A) Means the hazardous material described in Column 2
multiple hazards being present.
is subject to the HMR only when offered or intended
for transport by air unless it is a hazardous substance
Column 7 lists the additional (special) provisions that apply
or hazardous waste.
to this material. When there is an entry in this column, you
must refer to the federal regulations for specific
(W) Means the hazardous material described in Column 2
information. The numbers 1-6 in this column mean the
is subject to the HMR only when offered or intended
hazardous material is a poison inhalation hazard (PIH).
for transportation by water unless it is a hazardous
PIH materials have special requirements for shipping
substance, hazardous waste, or marine pollutant
papers, marking, and placards.
(D) Means the proper shipping name is appropriate for
Column 8 is a three-part column showing the section
describing materials for domestic transportation but
numbers covering the packaging requirements for each
may not be proper for international transportation.
hazardous material.
(I) Identifies a proper shipping name that is used to
describe materials in international transportation. A
Note: Columns 9 and 10 do not apply to transportation by
different shipping name may be used when only
highway.
domestic transportation is involved.
Appendix A to 49 CFR 172.101 - The List of Hazardous
(G) Means this hazardous material described in Column 2
Substances and Reportable Quantities.
is a generic shipping name. A generic shipping name
must be accompanied by a technical name on the
The DOT and the EPA want to know about spills of
shipping paper. A technical name is a specific
hazardous substances. They are named in the List of
chemical that makes the product hazardous
Hazardous Substances and Reportable Quantities. See
Figure 9.5. Column 2 of the list shows each product's
Column 2 lists the proper shipping names and descriptions
reportable quantity (RQ). When these materials are being
of regulated materials. Entries are in alphabetical order so
transported in a reportable quantity or greater in one
you can more quickly find the right entry. The table shows
104 Section 9 – Hazardous Materials
 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

49 CFR 172.101 Hazardous Materials Table

Hazardous
Packaging (173.***)
Materials Hazard Special
Identification Label
Symbols Description & Class or PG Provisions
Numbers Codes
Proper Shipping Division (172.102) Non-
Names Exceptions Bulk
Bulk

(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8A) (8B) (8C)
Acetaldehyde IB8, IP3, IP7,
A 9 UN1841 III 9 155 204 240
ammonia T1, TP33
Figure 9.4
package, the shipper displays the letters RQ on the 9.3.4 – The Shipping Paper
shipping paper and package. The letters RQ may appear
before or after the basic description. You or your employer The shipping paper shown in Figure 9.6 describes a
must report any spill of these materials, which occurs in a shipment. A shipping paper for hazardous materials must
reportable quantity. include:
✓ Page numbers if the shipping paper has more than
If the words INHALATION HAZARD appear on the one page. The first page must tell the total number of
shipping paper or package, the rules require display of the pages. For example, "Page 1 of 4".
POISON INHALATION HAZARD or POISON GAS ✓ A proper shipping description for each hazardous
placards, as appropriate. These placards must be used in material.
addition to other placards, which may be required by the
product's hazard class. Always display the hazard class ✓ A shipper's certification, signed by the shipper, saying
placard and the POISON INHALATION HAZARD placard, they prepared the shipment according to the
even for small amounts. regulations.

Appendix B to 49 CFR 172.101 – List of Marine Pollutants Shipping Paper

Shipping Paper
Appendix B is a listing of chemicals that are toxic to marine ABC Corporation DEF Corporation
life. For highway transportation, this list is only used for TO: 88 Valley Street FROM: 55 Mountain Street
chemicals in a container with a capacity of 119 gallons or Anywhere, VA Nowhere, CO
more without a placard or label as specified by the HMR. Quantity HM Description Weight
1 cylinder RQ UN1076, Phosgene, 25 lbs
Any bulk packages of a Marine Pollutant must display the 2.3, Poison,
Marine Pollutant marking (white triangle with a fish and an Inhalation Hazard,
“X” through the fish). This marking (it is not a placard) must Zone A
also be displayed on the outside of the vehicle. In (“RQ”
(UN1076 is the
addition, a notation must be made on the shipping papers means that
Identification Number
this is a reportable
near the description of the material: “Marine Pollutant”. quantity.)
from Column 4 of the
Hazardous materials
Appendix A to 49 CFR 172.101 Table.
List of Hazardous Substances Phosgene is the
and Reportable Quantities proper shipping name
Reportable Quantity (RQ) from Column 2 of the
Hazardous Substances Hazardous Materials
Pounds (Kilograms)
Table.
Phenyl mercaptan 100 (45.4)
2.3 is the Hazard
Phenylmercury acetate 100 (45.4) Class from Column 3
Phenylthiourea 100 (45.4) of the Hazardous
Phorate 10 (4.54) Materials Table.)
Phosgene 10 (4.54) This is to certify that the above-named materials are properly
classified, described, packaged, marked and labeled, and are
Phosphine 100 (45.4)
in proper condition for transportation according to the
Phosphoric acid 5,000 (2270) applicable regulations of the Department of Transportation.
Phosphoric acid, diethyl
100 (45.4)
4-nitrophenyl ester Shipper: DEF Corporation Carrier: Safety First
Phosphoric acid, lead (2+) Per: Smith Per:
10 (4.54) Date: October 15, 2003 Date:
Salt (2:3)salt
*Spills of 10 pounds or more must be reported. Special Instructions: 24 hour Emergency Contact, John
Smith 1-800-555-5555
Figure 9.5 Figure 9.6

Section 9 – Hazardous Materials 105

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

9.3.5 – The Item Description ✓ The basic description and technical name;

If a shipping paper describes both hazardous and non- ✓ Immediate hazards to health;
hazardous products, the hazardous materials must be:
✓ Entered first. ✓ Risks of fire or explosion;

✓ Highlighted in a contrasting color, OR. ✓ Immediate precautions to be taken in the event of an

accident or incident;
✓ Identified by an "X" placed before the shipping
description (ID#, Shipping Name, Hazard Class, ✓ Immediate methods for handling fires;
Packing Group) in a column captioned "HM". The
letters "RQ" may be used instead of "X" if a reportable ✓ Initial methods for handling spills or leaks in the
quantity needs to be identified. absence of fires; and

The basic description of hazardous materials includes the ✓ Preliminary first aid measures
identification number, proper shipping name, hazard class
or division, and the packing group, if any, in that order. The Such information can be on the shipping paper or some
packing group is displayed in Roman numerals and may other document that includes the basic description and
be preceded by "PG". technical name of the hazardous material. Or, it may be in
a guidance book such as the Emergency Response
Identification number, shipping name, and hazard class Guidebook (ERG). Motor carriers may assist shippers by
must not be abbreviated unless specifically authorized in keeping an ERG on each vehicle carrying hazardous
the hazardous materials regulations. The description must materials. The driver must provide the emergency
also show: response information to any federal, state, or local
✓ The total quantity and unit of measure. authority responding to a hazardous materials incident or
investigating one.
✓ The number and type of packages (example: “6
Drums”). Total quantity and number & type of packages must
appear before or after the basic description. The
✓ The letters RQ, if a reportable quantity. packaging type and the unit of measurement may be
abbreviated. For example:
✓ If the letters RQ appear, the name of the hazardous 10 ctns. UN1263, Paint, 3, PG II, 500 lbs.
substance (if not included in the shipping name).
The shipper of hazardous wastes must put the word
✓ For all materials with the letter “G” (Generic) in Column WASTE before the proper shipping name of the material
1, the technical name of the hazardous material. on the shipping paper (hazardous waste manifest). For
example:
Shipping papers also must list an emergency response
telephone number (unless excepted). The emergency UN1090, Waste Acetone, 3, PG II.
response telephone number is the responsibility of the
shipper. It can be used by emergency responders to obtain A non-hazardous material may not be described by using
information about any hazardous materials involved in a a hazard class or an identification number.
spill or fire. The telephone number must be:
✓ The number of the person offering the hazardous Shippers must keep a copy of shipping papers (or an
material for transportation (if the shipper/offeror is the electronic image) for a period of 2 years (3 years for
emergency response information (ERI) provider); or hazardous waste) after the material is accepted by the
initial carrier.
✓ The number of an agency or organization capable of,
and accepting responsibility for, providing the detailed If one provides a carrier service only and is not the
information required by paragraph (a)(2) of this originator of the shipment, a carrier is required to keep a
section. The person who is registered with the ERI copy of the shipping paper (or an electronic image) for a
provider must be identified by name, or contract period of 1 year.
number or other unique identifier assigned by the ERI
provider, on the shipping paper IMPORTANT NOTE: To view complete regulatory
requirements for the transportation of hazardous materials
Shippers also must provide emergency response one should refer to the Code of Federal Regulations, Title
information to the motor carrier for each hazardous 49, Parts 171-185.
material being shipped. The emergency response
information must be able to be used away from the motor
vehicle and must provide information on how to safely
handle incidents involving the material. At a minimum, it
must include the following information:
106 Section 9 – Hazardous Materials
 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

9.3.6 – Shipper's Certification ✓ What business is the shipper in? Paint dealer?
Chemical supply? Scientific supply house? Pest
When the shipper packages hazardous materials, he/she control or agricultural supplier? Explosives,
certifies that the package has been prepared according to munitions, or fireworks dealer?
the rules. The signed shipper's certification appears on the
original shipping paper. The only exceptions are when a ✓ Are there tanks with diamond labels or placards on the
shipper is a private carrier transporting their own product premises?
and when the package is provided by the carrier (for
example, a cargo tank). ✓ What type of package is being shipped? Cylinders and
drums are often used for hazardous materials
Unless a package is clearly unsafe or does not comply shipments.
with the HMR, you may accept the shipper's certification
concerning proper packaging. Some carriers have ✓ Is a hazard class label, proper shipping name, or
additional rules about transporting hazardous materials. identification number on the package?
Follow your employer's rules when accepting shipments.
✓ Are there any handling precautions?
9.3.7 – Package Markings and Labels
9.3.9 – Hazardous Waste Manifest
Shippers print required markings directly on the package,
an attached label, or tag. An important package marking is When transporting hazardous wastes, you must sign by
the name of the hazardous material. It is the same name hand and carry a Uniform Hazardous Waste Manifest. The
as the one on the shipping paper. The requirements for name and EPA registration number of the shippers,
marking vary by package size and material being carriers, and destination must appear on the manifest.
transported. When required, the shipper will put the Shippers must prepare, date, and sign by hand the
following on the package: manifest. Treat the manifest as a shipping paper when
✓ The name and address of shipper or consignee. transporting the waste. Only give the waste shipment to
another registered carrier or disposal/treatment facility.
✓ The hazardous material's shipping name and Each carrier transporting the shipment must sign by hand
identification number. the manifest. After you deliver the shipment, keep your
copy of the manifest. Each copy must have all needed
✓ The labels required. signatures and dates, including those of the person to
whom you delivered the waste.
It is a good idea to compare the shipping paper to the
markings and labels. Always make sure that the shipper 9.3.10 – Placarding
shows the correct basic description on the shipping paper
and verifies that the proper labels are shown on the Attach the appropriate placards to the vehicle before you
packages. If you are not familiar with the material, ask the drive it. You are only allowed to move an improperly
shipper to contact your office. placarded vehicle during an emergency, in order to protect
life or property.
If rules require it, the shipper will put RQ, MARINE
POLLUTANT, BIOHAZARD, HOT, or INHALATION- Placards must appear on both sides and both ends of the
HAZARD on the package. Packages with liquid containers vehicle. Each placard must be:
inside will also have package orientation markings with the ✓ Easily seen from the direction it faces.
arrows pointing in the correct upright direction. The labels
used always reflect the hazard class of the product. If a ✓ Placed so the words or numbers are level and read
package needs more than one label, the labels must be from left to right.
close together, near the proper shipping name.
✓ At least three inches away from any other markings.
9.3.8 – Recognizing Hazardous Materials
✓ Kept clear of attachments or devices such as ladders,
Learn to recognize shipments of hazardous materials. To doors, and tarpaulins.
find out if the shipment includes hazardous materials, look
at the shipping paper. Does it have: ✓ Kept clean and undamaged so that the color, format,
✓ An entry with a proper shipping name, hazard class, and message are easily seen.
and identification number?
✓ Be affixed to a background of contrasting color.
✓ A highlighted entry, or one with an X or RQ in the
hazardous materials column? ✓ The use of “Drive Safely” and other slogans is
prohibited.
Other clues suggesting hazardous materials:
✓ The front placard may be on the front of the tractor or
the front of the trailer.
Section 9 – Hazardous Materials 107
2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

To decide which placards to use, you need to know: Placards used to identify the primary or subsidiary hazard
✓ The hazard class of the materials. class of a material must have the hazard class or division
number displayed in the lower corner of the placard.
✓ The amount of hazardous materials shipped. Permanently affixed subsidiary hazard placards without
the hazard class number may be used as long as they stay
✓ The total weight of all classes of hazardous materials within color specifications.
in your vehicle.
Placards may be displayed for hazardous materials even if
9.3.11 – Placard Tables not required so long as the placard identifies the hazard of
the material being transported.
There are two placard tables, Table 1 and Table 2. Table 1
materials must be placarded whenever any amount is Bulk packaging is a single container with a capacity
transported. See Figure 9.7. greater than 119 gallons. A bulk package, and a vehicle
transporting a bulk package, must be placarded, even if it
Except for bulk packaging, the hazard classes in Table 2 only has the residue of a hazardous material. Certain bulk
need placards only if the total amount transported is 1,001 packages only have to be placarded on the two opposite
pounds or more including the package. Add the amounts sides or may display labels. All other bulk packages must
from all shipping papers for all the Table 2 products you be placarded on all four sides.
have on board. See Figure 9.8.
Placard Table 2
Placard Table 1
1,001 Pounds Or More
Any Amount
Category of Material
If Your Vehicle Contains (Hazard class or division number and Placard Name
Placard As:
Any Amount of: additional description as appropriate)
1.1 Mass Explosives Explosives 1.1 1.4 Minor Explosion Explosives 1.4
1.2 Project Hazards Explosives 1.2 1.5 Very Insensitive Explosives 1.5
1.3 Mass Fire Hazards Explosives 1.3 1.6 Extremely Insensitive Explosives 1.6
2.3 Poisonous/Toxic Gases Poison Gas 2.1 Flammable Gases Flammable Gas
4.3 Dangerous When Wet Dangerous When Wet Non-Flammable
2.2 Non- Flammable Gases
Gas.
5.2 (Organic Peroxide, Organic Peroxide
3 Flammable Liquids Flammable
Type B, liquid or solid,
Temperature controlled) Combustible Liquid Combustible*
4.1 Flammable Solids Flammable Solid
6.1 (Inhalation hazard zone Poison/toxic inhalation
A & B only) Spontaneously
4.2 Spontaneously Combustible
Combustible
7 (Radioactive Yellow III Radioactive
label only) 5.1 Oxidizers Oxidizer
Figure 9.7 5.2 (other than organic peroxide,
Type B, liquid or solid, Temperature Organic Peroxide
You may use DANGEROUS placards instead of separate Controlled)
placards for each Table 2 hazard class when: 6.1 (other than inhalation hazard zone
Poison
✓ You have 1,001 pounds or more of two or more Table A or B)
2 hazard classes, requiring different placards, and 6.2 Infectious Substances (None)
8 Corrosives Corrosive
✓ You have not loaded 2,205 pounds or more of any 9 Miscellaneous Hazardous Materials Class 9**
Table 2 hazard class material at any one place. (You ORM-D (None)
must use the specific placard for this material.)
* FLAMMABLE may be used in place of a
✓ The dangerous placard is an option, not a COMBUSTIBLE on a cargo tank or portable tank.
requirement. You can always placard for the materials. ** Class 9 Placard is not required for domestic
transportation.
If the words INHALATION HAZARD are on the shipping Figure 9.8
paper or package, you must display POISON GAS or
POISON INHALATION placards in addition to any other
placards needed by the product's hazard class. The 1,000-
pound exception does not apply to these materials.
Materials with a secondary hazard of dangerous when wet
must display the DANGEROUS WHEN WET placard in
addition to any other placards needed by the product’s
hazard class. The 1,000-pound exception to placarding
does not apply to these materials.
108 Section 9 – Hazardous Materials
 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

After loading, do not open any package during your trip.

Subsections 9.1, 9.2, and 9.3 Never transfer hazardous materials from one package to
another while in transit. You may empty a cargo tank, but
Test Your Knowledge
do not empty any other package while it is on the vehicle.
1. Shippers package in order to (fill in the blank) the
material. Cargo Heater Rules
2. Driver placard their vehicle to (fill in the blank) the risk. There are special cargo heater rules for loading:
✓ Class 1 (Explosives)
3. What three things do you need to know to decide
which placards (if any) you need? ✓ Class 2.1 (Flammable Gas)

4. A hazardous materials identification number must ✓ Class 3 (Flammable Liquids)

appear on the (fill in the blank) and on the (fill in the
blank). The identification number must also appear on The rules usually forbid use of cargo heaters, including
cargo tanks and other bulk packaging. automatic cargo heater/air conditioner units. Unless you
have read all the related rules, don't load the above
5. Where must you keep shipping papers describing products in a cargo space that has a heater.
hazardous materials?
These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer Use Closed Cargo Space
them all, re-read subsections 9.1, 9.2 and 9.3.
You cannot have overhang or tailgate loads of:
9.4 – Loading and Unloading ✓ Class 1 (Explosives)

Do all you can to protect containers of hazardous ✓ Class 4 (Flammable Solids)

materials. Don't use any tools, which might damage
containers or other packaging during loading. Don't use ✓ Class 5 (Oxidizers)
hooks.
You must load these hazardous materials into a closed
9.4.1 – General Loading Requirements cargo space unless all packages are:
✓ Fire and water resistant.
✓ Before loading or unloading, set the parking brake.
✓ Covered with a fire- and water-resistant tarp.
Make sure the vehicle will not move.

Many products become more hazardous when exposed to Precautions for Specific Hazards
heat. Load hazardous materials away from heat sources.
✓ Watch for signs of leaking or damaged containers: Class 1 (Explosives) Materials
LEAKS SPELL TROUBLE! Do not transport leaking
packages. Depending on the material, you, your truck, ✓ Turn your engine off before loading or unloading any
and others could be in danger. It is illegal to move a explosives. Then check the cargo space. You must:
vehicle with leaking hazardous materials. • Disable cargo heaters. Disconnect heater power
sources and drain heater fuel tanks.
✓ Containers of hazardous materials must be braced to • Make sure there are no sharp points that might
prevent movement of the packages during damage cargo. Look for bolts, screws, nails,
transportation. broken side panels, and broken floorboards.
• Use a floor lining with Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3.
✓ No Smoking. When loading or unloading hazardous The floors must be tight, and the liner must be
materials, keep fire away. Don't let people smoke either non-metallic material or non-ferrous metal.
nearby. Never smoke around: (Non-ferrous metals are any metal that does not
• Class 1 (Explosives) contain iron or iron alloys).
• Class 2.1 (Flammable Gas)
• Class 3 (Flammable Liquids) ✓ Use extra care to protect explosives. Never use hooks
• Class 4 (Flammable Solids) or other metal tools. Never drop, throw, or roll
• Class 5 (Oxidizers) packages. Protect explosive packages from other
cargo that might cause damage.
Secure Against Movement
✓ Do not transfer a Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3 from one
Brace containers so they will not fall, slide, or bounce vehicle to another on a public roadway except in an
around during transportation. Be very careful when loading emergency. If safety requires an emergency transfer,
containers that have valves or other fittings. All hazardous set out red warning reflectors, flags, or electric
materials packages must be secured during transportation. lanterns. You must warn others on the road.

Section 9 – Hazardous Materials 109

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

✓ Never transport damaged packages of explosives. Do ✓ Division 1.5 (Blasting Agents).

not take a package that shows any dampness or oily
stain. ✓ Division 2.3, Zone A (Poisonous Gases).

✓ Do not transport Division 1.1 or 1.2 in vehicle ✓ Division 4.2 (Spontaneously Combustible Materials)
combinations if: .
• There is a marked or placarded cargo tank in the ✓ Division 6.1, PGI, Zone A (Poison Liquids).
combination.
• The other vehicle in the combination contains: Class 2 (Compressed Gases) Including
➢ Division 1.1 A (Initiating Explosives). Cryogenic Liquids
➢ Packages of Class 7 (Radioactive) materials
labeled "Yellow III." If your vehicle doesn't have racks to hold cylinders, the
➢ Division 2.3 (Poisonous Gas) Hazard zone A cargo space floor must be flat. The cylinders must be:
or B or Division 6.1 (Poisonous) materials ✓ Held upright.
Hazard zone A.
➢ Hazardous materials in a portable tank, on a ✓ In racks attached to the vehicle or in boxes that will
DOT Spec 106A or 110A tank. keep them from turning over.

Class 4 (Flammable Solids) and Class 5 Cylinders may be loaded in a horizontal position (lying
(Oxidizers) Materials down) if it is designed so the relief valve is in the vapor
space.
Class 4 materials are solids that react (including fire and
explosion) to water, heat, and air or even react Division 2.3 (Poisonous Gas) or Division 6.1
spontaneously. (Poisonous) Materials
Class 4 and 5 materials must be completely enclosed in a Never transport these materials in containers with
vehicle or covered securely. Class 4 and 5 materials, interconnections. Never load a package labeled POISON
which become unstable and dangerous when wet, must be or POISON INHALATION HAZARD in the driver's cab or
kept dry while in transit and during loading and unloading. sleeper or with food material for human or animal
Materials that are subject to spontaneous combustion or consumption. There are special rules for loading and
heating must be in vehicles with sufficient ventilation. unloading Class 2 materials in cargo tanks. You must have
special training to do this.
Class 8 (Corrosive) Materials
Class 7 (Radioactive) Materials
If loading by hand, load breakable containers of corrosive
liquid one by one. Keep them right side up. Do not drop or Some packages of Class 7 (Radioactive) materials bear a
roll the containers. Load them onto an even floor surface. number called the "transport index." The shipper labels
Stack carboys only if the lower tiers can bear the weight of these packages Radioactive II or Radioactive III and prints
the upper tiers safely. the package's transport index on the label. Radiation
surrounds each package, passing through all nearby
Do not load nitric acid above any other product. packages. To deal with this problem, the number of
packages you can load together is controlled. Their
Load charged storage batteries so their liquid won't spill. closeness to people, animals, and unexposed film is also
Keep them right side up. Make sure other cargo won't fall controlled. The transport index tells the degree of control
against or short circuit them. needed during transportation. The total transport index of
all packages in a single vehicle must not exceed 50.Table
Never load corrosive liquids next to or above: A to this section (49 CFR 177-842) shows rules for each
✓ Division 1.4 (Explosives C). transport index. It shows how close you can load Class 7
(Radioactive) materials to people, animals, or film. For
✓ Division 4.1 (Flammable Solids). example, you can't leave a package with a transport index
of 1.1 within two feet of people or cargo space walls.
✓ Division 4.3 (Dangerous When Wet).
Mixed loads
✓ Class 5 (Oxidizers).
The rules require some products to be loaded separately.
✓ Division 2.3, Zone B (Poisonous Gases).
You cannot load them together in the same cargo space.
Figure 9.9 lists some examples. The regulations (the
Never load corrosive liquids with:
Segregation Table for Hazardous Materials) name other
✓ Division 1.1 or 1.2
materials you must keep apart.
✓ Division 1.3

110 Section 9 – Hazardous Materials

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Do Not Load Table 9.5 – Bulk Packaging Marking, Loading and

Do Not Load In The Same Vehicle With Unloading
Division 6.1 or 2.3 Animal or human food unless the
(POISON or poison poison package is over packed in The glossary at the end of this section gives the meaning
inhalation hazard an approved way. Foodstuffs are of the word bulk. Cargo tanks are bulk packaging
labeled material) anything you swallow. However, permanently attached to a vehicle. Cargo tanks remain on
mouthwash, toothpaste, and skin the vehicle when you load and unload them. Portable
creams are not foodstuff. tanks are bulk packaging, which are not permanently
attached to a vehicle. The product is loaded or unloaded
Division 2.3 Division 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 Explosives, while the portable tanks are off the vehicle. Portable tanks
(Poisonous) gas Division 5.1 (Oxidizers), are then put on a vehicle for transportation. There are
Zone A or Division Class 3 (Flammable Liquids), many types of cargo tanks in use. The most common
6.1 (Poison) liquids, Class 8 (Corrosive Liquids), cargo tanks are MC306 for liquids and MC331 for gases.
PGI, Zone A Division 5.2 (Organic Peroxides),
Division 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 Explosives,
Division 1.5 (Blasting Agents),
9.5.1 – Markings
Division 2.1 (Flammable Gases),
You must display the identification number of the
Class 4 (Flammable Solids)
hazardous materials in portable tanks and cargo tanks and
Charged storage Division 1.1 other bulk packaging (such as dump trucks). Identification
batteries numbers are in column 4 of the Hazardous Materials
Class 1 Any other explosives unless in Table. The rules require black 100 mm (3.9 inch) numbers
(Detonating primers) authorized containers or packages on orange panels, placards, or a white, diamond-shaped
Division 6.1 Acids, corrosive materials, or other background if no placards are required. Specification
(Cyanides or acidic materials which could cargo tanks must show re-test date markings.
cyanide mixtures) release hydrocyanic acid. For
Example: Cyanides, Inorganic, Portable tanks must also show the lessee or owner's
n.o.s., Silver Cyanide, Sodium name. They must also display the shipping name of the
Cyanide contents on two opposing sides. The letters of the shipping
name must be at least two inches tall on portable tanks
Class 8 Other materials unless the nitric with capacities of more than 1,000 gallons and one-inch
(Nitric Acid) acid is not loaded above any other tall on portable tanks with capacities of less than 1,000
material gallons. The identification number must appear on each
Figure 9.9 side and each end of a portable tank or other bulk
packaging that hold 1,000 gallons or more and on two
opposing sides, if the portable tank holds less than 1,000
Subsection 9.4 gallons. The identification numbers must still be visible
Test Your Knowledge when the portable tank is on the motor vehicle. If they are
not visible, you must display the identification number on
1. Around which hazard classes must you never smoke? both sides and ends of the motor vehicle.

2. Which three hazard classes should not be loaded into Intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) are bulk packages but
a trailer that has a heater/air conditioner unit? are not required to have the owner’s name or shipping
name.
3. Should the floor liner required for Division 1.1 or 1.2
materials be stainless steel? 9.5.2 – Tank Loading
4. At the shipper’s dock you’re given a paper for 100 The person in charge of loading and unloading a cargo
cartons of battery acid. You already have 100 pounds tank must be sure a qualified person is always watching.
of dry Silver Cyanide on board. What precautions do This person watching the loading or unloading must:
you have to take? ✓ Be alert.
5. Name a hazard class that uses transport indexes to ✓ Have a clear view of the cargo tank.
determine the amount that can be loaded in a single
vehicle. ✓ Be within 25 feet of the tank.
These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer ✓ Know of the hazards of the materials involved.
them all, re-read subsection 9.4.
✓ Know the procedures to follow in an emergency.

✓ Be authorized to move the cargo tank and able to do

so.

Section 9 – Hazardous Materials 111

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

There are special attendance rules for cargo tanks ✓ An open fire.
transporting propane and anhydrous ammonia.
If you must park to do your job, do so only briefly.
Close all manholes and valves before moving a tank of
hazardous materials, no matter how small the amount in Don't park on private property unless the owner is aware of
the tank or how short the distance. Manholes and valves the danger. Someone must always watch the parked
must be closed to prevent leaks. It is illegal to move a vehicle. You may let someone else watch it for you only if
cargo tank with open valves or covers unless it is empty your vehicle is:
according to 49 CFR 173.29. ✓ On the shipper's property.

9.5.3 – Flammable Liquids ✓ On the carrier's property.

Turn off your engine before loading or unloading any ✓ On the consignee's property.
flammable liquids. Only run the engine if needed to
operate a pump. Ground a cargo tank correctly before You are allowed to leave your vehicle unattended in a safe
filling it through an open filling hole. Ground the tank haven. A safe haven is an approved place for parking
before opening the filling hole, and maintain the ground unattended vehicles loaded with explosives. Designation
until after closing the filling hole. of authorized safe havens is usually made by local
authorities.
9.5.4 – Compressed Gas
9.6.2 – Parking a Placarded Vehicle Not
Keep liquid discharge valves on a compressed gas tank Transporting Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3)
closed except when loading and unloading. Unless your Explosives
engine runs a pump for product transfer, turn it off when
loading or unloading. If you use the engine, turn it off after You may park a placarded vehicle (not laden with
product transfer, before you unhook the hose. Unhook all explosives) within five feet of the traveled part of the road
loading/unloading connections before coupling, only if your work requires it. Do so only briefly. Someone
uncoupling, or moving a cargo tank. Always chock trailers must always watch the vehicle when parked on a public
and semi-trailers to prevent motion when uncoupled from roadway or shoulder. Do not uncouple a trailer and leave it
the power unit. with hazardous materials on a public street. Do not park
within 300 feet of an open fire.

Subsection 9.5 9.6.3 – Attending Parked Vehicles

Test Your Knowledge
The person attending a placarded vehicle must:
1. What are cargo tanks? ✓ Be in the vehicle, awake, and not in the sleeper berth,
or within 100 feet of the vehicle and have it within clear
2. How is a portable tank different from a cargo tank? view.

3. Your engine runs a pump used during delivery of ✓ Be aware of the hazards of the materials being
compressed gas. Should you turn off the engine transported.
before or after unhooking hoses after delivery?
✓ Know what to do in emergencies.
These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer
them all, re-read subsection 9.5. ✓ Be able to move the vehicle, if needed.

9.6 – Hazardous Materials -- Driving and 9.6.4 – No Flares!

Parking Rules You might break down and have to use stopped vehicle
signals. Use reflective triangles or red electric lights. Never
9.6.1 – Parking with Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3 use burning signals, such as flares or fuses, around a:
Explosives ✓ Tank used for Class 3 (Flammable Liquids) or Division
2.1 (Flammable Gas) whether loaded or empty.
Never park with Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3 explosives within
five feet of the traveled part of the road. Except for short ✓ Vehicle loaded with Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3
periods of time needed for vehicle operation necessities Explosives.
(e.g., fueling), do not park within 300 feet of:
✓ A bridge, tunnel, or building. 9.6.5 – Route Restrictions
✓ A place where people gather. Some states and counties require permits to transport
hazardous materials or wastes. They may limit the routes
112 Section 9 – Hazardous Materials
 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

you can use. Local rules about routes and permits change 9.6.9 – Check Tires
often. It is your job as driver to find out if you need permits
or must use special routes. Make sure you have all Make sure your tires are properly inflated.
needed papers before starting. You must examine each tire on a motor vehicle at the
beginning of each trip and each time the vehicle is parked.
If you work for a carrier, ask your dispatcher about route The only acceptable way to check tire pressure is to use a
restrictions or permits. If you are an independent trucker tire pressure gauge.
and are planning a new route, check with state agencies
where you plan to travel. Some localities prohibit Do not drive with a tire that is leaking or flat except to the
transportation of hazardous materials through tunnels, nearest safe place to fix it. Remove any overheated tire.
over bridges, or other roadways. Always check before you Place it a safe distance from your vehicle. Don't drive until
start. you correct the cause of the overheating. Remember to
follow the rules about parking and attending placarded
Whenever placarded, avoid heavily populated areas, vehicles. They apply even when checking, repairing, or
crowds, tunnels, narrow streets, and alleys. Take other replacing tires.
routes, even if inconvenient, unless there is no other way.
Never drive a placarded vehicle near open fires unless you 9.6.10 – Where to Keep Shipping Papers and
can safely pass without stopping.
Emergency Response Information
If transporting Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3 explosives, you
must have a written route plan and follow that plan. Do not accept a hazardous materials shipment without a
Carriers prepare the route plan in advance and give the properly prepared shipping paper. A shipping paper for
driver a copy. You may plan the route yourself if you pick hazardous materials must always be easily recognized.
up the explosives at a location other than your employer's Other people must be able to find it quickly after a crash.
terminal. Write out the plan in advance. Keep a copy of it ✓ Clearly distinguish hazardous materials shipping
with you while transporting the explosives. Deliver papers from others by tabbing them or keeping them
shipments of explosives only to authorized persons or on top of the stack of papers.
leave them in locked rooms designed for explosives
storage. ✓ When you are behind the wheel, keep shipping papers
within your reach (with your seat belt on), or in a pouch
A carrier must choose the safest route to transport on the driver's door. They must be easily seen by
placarded radioactive materials. After choosing the route, someone entering the cab.
the carrier must tell the driver about the radioactive
materials and show the route plan. ✓ When not behind the wheel, leave shipping papers in
the driver's door pouch or on the driver's seat.
9.6.6 – No Smoking ✓ Emergency response information must be kept in the
same location as the shipping paper.
Do not smoke within 25 feet of a placarded cargo tank
used for Class 3 (flammable liquids) or Division 2.1
(gases). Also, do not smoke or carry a lighted cigarette, Papers for Division 1.1, 1.2 or, 1.3 Explosives
cigar, or pipe within 25 feet of any vehicle, which contains:
✓ Class 1 (Explosives) A carrier must give each driver transporting Division 1.1,
1.2, or 1.3 explosives a copy of Federal Motor Carrier
✓ Class 3 (Flammable Liquids) Safety Regulations (FMCSR), Part 397. The carrier must
also give written instructions on what to do if delayed or in
✓ Class 4.1 (Flammable Solids) an accident. The written instructions must include:
✓ The names and telephone numbers of people to
✓ Class 4.2 (Spontaneously Combustible) contact (including carrier agents or shippers).

✓ Class 5 (Oxidizers) ✓ The nature of the explosives transported.

9.6.7 – Refuel with Engine Off ✓ The precautions to take in emergencies such as fires,
accidents, or leaks.
Turn off your engine before fueling a motor vehicle
containing hazardous materials. Someone must always be Drivers must sign a receipt for these documents.
at the nozzle, controlling fuel flow. You must be familiar with, and have in your possession
while driving, the:
✓ Shipping papers.
9.6.8 – 10 B C Fire Extinguisher
✓ Written emergency instructions.
The power unit of placarded vehicles must have a fire
extinguisher with a UL rating of 10 B:C or more. ✓ Written route plan.

Section 9 – Hazardous Materials 113

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

✓ A copy of FMCSR, Part 397. ✓ Call for help.

9.6.11 – Equipment for Chlorine ✓ Follow your employer's instructions.

A driver transporting chlorine in cargo tanks must have an 9.7.3 – Fires

approved gas mask in the vehicle. The driver must also
have an emergency kit for controlling leaks in dome cover You might have to control minor truck fires on the road.
plate fittings on the cargo tank. However, unless you have the training and equipment to
do so safely, don't fight hazardous materials fires. Dealing
9.6.12 – Stop before Railroad Crossings with hazardous materials fires requires special training and
protective gear.
Stop before a railroad crossing if your vehicle:
✓ Is placarded. When you discover a fire, call for help. You may use the
fire extinguisher to keep minor truck fires from spreading to
✓ Carries any amount of chlorine. cargo before firefighters arrive. Feel trailer doors to see if
they are hot before opening them. If hot, you may have a
✓ Has cargo tanks, whether loaded or empty used for cargo fire and should not open the doors. Opening doors
hazardous materials. lets air in and may make the fire flare up. Without air,
many fires only smolder until firemen arrive, doing less
You must stop 15 to 50 feet before the nearest rail. damage. If your cargo is already on fire, it is not safe to
Proceed only when you are sure no train is coming and fight the fire. Keep the shipping papers with you to give to
you can clear the tracks without stopping. Don't shift gears emergency personnel as soon as they arrive. Warn other
while crossing the tracks. people of the danger and keep them away.

If you discover a cargo leak, identify the hazardous

9.7 – Hazardous Materials -Emergencies materials leaking by using shipping papers, labels, or
package location. Do not touch any leaking material--many
9.7.1 – Emergency Response Guidebook people injure themselves by touching hazardous materials.
(ERG) Do not try to identify the material or find the source of a
leak by smell. Toxic gases can destroy your sense of smell
The Department of Transportation has a guidebook for and can injure or kill you even if they don't smell. Never
firefighters, police, and industry workers on how to protect eat, drink, or smoke around a leak or spill.
themselves and the public from hazardous materials. The
guide is indexed by proper shipping name and hazardous If hazardous materials are spilling from your vehicle, do
materials identification number. Emergency personnel look not move it any more than safety requires. You may move
for these things on the shipping paper. That is why it is off the road and away from places where people gather, if
vital that the proper shipping name, identification number, doing so serves safety. Only move your vehicle if you can
label, and placards are correct. do so without danger to yourself or others.

9.7.2 – Crashes/Incidents Never continue driving with hazardous materials leaking

from your vehicle in order to find a phone, truck stop, help,
As a professional driver, your job at the scene of a crash or similar reason. Remember, the carrier pays for the
or an incident is to: cleanup of contaminated parking lots, roadways, and
✓ Keep people away from the scene. drainage ditches. The costs are enormous, so don't leave
a lengthy trail of contamination. If hazardous materials are
✓ Limit the spread of material, only if you can safely do spilling from your vehicle:
so. ✓ Park it.

✓ Communicate the danger of the hazardous materials ✓ Secure the area.

to emergency response personnel.
✓ Stay there.
✓ Provide emergency responders with the shipping
papers and emergency response information. ✓ Call for help or send someone else for help.

Follow this checklist: When sending someone for help, give that person:
✓ Check to see that your driving partner is OK. ✓ A description of the emergency.

✓ Keep shipping papers with you. ✓ Your exact location and direction of travel.

✓ Keep people far away and upwind. ✓ Your name, the carrier's name, and the name of the
community or city where your terminal is located.
✓ Warn others of the danger.
114 Section 9 – Hazardous Materials
 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

✓ The proper shipping name, hazard class, and Class 4 (Flammable Solids) and Class 5
identification number of the hazardous materials, if you (Oxidizing Materials)
know them.
If a flammable solid or oxidizing material spills, warn others
This is a lot for someone to remember. It is a good idea to of the fire hazard. Do not open smoldering packages of
write it all down for the person you send for help. The flammable solids. Remove them from the vehicle if you
emergency response team must know these things to find can safely do so. Also, remove unbroken packages if it will
you and to handle the emergency. They may have to travel decrease the fire hazard.
miles to get to you. This information will help them to bring
the right equipment the first time, without having to go
back for it. Class 6 (Poisonous Materials and Infectious
Substances)
Never move your vehicle, if doing so will cause
contamination or damage the vehicle. Keep upwind and It is your job to protect yourself, other people, and property
away from roadside rests, truck stops, cafes, and from harm. Remember that many products classed as
businesses. Never try to repack leaking containers. Unless poison are also flammable. If you think a Division 2.3
you have the training and equipment to repair leaks safely, (Poison Gases) or Division 6.1 (Poison Materials) might be
don't try it. Call your dispatcher or supervisor for flammable, take the added precautions needed for
instructions and, if needed, emergency personnel. flammable liquids or gases. Do not allow smoking, open
flame, or welding. Warn others of the hazards of fire, of
9.7.4 – Responses to Specific Hazards inhaling vapors, or coming in contact with the poison.

A vehicle involved in a leak of Division 2.3 (Poison Gases)

Class 1 (Explosives) or Division 6.1 (Poisons) must be checked for stray poison
before being used again.
If your vehicle has a breakdown or accident while carrying
explosives, warn others of the danger. Keep bystanders If a Division 6.2 (Infectious Substances) package is
away. Do not allow smoking or open fire near the vehicle. damaged in handling or transportation, you should
If there is a fire, warn every one of the danger of explosion. immediately contact your supervisor. Packages that
appear to be damaged or show signs of leakage should
Remove all explosives before separating vehicles involved not be accepted.
in a collision. Place the explosives at least 200 feet from
the vehicles and occupied buildings. Stay a safe distance
away.
Class 7 (Radioactive Materials)
If radioactive material is involved in a leak or broken
Class 2 (Compressed Gases) package, tell your dispatcher or supervisor as soon as
possible. If there is a spill, or if an internal container might
If compressed gas is leaking from your vehicle, warn be damaged, do not touch or inhale the material. Do not
others of the danger. Only permit those involved in use the vehicle until it is cleaned and checked with a
removing the hazard or wreckage to get close. You must survey meter.
notify the shipper if compressed gas is involved in any
accident.
Class 8 (Corrosive Materials)
Unless you are fueling machinery used in road
construction or maintenance, do not transfer a flammable If corrosives spill or leak during transportation, be careful
compressed gas from one tank to another on any public to avoid further damage or injury when handling the
roadway. containers. Parts of the vehicle exposed to a corrosive
liquid must be thoroughly washed with water. After
unloading, wash out the interior as soon as possible before
Class 3 (Flammable Liquids) reloading.
If you are transporting a flammable liquid and have an If continuing to transport a leaking tank would be unsafe,
accident or your vehicle breaks down, prevent bystanders get off the road. If safe to do so, contain any liquid leaking
from gathering. Warn people of the danger. Keep them from the vehicle. Keep bystanders away from the liquid
from smoking. and its fumes. Do everything possible to prevent injury to
Never transport a leaking cargo tank farther than needed yourself and to others.
to reach a safe place. Get off the roadway if you can do so
safely. Don't transfer flammable liquid from one vehicle to
another on a public roadway except in an emergency.
9.7.5 – Required Notification
The National Response Center helps coordinate
emergency response to chemical hazards. It is a resource
to the police and firefighters. It maintains a 24-hour toll-
free line listed below. You or your employer must phone

Section 9 – Hazardous Materials 115

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

when any of the following occur as a direct result of a personnel with technical information about the physical
hazardous materials incident: properties of hazardous materials. The National Response
✓ A person is killed. Center and CHEMTREC are in close communication. If
you call either one, they will tell the other about the
✓ An injured person requires hospitalization. problem when appropriate.

✓ Estimated property damage exceeds $50,000. Do not leave radioactive yellow - II or yellow - III labeled
packages near people, animals, or film longer than shown
✓ The general public is evacuated for more than one in Figure 9.10.
hour.
Classes of Hazardous Materials
✓ One or more major transportation arteries or facilities
are closed for one hour or more. Hazardous materials are categorized into nine major
hazard classes and additional categories for consumer
✓ Fire, breakage, spillage, or suspected radioactive commodities and combustible liquids. The classes of
contamination occurs. hazardous materials are listed in Figure 9.11.

✓ Fire, breakage, spillage or suspected contamination

occur involving shipment of infectious substance(s) Radioactive Separation
(bacteria or toxins). Table A

Minimum Distance in Feet

Distance in Feet to
✓ The release of a marine pollutant in a quantity greater
to

People or Cargo
Transport Index
than 119 gallons for a liquid or 882 pounds for a solid;
Nearest Undeveloped Film

Compartment
or a situation exists of such a nature (e.g., continuing
danger to life exists at the scene of an incident) that, in

Partitions
Minimum
the judgment of the carrier, should be reported. Over
0-2 2-4 4-8 8-12
Total 12
Hrs. Hrs. Hrs. Hrs.
National Response Center: (800) 424-8802 Hrs.

Persons telephoning the National Response Center should None 0 0 0 0 0 0

be ready to give:
✓ Their name. 0.1 to 1.0 1 2 3 4 5 1
1.1 to 5.0 3 4 6 8 11 2
✓ Name and address of the carrier they work for.
5.1 to 10.0 4 6 9 11 15 3
✓ Phone number where they can be reached. 10.1 to 20.0 5 8 12 16 22 4
✓ Date, time, and location of incident. 20.1 to 30.0 7 10 15 20 29 5
30.1 to 40.0 8 11 17 22 33 6
✓ The extent of injuries, if any.
40.1 to 50.0 9 12 19 24 36 6
✓ Classification, name, and quantity of hazardous Figure 9.10
materials involved, if such information is available.
Hazard Class Definitions - Table B
✓ Type of incident and nature of hazardous materials Class Class Name Example
involvement and whether a continuing danger to life 1 Explosives
Ammunition, Dynamite,
exists at the scene. Fireworks
2 Gases Propane, Oxygen, Helium
✓ If a reportable quantity of hazardous substance was 3 Flammable Gasoline, Acetone
involved, the caller should give the name of the 4 Flammable Solids Matches, Fuses
shipper and the quantity of the hazardous substance Ammonium Nitrate, Hydrogen
5 Oxidizers
discharged. Peroxide
6 Poisons Pesticides, Arsenic
Be prepared to give your employer the required 7 Radioactive Uranium, Plutonium
information as well. Carriers must make detailed written 8 Corrosives Hydrochloric Acid, Battery Fluid
reports within 30 days of an incident. Miscellaneous
9 Formaldehyde, Asbestos
Hazardous Materials
CHEMTREC: (800) 424-9300 ORM-D (Other
None Regulated Material- Hair Spray or Charcoal
The Chemical Transportation Emergency Center Domestic)
(CHEMTREC) in Washington also has a 24-hour toll-free None Combustible Liquids Fuel Oils, Lighter Fluid
line. CHEMTREC was created to provide emergency Figure 9.11

116 Section 9 – Hazardous Materials

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

fittings, and closures (for "tank", see 49 CFR

Subsections 9.6 and 9.7 178.345-1(c), 178.337-1, or 178.338-1, as applicable);
Test Your Knowledge
✓ Is permanently attached to or forms a part of a motor
1. If your placarded trailer has dual tires, how often vehicle, or is not permanently attached to a motor
should you check the tires? vehicle but which, by reason of its size, construction,
or attachment to a motor vehicle is loaded or unloaded
2. What is a safe haven? without being removed from the motor vehicle; and

3. How close to the traveled part of the roadway can you ✓ Is not fabricated under a specification for cylinders,
park with Division 1.2 or 1.3 materials? portable tanks, tank cars, or multi-unit tank car tanks.

4. How close can you park to a bridge, tunnel, or building Carrier – A person who transports passengers or property
with the same load? in commerce by rail car, aircraft, motor vehicle or vessel.

5. What type of fire extinguisher must placarded vehicles Consignee – The business or person to whom a shipment
carry? is delivered.

6. You’re hauling 100 pounds of Division 4.3 (dangerous Division – A subdivision of a hazard class.
when wet) materials. Do you need to stop before a
railroad-highway crossing? EPA – U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

7. At a rest area you discover your hazardous materials FMCSR – The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations.
shipments slowly leaking from the vehicle. There is no
phone around. What should you do? Freight container – A reusable container having a volume
of 64 cubic feet or more, designed and constructed to
8. What is the Emergency Response Guide (ERG)? permit being lifted with its contents intact and intended
primarily for containment of packages (in unit form) during
These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer transportation.
them all, re-read subsections 9.6 and 9.7.
Fuel tank – A tank, other than a cargo tank, used to
transport flammable or combustible liquid or compressed
9.8 – Hazardous Materials Glossary gas for the purpose of supplying fuel for propulsion of the
transport vehicle to which it is attached, or for the
This glossary presents definitions of certain terms used in operation of other equipment on the transport vehicle.
this section. A complete glossary of terms can be found in
the federal Hazardous Materials Rules (49 CFR 171.8). Gross weight or gross mass – The weight of the
You should have an up-to-date copy of these rules for your packaging plus the weight of its contents.
reference.
Hazard class – The category of hazard assigned to a
(Note: You will not be tested on this glossary.) hazardous material under the definitional criteria of Part
173 and the provisions of the Sec. 172.101 Table. A
Sec. 171.8 Definitions and Abbreviations material may meet the defining criteria for more than one
hazard class but is assigned to only one hazard class.
Bulk packaging – Packaging, other than a vessel, or a
barge, including a transport vehicle or freight container, in Hazardous materials – A substance or material which
which hazardous materials are loaded with no intermediate has been determined by the Secretary of Transportation to
form of containment and which has: be capable of posing an unreasonable risk to health,
✓ A maximum capacity greater than 450 L (119 gallons) safety, and property when transported in commerce, and
as a receptacle for a liquid; which has been so designated. The term includes
hazardous substances, hazardous wastes, marine
✓ A maximum net mass greater than 400 kg (882 pollutants, elevated temperature materials and materials
pounds) or a maximum capacity greater than 450 L designated as hazardous in the hazardous materials table
(119 gallons) as a receptacle for a solid; or of §172.101, and materials that meet the defining criteria
for hazard classes and divisions in §173, subchapter c of
✓ A water capacity greater than 454 kg (1000 pounds) this chapter.
as a receptacle for a gas as defined in Sec. 173.115.
Hazardous substance - A material, including its mixtures
Cargo tank - A bulk packaging which: and solutions, that:
✓ Is a tank intended primarily for the carriage of liquids ✓ Is listed in Appendix A to Sec. 172.101;
or gases and includes appurtenances, reinforcements,

Section 9 – Hazardous Materials 117

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

✓ Is in a quantity, in one package, which equals or ✓ A water capacity greater than 454 kg (1,000 pounds)
exceeds the reportable quantity (RQ) listed in or less as a receptacle for a gas as defined in Sec.
Appendix A to Sec. 172.101; and 173.115;

✓ When in a mixture or solution - ✓ Regardless of the definition of bulk packaging, a

• For radionuclides, conforms to paragraph 7 of maximum net mass of 400 kg (882 pounds) or less for
Appendix A to Sec. 172.101. a bag or box conforming to the applicable
• For other than radionuclides, is in a concentration requirements for specification packaging, including the
by weight which equals or exceeds the maximum net mass limitations, provided in subpart L
concentration corresponding to the RQ of the of Part 178.
material, as shown in Figure 9.12.
N.O.S. - Not otherwise specified.
Hazardous Substance Concentrations
Outage or ullage – The amount by which a packaging
RQ Pounds Concentration by Weight falls short of being liquid full, usually expressed in percent
(Kilograms) by volume.
Percent PPM
5,000 (2,270) 10 100,000 PHMSA – The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety
Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation,
1,000 (454) 2 20,000 Washington, DC 20590.
100 (45.4) .2 2,000
10 (4.54) .02 200 Portable tank – Bulk packaging (except a cylinder having
a water capacity of 1,000 pounds or less) designed
1 (0.454) .002 20 primarily to be loaded onto, or on, or temporarily attached
Figure 9.12 to a transport vehicle or ship and equipped with skids,
mountings, or accessories to facilitate handling of the tank
This definition does not apply to petroleum products that by mechanical means. It does not include a cargo tank,
are lubricants or fuels (see 40 CFR 300.6). tank car, multi-unit tank car tank, or trailer carrying 3AX,
3AAX, or 3T cylinders.
Hazardous waste – Any material that is subject to the
Hazardous Waste Manifest Requirements of the U.S. Proper shipping name – The name of the hazardous
Environmental Protection Agency specified in 40 CFR Part materials shown in Roman print (not italics) in Sec.
262. 172.101.

Intermediate bulk container (IBC) – A rigid or flexible P.s.i. or psi – Pounds per square inch.
portable packaging, other than a cylinder or portable tank,
which is designed for mechanical handling. Standards for P.s.i.a. or psia – Pounds per square inch absolute.
IBCs manufactured in the United States are set forth in
subparts N and O Part 178. Reportable quantity (RQ) - The quantity specified in
Column 2 of the Appendix to Sec. 172.101 for any material
Limited quantity – The maximum amount of a hazardous identified in Column 1 of the Appendix.
material for which there may be specific labeling or
packaging exception. Shipper's certification – A statement on a shipping
paper, signed by the shipper, saying he/she prepared the
Marking – The descriptive name, identification number, shipment properly according to law. For example:
instructions, cautions, weight, specification, or UN marks ✓ "This is to certify that the above named materials are
or combinations thereof, required by this subchapter on properly classified, described, packaged, marked and
outer packaging of hazardous materials. labeled, and are in proper condition for transportation
according to the applicable regulations or the
Mixture – A material composed of more than one Department of Transportation."; or
chemical compound or element.
✓ I hereby declare that the contents of this consignment
Name of contents – The proper shipping name as are fully and accurately described above by the proper
specified in Sec. 172.101. shipping name and are classified, packaged, marked
and labeled/placarded, and are in all respects in
Non-bulk packaging - A packaging, which has: proper condition for transport according to applicable
✓ A maximum capacity of 450 L (119 gallons) as a international and national government regulations."
receptacle for a liquid;
Shipping paper – A shipping order, bill of lading,
✓ A maximum net mass less than 400 kg (882 pounds) manifest, or other shipping document serving a similar
and a maximum capacity of 450 L (119 gallons) or less purpose prepared in accordance with subpart C of Part
as a receptacle for a solid; 172.

118 Section 9 – Hazardous Materials

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Technical name – A recognized chemical name or

microbiological name currently used in scientific and
technical handbooks, journals, and texts.

Transport vehicle – A cargo-carrying vehicle such as an

automobile, van, tractor, truck, semi-trailer, tank car, or rail
car used for the transportation of cargo by any mode. Each
cargo-carrying body (trailer, rail car, etc.) is a separate
transport vehicle.

UN standard packaging – A specification packaging

conforming to the standards in the UN recommendations.

UN – United Nations.

Section 9 – Hazardous Materials 119

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Section 10 ✓ The rear tires touching the ground.

SCHOOL BUSES Figure 10.2 shows how both the outside left and right side
flat mirrors should be adjusted.
This Section Covers:

✓ Danger Zones and Use of Mirrors

✓ Loading and Unloading
✓ Emergency Exit and Evacuation
✓ Railroad-highway Grade Crossings
✓ Student Management
✓ Antilock Braking Systems
✓ Special Safety Considerations
Because state and local laws and regulations regulate so
much of school transportation and school bus operations,
many of the procedures in this section may differ from
state to state. You should be thoroughly familiar with the
laws and regulations in your state and local school district.

10.1 – Danger Zones and Use of Mirrors

10.1.1 – Danger Zones

The danger zone is the area on all sides of the bus where
children are in the most danger of being hit, either by
another vehicle or their own bus. The danger zones may
extend as much as 30 feet from the front bumper with the
first 10 feet being the most dangerous, 10 feet from the left
and right sides of the bus and 10 feet behind the rear
bumper of the school bus. In addition, the area to the left
of the bus is always considered dangerous because of
passing cars. Figure 10.1 illustrates these danger zones. Figure 10.1
10.1.4 – Outside Left and Right Side Convex
10.1.2 – Correct Mirror Adjustment Mirrors
Proper adjustment and use of all mirrors is vital to the safe The convex mirrors are located below the outside flat
operation of the school bus in order to observe the danger mirrors. They are used to monitor the left and right sides at
zone around the bus and look for students, traffic, and a wide angle. They provide a view of traffic, clearances,
other objects in this area. You should always check each and students at the side of the bus. These mirrors present
mirror before operating the school bus to obtain maximum a view of people and objects that does not accurately
viewing area. If necessary, have the mirrors adjusted. reflect their size and distance from the bus.

10.1.3 – Outside Left and Right Side Flat You should position these mirrors to see:
✓ The entire side of the bus up to the mirror mounts.
Mirrors
✓ Front of the rear tires touching the ground.
These mirrors are mounted at the left and right front ✓ At least one traffic lane on either side of the bus.
corners of the bus at the side or front of the windshield.
They are used to monitor traffic, check clearances and Figure 10.3 shows how both the outside left and right side
students on the sides and to the rear of the bus. There is a convex mirrors should be adjusted.
blind spot immediately below and in front of each mirror
and directly in back of the rear bumper. The blind spot
behind the bus extends 50 to 150 feet and could extend up
to 400 feet depending on the length and width of the bus.
Ensure that the mirrors are properly adjusted so you can
see:
✓ 200 feet or 4 bus lengths behind the bus.

✓ Along the sides of the bus.

Section 10 – School Buses 121

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Ensure that the mirrors are properly adjusted so you can

see:
✓ The entire area in front of the bus from the front
bumper at ground level to a point where direct vision is
possible. Direct vision and mirror view vision should
overlap.

✓ The right and left front tires touching the ground.

✓ The area from the front of the bus to the service door.

✓ These mirrors, along with the convex and flat mirrors,

should be viewed in a logical sequence to ensure that
a child or object is not in any of the danger zones.

Figure 10.4 illustrates how the left and right side crossover
mirrors should be adjusted.

Figure 10.2

Figure 10.4

10.1.6 – Overhead Inside Rearview Mirror

This mirror is mounted directly above the windshield on the
driver’s side area of the bus. This mirror is used to monitor
passenger activity inside the bus. It may provide limited
visibility directly in back of the bus if the bus is equipped
with a glass-bottomed rear emergency door.
Figure 10.3
There is a blind spot area directly behind the driver’s seat
10.1.5 – Outside Left and Right Side as well as a large blind spot area that begins at the rear
Crossover Mirrors bumper and could extend up to 400 feet or more behind
the bus. You must use the exterior side mirrors to monitor
These mirrors are mounted on both left and right front traffic that approaches and enters this area.
corners of the bus. They are used to see the front bumper
“danger zone” area directly in front of the bus that is not You should position the mirror to see:
visible by direct vision, and to view the “danger zone” area ✓ The top of the rear window in the top of the mirror.
to the left side and the right side of the bus, including the
service door and front wheel area. The mirror presents a ✓ All of the students, including the heads of the students
view of people and objects that does not accurately reflect right behind you.
their size and distance from the bus. The driver must
ensure that these mirrors are properly adjusted.

122 Section 10 – School Buses

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

10.2 – Loading and Unloading ✓ Place transmission in Park, or if there is no Park shift
point, in Neutral and set the parking brake at each
More students are killed while getting on or off a school stop.
bus each year than are killed as passengers inside of a
school bus. As a result, knowing what to do before, during, ✓ Activate alternating red lights when traffic is a safe
and after loading or unloading students is critical. This distance from the school bus and ensure stop arm is
section will give you specific procedures to help you avoid extended.
unsafe conditions which could result in injuries and
fatalities during and after loading and unloading students. ✓ Make a final check to see that all traffic has stopped
before completely opening the door and signaling
The information in this section is intended to provide a students to approach.
broad overview, but is not a definitive set of actions. It is
imperative that you learn and obey the state laws and 10.2.2 – Loading Procedures
regulations governing loading/unloading operations in your
state. ✓ Perform a safe stop as described in subsection 10.2.1.

10.2.1 – Approaching the Stop ✓ Students should wait in a designated location for the
school bus, facing the bus as it approaches.
Each school district establishes official routes and official
school bus stops. All stops should be approved by the ✓ Students should board the bus only when signaled by
school district prior to making the stop. You should never the driver.
change the location of a bus stop without written approval
from the appropriate school district official. ✓ Monitor all mirrors continuously.

You must use extreme caution when approaching a school ✓ Count the number of students at the bus stop and be
bus stop. You are in a very demanding situation when sure all board the bus. If possible, know names of
entering these areas. It is critical that you understand and students at each stop. If there is a student missing,
follow all state and local laws and regulations regarding ask the other students where the student is.
approaching a school bus stop. This would involve the
proper use of mirrors, alternating flashing lights, and when ✓ Have the students board the school bus slowly, in
equipped, the moveable stop signal arm and crossing single file, and use the handrail. The dome light should
control arm. be on while loading in the dark.

When approaching the stop, you should: ✓ Wait until students are seated and facing forward
✓ Approach cautiously at a slow rate of speed. before moving the bus.

✓ Look for pedestrians, traffic, or other objects before, ✓ Check all mirrors. Make certain no one is running to
during, and after coming to a stop. catch the bus.

✓ Continuously check all mirrors. ✓ If you cannot account for a student outside, secure the
bus, take the key, and check around and underneath
✓ If the school bus is so equipped, activate alternating the bus.
flashing amber warning lights at least 200 feet or
approximately 5-10 seconds before the school bus ✓ When all students are accounted for, prepare to leave
stop or in accordance with state law. by:
• Closing the door.
✓ Turn on right turn signal indicator about 100-300 feet • Engaging the transmission.
or approximately 3-5 seconds before pulling over. • Releasing the parking brake.
• Turning off alternating flashing red lights.
✓ Continuously check mirrors to monitor the danger • Turning on left turn signal.
zones for students, traffic, and other objects. • Checking all mirrors again.
• Allowing congested traffic to disperse.
✓ Move as far as possible to the right on the traveled
portion of the roadway. ✓ When it is safe, move the bus to enter traffic flow and
continue the route.
When stopping you should:
✓ Bring school bus to a full stop with the front bumper at The loading procedure is essentially the same wherever
least 10 feet away from students at the designated you load students, but there are slight differences. When
stop. This forces the students to walk to the bus so students are loading at the school campus, you should:
you have a better view of their movements. ✓ Turn off the ignition switch.

✓ Remove key if leaving driver’s compartment.

Section 10 – School Buses 123
2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

✓ Position yourself to supervise loading as required or When students reach the edge of the roadway, they
recommended by your state or local regulations. should:
✓ Stop and look in all directions, making sure the
10.2.3 – Unloading Procedures on the Route roadway is clear and is safe.

✓ Perform a safe stop at designated unloading areas as ✓ Check to see if the red flashing lights on the bus are
described in subsection 10.2.1. still flashing.

✓ Have the students remain seated until told to exit. ✓ Wait for your signal before crossing the roadway.

✓ Check all mirrors. Upon your signal, the students should:

✓ Cross far enough in front of the school bus to be in
✓ Count the number of students while unloading to your view.
confirm the location of all students before pulling away
from the stop. ✓ Stop at the left edge of the school bus, stop, and look
again for your signal to continue to cross the roadway.
✓ Tell students to exit the bus and walk at least 10 feet
away from the side of the bus to a position where the ✓ Look for traffic in both directions, making sure roadway
driver can plainly see all students. is clear.

✓ Check all mirrors again. Make sure no students are ✓ Proceed across the roadway, continuing to look in all
around or returning to the bus. directions.

✓ If you cannot account for a student outside the bus, Note: The school bus driver should enforce any state or
secure the bus, and check around and underneath the local regulations or recommendations concerning student
bus. actions outside the school bus.

✓ When all students are accounted for, prepare to leave 10.2.4 – Unloading Procedures at School
by:
State and local laws and regulations regarding unloading
• Closing the door.
students at schools, particularly in situations where such
• Engaging transmission. activities take place in the school parking lot or other
• Releasing parking brake. location that is off the traveled roadway, are often different
• Turning off alternating flashing red lights. than unloading along the school bus route. It is important
• Turning on left turn signal. that the school bus driver understands and obeys state
• Checking all mirrors again. and local laws and regulations. The following procedures
• Allowing congested traffic to disperse. are meant to be general guidelines.

✓ When it is safe, move the bus, enter the traffic flow When unloading at the school you should follow these
and continue the route. procedures:
✓ Perform a safe stop at designated unloading areas as
Note. If you have missed a student’s unloading stop, do described in subsection 10.2.1.
not back up. Be sure to follow local procedures.
✓ Secure the bus by:
Additional Procedures for Students That • Turning off the ignition switch.
Must Cross the Roadway • Removing key if leaving driver’s compartment.

You should understand what students should do when ✓ Have the students remain seated until told to exit.
exiting a school bus and crossing the street in front of the
bus. In addition, the school bus driver should understand ✓ Position yourself to supervise unloading as required or
that students might not always do what they are supposed recommended by your state or local regulations.
to do. If a student or students must cross the roadway,
they should follow these procedures: ✓ Have students exit in orderly fashion.
✓ Walk approximately 10 feet away from the side of the
school bus to a position where you can see them. ✓ Observe students as they step from bus to see that all
move promptly away from the unloading area.
✓ Walk to a location at least 10 feet in front of the right
corner of the bumper, but still remaining away from the ✓ Walk through the bus and check for hiding/sleeping
front of the school bus. students and items left by students.

✓ Stop at the right edge of the roadway. You should be ✓ Check all mirrors. Make certain no students are
able to see the student’s feet. returning to the bus.

124 Section 10 – School Buses

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

✓ If you cannot account for a student outside the bus ✓ Damage or vandalism.
and the bus is secure, check around and underneath
the bus. Any problems or special situations should be reported
immediately to your supervisor or school authorities.
✓ When all students are accounted for, prepare to leave
by: 10.3 – Emergency Exit and Evacuation
• Closing the door.
• Fastening safety belt. An emergency situation can happen to anyone, anytime,
• Starting engine. anywhere. It could be a crash, a stalled school bus on a
• Engaging the transmission. railroad-highway crossing or in a high-speed intersection,
• Releasing the parking brake. an electrical fire in the engine compartment, a medical
• Turning off alternating flashing red lights. emergency to a student on the school bus, etc. Knowing
• Turning on left turn signal. what to do in an emergency–before, during and after an
• Checking all mirrors again. evacuation–can mean the difference between life and
• Allowing congested traffic to disperse. death.

✓ When it is safe, pull away from the unloading area. 10.3.1 – Planning for Emergencies

10.2.5 – Special Dangers of Loading and Determine Need to Evacuate Bus

Unloading
The first and most important consideration is for you to
recognize the hazard. If time permits, school bus drivers
Dropped or Forgotten Objects should contact their dispatcher to explain the situation
before making a decision to evacuate the school bus.
Always focus on students as they approach the bus and
watch for any who disappear from sight.
As a general rule, student safety and control is best
maintained by keeping students on the bus during an
Students may drop an object near the bus during loading
emergency and/or impending crisis situation, if so doing
and unloading. Stopping to pick up the object or returning
does not expose them to unnecessary risk or injury.
to pick up the object may cause the student to disappear
Remember, the decision to evacuate the bus must be a
from the driver’s sight at a very dangerous moment.
timely one.
Students should be told to leave any dropped object and
A decision to evacuate should include consideration of the
move to a point of safety out of the danger zones and
following conditions:
attempt to get the driver’s attention to retrieve the object.
✓ Is there a fire or danger of fire?
Handrail Hang-ups ✓ Is there a smell of raw or leaking fuel?
Students have been injured or killed when clothing, ✓ Is there a chance the bus could be hit by other
accessories, or even parts of their body get caught in the vehicles?
handrail or door as they exited the bus. You should closely
observe all students exiting the bus to confirm that they ✓ Is the bus in the path of a sighted tornado or rising
are in a safe location prior to moving the bus. waters?

10.2.6 – Post-trip Inspection ✓ Are there downed power lines?

When your route or school activity trip is finished, you ✓ Would removing students expose them to speeding
should conduct a post-trip inspection of the bus. traffic, severe weather, or a dangerous environment
such as downed power lines?
You should walk through the bus and around the bus
looking for the following: ✓ Would moving students complicate injuries such as
✓ Articles left on the bus. neck and back injuries and fractures?

✓ Sleeping students. ✓ Is there a hazardous spill involved? Sometimes, it may

be safer to remain on the bus and not come in contact
✓ Open windows and doors. with the material.

✓ Mechanical/operational problems with the bus, with Mandatory Evacuations

special attention to items that are unique to school
buses – mirror systems, flashing warning lamps and The driver must evacuate the bus when:
stop signal arms. ✓ The bus is on fire or there is a threat of a fire.

Section 10 – School Buses 125

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

✓ The bus is stalled on or adjacent to a railroad-highway • Shutting off the engine.

crossing. • Removing ignition key.
• Activating hazard-warning lights.
✓ The position of the bus may change and increase the
danger. ✓ If time allows, notify dispatch office of evacuation
location, conditions, and type of assistance needed.
✓ There is an imminent danger of collision.
✓ Dangle radio microphone or telephone out of driver’s
✓ There is a need to quickly evacuate because of a window for later use, if operable.
hazardous materials spill.
✓ If no radio, or radio is inoperable, dispatch a passing
10.3.2 – Evacuation Procedures motorist or area resident to call for help. As a last
resort, dispatch two older, responsible students to go
Be Prepared and Plan Ahead for help.
• Order the evacuation.
When possible, assign two responsible, older student • Evacuate students from the bus.
assistants to each emergency exit. Teach them how to • Do not move a student you believe may have
assist the other students off the bus. Assign another suffered a neck or spinal injury unless his or her
student assistant to lead the students to a “safe place” life is in immediate danger.
after evacuation. However, you must recognize that there • Special procedures must be used to move neck
may not be older, responsible students on the bus at the spinal injury victims to prevent further injury.
time of the emergency. Therefore, emergency evacuation
procedures must be explained to all students. This ✓ Direct a student assistant to lead students to the
includes knowing how to operate the various emergency nearest safe place.
exits and the importance of listening to and following all
instructions given by you. ✓ Walk through the bus to ensure no students remain on
the bus. Retrieve emergency equipment.
Some tips to determine a safe place:
✓ A safe place will be at least 100 feet off the road in the ✓ Join waiting students. Account for all students and
direction of oncoming traffic. This will keep the check for their safety.
students from being hit by debris if another vehicle
collides with the bus. ✓ Protect the scene. Set out emergency warning devices
as necessary and appropriate.
✓ Lead students upwind of the bus if fire is present.
✓ Prepare information for emergency responders.
✓ Lead students as far away from railroad tracks as
possible and in the direction of any oncoming train. 10.4 – Railroad-highway Crossings
✓ Lead students upwind of the bus at least 300 feet if
there is a risk from spilled hazardous materials. 10.4.1 – Types of Crossings

If the bus is in the direct path of a sighted tornado and Passive Crossings
evacuation is ordered, escort students to a nearby ditch or
culvert if shelter in a building is not readily available, and This type of crossing does not have any type of traffic
direct them to lie face down, hands covering their head. control device. You must stop at these crossings and
They should be far enough away so the bus cannot topple follow proper procedures. However, the decision to
on them. Avoid areas that are subject to flash floods. proceed rests entirely in your hands. Passive crossings
require you to recognize the crossing, search for any train
General Procedures using the tracks and decide if there is sufficient clear
space to cross safely. Passive crossings have yellow
✓ Determine if evacuation is in the best interest of safety. circular advance warning signs, pavement markings and
cross-bucks to assist you in recognizing a crossing.
✓ Determine the best type of evacuation:
• Front, rear or side door evacuation, or some Active Crossings
combination of doors.
• Roof or window evacuation. This type of crossing has a traffic control device installed
at the crossing to regulate traffic at the crossing. These
✓ Secure the bus by: active devices include flashing red lights, with or without
• Placing transmission in Park, or if there is no shift bells and flashing red lights with bells and gates.
point, in Neutral.
• Setting parking brakes.

126 Section 10 – School Buses

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

10.4.2 – Warning Signs and Devices the pavement, you must stop the bus before the cross-
buck sign. When the road crosses over more than one set
Advance Warning Signs of tracks, a sign below the cross-buck indicates the
number of tracks. See Figure 10.7.
The round, black-on-yellow warning sign is placed ahead
of a public railroad-highway crossing. The advance
warning sign tells you to slow down, look and listen for the
train, and be prepared to stop at the tracks if a train is
coming. See Figure 10.5.

Figure 10.7
Figure 10.5
Flashing Red Light Signals
Pavement Markings At many highway-rail grade crossings, the cross-buck sign
has flashing red lights and bells. When the lights begin to
Pavement markings mean the same as the advance
flash, stop! A train is approaching. You are required to
warning sign. They consist of an “X” with the letters “”RR”
yield the right-of-way to the train. If there is more than one
and a no-passing marking on two-lane roads.
track, make sure all tracks are clear before crossing. See
Figure 10.8.
There is also a no passing zone sign on two-lane roads.
There may be a white stop line painted on the pavement
before the railroad tracks. The front of the school bus must
remain behind this line while stopped at the crossing. See
Figure 10.6.

Figure 10.8
Figure 10.6
Gates
Many railroad-highway crossings have gates with flashing
Cross-buck Signs red lights and bells. Stop when the lights begin to flash and
before the gate lowers across the road lane. Remain
This sign marks the crossing. It requires you to yield the stopped until the gates go up and the lights have stopped
right-of-way to the train. If there is no white line painted on flashing. Proceed when it is safe. If the gate stays down

Section 10 – School Buses 127

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

after the train passes, do not drive around the gate. ✓ If the gate comes down after you have started across,
Instead, call your dispatcher. See Figure 10.8. drive through it even if it means you will break the
gate.
10.4.3 – Recommended Procedures
10.4.4 – Special Situations
Each state has laws and regulations governing how school
buses must operate at railroad-highway crossings. It is Bus Stalls or Trapped on Tracks
important for you to understand and obey these state laws
and regulations. In general, school buses must stop at all If your bus stalls or is trapped on the tracks, get everyone
crossings, and ensure it is safe before proceeding across out and off the tracks immediately. Move everyone far from
the tracks. The specific procedures required in each state the bus at an angle, which is both away from the tracks
vary. and toward the train.

A school bus is one of the safest vehicles on the highway. Police Officer at the Crossing
However, a school bus does not have the slightest edge
when involved in a crash with a train. Because of a train’s If a police officer is at the crossing, obey directions. If there
size and weight, it cannot stop quickly. An emergency is no police officer, and you believe the signal is
escape route does not exist for a train. You can prevent malfunctioning, call your dispatcher to report the situation
school bus/train crashes by following these recommended and ask for instructions on how to proceed.
procedures.

Approaching the Crossing: Obstructed View of Tracks

✓ Slow down, including shifting to a lower gear in a
manual transmission bus, and test your brakes. Plan your route so it provides maximum sight distance at
highway-rail grade crossings. Do not attempt to cross the
✓ Activate hazard lights approximately 200 feet before tracks unless you can see far enough down the track to
the crossing. Make sure your intentions are known. know for certain that no trains are approaching. Passive
crossings are those that do not have any type of traffic
✓ Scan your surroundings and check for traffic behind control device. Be especially careful at “passive”
you. crossings. Even if there are active railroad signals that
indicate the tracks are clear, you must look and listen to be
✓ Stay to the right of the roadway if possible. sure it is safe to proceed.
Containment or Storage Areas
✓ Choose an escape route in the event of a brake failure
or problems behind you. If it won’t fit, don’t commit! Know the length of your bus
and the size of the containment area at highway-rail
At the Crossing: crossings on the school bus route, as well as any crossing
✓ Stop no closer than 15 feet and no farther than 50 feet you encounter in the course of a school activity trip. When
from the nearest rail, where you have the best view of approaching a crossing with a signal or stop sign on the
the tracks. opposite side, pay attention to the amount of room there.
Be certain the bus has enough containment or storage
✓ Place the transmission in Park, or if there is no Park area to completely clear the railroad tracks on the other
shift point, in Neutral and press down on the service side if there is a need to stop. As a general rule, add 15
brake or set the parking brakes. feet to the length of the school bus to determine an
acceptable amount of containment or storage area.
✓ Turn off all radios and noisy equipment and silence the
passengers. 10.5 – Student Management
✓ Open the service door and driver’s window. Look and 10.5.1 – Don’t Deal with On-bus Problems
listen for an approaching train. When Loading and Unloading
Crossing the Track: In order to get students to and from school safely and on
✓ Check the crossing signals again before proceeding. time, you need to be able to concentrate on the driving
task.
✓ At a multiple-track crossing, stop only before the first
set of tracks. When you are sure no train is Loading and unloading requires all your concentration.
approaching on any track, proceed across all of the Don’t take your eyes off what is happening outside the
tracks until you have completely cleared them. bus.
✓ Cross the tracks in a low gear. Do not change gears If there is a behavior problem on the bus, wait until the
while crossing. students unloading are safely off the bus and have moved

128 Section 10 – School Buses

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

away. If necessary, pull the bus over to handle the you should be able to steer around an obstacle while
problem. braking, and avoid skids caused by over braking.

10.5.2 – Handling Serious Problems 10.6.3 – Braking with ABS

Tips on handling serious problems: When you drive a vehicle with ABS, you should brake as
✓ Follow your school’s procedures for discipline or you always have. In other words:
refusal of rights to ride the bus. ✓ Use only the braking force necessary to stop safely
and stay in control.
✓ Stop the bus. Park in a safe location off the road,
perhaps a parking lot or a driveway. ✓ Brake the same way, regardless of whether you have
ABS on the bus. However, in emergency braking, do
✓ Secure the bus. Take the ignition key with you if you not pump the brakes on a bus with ABS.
leave your seat.
✓ As you slow down, monitor your bus and back off the
✓ Stand up and speak respectfully to the offender or brakes (if it is safe to do so) to stay in control.
offenders. Speak in a courteous manner with a firm
voice. Remind the offender of the expected behavior. 10.6.4 – Braking if ABS is Not Working
Do not show anger, but do show that you mean
business. Without ABS, you still have normal brake functions. Drive
and brake as you always have.
✓ If a change of seating is needed, request that the
student move to a seat near you. Vehicles with ABS have yellow malfunction lamps to tell
you if something is not working. The yellow ABS
Never put a student off the bus except at school or at his malfunction lamp is on the bus’s instrument panel.
or her designated school bus stop. If you feel that the
offense is serious enough that you cannot safely drive the As a system check on newer vehicles, the malfunction
bus, call for a school administrator or the police to come lamp comes on at start-up for a bulb check and then goes
and remove the student. Always follow your state or local out quickly. On older systems, the lamp could stay on until
procedures for requesting assistance. you are driving over five mph.

10.6 – Antilock Braking Systems If the lamp stays on after the bulb check, or goes on once
you are under way, you may have lost ABS control at one
10.6.1 – Vehicles Required to Have Antilock or more wheels.
Braking Systems
Remember, if your ABS malfunctions, you still have
The Department of Transportation requires that antilock regular brakes. Drive normally, but get the system serviced
braking systems be on: soon.
✓ Air brakes vehicles, (trucks, buses, trailers and
converter dollies) built on or after March 1, 1998. 10.6.5 – Safety Reminders
✓ Hydraulically braked trucks and buses with a gross
vehicle weight rating of 10,000 lbs or more built on or ✓ ABS won’t allow you to drive faster, follow more
after March 1, 1999. closely, or drive less carefully.

Many buses built before these dates have been voluntarily ✓ ABS won’t prevent power or turning skids. ABS
equipped with ABS. should prevent brake-induced skids but not those
caused by spinning the drive wheels or going too fast
Your school bus will have a yellow ABS malfunction lamp in a turn.
on the instrument panel if it is equipped with ABS.
✓ ABS won’t necessarily shorten stopping distance. ABS
10.6.2 – How ABS Helps You will help maintain vehicle control, but not always
shorten stopping distance.
When you brake hard on slippery surfaces in a vehicle
without ABS, your wheels may lock up. When your ✓ ABS won’t increase or decrease ultimate stopping
steering wheels lock up, you lose steering control. When power. ABS is an “add-on” to your normal brakes, not
your other wheels lock up, you may skid or even spin the a replacement for them.
vehicle.
✓ ABS won’t change the way you normally brake. Under
ABS helps you avoid wheel lock up and maintain control. normal brake conditions, your vehicle will stop as it
You may or may not be able to stop faster with ABS, but always stopped. ABS only comes into play when a
wheel would normally have locked up because of over
braking.
Section 10 – School Buses 129
2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

✓ ABS won’t compensate for bad brakes or poor brake ✓ Back slowly and smoothly.
maintenance.
✓ If no lookout is available:
Remember • Set the parking brake.
• Turn off the motor and take the keys with you.
✓ The best vehicle safety feature is still a safe driver. • Walk to the rear of the bus to determine whether
the way is clear.
✓ Drive so you never need to use your ABS.
✓ If you must back-up at a student pick-up point, be sure
✓ If you need it, ABS could help to prevent a serious to pick up students before backing and watch for late
crash. comers at all times.

10.7 – Special Safety Considerations ✓ Be sure that all students are in the bus before backing.

✓ If you must back-up at a student drop-off point, be sure

10.7.1 – Strobe Lights to unload students after backing.
Some school buses are equipped with roof-mounted, white
strobe lights. If your bus is so equipped, the overhead
10.7.4 – Tail Swing
strobe light should be used when you have limited
visibility. This means that you cannot easily see around A school bus can have up to a three-foot tail swing. You
you – in front, behind, or beside the school bus. Your need to check your mirrors before and during any turning
visibility could be only slightly limited or it could be so bad movements to monitor the tail swing.
that you can see nothing at all. In all instances, understand
and obey your state or local regulations concerning the Section 10
use of these lights. Test Your Knowledge
10.7.2 – Driving in High Winds 1. Define the danger zone. How far does the danger
zone extend around the bus?
Strong winds affect the handling of the school bus! The
side of a school bus acts like a sail on a sailboat. Strong 2. What should you be able to see if the outside flat
winds can push the school bus sideways. They can even mirrors are adjusted properly? The outside convex
move the school bus off the road or, in extreme conditions, mirrors? The crossover mirrors?
tip it over.
3. You are loading students along the route. When
If you are caught in strong winds: should you activate your alternating flashing amber
✓ Keep a strong grip on the steering wheel. Try to warning lights?
anticipate gusts.
4. You are unloading students along your route. Where
✓ You should slow down to lessen the effect of the wind, should students walk to after exiting the bus?
or pull off the roadway and wait.
5. After unloading at school, why should you walk
✓ Contact your dispatcher to get more information on through the bus?
how to proceed.
6. What position should students be in front of the bus
10.7.3 – Backing before they cross the roadway?

Backing a school bus is strongly discouraged. You should 7. Under what conditions must you evacuate the bus?
back your bus only when you have no other safe way to
move the vehicle. You should never back a school bus 8. How far from the nearest rail should you stop at a
when students are outside of the bus. Backing is highway-rail crossing?
dangerous and increases your risk of a collision. If you
have no choice and you must back your bus, follow these 9. What is a passive highway-rail crossing? Why should
procedures: you be extra cautious at this type of crossing?
✓ Post a lookout. The purpose of the lookout is to warn
you about obstacles, approaching persons, and other 10. How should you use your brakes if your vehicle is
vehicles. The lookout should not give directions on equipped with antilock brakes (ABS)?
how to back the bus.
These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer
✓ Signal for quiet on the bus. them all, re-read Section 10.

✓ Constantly check all mirrors and rear windows.

130 Section 10 – School Buses

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Engine Compartment Belts

Section 11
Vehicle Inspection Test Check the following belts for snugness (1/2 to 3/4 inch play
at center of belt), cracks, frays, loose fibers or signs of
wear:
This Section Covers: ✓ Power steering belt.
✓ Internal Inspection ✓ Water pump belt.
✓ External Inspection
✓ Alternator belt.
During the Vehicle inspection, you must show that the
vehicle is safe to drive. You will have to walk around the ✓ Air compressor belt.
vehicle, name and point to/ touch each item and explain to
the examiner what you are checking and why. Any vehicle Note: If any of the components listed above are not belt
that has components marked or labeled cannot be used driven, you must:
for the Vehicle Inspection test. ✓ Tell the examiner which component(s) are not belt
driven.
11.1 All Vehicles
✓ Make sure component(s) are operating properly, are
Study the following vehicle parts for the type of vehicle you not damaged or leaking, and are mounted securely.
will be using during the CDL skills tests. You should be
able to identify each part and tell the examiner what you Safe Start
are looking for or inspecting.
✓ Place gearshift lever in neutral (or park, for automatic
11.1.1 Engine Compartment (Engine Off) transmissions).

Leaks/Hoses ✓ Depress clutch before attempting to start the vehicle

✓ Look for puddles on the ground. ✓ Start the vehicle and keep clutch depressed until
engine reaches idling speed.
✓ Look for dripping fluids on underside of engine and
transmission. ✓ Then release clutch slowly.

✓ Inspect hoses for condition and leaks. 11.1.2 – Cab Check/Engine Start
Oil Level Oil Pressure Gauge
✓ Check oil level when engine is off. ✓ Make sure oil pressure gauge is working.

✓ Indicate where dipstick is located. ✓ Check that pressure gauge shows increasing or
normal oil pressure or that the warning light goes off.
✓ Check that the oil level is within safe operating range.
Level must be above refill mark. ✓ If equipped, oil temperature gauge should begin a
gradual rise to the normal operating range.
Coolant Level
Temperature Gauge
✓ Inspect reservoir sight glass, or
✓ Make sure the temperature gauge is working.
✓ (If engine is not hot), remove radiator cap and check for
visible coolant level. ✓ Temperature should begin to climb to the normal
operating range or temperature light should be off.
Power Steering Fluid
Air Gauge
✓ Check the dipstick and see where the fluid level is
relative to the refill mark or checks sight glass. Level ✓ Check that the air gauge is working properly and that
must be above refill mark. the air compressor builds the air pressure to governor
cut-out at approximately 120-140 psi or as specified by
manufacturer.

Section 11 – Vehicle Inspection Test 131

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Ammeter/Voltmeter Note: Checks of brake, turn signal and four-way flasher

functions must be done separately.
✓ Check that gauges show alternator and/or generator is
charging or that warning light is off. Horn

Mirrors and Windshield ✓ Check that air horn and/or electric horn work.

✓ Mirrors should be clean and adjusted properly from the Heater/Defroster

inside.
✓ Test that the heater and defroster work.
✓ Windshield should be clean with no illegal stickers, no
obstructions, or damage to the glass. Parking Brake Check
Emergency Equipment ✓ With air pressure built to governor cutout and the
parking brake engaged (trailer brakes released on
✓ Check for spare electrical fuses. combination vehicles), check that the parking brake
will hold vehicle by gently trying to pull forward with
✓ Check for three red reflective triangles and 6 fuses or parking brake on.
3 liquid burning flares.
✓ With air pressure built to governor cutout, the parking
✓ Check that the fire extinguisher is properly charged brake released and the trailer parking brake engaged
and securely mounted. (combination vehicles only), check that the trailer
parking brake will hold vehicle by gently trying to pull
Note: If the vehicle is not equipped with electrical fuses, forward with the trailer parking brake on.
you must mention this to the examiner.
Hydraulic Brake Check
Wipers/Washers
✓ Pump the brake pedal three times, then hold it down
✓ Check that wiper arms and blades are secure, not for five seconds. The brake pedal should not move
damaged, and operate smoothly. (depress) during the five seconds.

✓ If equipped, windshield washers must operate ✓ If equipped with a hydraulic brake reserve (back-up)
correctly. system, with the key off, depress the brake pedal and
listen for the sound of the reserve system electric
Lights/Reflectors/Reflector Tape Condition motor.
(Sides & Rear)
✓ Check that the warning buzzer or light is off.
✓ Test that dash indicators work when corresponding
lights are turned on: Air Brake Check (Air Brake Equipped
• Left turn signal. Vehicles Only)
• Right turn signal.
• Four-way emergency flashers. Failure to perform all three components of the air brake
• High beam headlight. check correctly will result in an automatic failure of the
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) indicator. vehicle inspection test. Air brake safety devices vary.
However, this procedure is designed to see that any safety
✓ Check that all external lights and reflective equipment device operates correctly as air pressure drops from
are clean and functional and none or broken or normal to a low air condition. For safety purposes, in areas
missing. Light and reflector checks include verification where an incline is present, you will use wheel chocks
of correct color: during the air brake check. The proper procedures for
• Clearance lights (red on rear, amber elsewhere). inspecting the air brake system are as follows:
• Headlights (high and low beams). ✓ With the air pressure built up to governor cutoff (120 –
140 psi), shut off the engine leaving the key in the
• Taillights.
“on” or “battery charge” position, chock your wheels if
• Backing lights.
necessary, release the parking brake (all vehicles),
• Turn signals. and the tractor protection valve (combination vehicle)
• Four-way flashers. and fully apply the foot brake. Hold the foot brake for
• Brake lights. one minute. Check the air gauge to see if the air
• Red reflectors (on rear) and amber reflectors pressure drops more than three pounds in one minute
(elsewhere). (single vehicle) or four pounds in one minute
• Reflector tape condition (combination vehicle).

132 Section 11 – Vehicle Inspection Test

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

✓ Begin fanning off the air pressure by rapidly applying Mounts

and releasing the foot brake. Low air warning devices
(buzzer, light, flag) should activate before air pressure ✓ Look for cracked or broken spring hangers, missing or
drops below 55 psi or level specified by the damaged bushings, and broken, loose, or missing
manufacturer. bolts, u-bolts or other axle mounting parts. (The
mounts should be checked at each point where they
✓ Continue to fan off the air pressure. At approximately are secured to the vehicle frame and axle[s]).
40 psi on a tractor-trailer combination vehicle (or level
specified by the manufacturer), the tractor protection Shock Absorbers
valve and parking brake valve should close (pop out).
On other combination vehicle types and single vehicle ✓ See that shock absorbers are secure and that there
types, the parking brake valve should close (pop out). are no leaks.

Service Brake Check Note: Be prepared to perform the same suspension

components inspection on every axle (power unit and
You will be required to check the application of air or trailer, if equipped).
hydraulic service brakes. This procedure is designed to
determine that the brakes are working correctly and that 11.2.3 – Brakes
the vehicle does not pull to one side or the other.

Pull forward at 5 mph, apply the service brake and stop. Slack Adjustors and Pushrods
Check to see that the vehicle does not pull to either side
and that it stops when brake is applied. ✓ Look for broken, loose, or missing parts.

✓ For manual slack adjustors, the brake pushrod should

Safety Belt not move more than one inch (with the brakes
released) when pulled by hand.
✓ Check that the safety belt is securely mounted,
adjusts, latches properly and is not ripped or frayed.
Brake Chambers
11.2 – External Inspection (All Vehicles) ✓ See that brake chambers are not leaking, cracked, or
dented and are mounted securely. There are no loose
11.2.1– Steering or missing clamps.

Steering Box/Hoses Brake Hoses/Lines

Check that the steering box is securely mounted and not ✓ Look for cracked, worn, or leaking hoses, lines, and
leaking. Look for any missing nuts and/or, bolts. couplings.
Check for power steering fluid leaks or damage to power
steering hoses. Drum Brake
Steering Linkage ✓ Check for cracks, dents, or holes. Also check for loose
or missing bolts.
See that connecting links, arms, and rods from the
steering box to the wheel are not worn or cracked. ✓ Check for contaminates such debris or oil/grease.
Check that joints and sockets are not worn or loose and
that there are no missing nuts, bolts, or cotter keys. ✓ Brake linings (where visible) should not be worn
dangerously thin.
11.2.2 – Suspension
Brake Linings
Springs/Air/Torque
On some brake drums, there are openings where the
Look for missing, shifted, cracked, or broken leaf springs. brake linings can be seen from outside the drum. For this
✓ Look for broken or distorted coil springs. type of drum, check that a visible amount of brake lining is
showing.
✓ If vehicle is equipped with torsion bars, torque arms, or
other types of suspension components, check that Note: Be prepared to perform the same brake components
they are not damaged and are mounted securely. inspection on every axle (power unit and trailer, if
equipped).
✓ Air ride suspension should be checked for damage
and leaks.

Section 11 – Vehicle Inspection Test 133

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

11.2.4 – Wheels ✓ Check that mirror(s) and mirror brackets are not
damaged and are mounted securely with no loose
Rims fittings.

✓ Check for damaged or bent rims. Rims cannot have Fuel Tank
welding repairs.
✓ Check that tank(s) are secure, cap(s) are tight, and
✓ Check rims for rust trails that may indicate the rim is that there are no leaks from tank(s) or lines.
loose on the wheel.
Drive Shaft
Tires
✓ See that drive shaft is not bent or cracked.
The following items must be inspected on every tire:
✓ Tread depth: Check for minimum tread depth (4/32 on ✓ Couplings should be secure and free of foreign
steering axle tires, 2/32 on all other tires). objects.

✓ Tire condition: Check that tread is evenly worn and Exhaust System
look for cuts or other damage to tread or sidewalls.
Also, make sure that valve caps and stems are not ✓ Check system for damage and signs of leaks such as
missing, broken, or damaged. rust or carbon soot. Exhaust system should not have
cracks, holes or severe dents
✓ Tire inflation: Check for proper inflation by using a tire
gauge. Note: You will not get credit if you simply kick ✓ System should be connected tightly and mounted
the tires or use a mallet to check for proper inflation. securely.

Hub Oil Seals/Axle Seals Frame

✓ See that hub oil/grease seals and axle seals are not ✓ Look for cracks, broken welds, holes or other damage
leaking and, if wheel has a sight glass, oil level is to the longitudinal frame members, cross members,
adequate. box, and floor.

Lug Nuts 11.2.6 – Rear of Vehicle

✓ Check that all lug nuts are present, free of cracks and Splash Guards
distortions, and show no signs of looseness such as
rust trails or shiny threads. ✓ If equipped, check that splash guards or mud flaps are
not damaged and are mounted securely.
✓ Make sure all bolt holes are not cracked or distorted.
Doors/Ties/Lifts
Spacers or Budd Spacing
✓ Check that doors and hinges are not damaged and
✓ If equipped, check that spacers are not bent, that they open, close, and latch properly from the
damaged, or rusted through; and are centered with outside, if equipped.
dual tires evenly separated.
✓ Ties, straps, chains, and binders must also be secure.
✓ Check the space between the tires for debris and/or
foreign objects. ✓ If equipped with a cargo lift, look for leaking, damaged
or missing parts and explain how it should be checked
Note: Be prepared to perform the same wheel inspection for correct operation.
on every axle (power unit and trailer, if equipped).
✓ Lift must be fully retracted and latched securely.
11.2.5 – Side of Vehicle
11.2.7 – Tractor/Coupling
Door(s)/Mirror(s)
Air/Electric Lines
✓ Check that door(s) are not damaged and that they
open and close properly from the outside. ✓ Listen for air leaks. Check that air hoses and electrical
lines are not cut, chafed, spliced, or worn (steel braid
✓ Hinges should be secure with seals intact. should not show through).

134 Section 11 – Vehicle Inspection Test

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

✓ Make sure air and electrical lines are not tangled, Kingpin/Apron/Gap
pinched, or dragging against tractor parts.
✓ Explain that locking jaws holds kingpin in place and that
Catwalk/Steps the kingpin is not bent or damaged.

✓ Check that the catwalk is solid, clear of objects, and ✓ Make sure the visible part of the apron is not bent,
securely bolted to tractor frame. cracked, or broken.

✓ Check that steps leading to the cab entry and catwalk ✓ Check that the trailer is lying flat on the fifth wheel skid
(if equipped) are solid, clear of objects, and securely plate (no gap).
bolted to tractor frame.
✓ Check for kingpin lock.
Mounting Bolts
Locking Pins (Fifth Wheel)
✓ Look for loose or missing mounting brackets, clamps,
bolts, or nuts. Both the fifth wheel and the slide ✓ If equipped, look for loose or missing pins in the slide
mounting must be solidly attached. mechanism of the sliding fifth wheel. If air powered,
check for leaks.
✓ Check for loose or missing mounting bolts and for
broken welds for pintle hook or other type of hitch ✓ Make sure locking pins are fully engaged.
mount, and tongue/draw-bar assembly to ensure that
they are solidly attached in place. ✓ Check that the fifth wheel is positioned properly so that
the tractor frame will clear the landing gear during turns.
✓ On other types of coupling systems (i.e., ball hitch,
pintle hook, etc.), inspect all coupling components and Sliding Pintle
mounting brackets for missing or broken parts.
✓ Check the sliding pintle hook for excessive wear and to
Hitch Release Lever ensure it is secure with no loose or missing nuts or
bolts and cotter pin is in place.
✓ Check to see that the hitch release lever is in place
and is secure. Tongue or Draw-bar
Locking Jaws ✓ Check that the tongue/draw-bar is not bent or twisted
and checks for broken welds and stress cracks.
✓ Look into fifth wheel gap and check that locking jaws
are fully closed around the kingpin. ✓ Check that the tongue/draw-bar eye is not worn
excessively.
✓ On other types of coupling systems (i.e., ball hitch,
pintle hook, etc.), inspect the locking mechanism for Tongue Storage Area
missing or broken parts and make sure it is locked
securely. If present, safety cables or chains must be ✓ Check that the storage area is solid and secured to the
secure and free of kinks and excessive slack. tongue.

5th Wheel Skid Plate ✓ Check that cargo in the storage area i.e. chains,
binders, etc. are secure.
✓ Check for proper lubrication and that 5th wheel skid
plate is securely mounted to the platform and that all 11.3 – School Bus Only
bolts and pins are secure and not missing.
Emergency Equipment
Platform (Fifth Wheel)
✓ In addition to checking for spare electrical fuses (if
✓ Check for cracks or breaks in the platform structure equipped), three red reflective triangles, 6 fuses or 3
which supports the fifth wheel skid plate. liquid burning flares and a properly charged and rated
fire extinguisher, school bus drivers must also inspect
Release Arm (Fifth Wheel) the following emergency equipment:
• Emergency Kit
✓ If equipped, make sure the release arm is in the • Body Fluid Cleanup Kit
engaged position and the safety latch is in place.

Section 11 – Vehicle Inspection Test 135

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Lighting Indicators Emergency Exit

✓ In addition to checking the lighting indicators listed in ✓ Demonstrate that at least one emergency exit is not
Section 10.2 of this manual, school bus drivers must damaged, operates smoothly, and closes securely
also check the following lighting indicators (internal from the inside.
panel lights):
• Alternately flashing amber lights indicator, if ✓ Check that release handle can be operated properly
equipped. from both inside and outside the vehicle.
• Alternately flashing red lights indicator.
• Strobe light indicator, if equipped. ✓ Point out and describe how all other emergency exits
operate.
Lights/Reflectors
✓ Check that any emergency exit warning devices are
✓ In addition to checking the lights and reflective devices working properly.
listed in Section 10.2 of this manual, school bus
drivers must also check the following (external) lights Seating
and reflectors:
• Strobe light, if equipped is operational and is not ✓ Look for broken seat frames and check that seat
broken. frames are firmly attached to the floor.
• Stop arm light, if equipped.
• Alternately flashing amber lights, if equipped are ✓ Check that seat cushions are attached securely to the
operational and not broken. seat frames.
• Alternately flashing red lights, on both the front
and back of the vehicle are operational and not 11.4 – Trailer
broken.
11.4.1 – Trailer Front
Student Mirrors
Air/Electrical Connections
✓ In addition to checking the external mirrors, school bus
drivers must also check the internal and external ✓ Check that trailer air connectors are sealed and in
mirrors used for observing students: good condition.
• Check for proper adjustment.
• Checks that all internal and external mirrors and ✓ Make sure glad hands are locked in place, free of
mirror brackets are not damaged and are mounted damage or air leaks.
securely with no loose fittings.
• Checks that visibility is not impaired due to dirty ✓ Make sure the trailer electrical plug is firmly seated
mirrors. and locked in place.

Stop Arm/Safety Arm Header Board

✓ If equipped, check the stop arm to see that it is ✓ If equipped, check the header board to see that it is
mounted securely to the frame of the vehicle. Also, secure, free of damage, and strong enough to contain
check for loose fittings and damage. Check that stop cargo.
arm extends fully when operated.
✓ If equipped, the canvas or tarp carrier must be
Passenger Entry/Lift mounted and fastened securely.

✓ Check that the entry door is not damaged, operates ✓ On enclosed trailers, check the front area for signs of
smoothly, and closes securely from the inside. damage such as cracks, bulges, or holes.

✓ Hand rails are secure and the step light is working, if 11.4.2 – Side of Trailer
equipped.
Landing Gear
✓ The entry steps must be clear with the treads not loose
or worn excessively. ✓ Check that the landing gear is fully raised, has no
missing parts, crank handle is secure, and the support
✓ If equipped with a handicap lift, look for leaking, frame and landing pads are not damaged.
damaged, or missing parts and explain how lift should
be checked for correct operation. Lift must be fully ✓ If power operated, check for air or hydraulic leaks.
retracted and latched securely.

136 Section 11 – Vehicle Inspection Test

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Doors/Ties/Lifts ✓ Lift should be fully retracted and latched securely.

✓ If equipped, check that doors are not damaged. Check Emergency Exits
that doors open, close, and latch properly from the
outside. ✓ Make sure that all emergency exits are not damaged,
operate smoothly, and close securely from the inside.
✓ Check that ties, straps, chains, and binders are
secure. ✓ Check that any emergency exit warning devices are
working.
✓ If equipped with a cargo lift, look for leaking, damaged
or missing parts and explain how it should be checked Passenger Seating
for correct operation.
Look for broken seat frames and check that seat frames
✓ Lift should be fully retracted and latched securely. are firmly attached to the floor.
Check that seat cushions are attached securely to the seat
Frame frames.

✓ Look for cracks, broken welds, holes or other damage 11.5.2 – Entry/Exit
to the frame, cross members, box, and floor.
Doors/Mirrors
Tandem Release Arm/Locking Pins
✓ Check that entry/exit doors are not damaged and
✓ If equipped, make sure the locking pins are locked in operate smoothly from the outside. Hinges should be
place and release arm is secured. secure with seals intact.

11.4.3 – Remainder of Trailer ✓ Make sure that the passenger exit mirrors and all
external mirrors and mirror brackets are not damaged
Remainder of Trailer and are mounted securely with no loose fittings.

Please refer to Section 11.2 of this manual for detailed 11.5.3 – External Inspection of Coach/Transit
inspection procedures regarding the following Bus
components:
✓ Wheels.
Level/Air Leaks
✓ Suspension system.
✓ See that the vehicle is sitting level (front and rear), and
✓ Brakes. if air-equipped, check for audible air leaks from the
suspension system.
✓ Doors/ties/lift.
Fuel Tank(s)
✓ Splash guards.
✓ See that fuel tank(s) are secure with no leaks from
11.5 – Coach/Transit Bus tank(s) or lines.

11.5.1 – Passenger Items Baggage Compartments

Passenger Entry/Lift ✓ Check that baggage and all other exterior
compartment doors are not damaged, operate
✓ Check that entry doors operate smoothly and close properly, and latch securely.
securely from the inside.
11.5.4 – Remainder of Coach/Transit Bus
✓ Check that hand rails are secure and, if equipped, that
the step light(s) are working.
Remainder of Vehicle
✓ Check that the entry steps are clear, with the treads
Please refer to Section 11.2 of this manual for detailed
not loose or worn excessively.
inspection procedures for the remainder of the vehicle.
Remember, the Vehicle Inspection must be passed before
✓ If equipped with a handicap lift, look for any leaking,
you can proceed to the Basic Control Skills test.
damaged or missing part, and explain how it should be
checked for correct operation.

Section 11 – Vehicle Inspection Test 137

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

CDL Vehicle Inspection Memory Aid

Combination Vehicles Straight Truck or Bus

Front of Vehicle, Lights/Reflectors,

Engine Compartment & Steering
Components

Front of Vehicle, Lights/Reflectors,

Engine Compartment & Steering
Steering Axle: Components
• Suspension
• Brakes
• Tires
Steering Axle:
• Suspension
Driver Door
Fuel Area • Brakes
• Tires
Under Vehicle
• Drive Shaft
• Exhaust
Passenger Door
• Frame Fuel Area

Drive Axle(s)
• Suspension Driver Door
• Brakes Fuel Area
• Tires (Truck)

Coupling Devices
• Truck
• Trailer
Under Vehicle
• Drive Shaft
Rear of Truck/Tractor
& Lights/Reflectors • Exhaust
• Frame

Trailer Components
Front, Side, Lights &
Reflectors
• Frame
• Landing Gear Drive Axle(s)
• Tandem Release • Suspension
• Brakes
• Tires

Trailer Axle(s)
• Suspension
Rear of Bus/Truck
• Brakes & Lights/Reflectors
• Tires

Rear of Trailer &

Lights/Reflectors

138 Section 11 – Vehicle Inspection Test

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

vehicle or safely exit the vehicle it may result in an

Section 12 automatic failure of the basic control skills test.
Basic Vehicle Control Skills Test The maximum number of times that you may look to
check the position of you vehicle is two (2) except for the
This Section Covers: Straight Line Backing exercise, which allows one look.
Each time you open the door, move from a seated
✓ Skills Test Scoring position where in physical control of the vehicle or on a
✓ Skills Test Exercises bus walk to the back of a bus to get a better view, it is
scored as a “look”.
Your basic control skills could be tested using one or
more of the following exercises off-road or somewhere Final Position/Inside Parallel
on the street during the road test:
✓ Straight line backing. It is important that you finish each exercise exactly as
the examiner has instructed you. If you do not maneuver
✓ Offset back/right. the vehicle into its final position as described by the
examiner, you will be penalized and could fail the basic
✓ Offset back/left. skills test.

✓ Alley dock. 12.2 Exercises

These exercises are shown in Figures 12-1 through 12.2.1 – Straight Line Backing
12-6.
You may be asked to back your vehicle in a straight line
12.1 Scoring between two rows of cones without touching or crossing
over the exercise boundaries. (See Figure 12.1)
✓ Crossing Boundaries (encroachments)
12.2.2 – Offset Back/Right
✓ Pull-ups
You may be asked to back into a space that is to the
✓ Outside Vehicle Observations (looks) right rear of your vehicle. You will drive straight forward
the outer boundary. From that position you must back
✓ Final Position/Inside Parallel the vehicle into the opposite lane until the front of your
vehicle has passed the first set of cones without striking
Encroachments boundary lines or cones. (See Figure 12.2)

The examiner will score the number of times you touch 12.2.3 – Offset Back/Left
or cross over an exercise boundary line or cone with any
portion of your vehicle. Each encroachment will count as You may be asked to back into a space that is to the left
an error. rear of your vehicle. You will drive straight forward the
outer boundary. From that position, you must back the
Pull-ups vehicle into the opposite lane until the front of your
vehicle has passed the first set of cones without striking
When a driver stops and pulls forward to clear an boundary lines or cones. (See Figure 12.3)
encroachment or to get a better position, it is scored as a
“pull-up”. Stopping without changing direction does not 12.2.4 – Alley Dock
count as a pull-up. You will not be penalized for initial
pull-ups. However, an excessive number of pull-ups will You may be asked to sight-side back your vehicle into
count as errors. an alley. You will drive past the alley and position your
vehicle parallel to the outer boundary. From that
Outside Vehicle Observations (Looks) position, back into the alley bringing the rear of your
vehicle within three feet of the rear of the alley without
You may be permitted to safely stop and exit the vehicle touching boundary lines or cones. Your vehicle must be
to check the external position of the vehicle (look). straight within the alley/lane when you have completed
When doing so, you must place the vehicle in neutral the maneuver. (See Figure 12.4)
and set the parking brake(s). Then, when exiting the
vehicle, you must do so safely by facing the vehicle and
maintaining three points of contact with the vehicle at all
times (when exiting a bus, maintain a firm grasp on the
handrail at all times). If you do not safely secure the

Section 12 - Basic Vehicle Control Skills Test 139

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Figure 12.1: Straight Line Backing

Figure 12.2: Offset Back/Right

Figure 12.3: Offset Back/Left

Figure 12.4: Alley Dock

140 Section 12 – Basic Vehicle Control Skills Test
 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

When ready to turn:

Section 13 ✓ Check traffic in all directions.
On-road Driving ✓ Keep both hands on the steering wheel during the
turn.
This Section Covers:
✓ Keep checking your mirror to make sure the vehicle
✓ How You Will Be Tested does not hit anything on the inside of the turn.

You will drive over a test route that has a variety of traffic ✓ Vehicle should not move into oncoming traffic.
situations. At all times during the test, you must drive in a
safe and responsible manner; and you must: ✓ Vehicle should finish turn in correct lane.
✓ Wear your safety belt.
After turn:
✓ Obey all traffic signs, signals, and laws. ✓ Make sure turn signal is off.

✓ Complete the test without an accident or moving ✓ Get up to speed of traffic, use turn signal, and move
violation. into right-most lane when safe to do so (if not already
there).
During the driving test, the examiner will be scoring you on
specific driving maneuvers as well as on your general ✓ Check mirrors and traffic.
driving behavior. You will follow the directions of the
examiner. Directions will be given to you so you will have 13.1.2 – Intersections
plenty of time to do what the examiner has asked. You will
not be asked to drive in an unsafe manner. As you approach an intersection:
✓ Check traffic thoroughly in all directions.
If your test route does not have certain traffic situations, you
may be asked to simulate a traffic situation. You will do this ✓ Decelerate gently.
by telling the examiner what you are or would be doing if
you were in that traffic situation. ✓ Brake smoothly and, if necessary, change gears.

13.1 – How You Will Be Tested ✓ If necessary, come to a complete stop (no coasting)
behind any stop signs, signals, sidewalks, or stop lines
13.1.1 – Turns maintaining a safe gap behind any vehicle in front of
you.
You have been asked to make a turn:
✓ Check traffic in all directions. ✓ Your vehicle must not roll forward or backward.

✓ Use turn signals and safely get into the lane needed When driving through an intersection:
for the turn. ✓ Check traffic thoroughly in all directions.

As you approach the turn: ✓ Decelerate and yield to any pedestrians and traffic in
✓ Use turn signals to warn others of your turn. the intersection.

✓ Slow down smoothly, change gears as needed to keep ✓ Do not change lanes while proceeding through the
power, but do not coast unsafely. Unsafe coasting intersection.
occurs when your vehicle is out of gear (clutch
depressed or gearshift in neutral) for more than the ✓ Keep your hands on the wheel.
length of your vehicle.
Once through the intersection:
If you must stop before making the turn: ✓ Continue checking mirrors and traffic.
✓ Come to a smooth stop without skidding.
✓ Accelerate smoothly and change gears as necessary.
✓ Come to a complete stop behind the stop line,
crosswalk, or stop sign. 13.1.3 – Urban Business
✓ If stopping behind another vehicle, stop where you can During this part of the test, you are expected to make
see the rear tires on the vehicle ahead of you (safe regular traffic checks and maintain a safe following
gap). distance. Your vehicle should be centered in the proper lane
✓ Do not let your vehicle roll. (right-most lane) and you should keep up with the flow of
traffic but not exceed the posted speed limit.
✓ Keep the front wheels aimed straight ahead.

Section 13 – On-road Driving 141

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

13.1.4 –Lane Changes

✓ Activate your four-way emergency flashers.
During multiple lane portions of the test, you will be asked
to change lanes to the left, and then back to the right. You ✓ Apply the parking brake.
should make the necessary traffic checks first, then use
proper signals and smoothly change lanes when it is safe to ✓ Move the gear shift to neutral or park.
do so.
✓ Remove your feet from the brake and clutch pedals.
13.1.5 – Expressway or Rural/Limited Access
When instructed to resume:
Highway ✓ Check traffic and your mirrors thoroughly in all
directions.
Before entering the expressway:
✓ Check traffic. ✓ Turn off your four-way flashers.
✓ Use proper signals. ✓ Activate the left turn signal.
✓ Merge smoothly into the proper lane of traffic. ✓ When traffic permits, you should release the parking
brake and pull straight ahead.
Once on the expressway:
✓ Maintain proper lane positioning, vehicle spacing, and ✓ Do not turn the wheel before your vehicle moves.
vehicle speed.
✓ Check traffic from all directions, especially to the left.
✓ Continue to check traffic thoroughly in all directions.
✓ Steer and accelerate smoothly into the proper lane
When exiting the expressway: when safe to do so.
✓ Make necessary traffic checks.
✓ Once your vehicle is back into the flow of traffic, cancel
✓ Use proper signals. your left turn signal.
✓ Decelerate smoothly in the exit lane.
13.1.7 – Curve
✓ Once on the exit ramp, you must continue to decelerate
within the lane markings and maintain adequate When approaching a curve:
spacing between your vehicle and other vehicles. ✓ Check traffic thoroughly in all directions.

✓ Before entering the curve, reduce speed so further

13.1.6 – Stop/Start braking or shifting is not required in the curve.
For this maneuver, you will be asked to pull your vehicle ✓ Keep vehicle in the lane.
over to the side of the road and stop as if you were going to
get out and check something on your vehicle. You must ✓ Continue checking traffic in all directions.
check traffic thoroughly in all directions and move to the
right-most lane or shoulder of road.
13.1.8 – Railroad Crossing
As you prepare for the stop:
✓ Check traffic. Before reaching the crossing, all commercial drivers should:
✓ Decelerate, brake smoothly, and shift gears as
✓ Activate your right turn signal. necessary.

✓ Decelerate smoothly, brake evenly, change gears as ✓ Look and listen for the presence of trains.
necessary.
✓ Check traffic in all directions.
✓ Bring your vehicle to a full stop without coasting. ✓ Do not stop, change gears, pass another vehicle, or
change lanes while any part of your vehicle is in the
Once stopped: crossing.
✓ Vehicle must be parallel to the curb or shoulder of the
road and safely out of the traffic flow. If you are driving a bus, a school bus, or a vehicle displaying
placards, you should be prepared to observe the following
✓ Vehicle should not be blocking driveways, fire hydrants, procedures at every railroad crossing (unless the crossing
intersections, signs, etc. is exempt):
✓ As the vehicle approaches a railroad crossing, activate
✓ Cancel your turn signal. the four-way flashers.
142 Section 13 – On-road Driving
 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

✓ Activate the stop arm and red warning lights.

✓ Stop the vehicle within 50 feet but not less than 15 feet
from the nearest rail. When discharging students, you must:
✓ Communicate to students.
✓ Listen and look in both directions along the track for an
approaching train and for signals indicating the ✓ Check traffic.
approach of a train. If operating a bus, you may also
be required to open the window and door prior to ✓ Open the student door.
crossing tracks.
✓ Check for students.
✓ Keep hands on the steering wheel as the vehicle
crosses the tracks. When students are crossing, you must:
✓ Check traffic.
✓ Do not stop, change gears, or change lanes while any
part of your vehicle is proceeding across the tracks. ✓ Communicate to students.

✓ Four-way flashers should be deactivated after the ✓ Check for students.

vehicle crosses the tracks.
When resuming from the student discharge, you must:
✓ Continue to check mirrors and traffic. ✓ Check all mirrors.

Not all driving road test routes will have a railroad crossing. ✓ Turn off warning lights and stop arm.
You may be asked to explain and demonstrate the proper
railroad crossing procedures to the examiner at a simulated ✓ Close the door
location.
✓ Check traffic.
13.1.9 – Bridge/Overpass/Sign
✓ Accelerate away from the stop area.
After driving under an overpass, you may be asked to tell
the examiner what the posted clearance or height was. After 13.1.11 – General Driving Behaviors
going over a bridge, you may be asked to tell the examiner
what the posted weight limit was. If your test route does not You will be scored on your overall performance in the
have a bridge or overpass, you may be asked about another following general driving behavior categories:
traffic sign. When asked, be prepared to identify and explain
to the examiner any traffic sign which may appear on the 13.1.11(a) – Clutch Usage (for Manual
route. Transmission)
✓ Always use clutch to shift.
13.1.10 – Student Discharge (School Bus)
✓ If equipped with an unsynchronized manual
If you are applying for a School Bus endorsement, you will transmission, you must double-clutch when shifting.
be required to demonstrate a student discharge. Please Do not rev or lug the engine.
refer to section 10 of this manual.
✓ Do not ride clutch to control speed, coast with the
clutch depressed, or "pop" the clutch.
As you approach the student pick up, you must:
✓ Decelerate and approach at a slow rate of speed while
continuing to check traffic. 13.1.11(b) – Gear Usage (for Manual
Transmission)
✓ Activate amber warning lights and right turn signals.
✓ Do not grind or clash gears.
✓ Move as far as possible to the right on the traveled
portion of the roadway. ✓ Select gear that does not rev or lug engine.

✓ Recheck traffic. ✓ Do not shift in turns and intersections.

As you stop for the student discharge, you must: 13.1.11(c) – Brake Usage
✓ Bring school bus to a complete stop at least 10’ away
from students at the stop. ✓ Do not ride or pump brake.

✓ Place the transmission in neutral/park and set the ✓ Do not brake harshly. Brake smoothly using steady
parking brake. pressure.

Section 13 – On-road Driving 143

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

13.1.11(d) – Lane Usage

✓ Do not put vehicle over curbs, sidewalks, or lane
markings.

✓ Stop behind stop lines, crosswalks, or stop signs.

✓ Complete a turn in the proper lane on a multiple lane

road (vehicle should finish a left turn in the lane
directly to the right of the center line).

✓ Finish a right turn in the right-most (curb) lane.

✓ Move to or remain in right-most lane unless lane is

blocked.

13.1.11(e) – Steering
✓ Do not over or under steer the vehicle.

✓ Keep both hands on the steering wheel at all times

unless shifting. Once you have completed shift, return
both hands to the steering wheel.

13.1.11(f) – Regular Traffic Checks

✓ Check traffic regularly.

✓ Check mirrors regularly.

✓ Check mirrors and traffic before, while in and after an

intersection.

✓ Scan and check traffic in high volume areas and areas

where pedestrians are expected to be present.

13.1.11(g) – Use of Turn Signals

✓ Use turn signals properly.

✓ Activate turn signals when required.

✓ Activate turn signals at appropriate times.

✓ Cancel turn signals upon completion of a turn or lane

change.

Road Skills Test Time Estimates (scored)

TEST TYPE Vehicle Inspection Basic Control Skills On-Street Driving Test Total Time

CDL Group A 1 - 2 hours 20 - 30 minutes 40 minutes – 1 hour 2 - 3.5 hours

CDL Group B 30 - 60 minutes 20 - 30 minutes 40 - 60 minutes 1.5 – 2.5 hours

CDL Group C 20 - 30 minutes 20 - 30 minutes 40 - 60 minutes 1.5 – 2 hours

144 Section 13 – On-road Driving

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Appendix A
Applying for a Commercial Driver License

Appendix A – Applying for a Commercial Driver License 145

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

146 Appendix A – Applying for a Commercial Driver License

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Appendix A – Applying for a Commercial Driver License 147

2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Appendix B
Sample Test Questions
1. Which of these is a good thing to remember about using mirrors?

A. You should check your mirrors twice for a lane change.

B. There are “blind spots” that your mirror cannot show you.
C. Convex mirrors make things look larger and closer than they really are.
D. You should look at a mirror for several seconds at a time.

2. You are coupling a tractor and semi-trailer and have connected the air lines. Before backing under the trailer
you should:

A. Pull ahead to test the glad hand connections.

B. Apply the brakes twice to alert others.
C. Supply air to the trailer system and then pull out the air supply knob to lock the trailer brakes.
D. Make sure that the trailer brakes are off.

3. Which part of the kingpin should the locking jaws close around?

A. It does not matter.

B. The base.
C. The head.
D. The shank.

4. You must be able to see a warning before air pressure in the service air tanks falls below psi.

A. 50
B. 40
C. 80
D. 60

5. Which of these is not a good thing to do when driving on slippery roads?

A. Make turns as gently as possible.

B. Keep other traffic out of your side space.
C. Use a light touch on the accelerator and brake pedals.
D. Use the engine brake or speed retarder.

6. When there is a hazardous materials emergency, you should:

A. Prevent smoking and keep open flame away.

B. Keep people away.
C. Warn others of the danger.
D. Do all of the above.

7. When you unload the smaller tanks of a tank with bulkheads, be careful to check your:

A. Power usage.
B. Water content.
C. Air to fuel ratio.
D. Weight Distribution

148 Appendix B – Sample Test Questions

 2022 Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

Appendix C
CDL Vehicle Inspection Memory Aid
Combination Vehicles Straight Truck or Bus

Front of Vehicle, Lights/Reflectors,

Engine Compartment & Steering
Components

Front of Vehicle, Lights/Reflectors,

Engine Compartment & Steering
Steering Axle: Components
• Suspension
• Brakes
• Tires
Steering Axle:
Driver Door
• Suspension
Fuel Area • Brakes
• Tires
Under Vehicle
• Drive Shaft
• Exhaust
Passenger Door
• Frame Fuel Area

Drive Axle(s)
• Suspension Driver Door
• Brakes Fuel Area
• Tires (Truck)

Coupling Devices
• Truck
• Trailer
Under Vehicle
• Drive Shaft
Rear of Truck/Tractor
& Lights/Reflectors • Exhaust
• Frame

Trailer Components
Front, Side, Lights &
Reflectors
• Frame
• Landing Gear Drive Axle(s)
• Tandem Release • Suspension
• Brakes
• Tires

Trailer Axle(s)
• Suspension
Rear of Bus/Truck
• Brakes & Lights/Reflectors
• Tires

Rear of Trailer &

Lights/Reflectors

Appendix C – CDL Vehicle Inspection Memory Aid 149

 NOTES
__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________
 NOTES
__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________
 NOTES
__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________
 NOTES
__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________
 NOTES
__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________
 NOTES
__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________
 NOTES
__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________
 Secretary of State
Jocelyn Benson
Michigan.gov/SOS

The Department of State is an equal opportunity employer and service provider. If you
need an accommodation or have been denied service, please call 888-SOS-MICH
(767-6424). Hearing-impaired customers may access the department’s telephone
number by calling the Michigan Relay Center at 711.

TS-004 (Rev. 09/22) 60,002; PA 300, 1949 as amended; $47,810.65

Cover photo courtesy of the Michigan Department of Transportation Photography Unit.