Georgia Dds CDL Handbook 2022

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,, [U)[U)gj GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF DRIVER SERVICES

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COMMERCIAL
DRIVERS MANUAL
GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF DRIVER SERVICES
DDS MISSION & CORE VALUES
CONTENTS Our Mission

To provide secure driver and identity credentials to our
customers with excellence and respect.
Introduction 4 Our Core Values:
Driving Safely 16 • Trusted Service
• Ethical Actions
Transporting Cargo Safely 42 • Accountable to All
Transporting Passengers Safely 44 • Motivated to Excellence
#ExcellenceIsWhatDRIVESUs!
Air Brakes 47
Title VI Policy Statement
Combination Vehicles 53 The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) is committed to compliance
with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and all related nondiscrimination au-
Doubles and Triples 61 thorities. DDS assures that no person shall, on the grounds of race, color, national
origin, sex, age, disability, low-income, and Limited English Proficiency (LEP),
Tank Vehicles 64 be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be otherwise
subjected to discrimination under any program or activity. DDS further assures
that every effort will be made to ensure nondiscrimination in all programs and
Hazardous Materials 66 activities, whether or not those programs and activities are federally funded.
In addition, DDS will take reasonable steps to provide meaningful access to
78
services for persons with Limited English Proficiency. Finally, DDS agrees to
School Bus abide by the Title VI Program Assurances and to ensure that written agree-
ments with any party for federally funded programs or services will include the
Pre-trip Inspection 84 applicable Title VI language as provided in the Title VI Program Assurances.
The DDS Title VI Program Coordinator is responsible for oversight of the Title
VI Program and ensuring compliance with the requirements provided in 49
Basic Vehicle Control Skills Test 93 Code of Federal Regulations (C.F.R) Part 21 and 49 C.F.R. Part 303. The Title
VI Program Coordinator and all Division Directors are authorized to effectively
implement the Title VI Program on behalf of the Department.
On-Road Driving 94
DDS ONLINE SERVICES

CARD SERVICES
•Submit Proof of Resi
dency and/or Soci
•Address Change al Security
Be certain to take advantage of DDS Online Services and avoid an unnecessary trip to a •License/ID Renewal
or Replacement
•Class D to Class
Customer Service Center. C Upgrade
•CDL Self-Certificat
ion Medical Docu
•License Status ments
•Suspension or Rein
DDS Online Services enable thousands of Georgia drivers to conduct many transactions via statement Informati
on
dds.georgia.gov and eliminate a visit to a DDS Customer Service Center (CSC). This saves cus- •Super Speeder
PAY FEES
•License Reinstate
tomers valuable time and money. DDS does not charge an additional fee for choosing Internet •Pending Suspensio
ment
ns
Services. A $5.00 discount may apply for eligible license types that are renewed on the internet.
OTHER SERVICES
•Online For-Hire Endo
rsement Applicatio
•Skip a Step! (Com n
plete
•Driving History (MVR Form Online)
)
•Motorcycle Safety
Training Registrat
•Make Road Test Appo ion
intment
•Reservation Statu
For more information visit the DDS website at: s
dds.georgia.gov and like DDS on Facebook! DDS-2203-P (3/2017)
This manual is produced by the Governmental Affairs and Communications Division of Georgia Department of Driver Services.
This material is based upon work supported by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration under Cooperative Agreement No. DTFH61-97-X-00017.
Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the Author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view
of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
All rights reservedThis 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.
1
DDS CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTERS
DDS Customer City Address
Service Centers
This section contains the cities Albany 2062 Newton Road
and addresses for DDS Customer Between 1010 Heritage Pkwy.
Service Centers that offer commercial
vehicle road testing. Please visit Brunswick 134 Jack Hartman Blvd.
www.dds.georgia.gov for up to date Cumming (Class B only) 400 Aquatic Circle
information and to schedule your Dalton 235 Wagner Road
roadtest conveniently online.
Gainesville 1010 Aviation Blvd.
Jackson 1578 Highway 16 West
Milledgeville 200 Carl Vinson Road
Thomson 172 Bob Kirk Road
Rome 3390 Martha Berry Hwy
DDS Issues Real ID Driver’s

Licenses & ID Cards
If you currently hold a valid Georgia Driver’s License/
ID, it will be replaced with a Real ID Driver’s License/ID at
your next renewal or license reinstatement.
If you currently do not hold a valid Georgia Driver’s Li-
cense/ID, you will be issued a Real ID Driver’s License/ID
when you make application. Beginning May 3, 2023 you
will need a Real ID (with a star in the upper right corner)
to fly within the U.S., or to enter Federal facilities or
nuclear power plants. Learn more at www.dhs.gov.
To obtain your Real ID Driver’s License or ID Card,
you will need to provide the following to DDS:
• Original or certified copy of your Birth Cer- • Two documents showing your Residential
tificate (or other accepted identity document) Address
• You must know your full Social Security • Documents supporting legal name changes
Number
Before Visiting
Fill out your form.
Any$me. Anywhere. Any device.
Fill out the form for your Permit, License, ID Card or testing at
this link https://dds.drives.ga.gov/_/#1 before arriving at any
of our Customer Service Centers.
2
GEORGIA COMMERCIAL DRIVERS MANUAL
MESSAGES
GOVERNOR’S MESSAGE
“I wish you safe passage and encourage you to

exercise good judgment, follow driving laws, and
prioritize safety for yourself, fellow motorists, and
passengers.”
Brian P. Kemp
Governor
GEORGIA.GOV
COMMISSIONER’S MESSAGE BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MESSAGE
“Operating a commercial vehicle Board of Directors

is a tremendous responsibility and
requires the development of spe- Tony Guisasola - Member
cial skills and the knowledge of David W. Connell
Chair Rachel Little – Member
numerous safety standards. By
obeying all traffic laws and never Christie Moore - Member
Jeff Markey
driving distracted, we can ensure Bob Pierce - Member
that our roads are safer for CDL Vice Chair
drivers and other travelers alike. ” Sheriff Frank Reynolds-Member
Britt Fleck Kat Satterfield - Member
Secretary
Spencer R. Moore
Commissioner The Department of Driver Services (DDS) Board of Directors would
like to remind our customers that driving in Georgia is a privilege
that carries many responsibilities. Please be a safe and dependable
driver to ensure that this privilege will not be lost. This manual has
two main purposes:
(1) to help you qualify for a Georgia commercial driver’s license; and
(2) to help you become a safe driver.
This guide is designed to provide you with the information to ob-
tain and keep this type of license. Other manuals are available for
noncommercial drivers, motorcycle operators, and teens learning
to drive.
DDS 2 GO
3
SECTION 1
INTRODUCTION Determining Class of CDL Required
This Section Covers Is the GCWR Yes Is the GVWR of the Yes
General Qualification 26,001 or more trailer/towed unit 10,001 Class “A”
pounds? or more pounds?
of Drivers ....................... 1.1
Commercial Driver License
No
Tests...............................1.2
Driver Disqualifications ..1.3 No Is the GVWR of the Yes
Other Safety Rules ........1.4 power unit 26,001 or Class “B”
more pounds?
International Registration Gross combination
Plan International Fuel weight rating (GCWR)
No
Tax Agreement ..............1.5 Means the value specified
by the manufacturer of the
Medical Documentation power unit, if the value unit
is displayed on the Federal Is the vehicle Yes
Requirements ................ 1.6 Motor Vehicle Safety Standard transporting hazardous Class “C”
(FMVSS) certificate label; or materials in a
the sum of the gross vehicle placardable quantity?
There is a federal requirement that each weight ratings (GVWRs) or
state have minimum standards for the licensing the gross vehicle weights
(GVWs) of the power unit No
of commercial drivers. and the towed unit(s), or any
This manual provides driver license test- combination thereof, that
ing information for drivers who wish to have a produces the highest value.
commercial driver license (CDL). This manual Is the vehicle designed Yes
(The underlined and italicized to transport 16 or more Class “C”
does NOT provide information on all the federal
text above is for use by passengers including
and state requirements needed before you can
roadside enforcement the driver?
drive a commercial motor vehicle (CMV). You
only for the purpose of
may have to contact your state driver licensing
determining whether the
authority for additional information.
driver/vehicle is subject to CDL No
You must have a CDL to operate: regulations. It is not used to
determine whether a vehicle is
• Any single vehicle with a gross vehicle
representative for the purposes No CDL required.
weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or
more. of Skills testing.)
• A combination vehicle with a gross
combination weight rating of 26,001 or Gross vehicle
more pounds, provided the GVWR of the weight rating (GVWR)
vehicle(s) being towed is in excess of Means the value specified by NOTE: A bus may be Class A, B, or C depending on
10,000 pounds. the manufacturer as the loaded whether the GVWR is over 26,001 pounds or
• A vehicle designed to transport 16 or more weight of a single vehicle. is a combination vehicle.
passengers (including the driver).
• Any size vehicle which requires hazardous
material placards or is carrying material Figure 1.1
listed as a select agent or toxin in 42 CFR
part 73. Federal regulations through the
Department of Homeland Security require 1.1 – General qualification 1.2 – Commercial Driver
a background check and fingerprinting for of drivers: License Tests
the Hazardous Materials endorsement.
The background check can take up to six 1. Is at least 21 years old;
weeks. Contact the Transportation 1.2.1 – Knowledge Tests
Security Administration 2. Can read and speak the English language A Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) means
(TSA) at https://universalenroll.dhs.gov or sufficiently to converse with the general pub- a permit issued to an individual, which, when
your local DDS Customer Service Center lic to understand highway traffic signs and carried with a valid driver’s license issued by
for more information. signals in the English language, to respond the same State or jurisdiction, authorizes the
to official inquiries, and to make entries on individual to operate a class of a commercial
To get a CDL, you must pass knowledge
and skills tests. This manual will help you pass reports and records; motor vehicle when accompanied by a holder of
the tests. This manual is not a substitute for a 3. Can, by reason of experience, training, or
a valid CDL for purposes of behind-the-wheel
truck driver training class or program. Formal both, safely operate the type of commercial
training. When issued to a CDL holder, a CLP
training is the most reliable way to learn the motor vehicle he/she drives;
serves as authorization for accompanied be-
many special skills required for safely driving a hind-the-wheel training in a commercial motor
large commercial vehicle and becoming a pro- 4. Is physically qualified to drive a commercial for which the holder’s current CDL is not valid.
fessional driver in the trucking industry. Figure motor vehicle in accordance with CFR 391.41 A CLP is considered a valid CDL for purpos-
1.1 helps you determine if you need a CDL. es of behind-the-wheel training on public roads
5. Has a currently valid Commercial Learner’s
or highways, if all of the following minimum
If your CLP was issued after Feb 7, 2022 you Permit (CLP) or CDL issued by only one State
will need to complete Entry-Level Driver conditions are met:
or jurisdiction;
Training (ELDT) before being allowed to take • The CLP holder is at all times accompanied
the CDL Skills Test. See Page 67. 6. Is not disqualified to drive a commercial mo-
by the holder of a valid CDL who has the
tor vehicle
4
DOS2GO
SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION
Note: After 2/7/22 Formal Training is
proper CDL group and endorsement(s) neces- required before you will be able to get skills test. If said person fails to appear for his
sary to operate the CMV. the TSA back ground check. See page 67. or her scheduled skills test appointment the
license fee paid shall be considered a testing
• The CDL holder must at all times be physically • The doubles/triples test, required if you fee and retained by the department. Pursuant
present in the front seat of the vehicle next to want to pull double or triple trailers. to O.C.G.A. §40-5-25 and DDS Rule 1-1-.10(7), the
the CLP holder or, in the case of a passenger (NOTE: This endorsement is not eligible to $50.00 Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Road
vehicle, directly behind or in the first row be- be on the CLP.) Skills Test fee is now required for each testing
hind the driver and must have the CLP holder
under observation and direct supervision. • The School Bus test required if you want to attempt. All fees retained by the department
drive a school bus. The school bus skills pursuant to this Code section shall be remitted
The issuance of a CLP is a precondition to test must be taken and passed by all to the general fund.
the initial issuance of a CDL. The issuance of a If you pass the required knowledge test(s),
applicants in order to obtain this en- You can take the CDL roadtest. Here are three
CLP is also a precondition to the upgrade of a
CDL if the upgrade requires a skills test. The dorsement. types of general skills that will be tested: pre-
CLP holder is not eligible to take the CDL trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-
skills test in the first 14 days after initial The passing score for all knowledge tests road driving. You must take these tests in
issuance of the CLP. If you change CLP is 80% the type of vehicle for which you wish to be
licensed. Any vehicle that has components
Class or add one of 3 endorsements (P-S-N) With the exception of adding the Passenger (P) marked or labeled cannot be used for the Pre-
your initial issuance changes. endorsement or the School Bus (S) endorse- trip Inspection Test.
Each person applying for a commercial or ment, a driver who already has the required
noncommercial instructional (learner’s) permit license class may add the endorsement(s)
for Class A, B, C, or M driver’s license shall pay after passing written tests requisite to the Special Note - If your CLP is issued after
the applicable license fee prior to attempting the endorsement(s) being applied for. To obtain a February 7, 2022, you will be required to
knowledge test for the instructional (learner’s) Passenger (P) or School Bus (S) endorsement, complete Entry Level Driver Training
permit sought. If said person fails to achieve a the driver must pass both CDL knowledge and (ELDT) before being allowed to take the
skills tests.
passing score on the knowledge test, the license If you do not have the license class required CDL Skills tests. The CLP cannot be held for
fee paid shall be considered a testing fee and for an endorsement but are seeking that class more than one year (365) days. If you fail any
retained by the department. Any person failing while also seeking the endorsement,the en- part of the skills tests you can apply to
to achieve a passing score on the knowledge test dorsement is only granted if the knowledge reschedule the retest after the waiting period as
for an instructional (learner’s) permit shall pay test for the endorsement is passed and all follows:
the applicable license fee on each subsequent other requirements for the license class also
attempt until successful, at which time the fee are met. • 1st failure and subsequent
shall be his or her license fee. If you fail an endorsement test, but have failures -two days.
You will have to take one or more knowledge otherwise passed the knowledge tests for
tests, depending on what class of license and the license class, you can still take the The following restrictions will be placed on
what endorsements you need. To qualify for a applicable skills tests. If you pass the skills your license if the test is this type of vehicle:
license permit, a person must obtain a passing tests, you should be given the appropriate
score on all knowledge tests required for that • If an applicant performs the skills test in a ve-
license, but without the endorsement. You hicle equipped with an automatic transmis-
class. The CDL knowledge tests are all multiple- can then retake the endorsement test later
choice and include: sion, that person is restricted from operating
without further skills testing except for a CMV equipped with a manual transmis-
• The general knowledge test, taken by obtaining a P or S endorse-ment (P and S sion. (No manual transmission equipped
all applicants. endorsements require a skills test be performed CMV)
in a bus).
• The passenger transport test, taken by all Upon request the examiner will provide • Tractor-trailer – If an applicant performs the
bus driver applicants. The passenger you with your score for each knowledge test skills test in a combination vehicle for a Group
transport skills test must be taken and taken. All test material is derived from the CDL A CDL with the power unit and towed unit
passed by all applicants in order to ob- Drivers Manual. connected with a pintle hook or other non-fifth
tain this endorsement. After you have passed the knowledge test(s) wheel connection, that person is restricted
• The air brakes test, which you must take if for a license class, you then must pass the skill from operating a tractor-trailer combination
your vehicle has air brakes, including air tests. No class of CDL or CDL upgrade is grant- connected by a fifth wheel that requires a
over hydraulic brakes. ed solely on the basis of passing the knowledge Group A CDL. (No tractor trailer CMV)
tests. If a driver fails one or more of the knowl-
• The combination vehicles test, which is edge tests required for a license class, you must
• If an applicant performs the skills test in a
required if you want to drive combina- passenger vehicle requiring a Group B CDL,
retake and pass the failed test(s) before
tion vehicles. that person is restricted from operating a
taking the skills tests. passenger vehicle requiring a Group A CDL.
• The hazardous materials test, required if (No Class A passenger busses)
you want to haul hazardous materials, as The retest waiting period is:
defined in 49 CFR 383.5. In order to • 1st failure and subsequent failures - two • If an applicant performs the skills test in a
obtain this endorsement you are also re- days passenger vehicle requiring a Group C CDL,
quired to pass a Transportation Security Knowledge test failures also affect the retest
that person is restricted from operating a
Administration (TSA) background check passenger vehicle requiring a Group B CDL.
(go to https://universalenroll.dhs.gov for waiting period for skills test. (No class A or B passenger busses)
additional information). (NOTE: This en- Current active Duty Military, Guard and Re-
• If an applicant performs the skills test in a
dorsement is not eligible to be on the CLP.) serve members or military personnel that have
vehicle that does not have air brakes they will
not been out of the military more than one (1)
• The tanker test is required if you want to year can apply for a Military Skills Test Waiver. be restricted from operating a CMV with air
haul a liquid or gaseous materials in a Please visit the DDS website at dds.georgia.gov brakes. (No air brake equipped CMV)
tank or tanks having an individual rated to download the Military Skills Test Waiver To have a restriction(s) removed you must
capacity of more than 119 gallons and an application.
aggregate rated capacity of 1,000 gal- obtain a CLP for the Class of vehicle you will be
lons or more that is either permanently or 1.2.2 – Skills Tests operating that does not have the restriction(s) on
temporarily attached to the vehicle or Each person applying for a Class A, B, or C it. The permit is considered valid for purposes
chassis. commercial driver’s license shall pay the ap- of behind-the-wheel training on public roads
plicable license fee at the time that he or she or highways if at all times accompanied by the
schedules his or her appointment for said holder of a valid CDL who has the proper CDL
6
group and endorsement(s) necessary to operate WHAT SECTIONS SHOULD YOU STUDY?
the CMV. The CDL holder must at all times be
physically present in the front seat of the vehicle License Type Endorsement
next to the CLP holder or, in the case of a pas- Class Class Class Hazardous Double / Tank School
Passenger
senger vehicle, directly behind or in the first A B C Materials Triple Vehicles Bus
row behind the driver and must have the CLP 1 X X X
holder under observation and direct supervi- 2 X X X X X X
sion. You will also be required to take the road 3 X X X
test (i.e. vehicle inspection, basic skills and on-
Sections to Study
4 X
the-road driving test) again in a vehicle that is
5* X X X X
not configured and/or equipped the same as the
one that resulted in the restriction(s) originally 6 X X X
being placed on the license. 7 X
8 X
Pre-trip Inspection. You will be tested to see if 9 X X
you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. 10 X
You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of 11 X X X X X
your vehicle and explain to the examiner what 12 X X X X X
you would inspect and why. (This will require 13 X X X X X
you to physically maneuver/crawl under the
hood or under the vehicle.) *Study section 5 if you plan to operate vehicles equipped with air brakes.
Basic Vehicle Control. You will be tested on Figure 1.2

your skill to control the vehicle. You will be
asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, • Causing a fatality through negligent opera- • For at least three years if you have committed
and turn it within a defined area. These areas tion of a CMV. three or more violations of an out-of-service
may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barri- order.
You will lose your CDL for at least three years
ers, or something similar. The examiner will tell
if the offense occurs while you are operating a
you how each control test is to be done. 1.3.5 – Railroad-highway Grade
CMV that is placarded for hazardous materials.
Crossing Violations
On-road Test. You will be tested on your skill You will lose your CDL for life for a second
You will lose your CDL:
to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic offense.
situations. The situations may include left and You will lose your CDL for life if you use a • For at least 60 days for your first violation.
right turns, intersections, railroad crossings, CMV to commit a felony involving controlled
• For at least 120 days for your second violation
curves, up and down grades, single or multi- substances.
within a three-year period.
lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner You will be put out-of-service for 24 hours if you
will tell you where to drive. have any detectable amount of alcohol under .04%. • For at least one year for your third violation
Figure 1.2 details which sections of this man- within a three-year period.
ual you should study for each particular class 1.3.3 – Serious Traffic Violations
These violations include violation of a fed-
of license and for each endorsement. Serious traffic violation means conviction of
eral, state or local law or regulation pertaining
any of the following offenses or a conviction of
to one of the following six offenses at a railroad-
any law or ordinance equivalent thereto in this
1.3 – CDL Disqualifications state, in any other state, or in any foreign juris-
highway grade crossing:
diction, when operating either a commercial • For drivers who are not required to always
1.3.1 – General motor vehicle or unless otherwise specified, a stop, failing to stop before reaching the cross-
You may not drive a commercial motor ve- non-commercial vehicle: ing if the tracks are not clear.
hicle if you are disqualified for any reason. Serious traffic violations are excessive
• For drivers who are not required to always
speeding (15 mph or more above the posted
stop, failing to slow down and check that
1.3.2 – Alcohol, Leaving the limit), reckless driving, improper or erratic lane
the tracks are clear of an approaching train.
Scene of an Accident, and changes, following a vehicle too closely, traffic
Commission of a Felony offenses committed in a CMV in connection • For drivers who are always required to stop,
It is illegal to operate a CMV if your blood with fatal traffic accidents, driving a CMV with- failing to stop before driving onto the crossing.
alcohol concentration (BAC) is .04% or more. If out obtaining a CDL or having a CDL in the
• For all drivers failing to have sufficient space
you operate a CMV, you shall be deemed to have driver’s possession, and driving a CMV without
to drive completely through the crossing
given your consent to alcohol testing. the proper class of CDL and/or endorsements.
without stopping.
You will lose your CDL for at least one year You will lose your CDL:
for a first offense for: • For all drivers failing to obey a traffic control
• For at least 60 days if you have committed
device or the directions of an enforcement
• Driving a CMV if your blood alcohol concen- two serious traffic violations within a three-
official at the crossing.
tration is .04% or higher. year period.
• For all drivers failing to negotiate a crossing be-
• Driving a CMV under the influence of alcohol. • For at least 120 days if convicted of a third or
cause of insufficient undercarriage clearance.
subsequent serious traffic violation.
• Refusing to undergo blood alcohol testing.
1.3.6 – Hazardous Materials
• Driving a CMV while under the influence of 1.3.4 – Violation of
Endorsement Background
a controlled substance. Out-of-Service Orders
Check and Disqualifications
You will lose your CDL:
• Leaving the scene of an accident involving If you require a hazardous materials endorse-
a CMV. • For at least 180 days if you have committed ment you will be required to submit your fin-
your first violation of an out-of-service order. gerprints and be subject to a background check.
• Committing a felony involving the use of
You will be denied or you will lose your haz-
a CMV. • For at least two years if you have commit-
ardous materials endorsement if you:
ted two violations of out-of-service orders
• Driving a CMV when the CDL is suspended.
in separate incidences. • Are not a lawful permanent resident of the
United States.
8
• Renounce your United States citizenship. • Operating a motor vehicle with a revoked, or other associated equipment, or the cargo
canceled, or suspended registration. being transported therein or thereon, which is
• Are wanted or under indictment for certain
the property of another with the intention of
felonies. • Theft of a vehicle engaged in commercial
depriving such other person of the property,
transportation of cargo or any appurtenance
• Have a conviction in military or civilian court regardless of the manner in which the prop-
thereto or the cargo being transported therein
for certain felonies. erty is taken or appropriated; or(2) Any trailer,
or thereon.
semitrailer, container, or other associated
• Have been adjudicated as a mental defective
• Refusing to submit to a state administered equipment, or the cargo being transported
or committed to a mental institution.
chemical test requested by a law enforce- therein or thereon, which is deployed by or
• Are considered to pose a security threat as ment officer. used by a law enforcement agency, which is
determined by the Transportation Security the property of another with the intention of
If one of the offenses above occurs while you
Administration. depriving such other person of the property,
are operating a CMV that is placarded for haz-
regardless of the manner in which the prop-
The background check procedures vary from ardous materials, you will be disqualified from
erty is taken or appropriated.(c) The value of a
jurisdiction to jurisdiction. Your licensing agen- driving a CMV for at least three years.
vehicle engaged in commercial transportation
cy will provide you with all the information You will be disqualified from driving a com-
of cargo and any appurtenance thereto and
you need to complete the required TSA back- mercial motor vehicle for life if convicted of a
the cargo being transported which is taken
ground check procedures. (The TSA website second or subsequent major traffic violation or
or unlawfully appropriated shall be based on
can provide additional information – https:// any combination of such violations from the
the fair market value of such vehicle, appur-
universalenroll.dhs.gov.) list above.
tenances, and cargo taken or unlawfully ap-
propriated.(d) (1) If the property taken is one
1.3.7 – Traffic Violations in Your 1.3.9 Georgia Traffic Laws
or more controlled substances as defined in
Personal Vehicle
• When the department determines a road shall Code Section 16-13-21 with a collective value
The Motor Carrier Safety Improvement Act
have limited access due to a declared state of less than $10,000.00, a person convicted
(MCSIA) of 1999 requires a CDL holder to be
of emergency for inclement winter weather of a violation of this Code section shall be
disqualified from operating a commercial motor
conditions, notice shall be given to motorists punished by imprisonment for not less than
vehicle if the CDL holder has been convicted
through posted signage that motor vehicles one nor more than ten years, a fine of not less
of certain types of moving violations in their
must be equipped with tire chains, four-wheel than $10,000.00 nor more than $100,000.00, or
personal vehicle.
drive with adequate tires for existing condi- both.(2) If the property taken is one or more
If your privilege to operate your personal
tions, or snow tires with a manufacturer’s all controlled substances as defined in Code
vehicle is revoked, cancelled, or suspended due
weather rating in order to proceed. Section 16-13-21 with a collective value of
to violations of traffic control laws (other than
Commercial motor vehicles shall affix tire at least $10,000.00 but less than $1 million, a
parking violations) you will also lose your CDL
chains to each of the outermost drive wheel person convicted of a violation of this Code
driving privileges.
tires. Bus and motor coach operators shall af- section shall be punished by imprisonment
If your privilege to operate your personal ve-
fix tire chains to at least two of the drive wheel for not less than five nor more than 25 years,
hicle is revoked, cancelled, or suspended due
tires before proceeding on a road with limited a fine of not less than $50,000.00 nor more
to alcohol, controlled substance or felony viola-
access due to a declared state of emergency for than $1 million, or both.(3) If the property
tions, you will lose your CDL for 1 year. If you are
inclement winter weather conditions. taken is one or more controlled substances
convicted of a second violation in your personal
A driver of a motor vehicle who causes as defined in Code Section 16-13-21 with a
vehicle or CMV you will lose your CDL for life.
an accident or blocks the flow of traffic collective value of $1 million or more, a person
If your license to operate your personal vehicle
while failing to comply with the require- convicted of a violation of this Code section
is revoked, cancelled, or suspended you may not
ments of this code section shall be fined up shall be punished by imprisonment for not
obtain a “hardship” license to operate a CMV.
to $1,000.00. less than ten nor more than 30 years, a fine
of not less than $100,000.00 nor more than $1
1.3.8 – Major Traffic Violations • Commercial Motor Vehicles and any other
million, or both.(e) (1) Except as otherwise
You will be disqualified from driving a CMV motor vehicle with more than six wheels is
provided in subsection (d) of this Code sec-
for not less than one year if convicted of any of prohibited from traveling along GA 400 and
tion, if the property taken has a collective
the following offenses when operating either a interstate routes inside I-285 unless the driver
value of $1,500.00 or less, a person convicted
commercial motor vehicle or, unless otherwise of such motor vehicle is:
of a violation of this Code section shall be
specified, a noncommercial motor vehicle: » Engaging in a pick up or delivery to or
punished as for a misdemeanor.(2) Except
from a shipper located inside the arc of
• Driving a vehicle under the influence in vio- as otherwise provided in subsection (d) of
Interstate 285
lation of Code Section 40-6-391. this Code section, if the property taken has
» Traveling to or from such motor vehicle’s
a collective value of more than $1,500.00 but
• Hit and run or leaving the scene of an acci- terminal facility located inside the arc of
less than $10,000.00, a person convicted of a
dent; failing to report striking an unattended Interstate 285
violation of this Code section shall be pun-
vehicle, failure to report striking a fixed ob- » Traveling to or from a repair facility lo-
ished by imprisonment for not less than one
ject, or failure to report an accident. cated inside the arc of Interstate 285 for
nor more than ten years, a fine of not less than
service; or
• Any felony in the commission of which a $10,000.00 nor more than $100,000.00, or both.
» Traveling to or from his or her residence
motor vehicle is used. (3) Except as otherwise provided in subsection
which is located inside the arc of Inter-
(d) of this Code section, if the property taken
• Driving a commercial motor vehicle while state 285.
has a collective value of at least $10,000.00 but
the person’s commercial driver’s license or
• Cargo theft – GA Code 16-8-22 (a) For pur- less than $1 million, a person convicted of a
commercial driving privilege is revoked,
poses of this Code section, the term “vehicle” violation of this Code section shall be pun-
suspended, canceled, or disqualified.
includes, without limitation, any railcar.(b) ished by imprisonment for not less than five
• Homicide by vehicle. Notwithstanding any provision of this article nor more than 20 years, a fine of not less than
to the contrary, a person commits the offense $50,000.00 nor more than $1 million, or both.
• Racing on highways or streets.
of cargo theft when he or she unlawfully takes (4) Except as otherwise provided in subsection
• Using a motor vehicle in fleeing or attempting or, being in lawful possession thereof, unlaw- (d) of this Code section, if the property taken
to elude an officer. fully appropriates:(1) Any vehicle engaged in has a collective value of $1 million or more, a
commercial transportation of cargo or any person convicted of a violation of this Code
• Fraudulent or fictitious use of, or application
appurtenance thereto, including, without section shall be punished by imprisonment
for, a license.
limitation, any trailer, semitrailer, container, for not less than ten nor more than 20 years,
10
COMMERCIAL LICENSE & PERMIT FEES RESTRICTION CODES
Type Term Fee – COMMERCIAL
CLASSIFICATIONS
CDL License Class A, B 8 years $32
E No Manual Transmission Equipped CMV
CDL Learner’s Permit AP, BP 365 days $10 K Intrastate Commerce Only
CDL Application $35 L Without Air-Brakes
M No Class A Passenger Buses
CDL Road Skills Test* $50
N No Class A or B Passenger Buses
CDL Endorsements “Term of License w/o Hazmat” $5 each
O No Tractor Trailer CMV
NOTE: If you possess a Hazmat Endorsement, it will expire on the Threat Assessment Date which is a
maximum of 5 years. The fee is $20. *After Feb. 7, 2022, applicants must complete Entry-Level Driver P No Passengers in CMV bus
Training (ELDT) before scheduling a roadtest. V Medical Variance
COMMERCIAL CLASSES X No Cargo in CMV Tank Vehicle
Class Purpose
Y Hearing Aid Required
Truck trailer or tractor-semi trailer combination in which the combination weight
exceeds 26,001 pounds and the unit being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds. Class Z No Full Air Brake
A driver may operate vehicles in Class B and C with required endorsements. Ap-
Class A plicants must possess a Class C driver’s license before obtaining a Class A and
be at least 18 years of age. COMMERCIAL CLASS
A single driver’s license, with a combination of classifications, will be issued to ENDORSEMENTS
qualified persons who wish to drive various types of vehicles. C For-Hire
Class AP Class A Commercial Learner’s Permit Passenger Vehicles (sixteen or more,
P
Single vehicles weighing 26,001 or more pounds and the unit being towed is including driver)
less than 10,000 pounds. A class B driver may operate motor vehicles included T Double/Triple-Trailers
Class B within Class C.
Tanker and Hazardous (not qualified for
Applicants must possess a Class C driver’s license prior to obtaining a Class B X
Permits)
driver’s license and be at least 18 years of age.
Hazardous Materials Haulers
Class BP Class B Commercial Learner’s Permit H
(not qualified for Permits)
Class ‘C’ Commercial Driver’s Licenses are issued only if the vehicle is designed to S School Bus
Class C transport sixteen or more passengers (including the driver), or utilized to transport
hazardous materials in quantities that require placarding. N Tank Vehicles
THE “MOVE OVER” LAW

Georgia’s “Move Over” Law helps ensure highway safety for motorists, emergency personnel,
active sanitation workers, and utility service workers when their vehicles
are stopped on the side of the roadway. How does the “Move
This law was created to reduce the number of injuries and fatalities to
Over” Law make a
police officers, paramedics, firefighters, wrecker operators, and high- difference?
way maintenance workers by maintaining an open buffer lane between
passing highway traffic and authorized roadside emergency vehicles • Thirty percent of all crashes occur as the
displaying flashing yellow, amber, white, red, or blue lights. It was result of another crash.
amended to include active sanitation workers and utility service workers • Providing a buffer lane for these vehicles
who are utilizing traffic cones and/or vehicles displaying flashing lights. parked on the roadway shoulder actually
In Georgia, this law requires motorists to: reduces the risk of another crash.
• Move Over to the next lane if safely possible; Safely change lanes • When the required clearance is given
• If unable to Move Over, then Slow Down below the speed limit when approaching any to roadside these types of vehicles, the
emergency, sanitation, or margin of safety is increased, not only
and be prepared to stop. utility service vehicle.
for public safety, emergency personnel,
This law applies to any emergency vehicle, sanitation, or utility active sanitation workers, and utility
service parked on the shoulder of the roadway. service workers, but for motorists and
their passengers as well.
Why was the “Move Over” Law Passed? It’s the Law!
• Because it saves lives. The “Move Over” • More police officers
Law helps maintain traffic flow and are killed by traffic • Violations can result in a fine of no more
protect the safety of motorists, emergency crashes than in than $500 for the first offense.
personnel, active sanitation workers, and any other line-of-duty cause of death. • The “Move Over” Law is another reason
utility service workers.
More than one fourth of those killed are to slow down on the highways and,
• Vehicles parked on the side of the roadway struck by passing vehicles while they work interstates, and roadways.
are vulnerable to crashes even when outside their patrol cars.
emergency lights are flashing.
11
a fine of not less than $100,000.00 nor more You must be properly restrained by a safety International Registration Plan (IRP) and the
than $1 million, or both.(f) Notwithstanding belt at all times while operating a commercial International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA). These
subsections (d) and (e) of this Code section, if motor vehicle. The safety belt design holds the federally mandated programs provide for the
the property taken is a trailer, semitrailer, con- driver securely behind the wheel during a crash, equitable collection and distribution of vehicle
tainer, or other associated equipment, or the helping the driver to control the vehicle and license fees and motor fuels taxes for vehicles
cargo being transported therein or thereon, reduces the chance of serious injury or death. traveling throughout the 48 contiguous United
which is deployed by or used by a law en- If you do not wear a safety belt, you are four States and 10 Canadian provinces.
forcement agency, regardless of its value, a times more likely to be fatally injured if you Under the IRP, jurisdictions must register
person convicted of a violation of this Code are thrown from the vehicle. apportioned vehicles which includes issuing
section shall be punished by imprisonment You are not allowed to hold a mobile tele- license plates and cab cards or proper creden-
for not less than one nor more than ten years, phone to conduct a voice communication or tials, calculate, collect and distribute IRP fees,
a fine of not less than $10,000.00 nor more than dial a mobile telephone by pressing more than audit carriers for accuracy of reported distance
$100,000.00, or both.(g) A person convicted of a single button when driving. and fees and enforce IRP requirements.
a violation of this Code section may also be You are not allowed to send or read text mes- Registrant responsibilities under the Plan
punished by, if applicable, the revocation of sages while driving. include applying for IRP registration with base
the defendant’s commercial driver’s license jurisdiction, providing proper documentation for
in accordance with Code Section 40-5-151. Penalties for False Information registration, paying appropriate IRP registration
fees, properly displaying registration credentials,
• Pursuant to 49 CFR 383.73(j), if a State deter-
1.4 – Other CDL Rules maintaining accurate distance records, and mak-
mines, in its check of an applicant’s license
There are other federal and state rules that ing records available for jurisdiction review.
status and record prior to issuing a CLP or
affect drivers operating CMVs in all states. The basic concept behind IFTA is to allow
CDL, or at any time after the CLP or CDL is
Among them are: a licensee (motor carrier) to license in a base
issued, that the applicant has falsified infor-
jurisdiction for the reporting and payment of
• You cannot have more than one license. If mation contained in subpart J of this part, in
motor fuel use taxes.
you break this rule, a court may fine you up any of the certifications required in § 383.71(b)
Under the IFTA, a licensee is issued one set
to $5,000 or put you in jail or (g), or in any of the documents required
of credentials which will authorize operations
to be submitted by § 383.71(h), the State must
• You must notify your employer within 30 through all IFTA member jurisdictions. The
at a minimum disqualify the person’s CLP
days of conviction for any traffic violations fuel use taxes collected pursuant to the IFTA
or CDL or his/her pending application, or
(except parking). This is true no matter what are calculated based on the number of miles
disqualify the person from operating a com-
type of vehicle you were driving. (kilometers) traveled and the number of gallons
mercial motor vehicle for a period of at least
(liters) consumed in the member jurisdictions.
• You must notify your motor vehicle licensing 60 consecutive days.
The licensee files one quarterly tax return with
agency within 30 days if you are convicted in
• Pursuant to 49 CFR 383.73(k)(1), the State the base jurisdiction by which the licensee will
any other jurisdiction of any traffic violation
must have policies in effect that result, at a report all operations through all IFTA member
(except parking). This is true no matter what
minimum, in the disqualification of the CLP jurisdictions.
type of vehicle you were driving.
or CDL of a person who has been convicted It is the base jurisdiction’s responsibility to
• You must notify your employer within two of fraud related to the issuance of that CLP remit the taxes collected to other member ju-
business days if your license is suspended, or CDL. The application of a person so con- risdictions and to represent the other member
revoked, or canceled, or if you are disquali- victed who seeks to renew, transfer, or up- jurisdictions in the tax collection process, in-
fied from driving. grade the fraudulently obtained CLP or CDL cluding the performance of audits.
must also, at a minimum, be disqualified. The An IFTA licensee must retain records to
• You must give your employer information on
State must record any such withdrawal in support the information reported on the IFTA
all driving jobs you have held for the past 10
the person’s driving record. The person may quarterly tax return
years. You must do this when you apply for
not reapply for a new CDL for at least 1 year. The IRP registrant and the IFTA licensee
a commercial driving job.
may be the vehicle owner or the vehicle op-
• Pursuant to 49 CFR 383.73(k)(2), if a State re-
• No one can drive a commercial motor vehicle erator.
ceives credible information that a CLP- or
without a CDL. A court may fine you up to The requirement for acquiring IRP plates for
CDL-holder is suspected, but has not been
$5,000 or put you in jail for breaking this rule. a vehicle and IFTA license for a motor carrier
convicted, of fraud related to the issuance
is determined by the definitions from the IRP
• If you have a hazardous materials endorse- of his/her CLP or CDL, the State must re-
Plan and the IFTA for Qualified Vehicle and
ment you must notify and surrender your quire the driver to re-take the skills and/or
Qualified Motor Vehicle. For purposes of IRP:
hazardous materials endorsement to the state knowledge tests. Within 30 days of receiving
that issued your CDL within 24 hours of any notification from the State that re-testing is • A Qualified Vehicle is (except as provided
conviction or indictment in any jurisdiction, necessary, the affected CLP- or CDL-holder below) any Power Unit that is used or in-
civilian or military, for, or found not guilty by must make an appointment or otherwise tended for use in two or more Member Juris-
reason of insanity of a disqualifying crime schedule to take the next available test. If the dictions and that is used for the transporta-
listed in 49 CFR 1572.103; who is adjudicated CLP- or CDL-holder fails to make an appoint- tion of persons for hire or designed, used, or
as a mental defective or committed to a men- ment within 30 days, the State must disqualify maintained primarily for the transportation
tal institution as specified in 49 CFR 1572.109; his/her CLP or CDL. If the driver fails either of property, and:
or who renounces his or her U. S. citizenship; the knowledge or skills test or does not take 1. has two Axles and a gross Vehicle weight
the test, the State must disqualify his/her CLP or registered gross Vehicle weight in
• Your employer may not let you drive a com-
or CDL. Once a CLP- or CDL-holder’s CLP or excess of 26,000 pounds (11,793.401 kilo-
mercial motor vehicle if you have more than
CDL has been disqualified, he/she must reap- grams), or
one license or if you’re CDL is suspended or
ply for a CLP or CDL under State procedures 2. has three or more Axles, regardless of
revoked. A court may fine the employer up
applicable to all CLP and CDL applicants. weight, or
to $5,000 or put him/her in jail for breaking
3. is used in combination, when the gross Ve-
this rule.
1.5 – International Registration hicle weight of such combination exceeds
• All states are connected to one computerized Plan International Fuel 26,000 pounds (11,793.401 kilograms).
system to share information about CDL driv- Tax Agreement
• While similar, the Qualified Motor Vehicle in
ers. The states will check on drivers’ accident If you operate a CDL required vehicle in
IFTA means a motor vehicle used, designed,
records to be sure that drivers do not have interstate commerce, the vehicle, with few ex-
or maintained for transportation of persons
more than one CDL. ceptions, is required to be registered under the
or property and:
12
GEORGIA TARGETING AGGRESSIVE
CARS AND TRUCKS (GTACT)
The Georgia Department of Public Safety, Motor
Carrier Compliance Division (MCCD), promotes
Georgia Targeting Aggressive Cars and Trucks
(GTACT), a positive message to the motoring
public to “Leave More Space”. This is accom-
plished by conducting enforcement activity in
High Crash Corridors and Outreach activities
in selected geographical locations. GTACT is a
partnership between MCCD, Federal Motor Car-
rier Safety Administration, Georgia Motor Truck-
ing Association, state and local law enforcement.
1. Having two axles and a gross vehicle – .025 Price per gallon or liter or total There are different routes that a driver may
weight or registered gross vehicle weight amount of sale take, and most of the miles may be within one
exceeding 26,000 pounds or 11,797 kilo- – .030 Unit number or other unique ve- state or province. Whether or not the distance you
grams; or hicle identifier travel is primarily in one jurisdiction or spread
2. Is used in combination, when the weight of – .035 Purchaser’s name among several jurisdictions, all information for
such combination exceeds 26,000 pounds or the trip must be recorded. This includes the dates,
An example of an IVDR that must be com-
11,797 kilograms gross vehicle or registered the routes, odometer readings and fuel purchases.
pleted in its entirety for each trip can be found in
gross vehicle weight. Qualified Motor Ve- By completing this document in full and
Figure 1.3 below. Each individual IVDR should
hicle does not include recreational vehicles. keeping all records required by both the IRP
be filled out for only one vehicle. The rules to
and the IFTA, you will have ensured that you
If the vehicle you operate is registered under follow when trying to determine how and when
and your company are in compliance with all
IRP and you are a motor carrier licensed under to log an odometer reading are the following:
State and Provincial laws surrounding fuel and
IFTA, then you are required to comply with the
• At the beginning of the day distance record keeping requirements.
mandatory record keeping requirements for
The IVDR serves as the source document for
operating the vehicle. A universally accepted • When leaving the state or province
the calculation of fees and taxes that are pay-
method of capturing this information is through
• At the end of the trip/day able to the jurisdictions in which the vehicle
the completion of an Individual Vehicle Distance
is operated, so these original records must be
Record (IVDR), sometimes times referred to as a Not only do the trips need to be logged, but
maintained for a minimum of four years.
Driver Trip Report. This document reflects the the fuel purchases need to be documented as
In addition, these records are subject to audit
distance traveled and fuel purchased for a ve- well. You must obtain a receipt for all fueling
by the taxing jurisdictions. Failure to maintain
hicle that operates interstate under apportioned and include it with your completed IVDR.
complete and accurate records could result in
(IRP) registration and IFTA fuel tax credentials. Make sure that any trips that you enter are
fines, penalties and suspension or revocation of
Although the actual format of the IVDR always filled out in descending order and that
IRP registrations and IFTA licenses.
may vary, the information that is required your trips include all state/provinces that you
for proper record keeping does not. traveled through on your route.
In order to satisfy the requirements for Indi-
vidual Vehicle Distance Records, these docu-
ments must include the following information:
• Distance. Per Article IV of the IRP Plan
1. Date of trip (starting and ending)
2. Trip origin and destination – City and State
or Province
3. Route(s) of travel
4. Beginning and ending odometer or hu-
bodometer reading of the trip
5. Total distance traveled
6. In-Jurisdiction distance
7. Power unit number or vehicle identifica-
tion number.
• Fuel. Per Section P560 of the IFTA Procedures
Manual
» .300 An acceptable receipt or invoice must
include, but shall not be limited to, the
following:
– .005 Date of purchase
– .010 Seller’s name and address
– .015 Number of gallons or liters pur-
chased;
– .020 Fuel type Figure 1.3 – Individual Vehicle Mileage & Fuel Record (Example)
13
For additional information on the IRP and site at dds.georgia.gov. Please note that a new CMV in interstate or intrastate commerce?
the requirements related to the IRP, contact your self-certification form is not required each time Interstate commerce is when you drive a CMV:
base jurisdiction motor vehicle department or an updated medical certificate is submitted. To
• From one State to another State or a foreign
IRP, Inc. the official repository for the IRP. Ad- submit by mail, send copies to:
country;
ditional information can be found on the IRP,
DDS
Inc. website at www.irponline.org. There is a • Between two places within a State, but during
Attn: RM-CDL
training video on the website home page avail- part of the trip, the CMV crosses into another
P.O. Box 80447
able in English, Spanish and French State or foreign country; or
Conyers, GA 30013
For additional information on IFTA and
• Between two places within a State, but the
the requirements related to IFTA, contact the To submit in person you can visit any DDS
cargo is part of a trip that began or will end
appropriate agency in your base jurisdiction. Customer Service Center.
in another State or foreign country.
You will also find useful information about the
1. Each individual holding a CDL permit or CDL
Agreement at the official repository of IFTA at Intrastate commerce is The cargo on the
license will be responsible for providing new
http://www.iftach.org/index.php. vehicle originated in the state and will not leave
copies of Medical Examiner Certificates and
the state and you do not meet any of the descrip-
any applicable variances ((i.e. Vision waivers,
1.6 – Medical Documentation tions above for interstate commerce.
Skills Performance waivers, Diabetic waivers)
Requirements If you operate in both intrastate commerce
prior to the expiration of those documents.
Any person applying for a CDL permit or and interstate commerce, you must choose
Effective May 21, 2014, all new USDOT physi-
the initial issuance of a CDL will be required interstate commerce.
cals must be performed by a qualified health
to self-certify to a single type of commercial Once you decide you operate or will operate
professional listed on the National Registry
operation and provide a copy of their Medical in interstate commerce or intrastate com-
of Certified Medical Examiners. Cards that
Certificate and any applicable variance docu- merce, you must decide whether you operate
are submitted without a National Registry
ments (i.e. Vision waivers, Skills Performance (or expect to operate) in a non-excepted or
number will not be processed.
waivers, Diabetic waivers). These documents excepted status. This decision will tell you to
must be presented at the time of application 2. If you are required to have a “certified” medi- which of the four types of commerce you must
at a Department of Driver Services Customer cal status and fail to provide and keep up-to- self-certify.
Service Center. date your medical examiner’s certificate, you You operate in excepted interstate commerce
If a person wishes to change their self-certi- become ‘not-certified’. when you drive a CMV in interstate commerce
fication status, they will be required to visit a only for the following excepted activities:
3. Failure to provide valid medical certificates and/
DDS Customer Service Center in person. The
or variances may require retesting and addi- • To transport school children and/or school
change may result in restrictions being removed
tional fees to get your CDL privileges restored. staff between home and school;
or added to the license which will require a new
license be issued at that time. Updated medical You will need to self-certify based on how you • As Federal, State or local government em-
certificates and waivers may be submitted to use the CMV. The following information will ployees;
DDS by fax (at 770.918.6271), mail, in person, or help you determine how you should self-certify.
• To transport human corpses or sick or injured
online by creating an account on the DDS web- Do you, or will you, use a CDL to operate a
persons;
14 GEORGIA COMMERCIAL DRIVERS MANUAL

• Fire truck or rescue vehicle drivers during you drive, you operate in excepted interstate • In Response to a pipeline emergency condi-
emergencies and other related activities; commerce and do not need a Federal medical tion requiring immediate response such as a
examiner’s certificate. pipeline leak or rupture;
• Primarily in the transportation of propane
If you answered no to all of the above ac-
winter heating fuel when responding to an • In custom harvesting on a farm or to trans-
tivities, you operate in non-excepted inter-
emergency condition requiring immediate port farm machinery and supplies used in
state commerce and are required to provide
response such as damage to a propane gas the custom harvesting operation to and from
a current medical examiner’s certificate (49 CFR
system after a storm or flooding; a farm or to transport custom harvested crops
391.45),commonly referred to as a medical cer-
to storage or market;
• In Response to a pipeline emergency condi- tificate or DOT card, to DDS. Most CDL hold-
tion requiring immediate response such as a ers who drive CMVs in interstate commerce are • Beekeeper in the seasonal transportation of
pipeline leak or rupture; non-excepted interstate commerce drivers. bees;
If you operate in both excepted interstate
• In custom harvesting on a farm or to trans- • Controlled and operated by a farmer, but is not
commerce and non-excepted interstate com-
port farm machinery and supplies used in a combination vehicle (power unit and towed
merce, you must choose non-excepted inter-
the custom harvesting operation to and from unit), and is used to transport agricultural
state commerce to be qualified to operate in
a farm or to transport custom harvested crops products, farm machinery or farm supplies (no
both types of interstate commerce.
to storage or market; placardable hazardous materials) to and from
You operate in excepted intrastate com-
a farm and within 150 air-miles of the farm;
• Beekeeper in the seasonal transportation of merce when you drive a CMV in intrastate com-
bees; merce only for the following excepted activities: • As a private motor carrier of passengers for
non-business purposes ; or
• Controlled and operated by a farmer, but is not • To transport school children and/or school
a combination vehicle (power unit and towed staff between home and school; • To transport migrant workers.
unit), and is used to transport agricultural
• As Federal, State or local government em- • Occasional transportation of personal property.
products, farm machinery or farm supplies (no
ployees;
placardable hazardous materials) to and from You operate in non-excepted intrastate com-
a farm and within 150 air-miles of the farm; • To transport human corpses or sick or injured merce when you drive a CMV only in intrastate
persons;vv commerce and are required to meet your State
• As a private motor carrier of passengers for
of licensure’s medical certification requirements.
non-business purposes ; or • Fire truck or rescue vehicle drivers during
If you operate in both excepted intrastate
emergencies and other related activities;
• To transport migrant workers. commerce and non-excepted intrastate com-
• Primarily in the transportation of propane merce, you must choose non-excepted intra-
• Occasional transportation of personal
winter heating fuel when responding to an state commerce.
property
emergency condition requiring immediate
If you answered yes to one or more of the response such as damage to a propane gas
above activities as the only operation in which system after a storm or flooding;
FMCSA CERTIFICATIONS (INITIAL BESIDE APPLICABLE STATEMENTS)

See Self-Certification Guidelines
A. Non-Excepted Interstate - I certify that I will operate or expect to operate in interstate or foreign commerce,
that I am subject to and meet the FMCSA driver qualification requirements under 49 CFR part 391, and I am required to
obtain a medical examiner’s certificate. I also certify that I do not have an impairment of an arm, foot, or leg that interferes
Self-Certification with the normal tasks associated with the operation of a CMV. (Medical Certificate needed)
Categories
(Initial One)
A, B – Medical
Certificate needed. B. Non-Excepted Intrastate - I certify that I will operate entirely in intra state commerce only and that I meet
the FMCSA driver qualification requirements as defined in 49 CFR 391. I also certify that I do not have an impairment
of an arm, foot, or leg that interferes with the normal tasks associated with the operation of a CMV.(Medical Certificate
needed)
C. Excepted Interstate - I certify that I will operate or expect to operate in interstate commerce, but engage
exclusively in transportation or operations excepted under 49 CFR §§390.3(f), 391.2, 391.68 or 398.3 from all or parts of the
qualification requirements of 49 CFR part 391, and I am therefore not required to obtain a medical examiner’s certificate.
C, D – Medical (Medical Certificate not needed)
Certificate NOT
needed.
D. Excepted Intrastate - I certify that I will operate in city, county, state, or federal vehicle only, and I am exempt
from the FMCSA driver qualification requirements of 49 CFR 390.3(f). (Medical Certificate not needed)
Sample – Self-certification requirements (driver would initial A, B, C or D)

NOTE: Please visit a DDS Customer Service Center to complete a new self-certification form if there is a change in driving status.
15
SECTION 2
2.1 – Vehicle Inspection
DRIVING SAFETY
2.1.1 – Why Inspect
Safety is the most important reason you in-
This Section Covers spect your vehicle, safety for yourself and for
other road users.
Vehicle Inspection ..... 2.1 Railroad-highway A vehicle defect found during an inspection
Crossings ................. 2.14 could save you problems later. You could have
Basic Control of a breakdown on the road that will cost time
Your Vehicle ...............2.2 Mountain Driving...... 2.15 and dollars, or even worse, a crash caused by
the defect.
Federal and state laws require that drivers
Shifting Gears ............2.3 Driving inspect their vehicles. Federal and state inspec-
Seeing.........................2.4 Emergencies ............ 2.16 tors also may inspect your vehicles. If they judge
the vehicle to be unsafe, they will put it “out of
Communicating..........2.4 Antilock Braking service” until it is fixed.
Systems.................... 2.17 2.1.2 – Types of Vehicle Inspection
Space Management...2.5
Skid Control Pre-trip Inspection. A pre-trip inspection
Controlling Your and Recovery ........... 2.18
will help you find problems that could cause a
crash or breakdown.
Speed .........................2.6
Accident During a Trip. For safety you should:
Seeing Hazards ..........2.7 Procedures............... 2.19 • Watch gauges for signs of trouble.
Distracted Driving ......2.8 • Use your senses to check for problems (look,
Fires..........................2.20 listen, smell, feel).
Aggressive Drivers/ Alcohol, Other Drugs, • Check critical items when you stop:
» Tires, wheels and rims.
Road Rage ..................2.9 and Driving ...............2.21 » Brakes.
» Lights and reflectors.
Night Driving ............ 2.10 Staying Alert and Fit » Brake and electrical connections to trailer.
» Trailer coupling devices.
Driving in Fog ........... 2.11 to Drive .....................2.22 » Cargo securement devices.
Winter Driving .......... 2.12 Hazardous Materials After-trip Inspection and Report. You
should do an after-trip inspection at the end
Hot Weather Rules.........................2.23 of the trip, day, or tour of duty on each vehicle
you operated. It may include filling out a ve-
Driving ...................... 2.13 hicle condition report listing any problems you
find. The inspection report helps a motor carrier
know when the vehicle needs repairs.
This section contains knowledge and safe driving information that all commercial drivers should
know. You must pass a test on this information to get a CDL. This section does not have specific 2.1.3 – What to Look For
information on air brakes, combination vehicles, doubles, or passenger vehicles. When preparing Tire Problems
for the Pre-trip Inspection Test, you must review the material in Section 11 in addition to the infor-
mation in this section. This section does have basic information on hazardous materials (HazMat) • Too much or too little air pressure.
that all drivers should know. If you need a HazMat endorsement, you should study Section 9. • Bad wear. You need at least 4/32-inch tread
depth in every major groove on front tires.
You need 2/32 inch on other tires. No fabric
should show through the tread or sidewall.
• Cuts or other damage.
• Tread separation.
• Dual tires that come in contact with each
other or parts of the vehicle.
• Mismatched sizes.
• Radial and bias-ply tires used together.
• Cut or cracked valve stems.
• Regrooved, recapped, or retreaded tires on
the front wheels of a bus. These are prohib-
ited.
Wheel and Rim Problems
• Damaged rims.
• Rust around wheel nuts may mean the nuts
are loose--check tightness. After a tire has
16
SECTION 2: DRIVING SAFETY
STEERING SYSTEM KEY SUSPENSION PARTS SAFETY DEFECT:

BROKEN LEAF IN SPRING
Figure 2.1 Figure 2.2 Figure 2.3
been changed, stop a short while later and • Broken leaves in a multi-leaf spring or leaves
re-check tightness of nuts. that have shifted so they might hit a tire or AIR SUSPENSION PARTS
other part.
• Missing clamps, spacers, studs, or lugs means
danger. • Leaking shock absorbers.
• Mismatched, bent, or cracked lock rings are • Torque rod or arm, u-bolts, spring hangers, or
dangerous. other axle positioning parts that are cracked,
damaged, or missing.
• Wheels or rims that have had welding repairs
are not safe. • Air suspension systems that are damaged
and/or leaking. See Figure 2.4.
Bad Brake Drums or Shoes
Exhaust System Defects. A broken exhaust
• Cracked drums.
system can let poison fumes into the cab or
• Shoes or pads with oil, grease, or brake fluid sleeper berth. Look for:
on them.
• Loose, broken, or missing exhaust pipes, muf-
• Shoes worn dangerously thin, missing, flers, tailpipes, or vertical stacks.
or broken.
Figure 2.4
• Loose, broken, or missing mounting brackets,
Steering System Defects clamps, bolts, or nuts.
2.1.4 – CDL Pre-trip
• Missing nuts, bolts, cotter keys, or other parts. • Exhaust system parts rubbing against fuel Inspection Test
system parts, tires, or other moving parts In order to obtain a CDL you will be required
• Bent, loose, or broken parts, such as steering
of vehicle. to pass a pre-trip inspection test. You will be
column, steering gear box, or tie rods.
tested to see if you know whether your vehicle
• Exhaust system parts that are leaking.
• If power steering equipped, check hoses, is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-
pumps, and fluid level; check for leaks. • Any loose, cracked, broken, or missing frame trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to
members. the examiner what you would inspect and why.
• Steering wheel play of more than 10 degrees
The following seven-step inspection method
(approximately 2 inches movement at the rim Emergency Equipment. Vehicles must be
should be useful.
of a 20-inch steering wheel) can make it hard equipped with emergency equipment. Look for:
to steer.
• Fire extinguisher(s). 2.1.5 – Seven-step Inspection Method
Suspension System Defects. The suspension
• Spare electrical fuses (unless equipped with Method of Inspection. You should do a pre-
system holds up the vehicle and its load. It keeps
circuit breakers). trip inspection the same way each time so you
the axles in place. Therefore, broken suspension
will learn all the steps and be less likely to forget
parts can be extremely dangerous. Look for: • Warning devices for parked vehicles (for ex-
something.
ample, three reflective warning triangles or
• Spring hangers that allow movement of axle
3 liquid burning flares). Approaching the Vehicle. Notice general
from proper position. See Figure 2.2.
condition. Look for damage or vehicle leaning
Cargo (Trucks). You must make sure the truck
• Cracked or broken spring hangers. to one side. Look under the vehicle for fresh
is not overloaded and the cargo is balanced and
oil, coolant, grease, or fuel leaks. Check the
• Missing or broken leaves in any leaf spring. secured before each trip. If the cargo contains
area around the vehicle for hazards to vehicle
If one-fourth or more are missing, it will put hazardous materials, you must inspect for
movement (people, other vehicles, objects, low-
the vehicle “out of service”, but any defect proper papers and placarding.
hanging wires, limbs, etc.).
could be dangerous. See Figure 2.3.
17
Vehicle Inspection Guide Check Emergency Equipment
• Check for safety equipment:
Step 1: Vehicle Overview
» Spare electrical fuses (unless vehicle has
Review Last Vehicle Inspection Report. circuit breakers)
Drivers may have to make a vehicle inspection » Three red reflective triangles, or 3 liquid
report in writing each day. The motor carrier burning flares.
must repair any items in the report that affect » Properly charged and rated fire extin-
safety and certify on the report that repairs were guisher.
made or were unnecessary. You must sign the
• Check for optional items such as:
report only if defects were noted and certified
» Chains (where winter conditions require).
to be repaired or not needed to be repaired.
» Tire changing equipment.
» List of emergency phone numbers
Step 2: Check Engine Compartment
» Accident reporting kit (packet).
Check That the Parking Brakes Are On and
Check Safety Belt. Check that the safety belt
the Wheels Chocked. You may have to raise
is securely mounted, adjusts, latches properly
the hood, tilt the cab (secure loose things so they
and is not ripped or frayed.
don’t fall and break something), or open the
engine compartment door. Check the following:
Step 4: Turn Off Engine and Check Lights
• Engine oil level. Make sure the parking brake is set, turn off
the engine, and take the key with you. Turn on
• Coolant level in radiator; condition of hoses.
Figure 2.5 headlights (low beams) and four-way emer-
• Power steering fluid level; hose condition (if gency flashers, and get out of the vehicle.
so equipped). Air pressure. Pressure should build from 50
to 90 psi within 3 minutes. Build air pressure to Step 5: Do Walk-around Inspection
• Windshield washer fluid level.
governor cut-out (usually around 120 – 140 psi.
• Go to front of vehicle and check that low
• Battery fluid level, connections, and tie Know your vehicles requirements.
beams are on and both of the four-way flash-
downs (battery may be located elsewhere).
• Ammeter and/or voltmeter. Should be in ers are working.
• Automatic transmission fluid level (may re- normal range(s).
• Push dimmer switch and check that high
quire engine to be running).
• Coolant temperature. Should begin gradual beams work.
• Check belts for tightness and excessive wear rise to normal operating range.
• Turn off headlights and four-way emergency
(alternator, water pump, air compressor)--
• Engine oil temperature. Should begin grad- flashers.
learn how much “give” the belts should have
ual rise to normal operating range.
when adjusted right, and check each one. • Turn on parking, clearance, side-marker, and
• Warning lights and buzzers. Oil, coolant, identification lights.
• Leaks in the engine compartment (fuel, cool-
charging circuit warning, DEF lighting indi-
ant, oil, power steering fluid, hydraulic fluid, • Turn on right turn signal, and start walk-
cator, and antilock brake system lights should
battery fluid). around inspection.
go out right away.
• Cracked, worn electrical wiring insulation. General
Check Condition of Controls. Check all of
Lower and secure hood, cab, or engine com- the following for looseness, sticking, damage, • Walk-around and inspect.
partment door. or improper setting:
• Clean all lights, reflectors, and glass as you
• Steering wheel. go along.
Step 3: Start Engine and Inspect Inside
the Cab • Clutch. Left Front Side
Get In and Start Engine • Accelerator (“gas pedal”). • Driver’s door glass should be clean.
• Make sure parking brake is on. • Brake controls. • Door latches or locks should work properly.
» Foot brake.
• Put gearshift in neutral (or “park” if auto- • Left front wheel.
» Trailer brake (if vehicle has one).
matic). » Condition of wheel and rim--missing,
» Parking brake.
bent, broken studs, clamps, lugs, or any
• Start engine; listen for unusual noises. » Retarder controls (if vehicle has them).
signs of misalignment.
• If equipped, check the Anti-lock Braking • Transmission controls. » Condition of tires--properly inflated, valve
System (ABS) indicator lights. Light on dash stem and cap OK, no serious cuts, bulges,
• Interaxle differential lock (if vehicle has one).
should come on and then turn off. If it stays or tread wear.
on the ABS is not working properly. For trail- • Horn(s). » Use wrench to test rust-streaked lug nuts,
ers only, if the yellow light on the left rear of indicating looseness.
• Windshield wiper/washer.
the trailer stays on, the ABS is not working » Hub oil level OK, no leaks.
properly. • Lights.
• Left front suspension.
» Headlights.
Look at the Gauges » Condition of spring, spring hangers,
» Dimmer switch.
shackles, u-bolts.
• Oil pressure. Should come up to normal » Turn signal.
» Shock absorber condition.
within seconds after engine is started. See » Four-way flashers.
Figure 2.5 » Parking, clearance, identification, marker • Left front brake.
switch(es). » Condition of brake drum or disc.
» Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF). » Condition of hoses.
Check Mirrors and Windshield. Inspect Front
mirrors and windshield for cracks, dirt, illegal
• Condition of front axle.
stickers, or other obstructions to seeing clearly.
Clean and adjust as necessary.
18
• Condition of steering system. Right Rear Left Side
» No loose, worn, bent, damaged or miss-
• Condition of wheels and rims--no missing, • Check all items as done on right side, plus:
ing parts.
bent, or broken spacers, studs, clamps, or lugs. » Battery(ies) (if not mounted in engine com-
» Must grab steering mechanism to test for
partment).
looseness. • Condition of tires--properly inflated, valve
» Battery box(es) securely mounted to vehicle.
stems and caps OK, no serious cuts, bulges,
• Condition of windshield. » Box has secure cover.
tread wear, tires not rubbing each other, and
» Check for damage and clean if dirty. » Battery(ies) secured against movement.
nothing stuck between them.
» Check windshield wiper arms for proper » Battery(ies) not broken or leaking.
spring tension. • Tires same type, e.g., not mixed radial and » Fluid in battery(ies) at proper level (except
» Check wiper blades for damage, “stiff” bias types. maintenance-free type).
rubber, and securement. » Cell caps present and securely tightened
• Tires evenly matched (same sizes).
(except maintenance-free type).
• Lights and reflectors.
• Wheel bearing/seals not leaking. » Vents in cell caps free of foreign material
» Parking, clearance, and identification
(except maintenance-free type).
lights clean, operating, and proper color • Suspension.
(amber at front). » Condition of spring(s), spring hangers,
Step 6: Check Signal Lights
» Reflectors clean and proper color (amber shackles, and u-bolts.
at front). » Axle secure. • Get In and Turn Off Lights
» Right front turn signal light clean, operat- » Powered axle(s) not leaking lube (gear oil). » Turn off all lights.
ing, and proper color (amber or white on » Condition of torque rod arms, bushings. » Turn on stop lights (apply trailer hand
signals facing forward). » Condition of shock absorber(s). brake or have a helper put on the brake
» If retractable axle equipped, check con- pedal).
Right Side
dition of lift mechanism. If air powered, » Turn on left turn signal lights.
• Right front: check all items as done on left check for leaks.
• Get Out and Check Lights
front. » Condition of air ride components.
» Left front turn signal light clean, operat-
• Primary and secondary safety cab locks en- • Brakes. ing and proper color (amber or white on
gaged (if cab-over-engine design). » Brake adjustment. signals facing the front).
Right fuel tank(s). » Condition of brake drum(s) or discs. » Left rear turn signal light and both stop
» Securely mounted, not damaged, or leak- » Condition of hoses--look for any wear due lights clean, operating, and proper color
ing. to rubbing. (red, yellow, or amber).
» Fuel crossover line secure.
• Lights and reflectors. • Get In Vehicle
» Tank(s) contain enough fuel.
» Side-marker lights clean, operating, and » Turn off lights not needed for driving.
» Cap(s) on and secure.
proper color (red at rear, others amber). » Check for all required papers, trip mani-
• Condition of visible parts. » Side-marker reflectors clean and proper fests, permits, etc.
» Rear of engine--not leaking. color (red at rear, others amber). » Secure all loose articles in cab (they might
» Transmission--not leaking. interfere with operation of the controls or
Rear
» Exhaust system--secure, not leaking, not hit you in a crash).
touching wires, fuel, or air lines. • Lights and reflectors. » Start the engine.
» DEF Tank -ensure the level of diesel ex- » Rear clearance and identification lights
haust fluid in the tank is adequate (more clean, operating, and proper color (red at Step 7: Start the Engine and Check
than 1/8 th tank) rear).
Test for Hydraulic Leaks. If the vehicle has
» Frame and cross members--no bends or » Reflectors clean and proper color (red at
hydraulic brakes, pump the brake pedal three
cracks. rear).
times. Then apply firm pressure to the pedal
» Air lines and electrical wiring--secured » Taillights clean, operating, and proper
and hold for five seconds. The pedal should
against snagging, rubbing, wearing. color (red at rear).
not move. If it does, there may be a leak or other
» Spare tire carrier or rack not damaged (if » Right rear turn signal operating, and
problem. Get it fixed before driving. If the ve-
so equipped). proper color (red, yellow, or amber at rear).
hicle has air brakes, do the checks described in
» Spare tire and/or wheel securely mounted
• License plate(s) present, clean, and secured. Sections 5 and 6 of this manual.
in rack.
» Spare tire and wheel adequate (proper size, • Splash guards present, not damaged, prop- Brake System
properly inflated). erly fastened, not dragging on ground, or
• Test Parking Brake(s)
rubbing tires.
• Cargo securement (trucks). » Fasten safety belt
» Cargo properly blocked, braced, tied, • Cargo secure (trucks). » Set parking brake (power unit only).
chained, etc. » Release trailer parking brake (if applicable).
• Cargo properly blocked, braced, tied,
» Header board adequate, secure (if re- » Place vehicle into a low gear.
chained, etc.
quired). » Gently pull forward against parking brake
Tailboards up and properly secured.
» Side boards, stakes strong enough, free to make sure the parking brake holds.
of damage, properly set in place (if so • End gates free of damage, properly secured » Repeat the same steps for the trailer with
equipped). in stake sockets. trailer parking brake set and power unit
» Canvas or tarp (if required) properly se- parking brakes released (if applicable).
• Canvas or tarp (if required) properly secured
cured to prevent tearing, billowing, or
to prevent tearing, billowing, or blocking of If it doesn’t hold vehicle, it is faulty; get it
blocking of mirrors.
either the rearview mirrors or rear lights. fixed.
» If oversize, all required signs (flags, lamps,
and reflectors) safely and properly mount- • If over-length, or over-width, make sure all • Test Service Brake Stopping Action
ed and all required permits in driver’s pos- signs and/or additional lights/flags are safely » Go about five miles per hour.
session. and properly mounted and all required per- » Push brake pedal firmly
» Curbside cargo compartment doors in mits are in driver’s possession. » “Pulling” to one side or the other can mean
good condition, securely closed, latched/ brake trouble.
• Rear doors securely closed, latched/locked.
locked and required security seals in place. » Any unusual brake pedal “feel” or delayed
stopping action can mean trouble.
19
If you find anything unsafe during the pre- • Accelerating. 2.2.4 – Backing Safely
trip inspection, get it fixed. Federal and state
• Steering. Because you cannot see everything behind
laws forbid operating an unsafe vehicle.
your vehicle, backing is always dangerous. Avoid
• Stopping.
backing whenever you can. When you park, try
2.1.6 – Inspection During a Trip
• Backing safely. to park so you will be able to pull forward when
Check Vehicle Operation Regularly. You you leave. When you have to back, here are a few
Fasten your seat belt when on the road. Apply
should check: simple safety rules:
the parking brake when you leave your vehicle.
• Instruments. • Start in the proper position.
2.2.1 – Accelerating
• Air pressure gauge (if you have air brakes). • Look at your path.
Don’t roll back when you start. You may hit
• Temperature gauges. • Use mirrors on both sides.
someone behind you. If you have a manual trans-
• Pressure gauges. mission vehicle, partly engage the clutch before • Back slowly.
you take your right foot off the brake. Put on the
• Ammeter/voltmeter. • Back and turn toward the driver’s side when-
parking brake whenever necessary to keep from
ever possible.
• Mirrors. rolling back. Release the parking brake only when
you have applied enough engine power to keep • Use a helper whenever possible.
• Tires.
from rolling back. On a tractor-trailer equipped
• These rules are discussed in turn below.
• Cargo, cargo covers. with a trailer brake hand valve, the hand valve
can be applied to keep from rolling back. Start in the Proper Position. Put the vehicle
• Lights.
Speed up smoothly and gradually so the ve- in the best position to allow you to back safely.
• Etc. hicle does not jerk. Rough acceleration can cause This position will depend on the type of back-
mechanical damage. When pulling a trailer, ing to be done.
If you see, hear, smell, or feel anything that
rough acceleration can damage the coupling.
might mean trouble, check it out. Look at Your Path. Look at your line of travel
Speed up very gradually when traction is
before you begin. Get out and walk around the
Safety Inspection. Drivers of trucks and truck poor, as in rain or snow. If you use too much
vehicle. Check your clearance to the sides and over-
tractors when transporting cargo must inspect power, the drive wheels may spin. You could
head, in and near the path your vehicle will take.
the securement of the cargo within the first 50 lose control. If the drive wheels begin to spin,
miles of a trip and every 150 miles or every three take your foot off the accelerator. Use Mirrors on Both Sides. Check the outside
hours (whichever comes first) after. mirrors on both sides frequently. Get out of the
2.2.2 – Steering vehicle and check your path if you are unsure.
2.1.7 – After-trip Inspection
Hold the steering wheel firmly with both Back Slowly. Always back as slowly as possible.
and Report
hands. Your hands should be on opposite sides Use the lowest reverse gear. That way you can
You may have to make a written report each of the wheel. If you hit a curb or a pothole more easily correct any steering errors. You also
day on the condition of the vehicle(s) you drove. (chuckhole), the wheel could pull away from can stop quickly if necessary.
Report anything affecting safety or possibly your hands unless you have a firm hold.
Back and Turn Toward the Driver’s Side.
leading to mechanical breakdown.
Back to the driver’s side so you can see better.
2.2.3 – Stopping
Backing toward the right side is very dangerous
2.2 – Basic Control of Push the brake pedal down gradually. The because you can’t see as well. If you back and
Your Vehicle amount of brake pressure you need to stop the turn toward the driver’s side, you can watch the
vehicle will depend on the speed of the vehicle rear of your vehicle by looking out the side win-
To drive a vehicle safely, you must be able to and how quickly you need to stop. Control the dow. Use driver-side backing--even if it means
control its speed and direction. Safe operation pressure so the vehicle comes to a smooth, safe going around the block to put your vehicle in this
of a commercial vehicle requires skill in: stop. If you have a manual transmission, push position. The added safety is worth it.
the clutch in when the engine is close to idle.
Use a Helper. Use a helper when you can.
There are blind spots you can’t see. That’s why
a helper is important. The helper should stand
near the back of your vehicle where you can see
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE the helper. Before you begin backing, work out
a set of hand signals that you both understand.
Subsection 2.1 Agree on a signal for “stop.”
The vehicle inspection report tells the motor carrier about problems that may need fixing. Keep
a copy of your report in the vehicle for one day. That way, the next driver can learn about any 2.3 – Shifting Gears
problems you have found.
• What is the most important reason for • Name some things you should check on Correct shifting of gears is important. If you
doing a vehicle inspection? the front of your vehicle during the walk can’t get your vehicle into the right gear while
around inspection. driving, you will have less control.
• What things should you check during a
trip? • What should wheel bearing seals be
2.3.1 – Manual Transmissions
checked for?
• Name some key steering system parts. Basic Method for Shifting Up. Most heavy
• How many red reflective triangles should
• Name some suspension system defects. vehicles with manual transmissions require
you carry?
double clutching to change gears. This is the
• What three kinds of emergency
• How do you test hydraulic brakes for basic method:
equipment must you have?
leaks?
• Release accelerator, push in clutch and shift
• What is the minimum tread depth for front
• Why put the starter switch key in your to neutral at the same time.
tires? For other tires?
pocket during the pre-trip inspection?
• Release clutch.
These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer them all, re-read subsection 2.1
20
• Let engine and gears slow down to the rpm
required for the next gear (this takes practice).
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE
• Push in clutch and shift to the higher gear at Subsections 2.2 and 2.3
the same time.
• Why should you back toward the driver’s • What are the two special conditions
• Release clutch and press accelerator at the side? where you should downshift?
same time.
• If stopped on a hill, how can you start • When should you downshift automatic
Shifting gears using double clutching removing without rolling back? transmissions?
quires practice. If you remain too long in neu-
tral, you may have difficulty putting the vehicle • When backing, why is it important to use • Retarders keep you from skidding when
into the next gear. If so, don’t try to force it. Re- a helper? the road is slippery. True or False?
turn to neutral, release clutch, increase engine • What’s the most important hand signal • What are the two ways to know when to
speed to match road speed, and try again. that you and the helper should agree on? shift?
Knowing When to Shift Up. There are two These questions may be on the test. If you can’t answer them all, re-read subsections 2.2 and 2.3.
ways of knowing when to shift:
Use Engine Speed (rpm). Study the driver’s
manual for your vehicle and learn the operating
rpm range. Watch your tachometer, and shift up main transmission. There are many different Caution. When your drive wheels have poor
when your engine reaches the top of the range. shift patterns. Learn the right way to shift gears traction, the retarder may cause them to skid.
(Some newer vehicles use “progressive” shift- in the vehicle you will drive. Therefore, you should turn the retarder off
ing: the rpm at which you shift becomes higher whenever the road is wet, icy, or snow covered.
as you move up in the gears. Find out what’s 2.3.3 – Automatic Transmissions
right for the vehicle you will operate.)
Some vehicles have automatic transmissions. 2.4 – Seeing
Use Road Speed (mph). Learn what speeds You can select a low range to get greater engine
each gear is good for. Then, by using the speed- braking when going down grades. The lower To be a safe driver you need to know what’s
ometer, you’ll know when to shift up. ranges prevent the transmission from shifting going on all around your vehicle. Not looking
With either method, you may learn to use up beyond the selected gear (unless the gover- properly is a major cause of accidents.
engine sounds to know when to shift. nor rpm is exceeded). It is very important to use
this braking effect when going down grades. 2.4.1 – Seeing Ahead
Basic Procedures for Shifting Down
All drivers look ahead; but many don’t look
• Release accelerator, push in clutch, and shift 2.3.4 – Retarders
far enough ahead.
to neutral at the same time.
Some vehicles have “retarders.” Retarders
Importance of Looking Far Enough Ahead.
• Release clutch. help slow a vehicle, reducing the need for using
Because stopping or changing lanes can take a
your brakes. They reduce brake wear and give
• Press accelerator, increase engine and gear lot of distance, knowing what the traffic is doing
you another way to slow down. There are four
speed to the rpm required in the lower gear. on all sides of you is very important. You need
basic types of retarders (exhaust, engine, hy-
to look well ahead to make sure you have room
• Push in clutch and shift to lower gear at the draulic, and electric). All retarders can be turned
to make these moves safely.
same time. on or off by the driver. On some vehicles the
retarding power can be adjusted. When turned How Far Ahead to Look. Most good drivers
• Release clutch and press accelerator at the
“on,” retarders apply their braking power (to the look at least 12 to 15 seconds ahead. That means
same time.
drive wheels only) whenever you let up on the looking ahead the distance you will travel in 12
• Downshifting, like upshifting, requires accelerator pedal all the way. to 15 seconds. At lower speeds, that’s about one
knowing when to shift. Use either the ta- Because these devices can be noisy, be sure block. At highway speeds it’s about a quarter of
chometer or the speedometer and downshift you know where their use is permitted. a mile. If you’re not looking that far ahead, you
at the right rpm or road speed.
Special conditions where you should down-
shift are:
Before Starting Down a Hill. Slow down and
shift down to a speed that you can control with-
out using the brakes hard. Otherwise the brakes
can overheat and lose their braking power.
Downshift before starting down the hill. Make
sure you are in a low enough gear, usually lower
than the gear required to climb the same hill.
Before Entering a Curve. Slow down to a
safe speed, and downshift to the right gear be-
fore entering the curve. This lets you use some
power through the curve to help the vehicle be
more stable while turning. It also allows you to
speed up as soon as you are out of the curve.
2.3.2 – Multi-speed Rear Axles and

Auxiliary Transmissions
Multi-speed rear axles and auxiliary trans-
missions are used on many vehicles to provide
extra gears. You usually control them by a selec-
tor knob or switch on the gearshift lever of the
Figure 2.6
21
may have to stop too quickly or make quick lane Turns. In turns, check your mirrors to make sure • Signal early. Signal well before you turn. It
changes. Looking 12 to 15 seconds ahead doesn’t the rear of your vehicle will not hit anything. is the best way to keep others from trying
mean not paying attention to things that are to pass you.
Merges. When merging, use your mirrors to
closer. Good drivers shift their attention back
make sure the gap in traffic is large enough for • Signal continuously. You need both hands
and forth, near and far. Figure 2.6 illustrates
you to enter safely. on the wheel to turn safely. Don’t cancel the
how far to look ahead.
signal until you have completed the turn.
Tight Maneuvers. Any time you are driving in
Look for Traffic. Look for vehicles coming onto
close quarters, check your mirrors often. Make • Cancel your signal. Don’t forget to turn off
the highway, into your lane, or turning. Watch
sure you have enough clearance. your turn signal after you’ve turned (if you
for brake lights from slowing vehicles. By seeing
don’t have self-canceling signals).
these things far enough ahead, you can change How to Use Mirrors. Use mirrors correctly
your speed, or change lanes if necessary to avoid by checking them quickly and understanding Lane Changes. Put your turn signal on be-
a problem. If a traffic light has been green for a what you see. fore changing lanes. Change lanes slowly and
long time it will probably change before you get smoothly. That way a driver you didn’t see may
• When you use your mirrors while driving
there. Start slowing down and be ready to stop. have a chance to honk his/her horn, or avoid
on the road, check quickly. Look back and
your vehicle.
forth between the mirrors and the road
2.4.2 – Seeing to the Sides and Rear
ahead. Don’t focus on the mirrors for too long. Slowing Down. Warn drivers behind you
It’s important to know what’s going on be- Otherwise, you will travel quite a distance when you see you’ll need to slow down. A few
hind and to the sides. Check your mirrors regu- without knowing what’s happening ahead. light taps on the brake pedal -- enough to flash
larly. Check more often in special situations. the brake lights -- should warn following driv-
• Many large vehicles have curved (convex,
ers. Use the four-way emergency flashers for
Mirror Adjustment. Mirror adjustment “fisheye,” “spot,” “bugeye”) mirrors that show
times when you are driving very slowly or are
should be checked prior to the start of any trip a wider area than flat mirrors. This is often
stopped. Warn other drivers in any of the fol-
and can only be checked accurately when the helpful. But everything appears smaller in
lowing situations:
trailer(s) are straight. You should check and a convex mirror than it would if you were
adjust each mirror to show some part of the looking at it directly. Things also seem farther Trouble Ahead. The size of your vehicle may
vehicle. This will give you a reference point for away than they really are. It’s important to re- make it hard for drivers behind you to see
judging the position of the other images. alize this and to allow for it. Figure 2.7 shows hazards ahead. If you see a hazard that will
the field of vision using a convex mirror. require slowing down, warn the drivers behind
Regular Checks. You need to make regular
by flashing your brake lights.
checks of your mirrors to be aware of traffic
and to check your vehicle. Tight Turns. Most car drivers don’t know how
FIELD OF VISION USING A slowly you have to go to make a tight turn in a
Traffic. Check your mirrors for vehicles on CONVEX MIRROR large vehicle. Give drivers behind you warning
either side and in back of you. In an emergency,
by braking early and slowing gradually.
you may need to know whether you can make
a quick lane change. Use your mirrors to spot Stopping on the Road. Truck and bus drivers
overtaking vehicles. There are “blind spots” sometimes stop in the roadway to unload cargo
that your mirrors cannot show you. Check your or passengers, or to stop at a railroad crossing.
mirrors regularly to know where other vehicles Warn following drivers by flashing your brake
are around you, and to see if they move into lights. Don’t stop suddenly.
your blind spots.
Driving Slowly. Drivers often do not realize
Check Your Vehicle. Use the mirrors to keep how fast they are catching up to a slow vehicle
an eye on your tires. It’s one way to spot a tire until they are very close. If you must drive
fire. If you’re carrying open cargo, you can use slowly, alert following drivers by turning on
the mirrors to check it. Look for loose straps, your emergency flashers if it is legal. (Laws re-
ropes, or chains. Watch for a flapping or bal- garding the use of flashers differ from one state
looning tarp. to another. Check the laws of the states where
you will drive.)
Special Situations. Special situations require
more than regular mirror checks. These are lane Don’t Direct Traffic. Some drivers try to help
changes, turns, merges, and tight maneuvers. out others by signaling when it is safe to pass.
You should not do this. You could cause an ac-
Lane Changes. You need to check your mirrors
cident. You could be blamed and it could cost
to make sure no one is alongside you or about
you many thousands of dollars.
to pass you. Check your mirrors:
• Before you change lanes to make sure there 2.5.2 – Communicating Your
is enough room. Presence
• After you have signaled, to check that no one Figure 2.7 Other drivers may not notice your vehicle
has moved into your blind spot. even when it’s in plain sight. To help prevent
accidents, let them know you’re there.
• Right after you start the lane change, to dou- 2.5 – Communicating
ble-check that your path is clear. When Passing. Whenever you are about to
pass a vehicle, pedestrian, or bicyclist, assume
• After you complete the lane change. 2.5.1 – Signal Your Intentions
they don’t see you. They could suddenly move
Other drivers can’t know what you are going in front of you. When it is legal, tap the horn
to do until you tell them. lightly or, at night, flash your lights from low
Signaling what you intend to do is impor- to high beam and back. And, drive carefully
tant for safety. Here are some general rules for enough to avoid a crash even if they don’t see
signaling. or hear you.
Turns. There are three good rules for using When It’s Hard to See. At dawn, dusk, in rain,
turn signals: or snow, you need to make yourself easier to see.
If you are having trouble seeing other vehicles,
22
ONE-WAY or DIVIDED HIGHWAY TWO-WAY or UNDIVIDED HIGHWAY OBSTRUCTED VIEW
other drivers will have trouble seeing you. Turn Use Your Horn When Needed. Your horn can
on your lights. Use the headlights, not just the let others know you’re there. It can help to avoid
identification or clearance lights. Use the low a crash. Use your horn when needed. However,
beams; high beams can bother people in the it can startle others and could be dangerous
daytime as well as at night. when used unnecessarily.
When Parked at the Side of the Road. When
you pull off the road and stop, be sure to turn 2.6 – Controlling Speed
on the four-way emergency flashers. This is
important at night. Don’t trust the taillights to
give warning. Drivers have crashed into the rear
Driving too fast is a major cause of fatal
crashes. You must adjust your speed depending GeorGia’s Premier
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
on driving conditions. These include traction,
curves, visibility, traffic and hills.
2.6.1 – Stopping Distance

H chool
ouse BillDaly’s
823 Truck
D r i v i n g
School is
warning devices within ten minutes. Place your
warning devices at the following locations:
Perception Distance + Reaction Distance + HUMAN Trafficking dedicated to
Braking Distance = Total Stopping Distance helping our
• If you must stop on or by a one-way or di-
vided highway, place warning devices 10 feet,
Perception distance. The distance your ve-
hicle travels, in ideal conditions; from the time
Doesn't Pay! graduates
find a secure
100 feet, and 200 feet toward the approaching
your eyes see a hazard until your brain rec- position in one of America’s highest
traffic. See Figure 2.8.
ognizes it. Keep in mind certain mental and H
paying professions.
ouse Bill 823,Between
passed our great is
in 2020,
• If you stop on a two-lane road carrying traffic physical conditions can affect your perception reputation and companies contacting
in both directions or on an undivided high- distance. It can be affected greatly depending usaimed
weeklyat reducing
looking the part
for drivers, wethe
are
way, place warning devices within 10 feet of on visibility and the hazard itself. The average confident we can help you to maximize
transportation industry plays in
the front or rear corners to mark the location perception time for an alert driver is 1¾ seconds. your employment opportunities after
of the vehicle and 100 feet behind and ahead At 55 mph this accounts for 142 feet traveled. human trafficking.
graduation.
of the vehicle, on the shoulder or in the lane
you stopped in. See Figure 2.9.
Reaction distance. The distance you will con-
Daly’s has graduated over
tinue to travel, in ideal conditions; before you This legislation ensures anyone
Back beyond any hill, curve, or other obstruc- physically hit the brakes, in response to a hazard 10,000 students since we started
tion that prevents other drivers from seeing the seen ahead. The average driver has a reaction inconvicted
1992 in the Atlanta Area!
of trafficking other
vehicle within 500 feet. If line of sight view is time of ¾ second to 1 second. At 55 mph this
obstructed due to hill or curve, move the rear- accounts for 61 feet traveled.
persons for labor or sexual
most triangle to a point back down the road so
Braking distance. The distance your vehicle class sizes are while
servitude limiTeD using
- conTacT us now!
a commercial
warning is provided. See Figure 2.10. 1-877-GeT-a-cDl (Free)
When putting out the triangles, hold them
will travel, in ideal conditions; while you are motor vehicle will receive
770-614-6022 (local) a lifetime
braking. At 55 mph on dry pavement with good
between yourself and the oncoming traffic for CDLwww.DalysTruckDrivinGschool
disqualification. .com
brakes, it can take about 216 feet.
your own safety. (So other drivers can see you.)
23
Wet ice is much more slippery than ice that
is not wet.
• Black Ice. Black ice is a thin layer that is clear
enough that you can see the road underneath
it. It makes the road look wet. Any time the
temperature is below freezing and the road
looks wet, watch out for black ice.
• Vehicle Icing. An easy way to check for ice
is to open the window and feel the front of
the mirror, mirror support, or antenna. If
there’s ice on these, the road surface is prob-
ably starting to ice up.
• Just After Rain Begins. Right after it starts
to rain, the water mixes with oil left on the
road by vehicles. This makes the road very
slippery. If the rain continues, it will wash
the oil away.
• Hydroplaning. In some weather, water or
slush collects on the road. When this hap-
pens, your vehicle can hydroplane. It’s like
water skiing--the tires lose their contact with
the road and have little or no traction. You
may not be able to steer or brake. You can
regain control by releasing the accelerator
and pushing in the clutch. This will slow
your vehicle and let the wheels turn freely.
If the vehicle is hydroplaning, do not use
the brakes to slow down. If the drive wheels
start to skid, push in the clutch to let them
turn freely.
It does not take a lot of water to cause hydro-
planing. Hydroplaning can occur at speeds as
low as 30 mph if there is a lot of water. Hydro-
planing is more likely if tire pressure is low, or
the tread is worn. (The grooves in a tire carry
Figure 2.11 away the water; if they aren’t deep, they don’t
work well.)
Total stopping distance. The total minimum Road surfaces where water can collect can
2.6.2 – Matching Speed to
distance your vehicle has traveled, in ideal con- create conditions that cause a vehicle to hydro-
the Road Surface
ditions; with everything considered, including plane. Watch for clear reflections, tire splashes,
perception distance, reaction distance and brak- You can’t steer or brake a vehicle unless you and raindrops on the road. These are indications
ing distance, until you can bring your vehicle have traction. Traction is friction between the of standing water.
to a complete stop. At 55 mph, your vehicle will tires and the road. There are some road con-
travel a minimum of 419 feet. See Figure 2.11. ditions that reduce traction and call for lower 2.6.3 – Speed and Curves
speeds. Drivers must adjust their speed for curves in
The Effect of Speed on Stopping Distance.
the road. If you take a curve too fast, two things
The faster you drive, the greater the impact or Slippery Surfaces. It will take longer to stop,
can happen. The tires can lose their traction
striking power of your vehicle. When you dou- and it will be harder to turn without skidding,
and continue straight ahead, so you skid off
ble your speed from 20 to 40 mph the impact is when the road is slippery. Wet roads can double
the road. Or, the tires may keep their traction
4 times greater. The braking distance is also 4 stopping distance. You must drive slower to be
and the vehicle rolls over. Tests have shown that
times longer. Triple the speed from 20 to 60 mph able to stop in the same distance as on a dry
trucks with a high center of gravity can roll over
and the impact and braking distance is 9 times road. Reduce speed by about one-third (e.g.,
at the posted speed limit for a curve. Slow to a
greater. At 60 mph, your stopping distance is slow from 55 to about 35 mph) on a wet road. On
safe speed before you enter a curve. Braking
greater than the length of a football field. In- packed snow, reduce speed by a half, or more.
in a curve is dangerous because it is easier to
crease the speed to 80 mph and the impact and If the surface is icy, reduce speed to a crawl and
lock the wheels and cause a skid. Slow down
braking distance are 16 times greater than at 20 stop driving as soon as you can safely do so.
as needed. Don’t ever exceed the posted speed
mph. High speeds greatly increase the severity
Identifying Slippery Surfaces. Sometimes limit for the curve. Be in a gear that will let you
of crashes and stopping distances. By slowing
it’s hard to know if the road is slippery. Here accelerate slightly in the curve. This will help
down, you can reduce braking distance.
are some signs of slippery roads: you keep control.
The Effect of Vehicle Weight on Stopping
• Shaded Areas. Shady parts of the road will
Distance. The heavier the vehicle, the more 2.6.4 – Speed and Distance Ahead
remain icy and slippery long after open areas
work the brakes must do to stop it, and the more
have melted. You should always be able to stop within the
heat they absorb. But the brakes, tires, springs,
distance you can see ahead. Fog, rain, or other
and shock absorbers on heavy vehicles are de- • Bridges. When the temperature drops,
conditions may require that you slow down to
signed to work best when the vehicle is fully bridges will freeze before the road will. Be
be able to stop in the distance you can see. At
loaded. Empty trucks require greater stopping especially careful when the temperature is
night, you can’t see as far with low beams as
distances because an empty vehicle has less close to 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
you can with high beams. When you must use
traction.
• Melting Ice. Slight melting will make ice wet. low beams, slow down.
24
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE 6 seconds. Over 40 mph, you’d need 5 seconds
for a 40-foot vehicle and 7 seconds for a 60-foot
vehicle. See Figure 2.12.
Subsections 2.4, 2.5 and 2.6 To know how much space you have, wait
• How far ahead does the manual say you • What three things add up to total until the vehicle ahead passes a shadow on the
should look? stopping distance? road, a pavement marking, or some other clear
landmark. Then count off the seconds like this:
• What are two main things to look for • If you go twice as fast, will your stopping “one thousand- and-one, one thousand-and-
ahead? distance increase by two or four times? two” and so on, until you reach the same spot.
• What’s your most important way to see • Empty trucks have the best braking. True Compare your count with the rule of one second
the sides and rear of your vehicle? or False? for every ten feet of length.
If you are driving a 40-foot truck and only
• What does “communicating” mean in • What is hydroplaning? counted up to 2 seconds, you’re too close. Drop
safe driving? back a little and count again until you have 4
• What is “black ice”?
• Where should your reflectors be placed seconds of following distance (or 5 seconds, if
when stopped on a divided highway? you’re going over 40 mph). After a little practice,
you will know how far back you should be.
These questions may be on the test. If you can’t answer them all, re-read subsections 2.4, Remember to add 1 second for speeds above
2.5, and 2.6. 40 mph. Also remember that when the road is
slippery, you need much more space to stop.
2.7.2 – Space Behind

2.6.5 – Speed and Traffic Flow section on going down long, steep downgrades You can’t stop others from following you too
safely in “Mountain Driving.” closely. But there are things you can do to make
When you’re driving in heavy traffic, the saf-
it safer.
est speed is the speed of other vehicles. Vehicles
2.6.7 – Roadway Work Zones
going the same direction at the same speed Stay to the Right. Heavy vehicles are often
are not likely to run into one another. In many Speeding traffic is the number one cause tailgated when they can’t keep up with the
states, speed limits are lower for trucks and of injury and death in roadway work zones. speed of traffic. This often happens when you’re
buses than for cars. It can vary as much as 15 Observe the posted speed limits at all times going uphill. If a heavy load is slowing you
mph. Use extra caution when you change lanes when approaching and driving through a work down, stay in the right lane if you can. Going
or pass on these roadways. Drive at the speed of zone. Watch your speedometer, and don’t allow uphill, you should not pass another slow vehicle
the traffic, if you can without going at an illegal your speed to creep up as you drive through unless you can get around quickly and safely.
or unsafe speed. Keep a safe following distance. long sections of road construction. Decrease
Dealing with Tailgaters Safely. In a large
The main reason drivers exceed speed limits your speed for adverse weather or road condi-
vehicle, it’s often hard to see whether a vehicle
is to save time. But, anyone trying to drive faster tions. Decrease your speed even further when
is close behind you. You may be tailgated:
than the speed of traffic will not be able to save a worker is close to the roadway.
much time. The risks involved are not worth it. • When you are traveling slowly. Drivers
If you go faster than the speed of other traffic, trapped behind slow vehicles often follow
you’ll have to keep passing other vehicles. This
2.7 – Managing Space closely.
increases the chance of a crash, and it is more
To be a safe driver, you need space all around
tiring. Fatigue increases the chance of a crash.
your vehicle. When things go wrong, space
Going with the flow of traffic is safer and easier.
gives you time to think and to take action.
To have space available when something goes HEAVY VEHICLE FORMULA
2.6.6 – Speed on Downgrades
wrong, you need to manage space. While this is For timed interval following distance
Your vehicle’s speed will increase on down- true for all drivers, it is very important for large
grades because of gravity. Your most important vehicles. They take up more space and they
objective is to select and maintain a speed that require more space for stopping and turning.
is not too fast for the:
2.7.1 – Space Ahead
• Total weight of the vehicle and cargo.
Of all the space around your vehicle, it is
• Length of the grade.
the area ahead of the vehicle--the space you’re
• Steepness of the grade. driving into --that is most important.
• Road conditions. The Need for Space Ahead. You need space
ahead in case you must suddenly stop. Accord-
• Weather.
ing to accident reports, the vehicle that trucks
If a speed limit is posted, or there is a sign in- and buses most often run into is the one in front
dicating “Maximum Safe Speed,” never exceed of them. The most frequent cause is following
the speed shown. Also, look for and heed warn- too closely. Remember, if the vehicle ahead of
ing signs indicating the length and steepness of you is smaller than yours, it can probably stop
the grade. You must use the braking effect of the faster than you can. You may crash if you are
engine as the principal way of controlling your following too closely.
speed on downgrades. The braking effect of the
How Much Space? How much space should
engine is greatest when it is near the governed
you keep in front of you? One good rule says
rpms and the transmission is in the lower gears.
you need at least one second for each 10 feet of
Save your brakes so you will be able to slow or
vehicle length at speeds below 40 mph. At great-
stop as required by road and traffic conditions.
er speeds, you must add 1 second for safety. For
Shift your transmission to a low gear before
example, if you are driving a 40-foot vehicle,
starting down the grade and use the proper
you should leave 4 seconds between you and
braking techniques. Please read carefully the
the vehicle ahead. In a 60-foot rig, you’ll need Figure 2.12
25
• In bad weather. Many car drivers follow large
vehicles closely during bad weather, espe-
cially when it is hard to see the road ahead.
If you find yourself being tailgated, here are
some things you can do to reduce the chances
of a crash.
• Avoid quick changes. If you have to slow
down or turn, signal early, and reduce speed
very gradually.
• 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 tail-
gater to get around you.
• Don’t speed up. It’s safer to be tailgated at a Figure 2.13
low speed than a high speed.
• Avoid tricks. Don’t turn on your taillights
Figure 2.14
or flash your brake lights. Follow the sug-
gestions above.
2.7.3 – Space to the Sides often posted on low bridges or underpasses, You may crash into the other vehicle as you
but sometimes they are not. complete your turn.
Commercial vehicles are often wide and take
up most of a lane. Safe drivers will manage • Some roads can cause a vehicle to tilt. There • If you must cross into the oncoming lane to
what little space they have. You can do this by can be a problem clearing objects along the make a turn, watch out for vehicles coming
keeping your vehicle centered in your lane, and edge of the road, such as signs, trees, or toward you. Give them room to go by or to
avoid driving alongside others. bridge supports. Where this is a problem, stop. However, don’t back up for them, be-
drive a little closer to the center of the road. cause you might hit someone behind you.
Staying Centered in a Lane. You need to
See Figure 2.13.
keep your vehicle centered in the lane to keep • Before you back into an area, get out and
safe clearance on either side. If your vehicle is check for overhanging objects such as trees, Left Turns. On a left turn, make sure you have
wide, you have little room to spare. branches, or electric wires. It’s easy to miss reached the center of the intersection before you
seeing them while you are backing. (Also start the left turn. If you turn too soon, the left
Traveling Next to Others. There are two
check for other hazards at the same time.) side of your vehicle may hit another vehicle
dangers in traveling alongside other vehicles:
because of offtracking.
• Another driver may change lanes suddenly 2.7.5 – Space Below If there are two turning lanes, always take
and turn into you. the right turn lane. Don’t start in the inside lane
Many drivers forget about the space under
because you may have to swing right to make
• You may be trapped when you need to their vehicles. That space can be very small
the turn. Drivers on your left can be more read-
change lanes. when a vehicle is heavily loaded. This is often
ily seen. See Figure 2.14.
a problem on dirt roads and in unpaved yards.
Find an open spot where you aren’t near other
Don’t take a chance on getting hung up. Drain-
traffic. When traffic is heavy, it may be hard to 2.7.7 – Space Needed to Cross
age channels across roads can cause the ends of
find an open spot. If you must travel near other or Enter Traffic
some vehicles to drag. Cross such depressions
vehicles, try to keep as much space as possible
carefully. Be aware of the size and weight of your ve-
between you and them. Also, drop back or pull
Railroad tracks can also cause problems, hicle when you cross or enter traffic. Here are
forward so that you are sure the other driver
particularly when pulling trailers with a low some important things to keep in mind.
can see you.
underneath clearance. Don’t take a chance on
Because of slow acceleration and the space
Strong Winds. Strong winds make it difficult getting hung up halfway across.
large vehicles require, you may need a much
to stay in your lane. The problem is usually
larger gap to enter traffic than you would in
worse for lighter vehicles. This problem can 2.7.6 – Space for Turns
a car.
be especially bad coming out of tunnels. Don’t
The space around a truck or bus is important
drive alongside others if you can avoid it. Acceleration varies with the load. Allow more
in turns. Because of wide turning and offtrack-
room if your vehicle is heavily loaded.
ing, large vehicles can hit other vehicles or ob-
2.7.4 – Space Overhead
jects during turns. Before you start across a road, make sure you
Hitting overhead objects is a danger. Make can get all the way across before traffic reaches
Right Turns. Here are some rules to help pre-
sure you always have overhead clearance. you.
vent right-turn crashes:
• Don’t assume that the heights posted at bridg-
• Turn slowly to give yourself and others more
es and overpasses are correct. Re-paving or
time to avoid problems.
2.8 – Seeing Hazards
packed snow may have reduced the clear-
ances since the heights were posted. • If you are driving a truck or bus that cannot
2.8.1 – Importance of Seeing Hazards
make the right turn without swinging into
• The weight of a cargo van changes its height.
another lane, turn wide as you complete the What Is a Hazard? A hazard is any road
An empty van is higher than a loaded one.
turn. Keep the rear of your vehicle close to condition or other road user (driver, bicyclist,
That you got under a bridge when you were
the curb. This will stop other drivers from pedestrian) that is a possible danger. For ex-
loaded does not mean that you can do it when
passing you on the right. ample, a car in front of you is headed toward
you are empty.
the freeway exit, but his brake lights come on
• Don’t turn wide to the left as you start the
• If you doubt you have safe space to pass un- and he begins braking hard. This could mean
turn. A following driver may think you are
der an object, go slowly. If you aren’t sure you that the driver is uncertain about taking the off
turning left and try to pass you on the right.
can make it, take another route. Warnings are ramp. He might suddenly return to the highway.
26
This car is a hazard. If the driver of the car cuts 2.8.3 – Drivers Who Are Hazards Disabled Vehicles. Drivers changing a tire or
in front of you, it is no longer just a hazard; it fixing an engine often do not pay attention to
In order to protect yourself and others, you
is an emergency. the danger that roadway traffic is to them. They
must know when other drivers may do some-
are often careless. Jacked up wheels or raised
Seeing Hazards Lets You Be Prepared. You thing hazardous. Some clues to this type of
hoods are hazard clues.
will have more time to act if you see hazards hazard are discussed below.
before they become emergencies. In the example Accidents. Accidents are particularly hazard-
Blocked Vision. People who can’t see others
above, you might make a lane change or slow ous. People involved in the accident may not
are a very dangerous hazard. Be alert for drivers
down to prevent a crash if the car suddenly cuts look for traffic. Passing drivers tend to look at
whose vision is blocked. Vans, loaded station
in front of you. Seeing this hazard gives you the accident. People often run across the road
wagons, and cars with the rear window blocked
time to check your mirrors and signal a lane without looking. Vehicles may slow or stop
are examples. Rental trucks should be watched
change. Being prepared reduces the danger. A suddenly.
carefully. Their drivers are often not used to the
driver who did not see the hazard until the slow
limited vision they have to the sides and rear of Shoppers. People in and around shopping areas
car pulled back on the highway in front of him
the truck. In winter, vehicles with frosted, ice- are often not watching traffic because they are
would have to do something very suddenly.
covered, or snow-covered windows are hazards. looking for stores or looking into store windows.
Sudden braking or a quick lane change is much
Vehicles may be partly hidden by blind inter-
more likely to lead to a crash. Confused Drivers. Confused drivers often
sections or alleys. If you only can see the rear
change direction suddenly or stop without
Learning to See Hazards. There are often or front end of a vehicle but not the driver, then
warning. Confusion is common near freeway
clues that will help you see hazards. The more he or she can’t see you. Be alert because he/she
or turnpike interchanges and major intersec-
you drive, the better you can learn to see haz- may back out or enter into your lane. Always
tions. Tourists unfamiliar with the area can
ards. This section will talk about hazards that be prepared to stop.
be very hazardous. Clues to tourists include
you should be aware of.
Delivery Trucks Can Present a Hazard. car-top luggage and out-of-state license plates.
Packages or vehicle doors often block the driv- Unexpected actions (stopping in the middle of
2.8.2 – Hazardous Roads
er’s vision. Drivers of step vans, postal vehicles, a block, changing lanes for no apparent reason,
Slow down and be very careful if you see any and local delivery vehicles often are in a hurry backup lights suddenly going on) are clues to
of the following road hazards. and may suddenly step out of their vehicle or confusion. Hesitation is another clue, includ-
drive their vehicle into the traffic lane. ing driving very slowly, using brakes often, or
Work Zones. When people are working on
stopping in the middle of an intersection. You
the road, it is a hazard. There may be narrower Parked Vehicles Can Be Hazards, especially
may also see drivers who are looking at street
lanes, sharp turns, or uneven surfaces. Other when people start to get out of them. Or, they
signs, maps, and house numbers. These drivers
drivers are often distracted and drive unsafely. may suddenly start up and drive into your way.
may not be paying attention to you.
Workers and construction vehicles may get in Watch for movement inside the vehicle or move-
the way. Drive slowly and carefully near work ment of the vehicle itself that shows people are Slow Drivers. Motorists who fail to maintain
zones. Use your four-way flashers or brake inside. Watch for brake lights or backup lights, normal speed are hazards. Seeing slow mov-
lights to warn drivers behind you. exhaust, and other clues that a driver is about ing vehicles early can prevent a crash. Some
to move. vehicles, by their nature, are slow and seeing
Drop Off. Sometimes the pavement drops off
Be careful of a stopped bus. Passengers may them is a hazard clue (mopeds, farm machinery,
sharply near the edge of the road. Driving too
cross in front of or behind the bus, and they construction machinery, tractors, etc.). Some
near the edge can tilt your vehicle toward the
often can’t see you. of these will have the “slow moving vehicle”
side of the road. This can cause the top of your
symbol to warn you. This is a red triangle with
vehicle to hit roadside objects (signs, tree limbs). Pedestrians and Bicyclists Can Also Be
an orange center. Watch for it.
Also, it can be hard to steer as you cross the Hazards. Walkers, joggers, and bicyclists may
drop off, going off the road, or coming back on. be on the road with their back to the traffic, so Drivers Signaling a Turn May Be a Hazard.
they can’t see you. Sometimes they wear por- Drivers signaling a turn may slow more than
Foreign Objects. Things that have fallen on
table stereos with headsets, so they can’t hear expected or stop. If they are making a tight turn
the road can be hazards. They can be a danger
you either. This can be dangerous. On rainy into an alley or driveway, they may go very
to your tires and wheel rims. They can damage
days, pedestrians may not see you because of slowly. If pedestrians or other vehicles block
electrical and brake lines. They can be caught
hats or umbrellas. They may be hurrying to them, they may have to stop on the roadway.
between dual tires and cause severe damage.
get out of the rain and may not pay attention Vehicles turning left may have to stop for on-
Some obstacles that appear to be harmless can
to the traffic. coming vehicles.
be very dangerous. For example, cardboard
boxes may be empty, but they may also con- Distractions. People who are distracted are Drivers in a Hurry. Drivers may feel your
tain some solid or heavy material capable of hazards. Watch for where they are looking. If commercial vehicle is preventing them from
causing damage. The same is true of paper and they are looking elsewhere, they can’t see you. getting where they want to go on time. Such
cloth sacks. It is important to remain alert for But be alert even when they are looking at you. drivers may pass you without a safe gap in the
objects of all sorts, so you can see them early They may believe that they have the right of oncoming traffic, cutting too close in front of
enough to avoid them without making sudden, way. you. Drivers entering the road may pull in front
unsafe moves. of you in order to avoid being stuck behind you,
Children. Children tend to act quickly without
causing you to brake. Be aware of this and watch
Off Ramps/On Ramps. Freeway and turnpike checking traffic. Children playing with one an-
for drivers who are in a hurry.
exits can be particularly dangerous for com- other may not look for traffic and are a serious
mercial vehicles. Off ramps and on ramps often hazard. Impaired Drivers. Drivers who are sleepy,
have speed limit signs posted. Remember, these have had too much to drink, are on drugs, or
Talkers. Drivers or pedestrians talking to one
speeds may be safe for automobiles, but may who are ill are hazards. Some clues to these
another may not be paying close attention to
not be safe for larger vehicles or heavily loaded drivers are:
the traffic.
vehicles. Exits that go downhill and turn at the
• Weaving across the road or drifting from one
same time can be especially dangerous. The Workers. People working on or near the
side to another.
downgrade makes it difficult to reduce speed. roadway are a hazard clue. The work creates
Braking and turning at the same time can be a a distraction for other drivers and the workers • Leaving the road (dropping right wheels onto
dangerous practice. Make sure you are going themselves may not see you. the shoulder, or bumping across a curb in
slowly enough before you get on the curved a turn).
Ice Cream Trucks. Someone selling ice cream
part of an off ramp or on ramp.
is a hazard clue. Children may be nearby and • Stopping at the wrong time (stopping at a
may not see you. green light, or waiting for too long at a stop).
27
• Open window in cold weather. may shift your full attention from the driving mobile telephones by drivers of commercial
task. Taking your eyes off the road or hands motor vehicles (CMVs); and implement new
• Speeding up or slowing down suddenly,
off the steering wheel presents obvious driv- driver disqualification sanctions for drivers of
driving too fast or too slow.
ing risks. Mental activities that take your mind CMVs who fail to comply with this Federal re-
Be alert for drunk drivers and sleepy drivers away from driving are just as dangerous. Your striction; or who have multiple convictions for
late at night. eyes can gaze at objects in the driving scene violating a State or local law or ordinance on
but fail to see them because your attention is motor vehicle traffic control that restricts the use
Driver Body Movement as a Clue. Drivers
distracted elsewhere. of hand-held mobile telephones. Additionally,
look in the direction they are going to turn. You
Activities that can distract your attention motor carriers are prohibited from requiring
may sometimes get a clue from a driver’s head
include: talking to passengers; adjusting the or allowing drivers of CMVs to use hand-held
and body movements that a driver may be going
radio, CD player or climate controls; eating, mobile telephones.
to make a turn, even though the turn signals
drinking or smoking; reading maps or other The use of hand-held mobile telephones
aren’t on. Drivers making over-the-shoulder
literature; picking up something that fell; read- means, “using at least one hand to hold a mobile
checks may be going to change lanes. These
ing billboards and other road advertisements; telephone to conduct a voice communication; ”di-
clues are most easily seen in motorcyclists and
watching other people and vehicles including aling a mobile telephone by pressing more than a
bicyclists. Watch other road users and try to tell
aggressive drivers; talking on a cell phone or CB single button”; or “moving from a seated driving
whether they might do something hazardous.
radio; using telematic devices (such as naviga- position while restrained by a seat belt to reach for
Conflicts. You are in conflict when you have tion systems, pagers, etc.); daydreaming or being a mobile telephone.” If you choose to use a mobile
to change speed and/or direction to avoid hit- occupied with other mental distractions. phone while operating a CMV, you may only use
ting someone. Conflicts occur at intersections a hands free mobile phone that is located close
where vehicles meet, at merges (such as turn- 2.9.1 – Don’t Drive Distracted to you and that can be operated in compliance
pike on ramps) and where there are needed with the rule to conduct a voice communication.
If drivers react a half-second slower because
lane changes (such as the end of a lane, forcing Your CDL will be disqualified after two or
of distractions, crashes double. Some tips to fol-
a move to another lane of traffic). Other situa- more convictions of any state law on hand-held
low so you won’t become distracted:
tions include slow moving or stalled traffic in a mobile telephone use while operating a CMV.
traffic lane, and accident scenes. Watch for other • Review and be totally familiar with all safety Disqualification is 60 days for the second offense
drivers who are in conflict because they are a and usage features on any in-vehicle elec- within 3 years and 120 days for three or more
hazard to you. When they react to this conflict, tronics, including your wireless or cell phone, offenses within 3 years. In addition, the first and
they may do something that will put them in before you drive. each subsequent violation of such a prohibition
conflict with you. are subject to civil penalties imposed on such
• Pre-program radio stations.
drivers, in an amount up to $2,750. Motor car-
2.8.4 – Always Have a Plan • Pre-load your favorite CDs or cassette tapes. riers must not allow nor require drivers to use
a hand-held mobile telephone while driving.
You should always be looking for hazards. • Clear the vehicle of any unnecessary objects.
Employers may also be subject to civil penal-
Continue to learn to see hazards on the road.
• Review maps and plan your route before you ties in an amount up to $11,000. There is an
However, don’t forget why you are looking for
begin driving. emergency exception that allows you to use
the hazards--they may turn into emergencies.
your hand-held mobile telephones if necessary
You look for the hazards in order to have time • Adjust all mirrors for best all-round visibility
to communicate with law enforcement officials
to plan a way out of any emergency. When you before you start your trip.
or other emergency services.
see a hazard, think about the emergencies that
• Don’t attempt to read or write while you Research shows that the odds of being in-
could develop and figure out what you would
drive. volved in a safety-critical event (e.g., crash,
do. Always be prepared to take action based on
near-crash, unintentional lane deviation) is 6
your plans. In this way, you will be a prepared, • Avoid smoking, eating and drinking while
times greater for CMV drivers who engage in
defensive driver who will improve your own you drive.
dialing a mobile telephone while driving than
safety as well as the safety of all road users.
• Don’t engage in complex or emotionally infor those who do not. Dialing drivers took their
tense conversations with other occupants. eyes off the forward roadway for an average of
2.9 – Distracted Driving 3.8 seconds. At 55 mph (or 80.7 feet per second),
2.9.2 – Cell/Mobile Phones this equates to a driver traveling 306 feet, the
Whenever you are driving a vehicle and approximate length of a football field, without
49 CFR Parts 383, 384, 390, 391 and 392 of
your attention is not on the road, you’re put- looking at the roadway.
the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations
ting yourself, your passengers, other vehicles, Your primary responsibility is to operate a
(FMCSRs) and the Hazardous Materials Reg-
and pedestrians in danger. Distracted driving motor vehicle safely. To do this, you must focus
ulations (HMR) restrict the use of hand-held
can result when you perform any activity that your full attention on the driving task.
2.9.3 – Texting
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE 49 CFR Parts 383, 384, 390, 391, and 392 of
the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations
Subsections 2.7 and 2.8 (FMCSR) prohibits testing by commercial mo-
tor vehicle (CMV) drivers while operating in
• How do you find out how many seconds • If you swing wide to the left before turning interstate commerce, and implements new
of following distance space you have? right, another driver may try to pass you driver disqualification sanctions for drivers
on the right. True or False? of CMVs who fail to comply with this Federal
• If you are driving a 30-foot vehicle at 55
mph, how many seconds of following • What is a hazard? prohibition; or who have multiple convictions
distance should you allow? for violating a State or local law or ordinance
• Why make emergency plans when you on motor vehicle traffic control that prohibits
• You should decrease your following see a hazard? texting while driving. Additionally, motor car-
distance if somebody is following you too riers are prohibited from requiring or allowing
closely. True or False? their drivers to engage in texting while driving.
These questions may be on the test. If you can’t answer them all, re-read subsections 2.7 Texting means manually entering text into
and 2.8. or reading text from an electronic device. This
includes, but is not limited to, short message
28
services, e-mailing, instant messaging, a com- Be very careful when passing a driver who • Avoid gestures. Keep you hands on the wheel.
mand or request to access a World Wide Web seems to be distracted. The other driver may Avoid making any gestures that might anger
page, or engaging in any other form of electronic not be aware of your presence, and they may another driver, even seemingly harmless ex-
text retrieval or entry, for present or future com- drift in front of you. pressions of irritation like shaking your head.
munication.
• Be a cautious and courteous driver. If another
Electronic device includes, but is not limited
to, a cellular telephone; personal digital assis-
2.10 – Aggressive Drivers/ driver seems eager to get in front of you, say,
tant; pager; computer; or any other device used
Road Rage “Be my guest.” This response will soon be-
come a habit and you won’t be as offended
to enter, write, send, receive, or read text.
by other drivers’ actions.
Your CDL will be disqualified after two or 2.10.1 – What Is It?
more convictions of any state law on texting
Aggressive driving and road rage is not a 2.10.3 – What You Should Do
while operating a CMV. Disqualifications is 60
new problem. However, in today’s world, where When Confronted by an
days for the second offense within 3 years and
heavy and slow-moving traffic and tight sched- Aggressive Driver
120 days for three or more offenses within 3
ules are the norm, more and more drivers are
years. In addition, the first and each subsequent • First and foremost, make every attempt to
taking out their anger and frustration in their
violation of such a prohibition are subject to get out of their way.
vehicles.
civil penalties imposed on such drivers, in an
Crowded roads leave little room for error, • Put your pride in the back seat. Do not chal-
amount up to $2,750. No motor carrier shall
leading to suspicion and hostility among driv- lenge them by speeding up or attempting to
allow or require its drivers to engage in texting
ers and encouraging them to take personally hold-your-own in your travel lane.
while driving. There is an emergency exception
the mistakes of other drivers.
that allows you to text if necessary to commu- • Avoid eye contact.
Aggressive driving is the act of operating a
nicate with law enforcement officials or other
motor vehicle in a selfish, bold, or pushy manner, • Ignore gestures and refuse to react to them.
emergency services.
without regard for the rights or safety of others.
Evidence shows that the odds of being in- • Report aggressive drivers to the appropriate
Road rage is operating a motor vehicle with
volved in a safety-critical event (e.g., crash, authorities by providing a vehicle descrip-
the intent of doing harm to others or physically
near-crash, unintentional lane deviation) is 23.2 tion, license number, location and, if possible,
assaulting a driver or their vehicle.
times greater for CMV drivers who engage in direction of travel.
textng while driving that for those who do not.
2.10.2 – Don’t Be an • If you have a cell phone, and can do it safely,
Sending or receiving text takes your eyes from
Aggressive Driver call the police.
the road for an average of 4.6 seconds. At 55
mph, you would travel 371 feet, or the length How you feel before you even start your ve- • If an aggressive driver is involved in a crash
of an entire football field - without looking at hicle has a lot to do with how stress will affect farther down the road, stop a safe distance
the roadway. you while driving. from the crash scene, wait for the police to
arrive, and report the driving behavior that
• Reduce your stress before and while you
2.9.4 – Watch Out for Other you witnessed.
drive. Listen to “easy listening” music.
Distracted Drivers
• Give the drive your full attention. Don’t allow
You need to be able to recognize other drivers
yourself to become distracted by talking on
2.11 – Driving at Night
who are engaged in any form of driving distrac-
your cell phone, eating, etc.
tion. Not recognizing other distracted drivers
2.11.1 – It’s More Dangerous
can prevent you from perceiving or reacting • Be realistic about your travel time. Expect
correctly in time to prevent a crash. Watch for: delays because of traffic, construction, or bad You are at greater risk when you drive at
weather and make allowances. night. Drivers can’t see hazards as quickly as
• Vehicles that may drift over the lane divider
in daylight, so they have less time to respond.
lines or within their own lane. • If you’re going to be later than you expected
Drivers caught by surprise are less able to avoid
– deal with it. Take a deep breath and accept
• Vehicles traveling at inconsistent speeds. a crash.
the delay.
The problems of night driving involve the
• Drivers who are preoccupied with maps,
• Give other drivers the benefit of the doubt. driver, the roadway, and the vehicle.
food, cigarettes, cell phones, or other objects.
Try to imagine why he or she is driving that
• Drivers who appear to be involved in con- way. Whatever their reason, it has nothing 2.11.2 – Driver Factors
versations with their passengers. to do with you.
Vision. People can’t see as sharply at night or
Give a distracted driver plenty of room and • Slow down and keep your following distance in dim light. Also, their eyes need time to adjust
maintain your safe following distance. reasonable. to seeing in dim light. Most people have noticed
this when walking into a dark movie theater.
• Don’t drive slowly in the left lane of traffic.
Good vision is critical for safe driving. Your
control of the brake, accelerator, and steering
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE wheel is based on what you see. If you cannot
see clearly, you will have trouble identifying
traffic and roadway conditions, spotting po-
Subsections 2.9 and 2.10 tential trouble or responding to problems in a
• What are some tips to follow so you won’t • What is the difference between timely manner.
become a distracted driver? aggressive driving and road rage? Because seeing well is so critical to safe
driving, you should have your eyes checked
• How do you use in-vehicle • What should you do when confronted regularly by an eye specialist. You may never
communications equipment cautiously? with an aggressive driver? know you have poor vision unless your eyes
• How do you recognize a distracted • What are some things you can do to are tested. If you need to wear glasses or contact
driver? reduce your stress before and while you lenses for driving, remember to.
drive? Always wear them when driving, even if
driving short distances. If your driver license
These questions may be on the test. If you can’t answer them all, re-read subsections 2.9 says corrective lenses are required, it is illegal to
and 2.10. move a vehicle without using corrective lenses.
29
Keep an extra set of corrective lenses in your 500 feet. You must adjust your speed to keep This increases glare for oncoming drivers and
vehicle. If your normal corrective lenses are your stopping distance within your sight dis- increases the chance of a crash.
broken or lost, you can use the spare lenses to tance. This means going slowly enough to be
Use High Beams When You Can. Some
drive safely. able to stop within the range of your headlights.
drivers make the mistake of always using low
Avoid using dark or tinted corrective lenses Otherwise, by the time you see a hazard, you
beams. This seriously cuts down on their ability
at night, even if you think they help with glare. will not have time to stop.
to see ahead. Use high beams when it is safe and
Tinted lenses cut down the light that you need Night driving can be more dangerous if you
legal to do so. Use them when you are not within
to see clearly under night driving conditions. have problems with your headlights. Dirty head-
500 feet of an approaching vehicle. Also, don’t
lights may give only half the light they should.
Glare. Drivers can be blinded for a short time let the inside of your cab get too bright. This
This cuts down your ability to see, and makes
by bright light. It takes time to recover from this makes it harder to see outside. Keep the interior
it harder for others to see you. Make sure your
blindness. Older drivers are especially bothered light off, and adjust your instrument lights as
lights are clean and working. Headlights can be
by glare. Most people have been temporarily low as you can to still be able to read the gauges.
out of adjustment. If they don’t point in the right
blinded by camera flash units or by the high
direction, they won’t give you a good view and If You Get Sleepy, Stop at the Nearest Safe
beams of an oncoming vehicle. It can take sev-
they can blind other drivers. Have a qualified Place. People often don’t realize how close they
eral seconds to recover from glare. Even two
person make sure they are adjusted properly. are to falling asleep even when their eyelids
seconds of glare blindness can be dangerous.
are falling shut. If you can safely do so, look
A vehicle going 55 mph will travel more than Other Lights. In order for you to be seen eas-
at yourself in a mirror. If you look sleepy, or
half the distance of a football field during that ily, the following must be clean and working
you just feel sleepy, stop driving! You are in a
time. Don’t look directly at bright lights when properly:
very dangerous condition. The only safe cure
driving. Look at the right side of the road. Watch
• Reflectors. is to sleep.
the sidelines when someone coming toward you
has very bright lights on. • Marker lights.
Fatigue and Lack of Alertness. Fatigue • Clearance lights.
2.12 – Driving in Fog
(being tired) and lack of alertness are bigger
• Taillights. Fog can occur at any time. Fog on highways
problems at night. The body’s need for sleep is
can be extremely dangerous. Fog is often un-
beyond a person’s control. Most people are less • Identification lights.
expected, and visibility can deteriorate rapidly.
alert at night, especially after midnight. This is
Turn Signals and Brake Lights. At night You should watch for foggy conditions and be
particularly true if you have been driving for a
your turn signals and brake lights are even more ready to reduce your speed. Do not assume that
long time. Drivers may not see hazards as soon,
important for telling other drivers what you the fog will thin out after you enter it.
or react as quickly, so the chance of a crash is
intend to do. Make sure you have clean, working The best advice for driving in fog is don’t. It
greater. If you are sleepy, the only safe cure is
turn signals and stop lights. is preferable that you pull off the road into a rest
to get off the road and get some sleep. If you
area or truck stop until visibility is better. If you
don’t, you risk your life and the lives of others. Windshield and Mirrors. It is more important
must drive, be sure to consider the following:
at night than in the daytime to have a clean
2.11.3 – Roadway Factors windshield and clean mirrors. Bright lights at • Obey all fog-related warning signs.
night can cause dirt on your windshield or mir-
Poor Lighting. In the daytime there is usually • Slow down before you enter fog.
rors to create a glare of its own, blocking your
enough light to see well. This is not true at night.
view. Most people have experienced driving • Use low-beam headlights and fog lights for
Some areas may have bright street lights, but
toward the sun just as it has risen or is about to best visibility even in daytime, and be alert
many areas will have poor lighting. On most
set, and found that they can barely see through for other drivers who may have forgotten to
roads you will probably have to depend entirely
a windshield that seemed to look OK in the turn on their lights.
on your headlights.
middle of the day. Clean your windshield on
Less light means you will not be able to see • Turn on your 4-way flashers. This will give
the inside and outside for safe driving at night.
hazards as well as in daytime. Road users who vehicles approaching you from behind a
do not have lights are hard to see. There are quicker opportunity to notice your vehicle.
2.11.5 – Night Driving Procedures
many accidents at night involving pedestrians,
• Watch for vehicles on the side of the roadway.
joggers, bicyclists, and animals. Pre-trip Procedures. Make sure you are
Seeing taillights or headlights in front of you
Even when there are lights, the road scene can rested and alert. If you are drowsy, sleep be-
may not be a true indication of where the road
be confusing. Traffic signals and hazards can fore you drive! Even a nap can save your life
is ahead of you. The vehicle may not be on
be hard to see against a background of signs, or the lives of others. If you wear eyeglasses,
the road at all.
shop windows, and other lights. make sure they are clean and unscratched. Don’t
Drive slower when lighting is poor or confus- wear sunglasses at night. Do a complete pre- • Use roadside highway reflectors as guides
ing. Drive slowly enough to be sure you can stop trip inspection of your vehicle. Pay attention to to determine how the road may curve ahead
in the distance you can see ahead. checking all lights and reflectors, and cleaning of you.
those you can reach.
Drunk Drivers. Drunk drivers and drivers un- • Listen for traffic you cannot see.
der the influence of drugs are a hazard to them- Avoid Blinding Others. Glare from your
• Avoid passing other vehicles.
selves and to you. Be especially alert around headlights can cause problems for drivers com-
the closing times for bars and taverns. Watch ing toward you. They can also bother drivers • Don’t stop along the side of the road, unless
for drivers who have trouble staying in their going in the same direction you are, when your absolutely necessary.
lane or maintaining speed, who stop without lights shine in their rearview mirrors. Dim your
reason, or show other signs of being under the lights before they cause glare for other drivers.
influence of alcohol or drugs. Dim your lights within 500 feet of an oncoming
2.13 – Driving in Winter
vehicle and when following another vehicle
2.11.4 – Vehicle Factors within 500 feet. 2.13.1 – Vehicle Checks
Headlights. At night your headlights will usu- Avoid Glare from Oncoming Vehicles. Do Make sure your vehicle is ready before driv-
ally be the main source of light for you to see by not look directly at lights of oncoming vehicles. ing in winter weather. You should make a regu-
and for others to see you. You can’t see nearly Look slightly to the right at a right lane or edge lar pre-trip inspection, paying extra attention
as much with your headlights as you see in the marking, if available. If other drivers don’t put to the following items.
daytime. With low beams you can see ahead their low beams on, don’t try to “get back at
Coolant Level and Antifreeze Amount.
about 250 feet and with high beams about 350- them” by putting your own high beams on.
Make sure the cooling system is full and there
30
is enough antifreeze in the system to protect 2.13.2 – Driving Tires. Check the tire mounting and air pres-
against freezing. This can be checked with a sure. Inspect the tires every two hours or every
Slippery Surfaces. Drive slowly and smooth-
special coolant tester. 100 miles when driving in very hot weather. Air
ly on slippery roads. If it is very slippery, you
pressure increases with temperature. Do not let
Defrosting and Heating Equipment. Make shouldn’t drive at all. Stop at the first safe place.
air out or the pressure will be too low when the
sure the defrosters work. They are needed for
Start Gently and Slowly. When first starting, tires cool off. If a tire is too hot to touch, remain
safe driving. Make sure the heater is working,
get the feel of the road. Don’t hurry. stopped until the tire cools off. Otherwise the
and that you know how to operate it. If you
tire may blow out or catch fire.
use other heaters and expect to need them (e.g., Check for Ice. Check for ice on the road, espe-
mirror heaters, battery box heaters, fuel tank cially bridges and overpasses. A lack of spray Engine Oil. The engine oil helps keep the en-
heaters), check their operation. from other vehicles indicates ice has formed on gine cool, as well as lubricating it. Make sure
the road. Also, check your mirrors and wiper there is enough engine oil. If you have an oil
Wipers and Washers. Make sure the wind-
blades for ice. If they have ice, the road most temperature gauge, make sure the tempera-
shield wiper blades are in good condition. Make
likely will be icy as well. ture is within the proper range while you are
sure the wiper blades press against the window
driving.
hard enough to wipe the windshield clean, oth- Adjust Turning and Braking to Conditions.
erwise they may not sweep off snow properly. Make turns as gently as possible. Don’t brake Engine Coolant. Before starting out, make
Make sure the windshield washer works and any harder than necessary, and don’t use the sure the engine cooling system has enough
there is washing fluid in the washer reservoir. engine brake or speed retarder. (They can cause water and antifreeze according to the engine
Use windshield washer antifreeze to prevent the driving wheels to skid on slippery surfaces.) manufacturer’s directions. (Antifreeze helps
freezing of the washer liquid. If you can’t see the engine under hot conditions as well as cold
Adjust Speed to Conditions. Don’t pass
well enough while driving (for example, if your conditions.) When driving, check the water tem-
slower vehicles unless necessary. Go slowly and
wipers fail), stop safely and fix the problem. perature or coolant temperature gauge from
watch far enough ahead to keep a steady speed.
time to time. Make sure that it remains in the
Tires. Make sure you have enough tread on Avoid having to slow down and speed up. Take
normal range. If the gauge goes above the high-
your tires. The drive tires must provide traction curves at slower speeds and don’t brake while in
est safe temperature, there may be something
to push the rig over wet pavement and through curves. Be aware that as the temperature rises
wrong that could lead to engine failure and pos-
snow. The steering tires must have traction to to the point where ice begins to melt, the road
sibly fire. Stop driving as soon as safely possible
steer the vehicle. Enough tread is especially im- becomes even more slippery. Slow down more.
and try to find out what is wrong.
portant in winter conditions. You must have at
Adjust Space to Conditions. Don’t drive Some vehicles have sight glasses, see-through
least 4/32 inch tread depth in every major groove
alongside other vehicles. Keep a longer follow- coolant overflow containers, or coolant recovery
on front tires and at least 2/32 inch on other tires.
ing distance. When you see a traffic jam ahead, containers. These permit you to check the cool-
More would be better. Use a gauge to determine
slow down or stop to wait for it to clear. Try ant level while the engine is hot. If the container
if you have enough tread for safe driving.
hard to anticipate stops early and slow down is not part of the pressurized system, the cap
Tire Chains. You may find yourself in condi- gradually. Watch for snowplows, as well as salt can be safely removed and coolant added even
tions where you can’t drive without chains, even and sand trucks, and give them plenty of room. when the engine is at operating temperature.
to get to a place of safety. Carry the right num- Never remove the radiator cap or any part
Wet Brakes. When driving in heavy rain or
ber of chains and extra cross-links. Make sure of the pressurized system until the system has
deep standing water, your brakes will get wet.
they will fit your drive tires. Check the chains cooled. Steam and boiling water can spray un-
Water in the brakes can cause the brakes to be
for broken hooks, worn or broken cross-links, der pressure and cause severe burns. If you can
weak, to apply unevenly, or to grab. This can
and bent or broken side chains. Learn how to touch the radiator cap with your bare hand, it
cause lack of braking power, wheel lockups,
put the chains on before you need to do it in is probably cool enough to open.
pulling to one side or the other, and jackknife
snow and ice. If coolant has to be added to a system with-
if you pull a trailer.
out a recovery tank or overflow tank, follow
Lights and Reflectors. Make sure the lights Avoid driving through deep puddles or flow-
these steps:
and reflectors are clean. Lights and reflectors ing water if possible. If not, you should:
are especially important during bad weather. • Shut engine off.
• Slow down and place transmission in a low gear.
Check from time to time during bad weather to
• Wait until engine has cooled.
make sure they are clean and working properly. • Gently put on the brakes. This presses linings
against brake drums or discs and keeps mud, • Protect hands (use gloves or a thick cloth).
Windows and Mirrors. Remove any ice, snow,
silt, sand, and water from getting in.
etc., from the windshield, windows, and mirrors • Turn radiator cap slowly to the first stop,
before starting. Use a windshield scraper, snow • Increase engine rpm and cross the water which releases the pressure seal.
brush, and windshield defroster as necessary. while keeping light pressure on the brakes.
• Step back while pressure is released from
Hand Holds, Steps, and Deck Plates. Re- • When out of the water, maintain light pres- cooling system.
move all ice and snow from hand holds, steps, sure on the brakes for a short distance to heat
• When all pressure has been released, press
and deck plates. This will reduce the danger them up and dry them out.
down on the cap and turn it further to re-
of slipping.
• Make a test stop when safe to do so. Check move it.
Radiator Shutters and Winterfront. Remove behind to make sure no one is following, then
• Visually check level of coolant and add more
ice from the radiator shutters. Make sure the apply the brakes to be sure they work well. If
coolant if necessary.
winterfront is not closed too tightly. If the shut- not, dry them out further as described above.
ters freeze shut or the winterfront is closed too (CAUTION: Do not apply too much brake • Replace cap and turn all the way to the closed
much, the engine may overheat and stop. pressure and accelerator at the same time, or position.
you can overheat brake drums and linings.)
Exhaust System. Exhaust system leaks are Engine Belts. Learn how to check v-belt tight-
especially dangerous when cab ventilation ness on your vehicle by pressing on the belts.
may be poor (windows rolled up, etc.). Loose 2.14 – Driving in Very Loose belts will not turn the water pump and/
connections could permit poisonous carbon Hot Weather or fan properly. This will result in overheating.
monoxide to leak into your vehicle. Carbon Also, check belts for cracking or other signs
monoxide gas will cause you to be sleepy. In of wear.
2.14.1 – Vehicle Checks
large enough amounts it can kill you. Check the
Hoses. Make sure coolant hoses are in good
exhaust system for loose parts and for sounds Do a normal pre-trip inspection, but pay spe-
condition. A broken hose while driving can
and signs of leaks. cial attention to the following items.
lead to engine failure and even fire.
31
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE flashing red lights and bells. When the lights be-
gin to flash, stop! A train is approaching. You are
required to yield the right-of-way to the train.
Subsections 2.11, 2.12, 2.13 and 2.14 If there is more than one track, make sure all
tracks are clear before crossing. See Figure 2.18.
• You should use low beams whenever you • You should let air out of hot tires so the
can. True or False? pressure goes back to normal. True or Gates. Many railroad-highway crossings
False? have gates with flashing red lights and bells.
• What should you do before you drive if
Stop when the lights begin to flash and before
you are drowsy? • You can safely remove the radiator cap as
the gate lowers across the road lane. Remain
long as the engine isn’t overheated. True
• What effects can wet brakes cause? How stopped until the gates go up and the lights
or False?
can you avoid these problems? have stopped flashing. Proceed when it is safe.
See Figure 2.18.
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
2.15.3 – Driving Procedures
Never Race a Train to a Crossing. Never at-
tempt to race a train to a crossing. It is extremely
difficult to judge the speed of an approaching
2.14.2 – Driving Active Crossings. This type of crossing has
train.
a traffic control device installed at the cross-
Watch for Bleeding Tar. Tar in the road pave-
ing to regulate traffic at the crossing. These ac- Reduce Speed. Speed must be reduced in ac-
ment frequently rises to the surface in very hot
tive devices include flashing red lights, with cordance with your ability to see approaching
weather. Spots where tar “bleeds” to the surface
or without bells and flashing red lights with trains in any direction, and speed must be held
are very slippery.
bells and gates. to a point which will permit you to stop short of
Go Slowly Enough to Prevent Overheating. the tracks in case a stop is necessary.
High speeds create more heat for tires and the 2.15.2 – Warning Signs and Devices
Don’t Expect to Hear a Train. Because of
engine. In desert conditions the heat may build
Advance Warning Signs. The round, black- noise inside your vehicle, you cannot expect to
up to the point where it is dangerous. The heat
on-yellow warning sign is placed ahead of a hear the train horn until the train is dangerously
will increase chances of tire failure or even fire,
public railroad-highway crossing. The advance close to the crossing.
and engine failure.
warning sign tells you to slow down, look and
Don’t Rely on Signals. You should not rely
listen for the train, and be prepared to stop at
solely upon the presence of warning signals,
2.15 – Railroad-highway the tracks if a train is coming. See Figure 2.15.
gates, or flagmen to warn of the approach of
Crossings Pavement Markings. Pavement markings trains. Be especially alert at crossings that do not
mean the same as the advance warning sign. have gates or flashing red light signals.
Railroad-highway grade crossings are a spe-
They consist of an “X” with the letters “”RR”
cial kind of intersection where the roadway Double Tracks Require a Double Check.
and a no-passing marking on two-lane roads.
crosses train tracks. These crossings are always Remember that a train on one track may hide a
See Figure 2.16.
dangerous. Every such crossing must be ap- train on the other track. Look both ways before
There is also a no passing zone sign on two-
proached with the expectation that a train is crossing. After one train has cleared a crossing,
lane roads. There may be a white stop line
coming. be sure no other trains are near before starting
painted on the pavement before the railroad
across the tracks.
tracks. The front of the school bus must remain
2.15.1 – Types of Crossings
behind this line while stopped at the crossing. Yard Areas and Grade Crossings in Cities
Passive Crossings. This type of crossing does and Towns. Yard areas and grade crossings
Crossbuck Signs. This sign marks the grade
not have any type of traffic control device. The in cities and towns are just as dangerous as
crossing. It requires you to yield the right-of-way
decision to stop or proceed rests entirely in your rural grade crossings. Approach them with as
to the train. If there is no white line painted on
hands. Passive crossings require you to recog- much caution.
the pavement, you must stop the bus before the
nize the crossing, search for any train using
crossbuck sign. When the road crosses over more
the tracks and decide if there is sufficient clear 2.15.4 – Stopping Safely at Railroad-
than one set of tracks, a sign below the crossbuck
space to cross safely. Passive crossings have highway Crossings
indicates the number of tracks. See Figure 2.17.
yellow circular advance warning signs, pave-
A full stop is required at grade crossings
ment markings and crossbucks to assist you in Flashing Red Light Signals. At many high-
whenever:
recognizing a crossing. way-rail grade crossings, the crossbuck sign has
ROUND YELLOW PAVEMENT MARKINGS MULTIPLE TRACKS GATES/LIGHTS

WARNING SIGN
Figure 2.15 Figure 2.16 Figure 2.17 Figure 2.18
32
• The nature of the cargo makes a stop manda-
tory under state or federal regulations.
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE
• Such a stop is otherwise required by law.
Subsections 2.15 and 2.16
When stopping be sure to:
• What factors determine your selection of • What type of vehicles can get stuck on a
• Check for traffic behind you while stopping a “safe” speed when going down a long, railroad-highway crossing?
gradually. Use a pullout lane, if available. steep downgrade?
• How long does it take for a typical
• Turn on your four-way emergency flashers. • Why should you be in the proper gear tractor-trailer unit to clear a double track?
before starting down a hill?
2.15.5 – Crossing the Tracks
• Describe the proper braking technique
Railroad crossings with steep approaches when going down a long, steep
can cause your unit to hang up on the tracks. downgrade.
Never permit traffic conditions to trap you
These questions may be on the test. If you can’t answer them all, re-read subsections 2.15
in a position where you have to stop on the
and 2.16
tracks. Be sure you can get all the way across the
tracks before you start across. It takes a typical
tractor-trailer unit at least 14 seconds to clear a
single track and more than 15 seconds to clear
• Steepness of the grade. share of the work. Brakes out of adjustment will
a double track.
stop doing their share before those that are in
Do not shift gears while crossing railroad • Road conditions.
adjustment. The other brakes can then overheat
tracks.
• Weather. and fade, and there will not be enough braking
available to control the vehicle. Brakes can get
2.15.6 – Special Situations If a speed limit is posted, or there is a sign
out of adjustment quickly, especially when they
indicating “Maximum Safe Speed,” never ex-
Be Aware! These trailers can get stuck on are used a lot; also, brake linings wear faster
ceed the speed shown. Also, look for and heed
raised crossings: when they are hot. Therefore, brake adjustment
warning signs indicating the length and steep-
must be checked frequently.
• Low slung units (lowboy, car carrier, moving ness of the grade.
van, possum-belly livestock trailer). You must use the braking effect of the engine
2.16.4 – Proper Braking Technique
as the principal way of controlling your speed.
• Single-axle tractor pulling a long trailer
The braking effect of the engine is greatest when Remember. The use of brakes on a long and/
with its landing gear set to accommodate a
it is near the governed rpms and the transmis- or steep downgrade is only a supplement to the
tandem-axle tractor.
sion is in the lower gears. Save your brakes so braking effect of the engine. Once the vehicle
If for any reason you get stuck on the tracks, you will be able to slow or stop as required by is in the proper low gear, the following are the
get out of the vehicle and away from the tracks. road and traffic conditions. proper braking techniques:
Check signposts or signal housing at the cross-
• Apply the brakes just hard enough to feel a
ing for emergency notification information. Call 2.16.2 – Select the Right Gear Before
definite slowdown.
911 or other emergency number. Give the loca- Starting Down the Grade
tion of the crossing using all identifiable land- • When your speed has been reduced to ap-
Shift the transmission to a low gear before
marks, especially the DOT number, if posted. proximately five mph below your “safe”
starting down the grade. Do not try to down-
speed, release the brakes. (This brake ap-
shift after your speed has already built up. You
plication should last for about three seconds.)
2.16 – Mountain Driving will not be able to shift into a lower gear. You
may not even be able to get back into any gear • When your speed has increased to your
In mountain driving, gravity plays a major role. and all engine braking effect will be lost. Forc- “safe” speed, repeat steps 1 and 2.
On any upgrade, gravity slows you down. The ing an automatic transmission into a lower gear
For example, if your “safe” speed is 40 mph,
steeper the grade, the longer the grade, and/or the at high speed could damage the transmission
you would not apply the brakes until your speed
heavier the load--the more you will have to use and also lead to loss of all engine braking effect.
reaches 40 mph. You now apply the brakes hard
lower gears to climb hills or mountains. In coming With older trucks, a rule for choosing gears
enough to gradually reduce your speed to 35
down long, steep downgrades, gravity causes the is to use the same gear going down a hill that
mph and then release the brakes. Repeat this
speed of your vehicle to increase. You must select you would need to climb the hill. However, new
as often as necessary until you have reached
an appropriate safe speed, then use a low gear, trucks have low friction parts and streamlined
the end of the downgrade.
and proper braking techniques. You should plan shapes for fuel economy. They may also have
Escape ramps have been built on many steep
ahead and obtain information about any long, more powerful engines. This means they can go
mountain downgrades. Escape ramps are made
steep grades along your planned route of travel. up hills in higher gears and have less friction
to stop runaway vehicles safely without injur-
If possible, talk to other drivers who are familiar and air drag to hold them back going down hills.
ing drivers and passengers. Escape ramps use
with the grades to find out what speeds are safe. For that reason, drivers of modern trucks may
a long bed of loose, soft material to slow a run-
You must go slowly enough so your brakes have to use lower gears going down a hill than
away vehicle, sometimes in combination with
can hold you back without getting too hot. If the would be required to go up the hill. You should
an upgrade.
brakes become too hot, they may start to “fade.” know what is right for your vehicle.
Know escape ramp locations on your route.
This means you have to apply them harder and
Signs show drivers where ramp are located.
harder to get the same stopping power. If you 2.16.3 – Brake Fading or Failure
Escape ramps save lives, equipment and cargo.
continue to use the brakes hard, they can keep
Brakes are designed so brake shoes or pads
fading until you cannot slow down or stop at all.
rub against the brake drum or disks to slow
the vehicle. Braking creates heat, but brakes are
2.17 – Driving Emergencies
2.16.1 – Select a “Safe” Speed
designed to take a lot of heat. However, brakes
Traffic emergencies occur when two vehicles
Your most important consideration is to select can fade or fail from excessive heat caused by
are about to collide. Vehicle emergencies occur
a speed that is not too fast for the: using them too much and not relying on the
when tires, brakes, or other critical parts fail.
engine braking effect.
• Total weight of the vehicle and cargo. Following the safety practices in this manual
Brake fade is also affected by adjustment. To
can help prevent emergencies. But if an emer-
• Length of the grade. safely control a vehicle, every brake must do its
gency does happen, your chances of avoiding
33
a crash depend upon how well you take action. Keep One Set of Wheels on the Pavement, Pump the Brakes. Sometimes pumping the
Actions you can take are discussed below. if Possible. This helps to maintain control. brake pedal will generate enough hydraulic
pressure to stop the vehicle.
Stay on the Shoulder. If the shoulder is clear,
2.17.1 – Steering to Avoid a Crash
stay on it until your vehicle has come to a stop. Use the Parking Brake. The parking or emer-
Stopping is not always the safest thing to do Signal and check your mirrors before pulling gency brake is separate from the hydraulic brake
in an emergency. When you don’t have enough back onto the road. system. Therefore, it can be used to slow the ve-
room to stop, you may have to steer away from hicle. However, be sure to press the release button
Returning to the Road. If you are forced to
what’s ahead. Remember, you can almost al- or pull the release lever at the same time you use
return to the road before you can stop, use the
ways turn to miss an obstacle more quickly than the emergency brake so you can adjust the brake
following procedure:
you can stop. (However, top-heavy vehicles and pressure and keep the wheels from locking up.
tractors with multiple trailers may flip over.) • Hold the wheel tightly and turn sharply
Find an Escape Route. While slowing the
enough to get right back on the road safely.
Keep Both Hands on the Steering Wheel. vehicle, look for an escape route--an open field,
Don’t try to edge gradually back on the road.
In order to turn quickly, you must have a firm side street, or escape ramp. Turning uphill is a
If you do, your tires might grab unexpectedly
grip on the steering wheel with both hands. good way to slow and stop the vehicle. Make
and you could lose control.
The best way to have both hands on the wheel, sure the vehicle does not start rolling backward
if there is an emergency, is to keep them there • When both front tires are on the paved sur- after you stop. Put it in low gear, apply the park-
all the time. face, countersteer immediately. The two turns ing brake, and, if necessary, roll back into some
should be made as a single “steer-counter- obstacle that will stop the vehicle.
How to Turn Quickly and Safely. A quick
steer” move.
turn can be made safely, if it’s done the right Brake Failure on Downgrades. Going slow
way. Here are some points that safe drivers use: enough and braking properly will almost al-
2.17.2 – How to Stop Quickly
ways prevent brake failure on long downgrades.
• Do not apply the brake while you are turn- and Safely
Once the brakes have failed, however, you are
ing. It’s very easy to lock your wheels while
If somebody suddenly pulls out in front of going to have to look outside your vehicle for
turning. If that happens, you may skid out
you, your natural response is to hit the brakes. something to stop it.
of control.
This is a good response if there’s enough dis- Your best hope is an escape ramp. If there is
• Do not turn any more than needed to clear tance to stop, and you use the brakes correctly. one, there’ll be signs telling you about it. Use it.
whatever is in your way. The more sharply You should brake in a way that will keep your Ramps are usually located a few miles from the
you turn, the greater the chances of a skid vehicle in a straight line and allow you to turn if top of the downgrade. Every year, hundreds of
or rollover. it becomes necessary. You can use the “controlled drivers avoid injury to themselves or damage
braking” method or the “stab braking” method. to their vehicles by using escape ramps. Some
• Be prepared to “countersteer,” that is, to turn
escape ramps use soft gravel that resists the mo-
the wheel back in the other direction, once Controlled Braking. With this method, you
tion of the vehicle and brings it to a stop. Others
you’ve passed whatever was in your path. apply the brakes as hard as you can without
turn uphill, using the hill to stop the vehicle and
Unless you are prepared to countersteer, you locking the wheels. Keep steering wheel move-
soft gravel to hold it in place.
won’t be able to do it quickly enough. You ments very small while doing this. If you need
Any driver who loses brakes going downhill
should think of emergency steering and coun- to make a larger steering adjustment or if the
should use an escape ramp if it’s available. If you
tersteering as two parts of one driving action. wheels lock, release the brakes. Re-apply the
don’t use it, your chances of having a serious
brakes as soon as you can.
Where to Steer. If an oncoming driver has crash may be much greater.
drifted into your lane, a move to your right is Stab Braking If no escape ramp is available, take the least
best. If that driver realizes what has happened, hazardous escape route you can--such as an
• Apply your brakes all the way.
the natural response will be to return to his or open field or a side road that flattens out or turns
her own lane. • Release brakes when wheels lock up. uphill. Make the move as soon as you know
If something is blocking your path, the best your brakes don’t work. The longer you wait,
• As soon as the wheels start rolling, apply
direction to steer will depend on the situation. the faster the vehicle will go, and the harder it
the brakes fully again. (It can take up to one
will be to stop.
• If you have been using your mirrors, you’ll second for the wheels to start rolling after
know which lane is empty and can be safely you release the brakes. If you re-apply the
2.17.4 – Tire Failure
used. brakes before the wheels start rolling, the
vehicle won’t straighten out.) Recognize Tire Failure. Quickly knowing
• If the shoulder is clear, going right may be
you have a tire failure will let you have more
best. No one is likely to be driving on the Don’t Jam on the Brakes. Emergency brak-
time to react. Having just a few extra seconds
shoulder but someone may be passing you ing does not mean pushing down on the brake
to remember what it is you’re supposed to do
on the left. You will know if you have been pedal as hard as you can. That will only keep the
can help you. The major signs of tire failure are:
using your mirrors. wheels locked up and cause a skid. If the wheels
are skidding, you cannot control the vehicle. • Sound. The loud “bang” of a blowout is an
• If you are blocked on both sides, a move to
easily recognized sign. Because it can take
the right may be best. At least you won’t force
2.17.3 – Brake Failure a few seconds for your vehicle to react, you
anyone into an opposing traffic lane and a
might think it was some other vehicle. But
possible head-on collision. Brakes kept in good condition rarely fail. Most
any time you hear a tire blow, you’d be safest
hydraulic brake failures occur for one of two
Leaving the Road. In some emergencies, you to assume it is yours.
reasons: (Air brakes are discussed in Section 5.)
may have to drive off the road. It may be less
• Vibration. If the vehicle thumps or vibrates
risky than facing a collision with another vehicle. • Loss of hydraulic pressure.
heavily, it may be a sign that one of the tires
Most shoulders are strong enough to support
• Brake fade on long hills. has gone flat. With a rear tire, that may be the
the weight of a large vehicle and, therefore, of-
only sign you get.
fer an available escape route. Here are some Loss of Hydraulic Pressure. When the system
guidelines, if you do leave the road. won’t build up pressure, the brake pedal will • Feel. If the steering feels “heavy,” it is prob-
feel spongy or go to the floor. Here are some ably a sign that one of the front tires has failed.
Avoid Braking. If possible, avoid using the
things you can do. Sometimes, failure of a rear tire will cause the
brakes until your speed has dropped to about 20
vehicle to slide back and forth or “fishtail.”
mph. Then brake very gently to avoid skidding Downshift. Putting the vehicle into a lower
However, dual rear tires usually prevent this.
on a loose surface. gear will help to slow the vehicle.
34
Respond to Tire Failure. When a tire fails, Trailers will have yellow ABS malfunction 2.18.7 – Braking If ABS Is Not Working
your vehicle is in danger. You must immediately: lamps on the left side, either on the front or
Without ABS you still have normal brake
rear corner.
• Hold the Steering Wheel Firmly. If a front functions. Drive and brake as you always have.
Dollies manufactured on or after March 1,
tire fails, it can twist the steering wheel out Vehicles with ABS have yellow malfunction
1998, are required to have a lamp on the left side.
of your hand. The only way to prevent this lamps to tell you if something isn’t working.
As a system check on newer vehicles, the
is to keep a firm grip on the steering wheel As a system check on newer vehicles, the
malfunction lamp comes on at start-up for a
with both hands at all times. malfunction lamp comes on at start-up for a
bulb check, and then goes out quickly. On older
bulb check and then goes out quickly. On older
• Stay Off the Brake. It’s natural to want to systems, the lamp could stay on until you are
systems, the lamp could stay on until you are
brake in an emergency. However, braking driving over five mph.
driving over five mph.
when a tire has failed could cause loss of If the lamp stays on after the bulb check, or
If the lamp stays on after the bulb check, or
control. Unless you’re about to run into some- goes on once you are under way, you may have
goes on once you are under way, you may have
thing, stay off the brake until the vehicle has lost ABS control.
lost ABS control on one or more wheels.
slowed down. Then brake very gently, pull In the case of towed units manufactured
Remember, if your ABS malfunctions, you
off the road, and stop. before it was required by the Department of
still have regular brakes. Drive normally, but
Transportation, it may be difficult to tell if the
• Check the Tires. After you’ve come to a get the system serviced soon.
unit is equipped with ABS. Look under the ve-
stop, get out and check all the tires. Do this
hicle for the ECU and wheel speed sensor wires
even if the vehicle seems to be handling all 2.18.8 – Safety Reminders
coming from the back of the brakes.
right. If one of your dual tires goes, the only
• ABS won’t allow you to drive faster, follow
way you may know it is by getting out and
2.18.4 – How ABS Helps You more closely, or drive less carefully.
looking at it.
When you brake hard on slippery surfaces • ABS won’t prevent power or turning skids–
in a vehicle without ABS, your wheels may lock ABS should prevent brake-induced skids or
2.18 – Antilock Braking up. When your steering wheels lock up, you jackknifes, but not those caused by spinning
Systems (ABS) lose steering control. When your other wheels the drive wheels or going too fast in a turn.
lock up, you may skid, jackknife, or even spin
ABS is a computerized system that keeps • ABS won’t necessarily shorten stopping dis-
the vehicle.
your wheels from locking up during hard brake tance. ABS will help maintain vehicle control,
ABS helps you avoid wheel lock up and main-
applications. but not always shorten stopping distance.
tain control. You may or may not be able to stop
ABS is an addition to your normal brakes.
faster with ABS, but you should be able to steer • ABS won’t increase or decrease ultimate
It does not decrease or increase your normal
around an obstacle while braking, and avoid stopping power–ABS is an “add-on” to your
braking capability. ABS only activates when
skids caused by over braking. normal brakes, not a replacement for them.
wheels are about to lock up.
ABS does not necessarily shorten your stop- • ABS won’t change the way you normally
2.18.5 – ABS on the Tractor Only
ping distance, but it does help you keep the brake. Under normal brake conditions, your
or Only on the Trailer
vehicle under control during hard braking. vehicle will stop as it always stopped. ABS
Having ABS on only the tractor, only the only comes into play when a wheel would nor-
2.18.1 – How Antilock Braking trailer, or even on only one axle, still gives you mally have locked up because of over braking.
Systems Work more control over the vehicle during braking.
• ABS won’t compensate for bad brakes or poor
Brake normally.
Sensors detect potential wheel lock up. An brake maintenance.
When only the tractor has ABS, you should
electronic control unit (ECU) will then decrease
be able to maintain steering control, and there • Remember: The best vehicle safety feature is
brake pressure to avoid wheel lockup.
is less chance of jackknifing. But keep your eye still a safe driver.
Brake pressure is adjusted to provide the
on the trailer and let up on the brakes (if you can
maximum braking without danger of lockup. • Remember: Drive so you never need to use
safely do so) if it begins to swing out.
ABS works far faster than the driver can re- your ABS.
When only the trailer has ABS, the trailer is
spond to potential wheel lockup. At all other
less likely to swing out, but if you lose steering • Remember: If you need it, ABS could help to
times the brake system will operate normally.
control or start a tractor jackknife, let up on prevent a serious crash.
the brakes (if you can safely do so) until you
2.18.2 – Vehicles Required to Have
regain control.
Antilock Braking Systems 2.19 – Skid Control and
The Department of Transportation requires 2.18.6 – Braking with ABS
Recovery
that ABS be on:
When you drive a vehicle with ABS, you A skid happens whenever the tires lose their
• Truck tractors with air brakes built on or after should brake as you always have. In other words: grip on the road. This is caused in one of four
March 1, 1997. ways:
• Use only the braking force necessary to stop
• Other air brake vehicles, (trucks, buses, trail- safely and stay in control. • Over-braking. Braking too hard and locking
ers, and converter dollies) built on or after up the wheels. Skids also can occur when us-
• Brake the same way, regardless of whether
March 1, 1998. ing the speed retarder when the road is slip-
you have ABS on the bus, tractor, the trailer,
pery.
• Hydraulically braked trucks and buses with or both.
a gross vehicle weight rating of 10,000 lbs or • Over-steering. Turning the wheels more
• As you slow down, monitor your tractor and
more built on or after March 1, 1999. sharply than the vehicle can turn.
trailer and back off the brakes (if it is safe to
Many commercial vehicles built before these do so) to stay in control. • Over-acceleration. Supplying too much pow-
dates have been voluntarily equipped with ABS. er to the drive wheels, causing them to spin.
There is only one exception to this procedure.
If you drive a straight truck or combination with • Driving Too Fast. Most serious skids re-
2.18.3 – How to Know If Your Vehicle
working ABS on all axles, in an emergency stop, sult from driving too fast for road conditions.
Is Equipped with ABS
you can fully apply the brakes. Drivers who adjust their driving to conditions
Tractors, trucks, and buses will have yellow don’t over-accelerate and don’t have to over-
ABS malfunction lamps on the instrument panel. brake or over-steer from too much speed.
35
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE to get it to the side of the road. This will help
prevent another accident and allow traffic
to move.
Subsections 2.17, 2.18 and 2.19
• If you’re stopping to help, park away from
• Stopping is not always the safest thing to • How do you know if your vehicle has the accident. The area immediately around
do in an emergency. True or False? antilock brakes? the accident will be needed for emergency
• What are some advantages of going right • What is the proper braking technique vehicles.
instead of left around an obstacle? when driving a vehicle with antilock • Put on your flashers.
brakes?
• What is an “escape ramp?” • Set out reflective triangles to warn other traf-
• How do antilock brakes help you? fic. Make sure other drivers can see them in
• If a tire blows out, you should put the
brakes on hard to stop quickly. True or time to avoid the accident.
False?
2.20.2 – Notify Authorities
These questions may be on the test. If you can’t answer them all, re-read subsections 2.17,
2.18, and 2.19 If you have a cell phone or CB, call for as-
sistance before 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 where you
2.19.1 – Drive-wheel Skids 2.19.2 – Correcting a Drive- are so you can give the exact location.
wheel Braking Skid
By far the most common skid is one in which
2.20.3 – Care for the Injured
the rear wheels lose traction through excessive Do the following to correct a drive-wheel
braking or acceleration. Skids caused by accel- braking skid. If a qualified person is at the accident and
eration usually happen on ice or snow. Tak- helping the injured, stay out of the way unless
• Stop Braking. This will let the rear wheels roll
ing your foot off the accelerator can easily stop asked to assist. Otherwise, do the best you can to
again, and keep the rear wheels from sliding.
them. (If it is very slippery, push the clutch in. help any injured parties. Here are some simple
Otherwise, the engine can keep the wheels from • Countersteer. As a vehicle turns back on steps to follow in giving assistance:
rolling freely and regaining traction.) course, it has a tendency to keep on turning.
• Don’t move a severely injured person unless
Rear wheel braking skids occur when the Unless you turn the steering wheel quickly
the danger of fire or passing traffic makes it
rear drive wheels lock. Because locked wheels the other way, you may find yourself skid-
necessary.
have less traction than rolling wheels, the rear ding in the opposite direction.
wheels usually slide sideways in an attempt to • Stop heavy bleeding by applying direct pres-
Learning to stay off the brake, turn the steer-
“catch up” with the front wheels. In a bus or sure to the wound.
ing wheel quickly, push in the clutch, and coun-
straight truck, the vehicle will slide sideways
tersteer in a skid takes a lot of practice. The best • Keep the injured person warm.
in a “spin out.” With vehicles towing trailers,
place to get this practice is on a large driving
a drive-wheel skid can let the trailer push the
range or “skid pad.”
towing vehicle sideways, causing a sudden jack- 2.21 – Fires
knife. See Figure 2.19.
2.19.3 – Front-wheel Skids
Truck fires can cause damage and injury.
Driving too fast for conditions causes most Learn the causes of fires and how to prevent
front-wheel skids. Other causes include lack of them. Know what to do to extinguish fires.
tread on the front tires and cargo loaded so not
enough weight is on the front axle. In a front- 2.21.1 – Causes of Fire
wheel skid, the front end tends to go in a straight
The following are some causes of vehicle
line regardless of how much you turn the steer-
TRACTOR JACKNIFE fires:
ing wheel. On a very slippery surface, you may
not be able to steer around a curve or turn. • After Accidents. Spilled fuel, improper use
When a front-wheel skid occurs, the only way of flares.
to stop the skid is to let the vehicle slow down.
• Tires. Under-inflated tires and duals that
Stop turning and/or braking so hard. Slow
touch.
down as quickly as possible without skidding
• Electrical System. Short circuits due to
damaged insulation, loose connections.
2.20 – Accident Procedures
• Fuel. Driver smoking, improper fueling,
When you’re in an accident and not seriously loose fuel connections.
hurt, you need to act to prevent further dam-
• Cargo. Flammable cargo, improperly sealed
age or injury. The basic steps to be taken at any
or loaded cargo, poor ventilation.
accident are to:
• Protect the area. 2.21.2 – Fire Prevention
• Notify authorities. Pay attention to the following:
• Care for the injured. • Pre-trip Inspection. Make a complete in-
spection of the electrical, fuel, and exhaust
2.20.1 – Protect the Area systems, tires, and cargo. Be sure to check
that the fire extinguisher is charged.
The first thing to do at an accident scene is to
keep another accident from happening in the • En Route Inspection. Check the tires,
same spot. To protect the accident area: wheels, and truck body for signs of heat
whenever you stop during a trip.
• If your vehicle is involved in the accident, try
Figure 2.19
36
Class/Type of Fires • Follow Safe Procedures. Follow correct
safety procedures for fueling the vehicle, us-
Class Type Extinguish by… ing brakes, handling flares, and other activi-
ties that can cause a fire.
Wood, Paper, Ordinary Combus- Extinguish by Cooling and Quenching • Monitoring. Check the instruments and
A
tibles Using Water or Dry Chemicals gauges often for signs of overheating and use
the mirrors to look for signs of smoke from
tires or the vehicle.
Extinguish by Smothering, Cooling • Caution. Use normal caution in handling
Gasoline, Oil, Grease, Other
B or Heat Shielding using carbon Dioxide anything flammable.
Greasy Liquids
or Dry Chemicals
2.21.3 – Fire Fighting
Extinguish with Nonconducting Agents Knowing how to fight fires is important.

C Electrical Equipment Fires such as Carbon Dioxide or Dry Chemicals. Drivers who didn’t know what to do have made
DO NOT USE WATER. fires worse. Know how the fire extinguisher
works. Study the instructions printed on the
extinguisher before you need it. Here are some
procedures to follow in case of fire.
Extinguish by Using Specialized
D Fires in Combustible Metals Pull Off the Road. The first step is to get the
Extinguishing Powders
vehicle off the road and stop. In doing so:
• Park in an open area, away from buildings,
Figure 2.20 trees, brush, other vehicles, or anything that
might catch fire.
• Don’t pull into a service station!
• Notify emergency services of your problem
Class of Fire/ Type of Extinguisher and your location.
Class of Fire Fire Extinguisher Type Keep the Fire from Spreading. Before try-
ing to put out the fire, make sure that it doesn’t
B or C Regular Dry Chemical
spread any further.
A, B, C or D Multi Purpose Dry Chemical
D Purple K Dry Chemical
B or C KCL Dry Chemical
D Dry Powder Special Compound
B or C Carbon Dioxide (Dry)
B or C Halogenated Agent (Gas)
A Water
A Water With Anti-Freeze
A or B Water, Loaded Steam Style
B, On Some A Foam
Figure 2.21
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE

Subsections 2.20 and 2.21
• What are some things to do at an • When using your extinguisher, should you
accident scene to prevent another get as close as possible to the fire?
accident?
• Name some causes of vehicle fires.
• Name two causes of tire fires.
• What kinds of fires is a B:C extinguisher
not good for?
These questions may be on the test. If you can’t answer them all, re-read subsections 2.20
and 2.21
37
WHAT IS A DRINK? • With an engine fire, turn off the engine as
soon as you can. Don’t open the hood if you
It is the alcohol in drinks that affects human performance. It doesn’t make any difference can avoid it. Shoot foam through louvers,
whether that alcohol comes from “a couple of beers,” or from two glasses of wine, or two radiator, or from the vehicle’s underside.
shots of hard liquor. Approximate Blood Alcohol Content
• For a cargo fire in a van or box trailer, keep
Body Weight in Pounds the doors shut, especially if your cargo con-
Drinks Effects tains hazardous materials. Opening the van
100 120 140 160 180 200 220 240
doors will supply the fire with oxygen and
Only Safe can cause it to burn very fast.
0 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00
Driving Limit
Impairment Extinguish the Fire. Here are some rules to
1 .04 .03 .03 .02 .02 .02 .02 .02 follow in putting out a fire:
Begins
• When using the extinguisher, stay as far away
2 .08 .06 .05 .05 .04 .04 .03 .03 from the fire as possible.
• Aim at the source or base of the fire, not up
3 .11 .09 .08 .07 .06 .06 .05 .05
Driving Skills in the flames.
Significantly Use the Right Fire Extinguisher
4 .15 .12 .11 .09 .08 .08 .07 .06
Affected –
Criminal Penalties • Figures 2.20 and 2.21 detail the type of fire
5 .19 .16 .13 .12 .11 .09 .09 .08 extinguisher to use by class of fire.
• The B:C type fire extinguisher is designed to
6 .23 .19 .16 .14 .13 .11 .10 .09 work on electrical fires and burning liquids.
• The A:B:C type is designed to work on burn-
7 .26 .22 .19 .16 .15 .13 .12 .11 ing wood, paper, and cloth as well.
• Water can be used on wood, paper, or cloth,
8 .30 .25 .21 .19 .17 .15 .14 .13 Legally but don’t use water on an electrical fire (can
Intoxicated – cause shock) or a gasoline fire (it will spread
9 .34 .28 .24 .21 .19 .17 .15 .14 Criminal Penalties the flames).
• A burning tire must be cooled. Lots of water
10 .38 .31 .27 .23 .21 .19 .17 .16 may be required.
Subtract .01% for each 40 minutes of drinking. One drink is 1.5 oz. of 80 proof liquor, 12 oz. of beer, or 5 oz. • If you’re not sure what to use, especially on a
of table wine. hazardous materials fire, wait for firefighters.
Figure 2.22 • Position yourself upwind. Let the wind carry

the extinguisher to the fire.
• Continue until whatever was burning has
been cooled. Absence of smoke or flame does
not mean the fire cannot restart.
EFFECTS OF INCREASING
BLOOD ALCOHOL CONTENT (BAC) 2.22 – Alcohol, Other
Blood Alcohol Content is the amount of alcohol in your blood recorded in milligrams of Drugs, and Driving
alcohol per 100 milliliters of blood. Your BAC depends on the amount of blood (which
increases with weight) and the amount of alcohol you consume over time (how fast you 2.22.1 – Alcohol and Driving
drink). The faster you drink, the higher your BAC, as the liver can only handle about one
drink per hour—the rest builds up in your blood. Drinking alcohol and then driving is very
dangerous and a serious problem. People who
Effects on drink alcohol are involved in traffic accidents
BAC Effects on Body resulting in over 20,000 deaths every year. Alco-
Driving Condition
hol impairs muscle coordination, reaction time,
.02 Mellow feeling, slight body warmth. Less inhibited. depth perception, and night vision. It also af-
fects the parts of the brain that control judgment
Less alert, less self-focused,
and inhibition. For some people, one drink is all
.05 Noticeable relaxation. coordination impairment
it takes to show signs of impairment.
begins.
How Alcohol Works. Alcohol goes directly
Drunk driving limit, impaired
.08 Definite impairment in coordination & judgment . into the blood stream and is carried to the brain.
coordination & judgment.
After passing through the brain, a small per-
Noisy, possible embarrassing behavior, centage is removed in urine, perspiration, and
.10* Reduction in reaction time.
mood swings. by breathing, while the rest is carried to the
liver. The liver can only process one-third an
.15 Impaired balance & movement, clearly drunk. Unable to drive. ounce of alcohol per hour, which is consider-
.30 Many lose consciousness. ably less than the alcohol in a standard drink.
This is a fixed rate, so only time, not black cof-
.40 Most lose consciousness, some die. fee or a cold shower, will sober you up. If you
.50 Breathing stops, many die. have drinks faster than your body can get rid
of them, you will have more alcohol in your
BAC of .10 means that 1/10 of 1% (or 1/1000) of your total blood content is alcohol. body, and your driving will be more affected.
The Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) com-
Figure 2.23
38
monly measures the amount of alcohol in your Pay attention to warning labels for legitimate Visit Your Doctor. Regular checkups literally can
body. See Figure 2.22. drugs and medicines, and to doctor’s orders be lifesavers. Illnesses such as diabetes, heart
All of the following drinks contain the same regarding possible effects. Stay away from il- disease, and skin and colon cancer can be
amount of alcohol: legal drugs. detected easily and treated if found in time.
Don’t use any drug that hides fatigue--the You should consult your physician or a local
• A 12-ounce glass of 5% beer.
only cure for fatigue is rest. Alcohol can make sleep disorder center if you suffer from frequent
• A 5-ounce glass of 12% wine. the effects of other drugs much worse. The saf- daytime sleepiness, have difficulty sleeping at
est rule is don’t mix drugs with driving at all. night, take frequent naps, fall asleep at strange
• A 1 ½-ounce shot of 80 proof liquor.
Use of drugs can lead to traffic accidents re- times, snore loudly, gasp and choke in your
What Determines Blood Alcohol Concen- sulting in death, injury, and property damage. sleep, and/or wake up feeling as though you
tration? BAC is determined by the amount of Furthermore, it can lead to arrest, fines, and jail have not had enough sleep.
alcohol you drink (more alcohol means higher sentences. It can also mean the end of a person’s
BAC), how fast you drink (faster drinking driving career. 2.23.2 – While You Are Driving
means higher BAC), and your weight (a small
person doesn’t have to drink as much to reach 2.23 – Staying Alert and Fit to Drive Keep Cool. A hot, poorly ventilated vehicle can
the same BAC). make you sleepy. Keep the window or vent cracked
Driving a vehicle for long hours is tiring. open or use the air conditioner, if you have one.
Alcohol and the Brain. Alcohol affects more Even the best of drivers will become less alert.
and more of the brain as BAC builds up. The However, there are things that good drivers do Take Breaks. Short breaks can keep you alert. But
first part of the brain affected controls judgment to help stay alert and safe. the time to take them is before you feel really drowsy
and self-control. One of the bad things about or tired. Stop often. Walk around and inspect your
this is it can keep drinkers from knowing they 2.23.1 – Be Ready to Drive vehicle. It may help to do some physical exercises.
are getting drunk. And, of course, good judg- Be sure to take a mid-afternoon break and plan
Get Enough Sleep. Sleep is not like money. to sleep between midnight and 6 a.m.
ment and self-control are absolutely necessary
You can’t save it up ahead of time and you can’t
for safe driving. Recognize the Danger Signals of Drowsy
borrow it. But, just as with money, you can go
As BAC continues to build up, muscle control, Driving. Sleep is not voluntary. If you’re
into debt with it. If you don’t sleep enough, you
vision, and coordination are affected more and drowsy, you can fall asleep and never even
“owe” more sleep to yourself. This debt can only
more. Effects on driving may include: know it. If you are drowsy, you are likely to have
be paid off by sleeping. You can’t overcome it
• Straddling lanes. with willpower, and it won’t go away by itself. “micro sleeps”–brief naps that last around four or
The average person needs seven or eight hours five seconds. At 55 miles an hour, that’s more
• Quick, jerky starts.
of sleep every 24 hours. Leaving on a long trip
• Not signaling, failure to use lights. when you’re already tired is dangerous. If you
have a long trip scheduled, make sure that you
• Running stop signs and red lights.
get enough sleep before you go.
• Improper passing.
Schedule Trips Safely. Try to arrange your
See Figure 2.23. schedule so you are not in “sleep debt” before
a long trip. Your body gets used to sleeping
These effects mean increased chances of a
during certain hours. If you are driving during
crash and chances of losing your driver’s li-
those hours, you will be less alert. If possible, try
cense. Accident statistics show that the chance
to schedule trips for the hours you are normally
of a crash is much greater for drivers who have
awake. Many heavy motor vehicle accidents oc-
been drinking than for drivers who have not.
cur between midnight and 6 a.m. Tired drivers
How Alcohol Affects Driving. All drivers are can easily fall asleep at these times, especially if
affected by drinking alcohol. Alcohol affects they don’t regularly drive at those hours. Trying
judgment, vision, coordination, and reaction to push on and finish a long trip at these times
time. It causes serious driving errors, such as: can be very dangerous.
• Increased reaction time to hazards. Exercise Regularly. Resistance to fatigue and
improved sleep are among the benefits of regu-
• Driving too fast or too slow.
lar exercise. Try to incorporate exercise into your
• Driving in the wrong lane. daily life. Instead of sitting and watching TV in
your sleeper, walk or jog a few laps around the
• Running over the curb.
parking lot. A little bit of daily exercise will give
• Weaving. you energy throughout the day.
Eat Healthy. It is often hard for drivers to find
2.22.2 – Other Drugs
healthy food. But with a little extra effort, you
Besides alcohol, other legal and illegal drugs can eat healthy, even on the road. Try to find
are being used more often. Laws prohibit posses- restaurants with healthy, balanced meals. If
sion or use of many drugs while on duty. They you must eat at fast-food restaurants, pick low-
prohibit being under the influence of any “con- fat items. Another simple way to reduce your
trolled substance,” amphetamines (including caloric intake is to eliminate fattening snacks.
“pep pills,” “uppers,” and “bennies”), narcot- Instead, try fruit or vegetables.
ics, or any other substance, which can make the
Avoid Medication. Many medicines can make
driver unsafe. This could include a variety of
you sleepy. Those that do have a label warn-
prescription and over-the-counter drugs (cold
ing against operating vehicles or machinery.
medicines), which may make the driver drowsy
The most common medicine of this type is an
or otherwise affect safe driving ability. However,
ordinary cold pill. If you have to drive with a
possession and use of a drug given to a driver by
cold, you are better off suffering from the cold
a doctor is permitted if the doctor informs the
than from the effects of the medicine.
driver that it will not affect safe driving ability.
39
than 100 yards, and plenty of time for a crash. HAZARD CLASS DEFINITIONS
Even if you are not aware of being drowsy, if you
have a sleep debt you are still at risk. Here are a Class Class Name Example
few ways to tell if you’re about to fall asleep. If
you experience any of these danger signs, take 1 Explosives Ammunition, Dynamite, Fireworks
them as a warning that you could fall asleep
without meaning to. 2 Gases Propane, Oxygen, Helium
• Your eyes close or go out of focus by them- 3 Flammable Gasoline Fuel, Acetone
selves.
4 Flammable Solids Matches, Fuses
• You have trouble keeping your head up.
Ammonium Nitrate,
• You can’t stop yawning. 5 Oxidizers
Hydrogen Peroxide
• You have wandering, disconnected thoughts.
6 Poisons Pesticides, Arsenic
• You don’t remember driving the last few miles.
7 Radioactive Uranium, Plutonium
• You drift between lanes, tailgate, or miss
traffic signs. 8 Corrosives Hydrochloric Acid, Battery Acid
• You keep jerking the truck back into the lane.
Miscellaneous Hazardous
9 Formaldehyde, Asbestos
• You have drifted off the road and narrowly Materials
missed crashing.
ORM-D
If you have even one of these symptoms, you None Hair Spray or Charcoal
(Other Regulated Material-Domestic)
may be in danger of falling asleep. Pull off the
road in a safe place and take a nap. None Combustible Liquids Fuel Oils, Lighter Fluid
2.23.3 – When You Do Become Sleepy Figure 2.24

When you are sleepy, trying to “push on” is
far more dangerous than most drivers think. It
is a major cause of fatal accidents. Here are some
Avoid Drugs. There are no drugs that can over- • Communicate the risk.
important rules to follow.
come being tired. While they may keep you
• Ensure safe drivers and equipment.
Stop to Sleep. When your body needs sleep, awake for a while, they won’t make you alert.
sleep is the only thing that will work. If you have And eventually, you’ll be even more tired than To Contain the Product. Many hazardous
to make a stop anyway, make it whenever you if you hadn’t taken them at all. Sleep is the only products can injure or kill on contact. To protect
feel the first signs of sleepiness, even if it is earlier thing that can overcome fatigue. drivers and others from contact, the rules tell
than you planned. By getting up a little earlier shippers how to package safely. Similar rules
Do Not. Do not rely on coffee or another source
the next day, you can keep on schedule without tell drivers how to load, transport, and unload
of caffeine to keep you awake. Do not count on
the danger of driving while you are not alert. bulk tanks. These are containment rules.
the radio, an open window, or other tricks to
Take a Nap. If you can’t stop for the night, at keep you awake. To Communicate the Risk. The shipper uses a
least pull off at a safe place, such as a rest area shipping paper and diamond shaped hazard la-
or truck stop, and take a nap. A nap as short as 2.23.4 – Illness bels to warn dockworkers and drivers of the risk.
a half-hour will do more to overcome fatigue After an accident or hazardous material spill
Once in a while, you may become so ill that
than a half-hour coffee stop. or leak, you may be injured and unable to com-
you cannot operate a motor vehicle safely. If this
municate the hazards of the materials you are
happens to you, you must not drive. However,
transporting. Firefighters and police can prevent
in case of an emergency, you may drive to the
or reduce the amount of damage or injury at the
nearest place where you can safely stop.
scene if they know what hazardous materials
are being transported. Your life, and the lives
2.24 – Hazardous Materials Rules
of others, may depend on quickly locating the
For All Commercial Drivers
hazardous materials shipping papers. For that
All drivers should know something about reason, you must identify shipping papers re-
hazardous materials. You must be able to rec- lated to hazardous materials or keep them on
ognize hazardous cargo, and you must know top of other shipping papers. You must also
whether or not you can haul it without having keep shipping papers:
a hazardous materials endorsement on your
• In a pouch on the driver’s door, or
CDL license.
• In clear view within reach while driving, or
2.24.1 – What Are Hazardous
• On the driver’s seat when out of the vehicle.
Materials?
Hazardous materials are products that pose 2.24.3 – Lists of Regulated Products
a risk to health, safety, and property during
Placards are used to warn others of hazardous
transportation. See Figure 2.24.
materials. Placards are signs put on the outside
of a vehicle that identify the hazard class of
2.24.2 – Why Are There Rules?
the cargo. A placarded vehicle must have at
You must follow the many rules about trans- least four identical placards. They are put on
porting hazardous materials. The intent of the the front, rear, and both sides. Placards must be
rules is to: readable from all four directions. They must be
at least 10 3/4 inches square, turned upright on
• Contain the product.
a point, in a diamond shape. Cargo tanks and
40
other bulk packaging display the identifica-
tion number of their contents on placards or
orange panels.
Identification Numbers are a four digit code
used by first responders to identify hazard-
ous materials. An identification number may
be used to identify more than one chemical
on shipping papers. The identification number
will be preceded by the letters “NA” or “UN.”
The US DOT Emergency Response Guidebook
(ERG) lists the chemicals and the identification
numbers assigned to them.
Not all vehicles carrying hazardous materials
need to have placards. The rules about placards
are given in Section 9 of this manual. You can
drive a vehicle that carries hazardous materi-
als if it does not require placards. If it requires
placards, you cannot drive it unless your driver
license has the hazardous materials endorse-
ment. See Figure 2.25.
The rules require all drivers of placarded ve-
hicles to learn how to safely load and transport
hazardous products. They must have a commer-
cial 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 certain vehicles that transport
liquids or gases. The liquid or gas does not have
to be a hazardous material. A tank endorsement
is only required if your vehicle needs a Class A
or B CDL and your vehicle has a permanently
mounted cargo tank of any capacity; or your
vehicle is carrying a portable tank with a capac-
ity of 1,000 gallons or more.
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 mate-
rials 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 ac-
cident. Emergency help will not know of your
hazardous cargo.
Hazardous materials drivers must also
know which products they can load together,
and which they cannot. These rules are also
in Section 9. Before loading a truck 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. Figure 2.25
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE

Subsections 2.2, 2.23 and 2.24
• Common medicines for colds can make • Coffee and a little fresh air will help a • What is “sleep debt”?
you sleepy. True or False? drinker sober up. True or False?
• What are the danger signals of drowsy
• What should you do if you become sleepy • What is a hazardous materials placard? driving?
while driving?
• Why are placards used?
These questions may be on the test. If you can’t answer them all, re-read subsections 2.22, 2.23, and 2.24
41
SECTION 3
TRANSPORTING 3.1 – Inspecting Cargo
LOADING CARGO
CARGO SAFELY As part of your pre-trip inspection, make
sure the truck is not overloaded and the cargo
is balanced and secured properly.
This Section Covers After Starting. Inspect the cargo and its secur-
ing devices again within the first 50 miles after
Inspecting Cargo ....... 3.1 beginning a trip. Make any adjustments needed.
Re-check. Re-check the cargo and securing
Cargo Weight devices as often as necessary during a trip to
and Balance .............. 3.2 keep the load secure. You need to inspect again:
• After you have driven for 3 hours or 150
Securing Cargo ......... 3.3 miles.
Cargo Needing • After every break you take during driving.
Special Attention ...... 3.4 Federal, state, and local regulations for com-
mercial vehicle weight, securing cargo, covering
loads, and where you can drive large vehicles
vary from place to place. Know the rules where
This section tells you about hauling cargo you will be driving.
safely. You must understand basic cargo safety
rules toget a CDL. Figure 3.1
If you load cargo wrong or do not secure 3.2 – Weight and Balance
it, it can be a danger to others and yourself. Suspension Systems. Suspension systems have
Loose cargo that falls off a vehicle can cause You are responsible for not being overloaded. a manufacturer’s weight capacity rating.
traffic problems and others could be hurt or The following are some definitions of weight
Coupling Device Capacity. Coupling devices
killed. Loose cargo could hurt or kill you during you should know.
are rated for the maximum weight they can pull
a quick stop or crash. Your vehicle could be and/or carry.
damaged by an overload. Steering could be 3.2.1 – Definitions You Should Know
affected by how a vehicle is loaded, making it Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW). The total 3.2.2 – Legal Weight Limits
more difficult to control the vehicle. weight of a single vehicle plus its load.
Whether or not you load and secure the You must keep weights within legal limits.
cargo yourself, you are responsible for: Gross Combination Weight (GCW). The total States have maximums for GVWs, GCWs, and
weight of a powered unit, plus trailer(s), plus axle weights. Often, maximum axle weights are
• Inspecting your not obscure your the cargo. set by a bridge formula. A bridge formula per-
cargo. view ahead or to mits less maximum axle weight for axles that are
the sides. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The
• Recognizing closer together. This is to prevent overloading
maximum GVW specified by the manufacturer
overloads and • Knowing your bridges and roadways.
for a single vehicle plus its load.
poorly balanced cargo does Overloading can have bad effects on steering,
weight. not restrict Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR). braking, and speed control. Overloaded trucks
your access The maximum GCW specified by the manu- have to go very slowly on upgrades. Worse, they
• Knowing your facturer for a specific combination of vehicles may gain too much speed on downgrades. Stop-
to emergency
cargo is properly plus its load. ping distance increases. Brakes can fail when
equipment.
secured and does forced to work too hard.
Axle Weight. The weight transmitted to the
If you intend to carry hazardous material During bad weather or in mountains, it may
ground by one axle or one set of axles.
that requires placards on your vehicle, you not be safe to operate at legal maximum weights.
will also need to have a hazardous materials Tire Load. The maximum safe weight a tire Take this into account before driving.
endorsement. Section 9 of this manual has the can carry at a specified pressure. This rating is
information you need to pass the hazardous stated on the side of each tire. 3.2.3 – Don’t Be Top-heavy
materials test. The height of the vehicle’s center of gravity is
very important for safe handling. A high center
of gravity (cargo piled up high or heavy cargo on
top) means you are more likely to tip over. It is
most dangerous in curves, or if you have to swerve
to avoid a hazard. It is very important to distribute
the cargo so it is as low as possible. Put the heavi-
est parts of the cargo under the lightest parts.
3.2.4 – Balance the Weight

Poor weight balance can make vehicle han-
dling unsafe. Too much weight on the steering
axle can cause hard steering. It can damage the
steering axle and tires. Under-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
Image courtesy ©iStockphoto.com/koya79
42
SECTION 3: TRANSPORTING CARGO SAFELY
ery by truck occurs at the beginning and/or end
TIE-DOWN DEVICES of the journey. Some containers have their own
tiedown devices or locks that attach directly to
a special frame. Others have to be loaded onto
flat bed trailers. They must be properly secured
just like any other cargo.
You cannot inspect sealed loads, but you
should check that you don’t exceed gross weight
and axle weight limits.
3.4 – Cargo Needing

Special Attention
3.4.1 – Dry Bulk

Dry bulk tanks require special care because
they have a high center of gravity, and the load
can shift. Be extremely cautious (slow and care-
ful) going around curves and making sharp
turns.
3.4.2 – Hanging Meat

Figure 3.2
Hanging meat (suspended beef, pork, lamb)
chance of rollover. On flat bed vehicles, there is or emergency stop. Make sure the front-end in a refrigerated truck can be a very unstable
also a greater chance that the load will shift to structure is in good condition. The front-end load with a high center of gravity. Particular
the side or fall off. See Figure 3.1. structure should block the forward movement caution is needed on sharp curves such as off
of any cargo you carry. ramps and on ramps. Go slowly.
3.3 – Securing Cargo 3.3.4 – Covering Cargo 3.4.3 – Livestock
There are two basic reasons for covering Livestock can move around in a trailer, caus-
3.3.1 – Blocking and Bracing
cargo: ing unsafe handling. With less than a full load,
Blocking is used in the front, back, and/or use false bulkheads to keep livestock bunched
• To protect people from spilled cargo.
sides of a piece of cargo to keep it from slid- together. Even when bunched, special care is
ing. Blocking is shaped to fit snugly against • To protect the cargo from weather. necessary because livestock can lean on curves.
cargo. It is secured to the cargo deck to prevent This shifts the center of gravity and makes roll-
Spill protection is a safety requirement in
cargo movement. Bracing is also used to prevent over more likely.
many states. Be familiar with the laws in the
movement of cargo. Bracing goes from the up-
states you drive in.
per part of the cargo to the floor and/or walls 3.4.4 – Oversized Loads
You should look at your cargo covers in the
of the cargo compartment.
mirrors from time to time while driving. A flap- Over-length, over-width, and/or overweight
ping cover can tear loose, uncovering the cargo, loads require special transit permits. Driving is
3.3.2 – Cargo Tiedown
and possibly block your view or someone else’s. usually limited to certain times. Special equip-
On flatbed trailers or trailers without sides, ment may be necessary such as “wide load”
cargo must be secured to keep it from shifting 3.3.5 – Sealed and signs, flashing lights, flags, etc. Such loads may
or falling off. In closed vans, tiedowns can also Containerized Loads require a police escort or pilot vehicles bearing
be important to prevent cargo shifting that may warning signs and/or flashing lights. These
Containerized loads generally are used when
affect the handling of the vehicle. Tiedowns special loads require special driving care.
freight is carried part way by rail or ship. Deliv-
must be of the proper type and proper strength.
Federal regulations require the aggregate work-
ing load limit of any securement system used
to secure an article or group of articles against
movement must be at least one-half times the
weight of the article or group of articles. Proper
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE
tiedown equipment must be used, including
ropes, straps, chains, and tensioning devices Section 3
(winches, ratchets, clinching components). Tie- • What four things related to cargo are • What is the minimum number of tiedowns
downs must be attached to the vehicle correctly drivers responsible for? for any flat bed load?
(hooks, bolts, rails, rings). See figure 3.2
Cargo should have at least one tiedown for • How often must you stop while on the • What is the minimum number of tiedowns
each ten feet of cargo. Make sure you have road to check your cargo? for a 20-foot load?
enough tiedowns to meet this need. No mat- • How is Gross Combination Weight • Name the two basic reasons for covering
ter how small the cargo, it should have at least Rating different from Gross Combination cargo on an open bed.
two tiedowns. Weight?
There are special requirements for securing • What must you check before transporting
various heavy pieces of metal. Find out what • Name two situations where legal a sealed load?
they are if you are to carry such loads. maximum weights may not be safe.
• What can happen if you don’t have
3.3.3 – Header Boards enough weight on the front axle?
Front-end header boards (“headache racks”) These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer them all, re-read Section 3.
protect you from your cargo in case of a crash
43
SECTION 4
TRANSPORTING 4.1 – Vehicle Inspection 4.1.5 – Use Your Seatbelt!
PASSENGERS Before driving your bus, you must be sure it
The driver’s seat should have a seat belt. Always
use it for safety.
SAFELY is safe. You must review the inspection report
made by the previous driver. Only if defects re-
ported earlier have been certified as repaired or 4.2 – Loading and Trip Start
not needed to be repaired, should you sign the
This Section Covers previous driver’s report. This is your certification
Do not allow riders to leave carry-on baggage
in a doorway or aisle. There should be nothing in
that the defects reported earlier have been fixed.
Vehicle Inspection ..... 4.1 the aisle that might trip other riders. Secure bag-
gage and freight in ways that avoid damage and:
4.1.1 – Vehicle Systems
Loading.......................4.2 Make sure these things are in good working • Allow the driver to move freely and easily.
order before driving:
On the Road ...............4.3 • Allow riders to exit by any window or door in
• Service brakes, including air hose couplings an emergency.
After-trip Vehicle (if your bus has a trailer or semitrailer). Park-
• Protect riders from injury if carry-ons fall or
ing brake.
Inspection ..................4.4 shift.
• Steering mechanism.
Prohibited • Lights and reflectors.
4.2.1 – Hazardous Materials
Practices ....................4.5 • Tires (front wheels must not have recapped or
Watch for cargo or baggage containing hazard-
ous materials. Most hazardous materials cannot
regrooved tires).
Use of Brake-door be carried on a bus.
• Horn. The Federal Hazardous Materials Table shows
Interlocks ...................4.6 • Windshield wiper or wipers.
which materials are hazardous. They pose a risk
to health, safety, and property during transporta-
• Rear-vision mirror or mirrors. tion. The rules require shippers to mark containers
Bus drivers must have a commercial driver of hazardous material with the material’s name,
• Coupling devices (if present).
license if they drive a vehicle designed to seat identification number, and hazard label. There are
more than 16 or more persons, including the • Wheels and rims. nine different four-inch, diamond-shaped hazard
driver. labels. See Figure 4.1. Watch for the diamond-
• Emergency equipment.
Bus drivers must have a passenger endorse- shaped labels. Do not transport any hazardous
ment on their commercial driver license. To get material unless you are sure the rules allow it.
4.1.2 – Access Doors and Panels
the endorsement you must pass a knowledge
test on Sections 2 and 4 of this manual. (If As you check the outside of the bus, close any
4.2.2 – Forbidden Hazardous Materials
your bus has air brakes, you must also pass a open emergency exits. Also, close any open access
knowledge test on Section 5.) You must also panels (for baggage, restroom service, engine, etc.) Buses may carry small-arms ammunition la-
pass the skills tests required for the class of before driving. beled ORM-D, emergency hospital supplies, and
vehicle you drive. drugs. You can carry small amounts of some other
4.1.3 – Bus Interior hazardous materials if the shipper cannot send
them any other way. Buses must never carry:
People sometimes damage unattended buses.
Always check the interior of the bus before driving • Division 2.3 poison gas, liquid Class 6 poison,
to ensure rider safety. Aisles and stairwells should tear gas, irritating material.
always be clear. The following parts of your bus
• More than 100 pounds of solid Class 6 poisons.
must be in safe working condition:
• Explosives in the space occupied by people,
• Each handhold and railing.
except small arms ammunition.
• Floor covering.
• Labeled radioactive materials in the space oc-
• Signaling devices, including the restroom cupied by people.
emergency buzzer, if the bus has a restroom.
• More than 500 pounds total of allowed hazard-
• Emergency exit handles. ous materials, and no more than 100 pounds
of any one class.
The seats must be safe for riders. All seats must
be securely fastened to the bus. Riders sometimes board a bus with an unla-
Never drive with an open emergency exit door beled hazardous material. Do not allow riders to
or window. The “Emergency Exit” sign on an carry on common hazards such as car batteries
emergency door must be clearly visible. If there or gasoline.
is a red emergency door light, it must work. Turn
it on at night or any other time you use your out- 4.2.3 – Standee Line
side lights.
No rider may stand forward of the rear of the
driver’s seat. Buses designed to allow standing
4.1.4 – Roof Hatches
must have a two-inch line on the floor or some
You may lock some emergency roof hatches in other means of showing riders where they cannot
a partly open position for fresh air. Do not leave stand. This is called the standee line. All standing
them open as a regular practice. Keep in mind riders must stay behind it.
the bus’s higher clearance while driving with
them open. 4.2.4 – At Your Destination
Make sure your bus has the fire extinguisher
When arriving at the destination or intermedi-
and emergency reflectors required by law. The
ate stops announce:
bus must also have spare electrical fuses, unless
equipped with circuit breakers. • The location.
Image courtesy ©iStockphoto.com/upsidedowndog
44
SECTION 4: TRANSPORTING PASSENGERS SAFELY
• Reason for stopping.
HAZARD CLASS DEFINITIONS
Class Class Name Example
• Next departure time.
1 Explosives Ammunition, Dynamite, Fireworks
• Bus number. 2 Gases Propane, Oxygen, Helium
Remind riders to take carry-ons with them if 3 Flammable Gasoline Fuel, Acetone
they get off the bus. If the aisle is on a lower level 4 Flammable Solids Matches, Fuses
than the seats, remind riders of the step-down. It is 5 Oxidizers Ammonium Nitrate, Hydrogen Peroxide
best to tell them before coming to a complete stop. 6 Poisons Pesticides, Arsenic
Charter bus drivers should not allow riders 7 Radioactive Uranium, Plutonium
on the bus until departure time. This will help
8 Corrosives Hydrochloric Acid, Battery Acid
prevent theft or vandalism of the bus.
9 Miscellaneous Hazardous Materials Formaldehyde, Asbestos
None ORM-D (Other Regulated Material-Domestic) Hair Spray or Charcoal
4.3 – On the Road None Combustible Liquids Fuel Oils, Lighter Fluid
4.3.1 – Passenger Supervision

Figure 4.1
Many charter and intercity carriers have pas- other drivers will brake to give you room when » If a traffic signal is green.
senger comfort and safety rules. Mention rules you signal or start to pull out. » At crossings marked as “exempt” or “aban-
about smoking, drinking, or use of radio and tape doned.”
players at the start of the trip. Explaining the rules 4.3.4 – Speed on Curves
at the start will help to avoid trouble later on. 4.3.6 – Drawbridges
Crashes on curves that kill people and destroy
While driving, scan the interior of your bus as
buses result from excessive speed, often when rain Stop at Drawbridges. Stop at drawbridges that
well as the road ahead, to the sides, and to the rear.
or snow has made the road slippery. Every banked do not have a signal light or traffic control atten-
You may have to remind riders about rules, or to
curve has a safe “design speed.” In good weather, dant. Stop at least 50 feet before the draw of the
keep arms and heads inside the bus.
the posted speed is safe for cars but it may be too bridge. Look to make sure the draw is completely
high for many buses. With good traction, the bus closed before crossing. You do not need to stop, but
4.3.2 – At Stops
may roll over; with poor traction, it might slide off must slow down and make sure it’s safe, when:
Riders can stumble when getting on or off, and the curve. Reduce speed for curves! If your bus
• There is a traffic light showing green.
when the bus starts or stops. Caution riders to leans toward the outside on a banked curve, you
watch their step when leaving the bus. Wait for are driving too fast. • The bridge has an attendant or traffic officer
them to sit down or brace themselves before start- who controls traffic whenever the bridge opens.
ing. Starting and stopping should be as smooth 4.3.5 – Railroad-highway
as possible to avoid rider injury. Crossings Stops
Occasionally, you may have a drunk or disrup-
4.4 – After-trip Vehicle Inspection
Stop at RR Crossings:
tive rider. You must ensure this rider’s safety as
Inspect your bus at the end of each shift. If you
well as that of others. Don’t discharge such riders • Stop your bus between 15 and 50 feet before
work for an interstate carrier, you must complete a
where it would be unsafe for them. It may be safer railroad crossings.
written inspection report for each bus driven. The
at the next scheduled stop or a well-lighted area
• Listen and look in both directions for trains. report must specify each bus and list any defect
where there are other people. Many carriers have
You should open your forward door if it im- that would affect safety or result in a breakdown.
guidelines for handling disruptive riders.
proves your ability to see or hear an approach- If there are no defects, the report should say so.
ing train. Riders sometimes damage safety-related parts
4.3.3 – Common Accidents
such as handholds, seats, emergency exits, and
• Before crossing after a train has passed, make
The Most Common Bus Accidents. Bus acci- windows. If you report this damage at the end
sure there isn’t another train coming in the
dents often happen at intersections. Use caution, of a shift, mechanics can make repairs before the
other direction on other tracks.
even if a signal or stop sign controls other traffic. bus goes out again. Mass transit drivers should
School and mass transit buses sometimes scrape • If your bus has a manual transmission, never also make sure passenger signaling devices and
off mirrors or hit passing vehicles when pulling change gears while crossing the tracks. brake-door interlocks work properly.
out from a bus stop. Remember the clearance your
• You do not have to stop, but must slow down
bus needs, and watch for poles and tree limbs at
stops. Know the size of the gap your bus needs
and carefully check for other vehicles: 4.5 – Prohibited Practices
» At streetcar crossings.
to accelerate and merge with traffic. Wait for the
» Where a policeman or flagman is directing Avoid fueling your bus with riders on board
gap to open before leaving the stop. Never assume
traffic. unless absolutely necessary. Never refuel in a
closed building with riders on board.
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE Don’t talk with riders, or engage in any other
distracting activity, while driving.
Do not tow or push a disabled bus with riders
Section 4 aboard the vehicle, unless getting off would be
• Name some things to check in the interior • How far from a railroad crossing should unsafe. Only tow or push the bus to the nearest
of a bus during a pre-trip inspection. you stop? safe spot to discharge passengers. Follow your
employer’s guidelines on towing or pushing dis-
• What are some hazardous materials you • When must you stop before crossing a abled buses.
can transport by bus? drawbridge?
• What are some hazardous materials you • Describe from memory the “prohibited 4.6 – Use of Brake-door Interlocks
can’t transport by bus? practices” listed in the manual.
• What is a standee line? • The rear door of a transit bus has to be Urban mass transit coaches may have a brake
open to put on the parking brake. True or and accelerator interlock system. The interlock
• Does it matter where you make a applies the brakes and holds the throttle in idle
False?
disruptive passenger get off the bus? position when the rear door is open. The interlock
These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer them all, re-read Section 4. releases when you close the rear door. Do not use
this safety feature in place of the parking brake.
46
SECTION 5
5.1 – The Parts of an
AIR BRAKES Air Brake System AIR TANK DRAIN
There are many parts to an air brake system.

This Section Covers You should know about the parts discussed here.
Air Brake 5.1.1 – Air Compressor

System Parts .............. 5.1 The air compressor pumps air into the air
storage tanks (reservoirs). The air compressor
Dual Air is connected to the engine through gears or a
v-belt. The compressor may be air cooled or
Brake Systems .......... 5.2 may be cooled by the engine cooling system.
It may have its own oil supply or be lubricated
Inspecting by engine oil. If the compressor has its own oil
supply, check the oil level before driving.
Air Brakes.................. 5.3
5.1.2 – Air Compressor Governor
Using Air Brakes ....... 5.4 Figure 5.1
The governor controls when the air compres-
sor will pump air into the air storage tanks.
When air tank pressure rises to the “cut-out” 5.1.6 – Safety Valve
This section tells you about air brakes. If you
level (around 125 pounds per-square-inch or
want to drive a truck or bus with air brakes, or A safety relief valve is installed in the first
“psi”), the governor stops the compressor from
pull a trailer with air brakes, you need to read tank the air compressor pumps air to. The safety
pumping air. When the tank pressure falls to the
this section. If you want to pull a trailer with valve protects the tank and the rest of the system
“cut-in” pressure (around 100 psi), the governor
air brakes, you also need to read Section 6, from too much pressure. The valve is usually
allows the compressor to start pumping again.
Combination Vehicles. set to open at 150 psi. If the safety valve releases
Air brakes use compressed air to make the air, something is wrong. Have the fault fixed
5.1.3 – Air Storage Tanks
brakes work. Air brakes are a good and safe by a mechanic.
way of stopping large and heavy vehicles, but Air storage tanks are used to hold com-
the brakes must be well maintained and used pressed air. The number and size of air tanks 5.1.7 – The Brake Pedal
properly. varies among vehicles. The tanks will hold
You put on the brakes by pushing down the
enough air to allow the brakes to be used several
• Air brakes are really three different brake pedal. (It is also called the foot valve or
times, even if the compressor stops working.
braking systems: service brake, parking treadle valve.) Pushing the pedal down harder
brake, and emergency brake. applies more air pressure. Letting up on the
5.1.4 – Air Tank Drains
brake pedal reduces the air pressure and re-
• The service brake system applies and
Compressed air usually has some water and leases the brakes. Releasing the brakes lets some
releases the brakes when you use the
some compressor oil in it, which is bad for the compressed air go out of the system, so the air
brake pedal during normal driving.
air brake system. For example, the water can pressure in the tanks is reduced. It must be
• The parking brake system applies and freeze in cold weather and cause brake failure. made up by the air compressor. Pressing and
releases the parking brakes when you The water and oil tend to collect in the bottom of releasing the pedal unnecessarily can let air out
use the parking brake control. the air tank. Be sure that you drain the air tanks faster than the compressor can replace it. If the
completely. Each air tank is equipped with a pressure gets too low, the brakes won’t work.
• The emergency brake system uses parts
drain valve in the bottom. There are two types:
of the service and parking brake systems
5.1.8 – Foundation Brakes
to stop the vehicle in a brake system • Manually operated by turning a quarter turn
failure. or by pulling a cable. You must drain the Foundation brakes are used at each wheel.
tanks yourself at the end of each day of driv- The most common type is the s-cam drum brake.
The parts of these systems are discussed
ing. See Figure 5.1. The parts of the brake are discussed below.
in greater detail as follows.
• Automatic--the water and oil are automati- Brake Drums, Shoes, and Linings. Brake
cally expelled. These tanks may be equipped drums are located on each end of the vehicle’s ax-
for manual draining as well. les. The wheels are bolted to the drums. The brak-
ing mechanism is inside the drum. To stop, the
Automatic air tanks are available with elec-
brake shoes and linings are pushed against the
tric heating devices. These help prevent freezing
inside of the drum. This causes friction, which
of the automatic drain in cold weather.
slows the vehicle (and creates heat). The heat
a drum can take without damage depends on
5.1.5 – Alcohol Evaporator
how hard and how long the brakes are used. Too
Some air brake systems have an alcohol evap- much heat can make the brakes stop working.
orator to put alcohol into the air system. This
S-cam Brakes. When you push the brake
helps to reduce the risk of ice in air brake valves
pedal, air is let into each brake chamber. Air
and other parts during cold weather. Ice inside
pressure pushes the rod out, moving the slack
the system can make the brakes stop working.
adjuster, thus twisting the brake camshaft. This
Check the alcohol container and fill up as
turns the s-cam (so called because it is shaped
necessary, every day during cold weather. Daily
like the letter “S”). The s-cam forces the brake
air tank drainage is still needed to get rid of
shoes away from one another and presses them
water and oil. (Unless the system has automatic
against the inside of the brake drum. When you
drain valves.)
release the brake pedal, the s-cam rotates back
and a spring pulls the brake shoes away from
the drum, letting the wheels roll freely again.
See Figure 5.2.
Image courtesy ©iStockphoto.com/kozmoat98
47
SECTION 5: AIR BRAKES
view when the pressure in the system drops 5.1.15 – Parking Brake Controls
DRUM BRAKE below 55 psi. An automatic wig wag will rise out
In newer vehicles with air brakes, you put on
of your view when the pressure in the system
the parking brakes using a diamond-shaped,
goes above 55 psi. The manual reset type must
yellow, push-pull control knob. You pull the
be placed in the “out of view” position manually.
knob out to put the parking brakes (spring
It will not stay in place until the pressure in the
brakes) on, and push it in to release them.
system is above 55 psi.
On older vehicles, the parking brakes may be
On large buses it is common for the low pres-
controlled by a lever. Use the parking brakes
sure warning devices to signal at 80-85 psi.
whenever you park.
5.1.12 – Stop Light Switch Caution. Never push the brake pedal down
when the spring brakes are on. If you do, the
Drivers behind you must be warned when
brakes could be damaged by the combined
you put your brakes on. The air brake system
forces of the springs and the air pressure. Many
does this with an electric switch that works
brake systems are designed so this will not hap-
by air pressure. The switch turns on the brake
pen. But not all systems are set up that way,
lights when you put on the air brakes.
and those that are may not always work. It is
Figure 5.2 much better to develop the habit of not pushing
5.1.13 – Front Brake Limiting Valve
the brake pedal down when the spring brakes
Some older vehicles (made before 1975) have are on.
a front brake limiting valve and a control in the
Wedge Brakes. In this type of brake, the Modulating Control Valves. In some vehicles
cab. The control is usually marked “normal”
brake chamber push rod pushes a wedge di- a control handle on the dash board may be used
and “slippery.” When you put the control in
rectly between the ends of two brake shoes. to apply the spring brakes gradually. This is
the “slippery” position, the limiting valve cuts
This shoves them apart and against the inside called a modulating valve. It is spring-loaded so
the “normal” air pressure to the front brakes
of the brake drum. Wedge brakes may have a you have a feel for the braking action. The more
by half. Limiting valves were used to reduce
single brake chamber, or two brake chambers, you move the control lever, the harder the spring
the chance of the front wheels skidding on slip-
pushing wedges in at both ends of the brake brakes come on. They work this way so you can
pery surfaces. However, they actually reduce
shoes. Wedge type brakes may be self-adjusting control the spring brakes if the service brakes
the stopping power of the vehicle. Front wheel
or may require manual adjustment. fail. When parking a vehicle with a modulating
braking is good under all conditions. Tests have
control valve, move the lever as far as it will go
Disc Brakes. In air-operated disc brakes, air shown front wheel skids from braking are not
and hold it in place with the locking device.
pressure acts on a brake chamber and slack likely even on ice. Make sure the control is in
adjuster, like s-cam brakes. But instead of the the “normal” position to have normal stopping Dual Parking Control Valves. When main
s-cam, a “power screw” is used. The pressure of power. air pressure is lost, the spring brakes come on.
the brake chamber on the slack adjuster turns Many vehicles have automatic front wheel Some vehicles, such as buses, have a separate
the power screw. The power screw clamps the limiting valves. They reduce the air to the front air tank which can be used to release the spring
disc or rotor between the brake lining pads of brakes except when the brakes are put on very brakes. This is so you can move the vehicle in
a caliper, similar to a large c-clamp. hard (60 psi or more application pressure). These an emergency. One of the valves is a push-pull
Wedge brakes and disc brakes are less com- valves cannot be controlled by the driver. type and is used to put on the spring brakes for
mon than s-cam brakes. parking. The other valve is spring loaded in the
5.1.14 – Spring Brakes “out” position. When you push the control in,
5.1.9 – Supply Pressure Gauges air from the separate air tank releases the spring
All trucks, truck tractors, and buses must be
brakes so you can move. When you release the
All vehicles with air brakes have a pressure equipped with emergency brakes and parking
button, the spring brakes come on again. There
gauge connected to the air tank. If the vehicle brakes. They must be held on by mechanical
is only enough air in the separate tank to do
has a dual air brake system, there will be a gauge force (because air pressure can eventually leak
this a few times. Therefore, plan carefully when
for each half of the system. (Or a single gauge away). Spring brakes are usually used to meet
moving. Otherwise, you may be stopped in a
with two needles.) Dual systems will be dis- these needs. When driving, powerful springs
dangerous location when the separate air supply
cussed later. These gauges tell you how much are held back by air pressure. If the air pres-
runs out. See Figure 5.3.
pressure is in the air tanks. sure is removed, the springs put on the brakes.
A parking brake control in the cab allows the
5.1.16 – Antilock Braking
5.1.10 – Application Pressure Gauge driver to let the air out of the spring brakes.
Systems (ABS)
This lets the springs put the brakes on. A leak
This gauge shows how much air pressure you
in the air brake system, which causes all the Truck tractors with air brakes built on or after
are applying to the brakes. (This gauge is not
air to be lost, will also cause the springs to put March 1, 1997, and other air brakes vehicles,
on all vehicles.) Increasing application pressure
on the brakes. (trucks, buses, trailers, and converter dollies)
to hold the same speed means the brakes are
Tractor and straight truck spring brakes built on or after March 1, 1998, are required to
fading. You should slow down and use a lower
will come fully on when air pressure drops to be equipped with antilock brakes. Many com-
gear. The need for increased pressure can also
a range of 20 to 45 psi (typically 20 to 30 psi). mercial vehicles built before these dates have
be caused by brakes out of adjustment, air leaks,
Do not wait for the brakes to come on automati- been voluntarily equipped with ABS. Check the
or mechanical problems.
cally. When the low air pressure warning light certification label for the date of manufacture
and buzzer first come on, bring the vehicle to a to determine if your vehicle is equipped with
5.1.11 – Low Air Pressure Warning
safe stop right away, while you can still control ABS. ABS is a computerized system that keeps
A low air pressure warning signal is required the brakes. your wheels from locking up during hard brake
on vehicles with air brakes. A warning signal The braking power of spring brakes depends applications.
you can see must come on before the air pres- on the brakes being in adjustment. If the brakes Vehicles with ABS have yellow malfunction
sure in the tanks falls below 55 psi. (Or one half are not adjusted properly, neither the regular lamps to tell you if something isn’t working.
the compressor governor cutout pressure on brakes nor the emergency/parking brakes will Tractors, trucks, and buses will have yellow
older vehicles.) The warning is usually a red work right. ABS malfunction lamps on the instrument panel.
light. A buzzer may also come on. Trailers will have yellow ABS malfunction
Another type of warning is the “wig wag.” lamps on the left side, either on the front or
This device drops a mechanical arm into your rear corner. Dollies manufactured on or after
48
TRACTOR PROTECTION VALVE AIR BRAKE SYSTEM COMPONENTS AND LOCATION
& EMERGENCY TRAILER (SINGLE CIRCUIT SYSTEM)
BRAKE OPERATION
Figure 5.3 Figure 5.4
March 1, 1998 are required to have a lamp on ping distance, but it does help you keep the mary and secondary air pressure gauges (or
the left side. vehicle under control during hard braking. needles, if the system has two needles in one
On newer vehicles, the malfunction lamp gauge). Pay attention to the low air pressure
comes on at start-up for a bulb check, and then warning light and buzzer. The warning light
goes out quickly. On older systems, the lamp
5.2 – Dual Air Brake and buzzer should shut off when air pressure
could stay on until you are driving over five in both systems rises to a value set by the manu-
Most heavy-duty vehicles use dual air brake
mph. facturer. This value must be greater than 60 psi.
systems for safety. A dual air brake system has
If the lamp stays on after the bulb check, or The warning light and buzzer should come
two separate air brake systems, which use a
goes on once you are under way, you may have on before the air pressure drops below 60 psi
single set of brake controls. Each system has
lost ABS control at one or more wheels. in either system. If this happens while driving,
its own air tanks, hoses, lines, etc. One system
In the case of towed units manufactured you should stop right away and safely park the
typically operates the regular brakes on the
before it was required by the Department of vehicle. If one air system is very low on pres-
rear axle or axles. The other system operates the
Transportation, it may be difficult to tell if the sure, either the front or the rear brakes will not
regular brakes on the front axle (and possibly
unit is equipped with ABS. Look under the ve- be operating fully. This means it will take you
one rear axle). Both systems supply air to the
hicle for the electronic control unit (ECU) and longer to stop. Bring the vehicle to a safe stop,
trailer (if there is one). The first system is called
wheel speed sensor wires coming from the back and have the air brakes system fixed.
the “primary” system. The other is called the
of the brakes.
“secondary” system. See Figure 5.4.
ABS is an addition to your normal brakes. 5.3 – Inspecting Air Brake Systems
Before driving a vehicle with a dual air sys-
It does not decrease or increase your normal
tem, allow time for the air compressor to build You should use the basic seven-step inspec-
braking capability. ABS only activates when
up a minimum of 100 psi pressure in both the tion procedure described in Section 2 to inspect
wheels are about to lock up.
primary and secondary systems. Watch the pri- your vehicle. There are more things to inspect
ABS does not necessarily shorten your stop-
on a vehicle with air brakes than one without
them. These things are discussed below, in the
order they fit into the seven-step method.
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE 5.3.1 – During Step 2 Engine
Compartment Checks
Subsection 5.1 Check Air Compressor Drive Belt (if com-
• Why must air tanks be drained? • What are spring brakes? pressor is belt-driven). If the air compressor is
• What is a supply pressure gauge used • Front wheel brakes are good under all belt-driven, check the condition and tightness
for? conditions. True or False? of the belt. It should be in good condition.
• All vehicles with air brakes must have a • How do you know if your vehicle is 5.3.2 – During Step 5 Walk-around
low air pressure warning signal. True or equipped with antilock brakes? Inspection
False?
Check Slack Adjusters on S-cam Brakes. Park
These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer them all, re-read subsection 5.1. on level ground and chock the wheels to prevent
the vehicle from moving. Release the parking
brakes so you can move the slack adjusters. Use
49
LOW AIR PRESSURE WARNING DEVICES
Figure 5.5
gloves and pull hard on each slack adjuster that friction area. Linings (friction material) must not ing brake valve should close (pop out) on other
you can reach. If a slack adjuster moves more be loose or soaked with oil or grease. They must combination and single vehicle types when the
than about one inch where the push rod attaches not be dangerously thin. Mechanical parts must air pressure falls to the manufacturer’s speci-
to it, it probably needs adjustment. Adjust it or be in place, not broken or missing. Check the air fication (20 – 45 psi). This will cause the spring
have it adjusted. Vehicles with too much brake hoses connected to the brake chambers to make brakes to come on.
slack can be very hard to stop. Out-of-adjust- sure they aren’t cut or worn due to rubbing.
Check Rate of Air Pressure Buildup. When
ment brakes are the most common problem
the engine is at operating rpms, the pressure
found in roadside inspections. Be safe. Check 5.3.3 – Step 7 Final Air Brake Check
should build from 85 to 100 psi within 45 sec-
the slack adjusters.
Do the following checks instead of the hy- onds in dual air systems. (If the vehicle has
All vehicles built since 1994 have automatic
draulic brake check shown in Section 2, Step 7: larger than minimum air tanks, the buildup
slack adjustors. Even though automatic slack
Check Brake System. time can be longer and still be safe. Check the
adjustors adjust themselves during full brake
manufacturer’s specifications.) In single air sys-
applications, they must be checked. Test Low Pressure Warning Signal. Shut the
tems (pre-1975), typical requirements are pres-
Automatic adjusters should not have to be engine off when you have enough air pressure
sure buildup from 50 to 90 psi within 3 minutes
manually adjusted except when performing so that the low pressure warning signal is not
with the engine at an idle speed of 600-900 rpms.
maintenance on the brakes and during installa- on. Turn the electrical power on and step on and
If air pressure does not build up fast enough,
tion of the slack adjusters. In a vehicle equipped off the brake pedal to reduce air tank pressure.
your pressure may drop too low during driving,
with automatic adjusters, when the pushrod The low air pressure warning signal must come
requiring an emergency stop. Don’t drive until
stroke exceeds the legal brake adjustment limit, on before the pressure drops to less than 60
you get the problem fixed.
it is an indication that a mechanical problem psi in the air tank (or tank with the lowest air
exists in the adjuster itself, a problem with the pressure, in dual air systems). See Figure 5.5. Test Air Leakage Rate. With a fully-charged
related foundation brake components, or that If the warning signal doesn’t work, you could air system (typically 125 psi), turn off the en-
the adjuster was improperly installed. lose air pressure and you would not know it. gine, release the parking brake, and time the
The manual adjustment of an automatic ad- This could cause sudden emergency braking air pressure drop. The loss rate should be less
juster to bring a brake pushrod stroke within in a single-circuit air system. In dual systems than two psi in one minute for single vehicles
legal limits is generally masking a mechanical the stopping distance will be increased. Only and less than three psi in one minute for com-
problem and is not fixing it. Further, routine ad- limited braking can be done before the spring bination vehicles. With the air pressure built
justment of most automatic adjusters will likely brakes come on. up to governor cut off (120-140 psi), shut off the
result in premature wear of the adjuster itself. engine, chock your wheels (if necessary), release
Check That Spring Brakes Come On Auto-
It is recommended that when brakes equipped the parking brake (all vehicles), and the trac-
matically. Continue to fan off the air pressure
with automatic adjusters are found to be out tor protection valve (combination vehicle); and
by stepping on and off the brake pedal to reduce
of adjustment, the driver take the vehicle to a fully apply the foot brake. Hold the foot brake
tank pressure. The tractor protection valve and
repair facility as soon as possible to have the for one minute. After the initial pressure drop,
parking brake valve should close (pop out) on a
problem corrected. The manual adjustment of if the air pressure falls more than three psi in
tractor-trailer combination vehicle and the park-
automatic slack adjusters is dangerous because one minute for single vehicles (more than four
it may give the driver a false sense of security re-
garding the effectiveness of the braking system.
The manual adjustment of an automatic ad- TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE
juster should only be used as a temporary mea-
sure to correct the adjustment in an emergency
situation as it is likely the brake will soon be back Subsection 5.2 and 5.3
out of adjustment since this procedure usually • What is a dual air brake system? • How can you check that the spring
does not fix the underlying adjustment problem. brakes come on automatically?
(Note: Automatic slack adjusters are made by • What are the slack adjusters?
different manufacturers and do not all operate • What are the maximum leakage rates?
• How can you check slack adjusters?
the same. Therefore, the specific manufacturer’s
Service Manual should be consulted prior to • How can you test the low pressure
troubleshooting a brake adjustment problem.) warning signal?
Check Brake Drums (or Discs), Linings, These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer them all, re-read subsections
and Hoses. Brake drums (or discs) must not 5.2 and 5.3.
have cracks longer than one half the width of the
50
psi for combination vehicles), the air loss rate control or start a tractor jackknife, let up on
is too much. Check for air leaks and fix before the brakes (if you can safely do so) until you Online Services
driving the vehicle. Otherwise, you could lose gain control.
your brakes while driving. When you drive a tractor-trailer combination for Commercial Vehicle Drivers
with ABS, you should brake as you always have.
Check Air Compressor Governor Cut-in
In other words:
and Cut-out Pressures. Pumping by the air
compressor should start at about 100 psi and • Use only the braking force necessary to stop
stop at about 125 psi. (Check manufacturer’s safely and stay in control.
specifications.) Run the engine at a fast idle. The
air governor should cut-out the air compressor
you have ABS on the tractor, the trailer, or
at about the manufacturer’s specified pressure.
both.
The air pressure shown by your gauge(s) will
stop rising. With the engine idling, step on and • As you slow down, monitor your tractor and
off the brake to reduce the air tank pressure. The trailer and back off the brakes (if it is safe to
compressor should cut-in at about the manufac- do so) to stay in control.
turer’s specified cut-in pressure. The pressure
There is only one exception to this procedure,
should begin to rise.
if you always drive a straight truck or combi-
If the air governor does not work as described
nation with working ABS on all axles, in an
above, it may need to be fixed. A governor that
emergency stop, you can fully apply the brakes.
does not work properly may not keep enough
Without ABS, you still have normal brake
air pressure for safe driving.
functions. Drive and brake as you always have.
Test Parking Brake. Stop the vehicle, put the Remember, if your ABS malfunctions, you
parking brake on, and gently pull against it in a still have regular brakes. Drive normally, but
low gear to test that the parking brake will hold. get the system serviced soon.
Visit www.dds.georgia.gov now to:
Test Service Brakes. Wait for normal air pres-
5.4.3 – Emergency Stops
sure, release the parking brake, move the vehicle
forward slowly (about five mph), and apply the If somebody suddenly pulls out in front of
brakes firmly using the brake pedal. Note any you, your natural response is to hit the brakes. • Access the Commercial Drivers
vehicle “pulling” to one side, unusual feel, or This is a good response if there’s enough dis- Manual
delayed stopping action. tance to stop, and you use the brakes correctly. • View Approved Driver Training
This test may show you problems, which You should brake in a way that will keep Schools
you otherwise wouldn’t know about until you your vehicle in a straight line and allow you
• View Approved Third Party CDL
needed the brakes on the road. to turn if it becomes necessary. You can use
the “controlled braking” method or the “stab Testers
braking” method. • Submit Your Med Cert
5.4 – Using Air Brakes
Controlled Braking. With this method, you
apply the brakes as hard as you can without
5.4.1 – Normal Stops
Push the brake pedal down. Control the pres-
locking the wheels. Keep steering wheel move-
ments very small while doing this. If you need Coming Soon!
sure so the vehicle comes to a smooth, safe stop. to make a larger steering adjustment or if the
If you have a manual transmission, don’t push wheels lock, release the brakes. Re-apply the
the clutch in until the engine rpm is down close brakes as soon as you can. • Online Renewals for qualified
to idle. When stopped, select a starting gear.
Stab Braking. Apply your brakes all the way. CDL holders
Release brakes when wheels lock up. As soon
5.4.2 – Braking with Antilock Brakes
as the wheels start rolling, apply the brakes
When you brake hard on slippery surfaces fully again. (It can take up to one second for
in a vehicle without ABS, your wheels may lock the wheels to start rolling after you release the
up. When your steering wheels lock up, you lose brakes. If you re-apply the brakes before the
steering control. When your other wheels lock up, wheels start rolling, the vehicle won’t straighten
you may skid, jackknife, or even spin the vehicle. out.)
ABS helps you avoid wheel lock up. The
computer senses impending lockup, reduces 5.4.4 – Stopping Distance
the braking pressure to a safe level, and you
Stopping distance was described in Section 2
maintain control.
under “Speed and Stopping Distance.” With air
You may or may not be able to stop faster with
brakes there is an added delay — “Brake Lag.”
ABS, but you should be able to steer around an
This is the time required for the brakes to work
obstacle while braking, and avoid skids caused
after the brake pedal is pushed. With hydraulic
by over braking.
brakes (used on cars and light/medium trucks),
Having ABS on only the tractor, only the
the brakes work instantly. However, with air
trailer, or even on only one axle, still gives you
brakes, it takes a little time (one half second or
more control over the vehicle during braking.
more) for the air to flow t hrough t he l ines to
Brake normally.
the brakes. Thus, the total stopping distance
When only the tractor has ABS, you should
for vehicles with air brake systems is made up
be able to maintain steering control, and there
of four different factors.
is less chance of jackknifing. But, keep your eye
on the trailer and let up on the brakes (if you can Perception Distance + Reaction Distance
safely do so) if it begins to swing out. + Brake Lag Distance + Braking Distance =
When only the trailer has ABS, the trailer is Total Stopping Distance
less likely to swing out, but if you lose steering
51
The air brake lag distance at 55 mph on dry
pavement adds about 32 feet. So at 55 mph for
an average driver under good traction and brake
conditions, the total stopping distance is over
450 feet. See Figure 5.6.
5.4.5 – Brake Fading or Failure

Brakes are designed so brake shoes or pads
rub against the brake drum or disks to slow
the vehicle. Braking creates heat, but brakes are
designed to take a lot of heat. However, brakes
can fade or fail from excessive heat caused by
using them too much and not relying on the
engine braking effect.
Excessive use of the service brakes results in
overheating and leads to brake fade. Brake fade
results from excessive heat causing chemical
changes in the brake lining, which reduce fric-
tion, and also causing expansion of the brake
drums. As the overheated drums expand, the
brake shoes and linings have to move farther to
contact the drums, and the force of this contact
is reduced. Continued overuse may increase
brake fade until the vehicle cannot be slowed
down or stopped.
Brake fade is also affected by adjustment. To
safely control a vehicle, every brake must do its
share of the work. Brakes out of adjustment will
stop doing their share before those that are in
adjustment. The other brakes can then overheat
and fade, and there will not be enough braking
available to control the vehicle(s). Brakes can Figure 5.6
get out of adjustment quickly, especially when
they are hot. Therefore, check brake adjustment
often. the spring brakes do not work on all axles. Light- steep grade), or if the brakes are very wet in
ly loaded vehicles or vehicles on slippery roads freezing temperatures. If they are used while
5.4.6 – Proper Braking Technique may skid out of control when the spring brakes they are very hot, they can be damaged by the
come on. It is much safer to stop while there is heat. If they are used in freezing temperatures
Remember. The use of brakes on a long and/
enough air in the tanks to use the foot brakes. when the brakes are very wet, they can freeze
or steep downgrade is only a supplement to the
so the vehicle cannot move. Use wheel chocks
braking effect of the engine. Once the vehicle
5.4.8 – Parking Brakes on a level surface to hold the vehicle. Let hot
is in the proper low gear, the following is the
brakes cool before using the parking brakes. If
proper braking technique: Any time you park, use the parking brakes,
the brakes are wet, use the brakes lightly while
except as noted below. Pull the parking brake
• Apply the brakes just hard enough to feel a driving in a low gear to heat and dry them.
control knob out to apply the parking brakes,
definite slowdown. If your vehicle does not have automatic air
push it in to release. The control will be a yel-
tank drains, drain your air tanks at the end of
• When your speed has been reduced to ap- low, diamond-shaped knob labeled “parking
each working day to remove moisture and oil.
proximately five mph below your “safe” brakes” on newer vehicles. On older vehicles, it
Otherwise, the brakes could fail.
speed, release the brakes. (This application may be a round blue knob or some other shape
Never leave your vehicle unattended
should last for about three seconds.) (including a lever that swings from side to side
without applying the parking brakes or
or up and down).
• When your speed has increased to your chocking the wheels. Your vehicle might
Don’t use the parking brakes if the brakes
“safe” speed, repeat steps 1 and 2. roll away and cause injury and damage.
are very hot (from just having come down a
For example, if your “safe” speed is 40 mph,
you would not apply the brakes until your speed
reaches 40 mph. You now apply the brakes hard
enough to gradually reduce your speed to 35
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE
mph and then release the brakes. Repeat this
as often as necessary until you have reached Subsection 5.4
the end of the downgrade.
• Why should you be in the proper gear • If you are away from your vehicle only a
5.4.7 – Low Air Pressure before starting down a hill? short time, you do not need to use the
parking brake. True or False?
If the low air pressure warning comes on, • What factors can cause brakes to fade
stop and safely park your vehicle as soon as or fail? • How often should you drain air tanks?
possible. There might be an air leak in the sys- • The use of brakes on a long, steep • How do you brake when you drive a
tem. Controlled braking is possible only while downgrade is only a supplement to the tractor-trailer combination with ABS?
enough air remains in the air tanks. The spring braking effect of the engine. True or
brakes will come on when the air pressure drops • You still have normal brake functions if
False?
into the range of 20 to 45 psi. A heavily loaded your ABS is not working. True or False?
vehicle will take a long distance to stop because These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer them all, re-read subsection 5.4.
52
SECTION 6
COMBINATION 6.1 – Driving Combination change, the crack-the-whip effect can turn the
trailer over. There are many accidents where
VEHICLES Vehicles Safely only the trailer has overturned.
“Rearward amplification” causes the crack-
Combination vehicles are usually heavier,
the-whip effect. Figure 6.1 shows eight types of
longer, and require more driving skill than
This Section Covers single commercial vehicles. This means that
combination vehicles and the rearward ampli-
fication each has in a quick lane change. Rigs
drivers of combination vehicles need more
Driving with the least crack-the-whip effect are shown
knowledge and skill than drivers of single
at the top and those with the most, at the bot-
vehicles. In this section, we talk about some
Combinations ............. 6.1 important safety factors that apply specifically
tom. Rearward amplification of 2.0 in the chart
means that the rear trailer is twice as likely to
to combination vehicles.
Combination Vehicle turn over as the tractor. You can see that triples
have a rearward amplification of 3.5. This means
Air Brakes.................. 6.2 6.1.1 – Rollover Risks
you can roll the last trailer of triples 3.5 times
More than half of truck driver deaths in as easily as a five-axle tractor.
Antilock Brake crashes are the result of truck rollovers. When Steer gently and smoothly when you are pull-
Systems..................... 6.3 more cargo is piled up in a truck, the “center of ing trailers. If you make a sudden movement
gravity” moves higher up from the road. The with your steering wheel, your trailer could tip
Coupling and truck becomes easier to turn over. Fully loaded over. Follow far enough behind other vehicles
rigs are ten times more likely to roll over in a (at least 1 second for each 10 feet of your vehicle
Uncoupling ............... 6.4 crash than empty rigs. length, plus another second if going over 40
The following two things will help you pre- mph). Look far enough down the road to avoid
Inspection vent rollover--keep the cargo as close to the being surprised and having to make a sudden
Combinations ............ 6.5 ground as possible, and drive slowly around lane change. At night, drive slowly enough to
turns. Keeping cargo low is even more impor- see obstacles with your headlights before it is
tant in combination vehicles than in straight too late to change lanes or stop gently. Slow
trucks. Also, keep the load centered on your down to a safe speed before going into a turn.
This section provides information needed rig. If the load is to one side so it makes a trailer
to pass the tests for combination vehicles lean, a rollover is more likely. Make sure your 6.1.3 – Brake Early
(tractor-trailer, doubles, triples, straight truck cargo is centered and spread out as much as
with trailer). The information is only to give you Control your speed whether fully loaded or
possible. (Cargo distribution is covered in Sec-
the minimum knowledge needed for driving empty. Large combination vehicles take longer
tion 3 of this manual.)
common combination vehicles. You should to stop when they are empty than when they
Rollovers happen when you turn too fast.
also study Section 7 if you need to pass the are fully loaded. When lightly loaded, the very
Drive slowly around corners, on ramps, and
test for doubles and triples. stiff suspension springs and strong brakes give
off ramps. Avoid quick lane changes, especially
poor traction and make it very easy to lock up
when fully loaded.
the wheels. Your trailer can swing out and strike
other vehicles. Your tractor can jackknife very
6.1.2 – Steer Gently
quickly. You also must be very careful about
Trucks with trailers have a dangerous “crack- driving “bobtail” tractors (tractors without
the-whip” effect. When you make a quick lane semitrailers). Tests have shown that bobtails
INFLUENCE OF COMBINATION TYPE ON REARWARD AMPLIFICATION
Figure 6.1
Image courtesy ©iStockphoto.com/MCCAIG
53
SECTION 6: COMBINATION VEHICLES
• Recognize the Skid. The earliest and best
TRAILER JACKNIFE way to recognize that the trailer has started to OFF TRACKING IN A
skid is by seeing it in your mirrors. Any time 90 DEGREE TURN
you apply the brakes hard, check the mirrors
to make sure the trailer is staying where it
should be. Once the trailer swings out of your
lane, it’s very difficult to prevent a jackknife.
• Stop Using the Brake. Release the brakes to
get traction back. Do not use the trailer hand
brake (if you have one) to “straighten out the
rig.” This is the wrong thing to do since the
brakes on the trailer wheels caused the skid
in the first place. Once the trailer wheels grip
the road again, the trailer will start to follow
the tractor and straighten out.
* (From R.D. Ervin, R.L. Nisconger, C.C. Figure 6.3
MacAdam, and P.S. Fancher, “Influence of size
and weigh variables on the stability and control
properties of heavy trucks, “University of Mich-
igan Transportation Research Institute, 1983).
6.1.6 – Turn Wide

When a vehicle goes around a corner, the rear
wheels follow a different path than the front
wheels. This is called offtracking or “cheating.”
Figure 6.3 shows how offtracking causes the
path followed by a tractor to be wider than the
rig itself. Longer vehicles will offtrack more.
The rear wheels of the powered unit (truck or
tractor) will offtrack some, and the rear wheels
of the trailer will offtrack even more. If there
Figure 6.2 is more than one trailer, the rear wheels of the Figure 6.4
last trailer will offtrack the most. Steer the front
end wide enough around a corner so the rear
can be very hard to stop smoothly. It takes them end does not run over the curb, pedestrians, etc.
longer to stop than a tractor-semitrailer loaded However, keep the rear of your vehicle close BACKING A TRAILER
to maximum gross weight. to the curb. This will stop other drivers from
In any combination rig, allow lots of follow- passing you on the right. If you cannot complete
ing distance and look far ahead, so you can your turn without entering another traffic lane,
brake early. Don’t be caught by surprise and turn wide as you complete the turn. This is bet-
have to make a “panic” stop. ter than swinging wide to the left before starting
the turn because it will keep other drivers from
6.1.4 – Railroad-highway Crossings passing you on the right. See Figure 6.4.
Railroad-highway crossings can also cause
6.1.7 – Backing with a Trailer.
problems, particularly when pulling trailers
with low underneath clearance. Backing with a Trailer. When backing a car,
These trailers can get stuck on raised crossings: straight truck, or bus, you turn the top of the
steering wheel in the direction you want to go.
• Low slung units (lowboy, car carrier, moving
When backing a trailer, you turn the steering
van, possum-belly livestock trailer).
wheel in the opposite direction. Once the trailer
• Single-axle tractor pulling a long trailer starts to turn, you must turn the wheel the other
with its landing gear set to accommodate a way to follow the trailer.
tandem-axle tractor. Whenever you back up with a trailer, try
to position your vehicle so you can back in
If for any reason you get stuck on the tracks,
a straight line. If you must back on a curved
get out of the vehicle and away from the tracks.
path, back to the driver’s side so you can see.
Check signposts or signal housing at the cross-
See Figure 6.5.
ing for emergency notification information. Call
911 or other emergency number. Give the loca- Look at Your Path. Look at your line of travel
tion of the crossing using all identifiable land- before you begin. Get out and walk around the
marks, especially the DOT number, if posted. vehicle. Check your clearance to the sides and
overhead, in and near the path your vehicle.
6.1.5 – Prevent Trailer Skids
Use Mirrors on Both Sides. Check the out-
When the wheels of a trailer lock up, the
side mirrors on both sides frequently. Get out
trailer will tend to swing around. This is more
of the vehicle and re-inspect your path if you
likely to happen when the trailer is empty or
are unsure.
lightly loaded. This type of jackknife is often
called a “trailer jackknife.” See Figure 6.2. Back Slowly. This will let you make corrections
The procedure for stopping a trailer skid is: before you get too far off course.
Figure 6.5
54
SECTION 6: COMBINATON VEHICLES
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE 6.2.5 – Hose Couplers (Glad Hands)
Glad hands are coupling devices used to con-
Subsection 6.1 nect the service and emergency air lines from
the truck or tractor to the trailer. The couplers
• What two things are important to prevent • What is offtracking? have a rubber seal, which prevents air from
rollover? escaping. Clean the couplers and rubber seals
• When you back a trailer, you should
• When you turn suddenly while pulling position your vehicle so you can back in before a connection is made. When connecting
doubles, which trailer is most likely to a curved path to the driver’s side. True or the glad hands, press the two seals together
turn over? False? with the couplers at a 90 degree angle to each
other. A turn of the glad hand attached to the
• Why should you not use the trailer hand • What type of trailers can get stuck on hose will join and lock the couplers.
brake to straighten out a jackknifing railroad-highway crossings? When coupling, make sure to couple the
trailer? proper glad hands together. To help avoid mis-
These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer them all, re-read subsection 6.1. takes, colors are sometimes used. Blue is used
for the service lines and red for the emergency
(supply) lines. Sometimes, metal tags are at-
tached 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 avail-
Correct Drift Immediately. As soon as you 6.2.3 – Trailer Air Supply Control able to release the trailer spring brakes (parking
see the trailer getting off the proper path, cor- brakes). If the spring brakes don’t release when
The trailer air supply control on newer ve-
rect it by turning the top of the steering wheel you push the trailer air supply control, check
hicles is a red eight-sided knob, which you use to
in the direction of the drift. the air line connections.
control the tractor protection valve. You push it
Older trailers do not have spring brakes. If
Pull Forward. When backing a trailer, make in to supply the trailer with air, and pull it out to
the air supply in the trailer air tank has leaked
pull-ups to re-position your vehicle as needed. shut the air off and put on the trailer emergency
away there will be no emergency brakes, and the
brakes. The valve will pop out (thus closing the
trailer wheels will turn freely. If you crossed the
tractor protection valve) when the air pressure
6.2 – Combination Vehicle drops into the range of 20 to 45 psi. Tractor pro-
air lines, you could drive away but you wouldn’t
Air Brakes tection valve controls or “emergency” valves on
have trailer brakes. This would be very danger-
ous. Always test the trailer brakes before driv-
older vehicles may not operate automatically.
You should study Section 5: Air Brakes before ing with the hand valve or by pulling the air
There may be a lever rather than a knob. The
reading this. In combination vehicles the brak- supply (tractor protection valve) control. Pull
“normal” position is used for pulling a trailer.
ing system has parts to control the trailer brakes, gently against them in a low gear to make sure
The “emergency” position is used to shut the
in addition to the parts described in Section 5. the brakes work.
air off and put on the trailer emergency brakes.
These parts are described below. Some vehicles have “dead end” or dummy
couplers to which the hoses may be attached
6.2.4 – Trailer Air Lines
6.2.1 – Trailer Hand Valve when they are not in use. This will prevent wa-
Every combination vehicle has two air lines, ter and dirt from getting into the coupler and
The trailer hand valve (also called the trolley
the service line and the emergency line. They the air lines. Use the dummy couplers when
valve or Johnson bar) works the trailer brakes.
run between each vehicle (tractor to trailer, the air lines are not connected to a trailer. If
The trailer hand valve should be used only to
trailer to dolly, dolly to second trailer, etc.) there are no dummy couplers, the glad hands
test the trailer brakes. Do not use it in driving
can sometimes be locked together (depending
because of the danger of making the trailer skid. Service Air Line. The service line (also called
on the couplings). It is very important to keep
The foot brake sends air to all of the brakes on the control line or signal line) carries air, which
the air supply clean.
the vehicle (including the trailer[s]). There is is controlled by the foot brake or the trailer hand
much less danger of causing a skid or jackknife brake. Depending on how hard you press the
when using just the foot brake. foot brake or hand valve, the pressure in the
Never use the hand valve for parking be- service line will similarly change. The service
cause all the air might leak out unlocking the line is connected to relay valves. These valves al-
brakes (in trailers that don’t have spring brakes). low the trailer brakes to be applied more quickly
Always use the parking brakes when parking. than would otherwise be possible.
If the trailer does not have spring brakes, use
Emergency Air Line. The emergency line (also
wheel chocks to keep the trailer from moving.
called the supply line) has two purposes. First, it
supplies air to the trailer air tanks. Second, the
6.2.2 – Tractor Protection Valve
emergency line controls the emergency brakes
The tractor protection valve keeps air in the on combination vehicles. Loss of air pressure in
tractor or truck brake system should the trailer the emergency line causes the trailer emergency
break away or develop a bad leak. The tractor brakes to come on. The pressure loss could be
protection valve is controlled by the “trailer air caused by a trailer breaking loose, thus tearing
supply” control valve in the cab. The control apart the emergency air hose. Or it could be
valve allows you to open and shut the tractor caused by a hose, metal tubing, or other part
protection valve. The tractor protection valve breaking, letting the air out. When the emer-
will close automatically if air pressure is low gency line loses pressure, it also causes the
(in the range of 20 to 45 psi). When the tractor tractor protection valve to close (the air supply
protection valve closes, it stops any air from go- knob will pop out).
ing out of the tractor. It also lets the air out of the Emergency lines are often coded with the
trailer emergency line. This causes the trailer color red (red hose, red couplers, or other parts)
emergency brakes to come on, with possible loss to keep from getting them mixed up with the
of control. (Emergency brakes are covered later.) blue service line.
Figure 6.6
55
6.2.6 – Trailer Air Tanks TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE
Each trailer and converter dolly has one or
more air tanks. They are filled by the emergency Subsection 6.2
(supply) line from the tractor. They provide the
air pressure used to operate trailer brakes. Air • Why should you not use the trailer hand • What is the emergency air line for?
pressure is sent from the air tanks to the brakes valve while driving?
• Why should you use chocks when
by relay valves. • Describe what the trailer air supply parking a trailer without spring brakes?
The pressure in the service line tells how control does.
much pressure the relay valves should send to • Where are shut-off valves?
the trailer brakes. The pressure in the service • Describe what the service line is for.
line is controlled by the brake pedal (and the These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer them all, re-read subsection 6.2.
trailer hand brake).
It is important that you don’t let water and oil
build up in the air tanks. If you do, the brakes
may not work correctly. Each tank has a drain
valve on it and you should drain each tank every
day. If your tanks have automatic drains, they When you drive a tractor-trailer combination
will keep most moisture out. But you should with ABS, you should brake as you always have.
still open the drains to make sure. TESTING ABS SYSTEMS In other words:
• Use only the braking force necessary to stop
6.2.7 – Shut-off Valves
safely and stay in control.
Shut-off valves (also called cut-out cocks) are
used in the service and supply air lines at the
you have ABS on the tractor, the trailer, or
back of trailers used to tow other trailers. These
both.
valves permit closing the air lines off when an-
other trailer is not being towed. You must check • As you slow down, monitor your tractor and
that all shut-off valves are in the open position trailer and back off the brakes (if it is safe to
except the ones at the back of the last trailer, do so) to stay in control.
which must be closed.
Remember, if your ABS malfunctions, you
still have regular brakes. Drive normally, but
6.2.8 – Trailer Service, Parking
get the system serviced soon.
and Emergency Brakes
ABS won’t allow you to drive faster, follow
Newer trailers have spring brakes just like more closely, or drive less carefully.
trucks and truck tractors. However, converter
dollies and trailers built before 1975 are not re-
quired to have spring brakes. Those that do
6.4 – Coupling and Uncoupling
not have spring brakes have emergency brakes,
Knowing how to couple and uncouple cor-
which work from the air stored in the trailer air
rectly is basic to safe operation of combination
tank. The emergency brakes come on whenever
vehicles. Wrong coupling and uncoupling can
air pressure in the emergency line is lost. These Figure 6.7
be very dangerous. General coupling and un-
trailers have no parking brake. The emergency
coupling steps are listed below. There are dif-
brakes come on whenever the air supply knob
or after March 1, 1998, are required to have a ferences between different rigs, so learn the
is pulled out or the trailer is disconnected. A
lamp on the left side. details of coupling and uncoupling the truck(s)
major leak in the emergency line will cause the
In the case of vehicles manufactured before you will operate.
tractor protection valve to close and the trailer
the required date, it may be difficult to tell if
emergency brakes to come on. But the brakes
the unit is equipped with ABS. Look under the 6.4.1 – Coupling Tractor-Semitrailers
will hold only as long as there is air pressure
vehicle for the ECU and wheel speed sensor
in the trailer air tank. Eventually, the air will
wires coming from the back of the brakes. Step 1. Inspect Fifth Wheel
leak away and then there will be no brakes.
Therefore, it is very important for safety that • Check for damaged/missing parts.
6.3.2 – Braking with ABS
you use wheel chocks when you park trailers
• Check to see that mounting to tractor is se-
without spring brakes. ABS is an addition to your normal brakes.
cure, no cracks in frame, etc.
You may not notice a major leak in the service It does not decrease or increase your normal
line until you try to put the brakes on. Then, the braking capability. ABS only activates when • Be sure that the fifth wheel plate is greased
air loss from the leak will lower the air tank wheels are about to lock up. as required. Failure to keep the fifth wheel
pressure quickly. If it goes low enough, the ABS does not necessarily shorten your stop- plate lubricated could cause steering prob-
trailer emergency brakes will come on. ping distance, but it does help you keep the lems because of friction between the tractor
vehicle under control during hard braking. and trailer.
ABS helps you avoid wheel lock up. The
6.3 – Antilock Brake Systems computer senses impending lockup, reduces
• Check if fifth wheel is in proper position for
coupling.
the braking pressure to a safe level, and you
» Wheel tilted down toward rear of tractor.
6.3.1 – Trailers Required to Have ABS maintain control.
» Jaws open.
Having ABS on only the trailer, or even on
All trailers and converter dollies built on or » Safety unlocking handle in the automatic
only one axle, still gives you more control over
after March 1, 1998, are required to have ABS. lock position.
the vehicle during braking.
However, many trailers and converter dollies » If you have a sliding fifth wheel, make sure
When only the trailer has ABS, the trailer is
built before this date have been voluntarily it is locked.
less likely to swing out, but if you lose steering
equipped with ABS. » Make sure the trailer kingpin is not bent
control or start a tractor jackknife, let up on
Trailers will have yellow ABS malfunction or broken.
the brakes (if you can safely do so) until you
lamps on the left side, either on the front or rear
gain control.
corner. See Figure 6.7. Dollies manufactured on
56
Step 2. Inspect Area and Chock Wheels Step 9. Lock Trailer Brakes • After raising landing gear, secure the crank
handle safely.
• Make sure area around the vehicle is clear. Pull out the “air supply” knob or move the
tractor protection valve control from “normal” • When full weight of trailer is resting on tractor:
• Be sure trailer wheels are chocked or spring
to “emergency.” » Check for enough clearance between rear
brakes are on.
of tractor frame and landing gear. (When
• Check that cargo (if any) is secured against Step 10. Back Under Trailer tractor turns sharply, it must not hit land-
movement due to tractor being coupled to ing gear.)
• Use lowest reverse gear.
the trailer. » Check that there is enough clearance be-
• Back tractor slowly under trailer to avoid hit- tween the top of the tractor tires and the
Step 3. Position Tractor ting the kingpin too hard. nose of the trailer.
• Put the tractor directly in front of the trailer. • Stop when the kingpin is locked into the fifth
Step 16. Remove Trailer Wheel Chocks
(Never back under the trailer at an angle be- wheel.
cause you might push the trailer sideways Remove and store wheel chocks in a safe
and break the landing gear.) Step 11. Check Connection for Security place.
• Check position, using outside mirrors, by • Raise trailer landing gear slightly off ground.
6.4.2 – Uncoupling
looking down both sides of the trailer.
• Pull tractor gently forward while the trailer Tractor-Semitrailers
brakes are still locked to check that the trailer
Step 4. Back Slowly The following steps will help you to uncouple
is locked onto the tractor.
safely.
• Back until fifth wheel just touches the trailer.
Step 12. Secure Vehicle
• Don’t hit the trailer. Step 1. Position Rig
• Put transmission in neutral.
• Make sure surface of parking area can sup-
Step 5. Secure Tractor
• Put parking brakes on. port weight of trailer.
• Put on the parking brake.
• Shut off engine and take key with you so • Have tractor lined up with the trailer. (Pull-
• Put transmission in neutral. someone else won’t move truck while you ing out at an angle can damage landing gear.)
are under it.
Step 6. Check Trailer Height Step 2. Ease Pressure on Locking Jaws
Step 13. Inspect Coupling
• The trailer should be low enough that it is • Shut off trailer air supply to lock trailer
raised slightly by the tractor when the tractor • Use a flashlight, if necessary. brakes.
is backed under it. Raise or lower the trailer
• Make sure there is no space between upper • Ease pressure on fifth wheel locking jaws by
as needed. (If the trailer is too low, the tractor
and lower fifth wheel. If there is space, some- backing up gently. (This will help you release
may strike and damage the trailer nose; if the
thing is wrong (kingpin may be on top of the the fifth wheel locking lever.)
trailer is too high, it may not couple correctly.)
closed fifth wheel jaws, and trailer would
• Put parking brakes on while tractor is push-
• Check that the kingpin and fifth wheel are come loose very easily).
ing against the kingpin. (This will hold rig
aligned.
• Go under trailer and look into the back of the with pressure off the locking jaws.)
fifth wheel. Make sure the fifth wheel jaws
Step 7. Connect Air Lines to Trailer
have closed around the shank of the kingpin. Step 3. Chock Trailer Wheels
• Check glad hand seals and connect tractor
• Check that the locking lever is in the “lock” Chock the trailer wheels if the trailer doesn’t
emergency air line to trailer emergency glad
position. have spring brakes or if you’re not sure. (The air
hand.
could leak out of the trailer air tank, releasing its
• Check that the safety latch is in position over
• Check glad hand seals and connect tractor emergency brakes. Without chocks, the trailer
locking lever. (On some fifth wheels the catch
service air line to trailer service glad hand. could move.)
must be put in place by hand.)
• Make sure air lines are safely supported
• If the coupling isn’t right, don’t drive the Step 4. Lower the Landing Gear
where they won’t be crushed or caught while
coupled unit; get it fixed.
tractor is backing under the trailer. • If trailer is empty, lower the landing gear
until it makes firm contact with the ground.
Step 14. Connect the Electrical Cord and
Step 8. Supply Air to Trailer
Check Air Lines • If trailer is loaded, after the landing gear
• From cab, push in “air supply” knob or makes firm contact with the ground, turn
• Plug the electrical cord into the trailer and
move tractor protection valve control from crank in low gear a few extra turns. This will
fasten the safety catch.
the “emergency” to the “normal” position to lift some weight off the tractor. (Do not lift
supply air to the trailer brake system. • Check both air lines and electrical line for trailer off the fifth wheel.) This will:
signs of damage. » Make it easier to unlatch fifth wheel.
• Wait until the air pressure is normal.
» Make it easier to couple next time.
• Make sure air and electrical lines will not hit
• Check brake system for crossed air lines.
any moving parts of vehicle.
» Shut engine off so you can hear the brakes. Step 5. Disconnect Air Lines and
» Apply and release trailer brakes and listen Electrical Cable
Step 15. Raise Front Trailer Supports
for sound of trailer brakes being applied
(Landing Gear) • Disconnect air lines from trailer. Connect air
and released. You should hear the brakes
line glad hands to dummy couplers at back
move when applied and air escape when • Use low gear range (if so equipped) to begin
of cab or couple them together.
the brakes are released. raising the landing gear. Once free of weight,
» Check air brake system pressure gauge for switch to the high gear range. • Hang electrical cable with plug down to pre-
signs of major air loss. vent moisture from entering it.
• Raise the landing gear all the way up. (Never
• When you are sure trailer brakes are work- drive with landing gear only part way up as it • Make sure lines are supported so they won’t
ing, start engine. may catch on railroad tracks or other things.) be damaged while driving the tractor.
• Make sure air pressure is up to normal.
57
Step 6. Unlock Fifth Wheel Step 2. Disconnect Electrical Connector,
Breakaway Brake Switch and
• Raise the release handle lock.
Safety Chains
• Pull the release handle to “open” position.
• Disconnect electrical connector.
• Keep legs and feet clear of the rear tractor
• Disconnect breakaway brake switch lanyard.
wheels to avoid serious injury in case the
vehicle moves. • Disconnect safety chains from tow vehicle.
Step 7. Pull Tractor Partially Step 3. Unlock the Coupler

Clear of Trailer
• Unlock the coupler and open it.
• Pull tractor forward until fifth wheel comes
out from under the trailer. Step 4. Check Ground Surface for Correct
Figure 17 Support
• Stop with tractor frame under trailer (pre-
vents trailer from falling to ground if landing • Before extending jack, make certain the
gear should collapse or sink). ground surface below the jack pad will sup-
port the tongue load.
Step 8. Secure Tractor
Step 5. Rotate Jack Handle
• Apply parking brake.
• Rotate jack handle to extend the jack and
• Place transmission in neutral.
transfer the weight of the trailer tongue to
the jack.
Step 9. Inspect Trailer Supports
• Make sure ground is supporting trailer. Step 6. Raise Trailer Coupler
• Make sure landing gear is not damaged. • Raise the trailer coupler above the tow ve-
hicle hitch.
Step 10. Pull Tractor Clear of Trailer Figure 18
Step 7. Drive Forward
• Release parking brakes.
Step 3. Lower Drawbar into Place
• Drive tow vehicle forward.
• Check the area and drive tractor forward
• Position the drawbar eye over the horn of the
until it clears.
pintle hook and lower it into place. 6.4.5 – Coupling a Drawbar
6.4.3 – Coupling a Pintle Hook
Step 4. Lock Pintle Hook
Step 1. Inspect Pintle Hook • Push the latch closed. When correctly locked,
the lock handle will rotate and move up until
• Before operating, check for worn, damaged,
it is flush with the top of the latch (Figure 19).
or missing parts, and make sure mount is
secure.
• If the pintle hook is not secured to the mount-
ing surface, the pintle hook could separate
from the vehicle which, if not avoided, could
result in death or serious injury.
Step 2. Unlock Lock Pin and Open Latch Step 1. Remove Safety Lock screw and
Rotate Safety Cover Bar
• Unlock and remove the tethered lock pin, if
applicable (Figure 16). • Remove safety lock screw (2), recover and
keep the relative self-locking nut (12) aside
then also loosen safety lock screw (2a) and
turn out the adjustment screw (3) by at least
Figure 19 five turns.
• Rotate the safety cover bar (4) outwards so
• Insert the tethered lock pin through the latch
that it is completely open.
and lock holes, and close the tethered wire
lock pin, if applicable (Figure 16).
Step 2. Reverse Truck
• Failure to correctly lock the latch can result
• Reverse truck very slowly until the ball cup
in separation of the trailer and vehicle which,
drawbar eye (6) is in position exactly above
if not avoided, could result in death or seri-
the drawbar coupling ball (5).
ous injury.
Figure 16 Step 3. Lower the Drawbeam

6.4.4 – Uncoupling a Pintle Hook
• Lower the drawbeam until the ball cup
• Lift the lock handle away from the vehicle Step 1. Park on Level Surface drawbar eye (6) lies completely covering the
until the lock clears the lock seat on the hook drawbar coupling ball (5).
• Park the trailer on a firm level surface and
body.
block trailer tires.
Step 4. Rotate the Safety Cover Bar
• Open the latch by rotating the latch assembly
up toward the vehicle until the latch is in its • Rotate the safety cover bar back inwards (4)
most upright position, then release the lock and fit in safety lock screw (2) together with
handle. (Figure 17 and 18) its self-locking nut.
58
• Tighten in both the lock screws (2, 2a) to- • Loosen safety lock screw (2a) and remove Step 3. Install Safety Pin and Clip
gether with their relative self-locking nuts (12, safety lock screw (2) together with its self-
• Install safety pin and clip. (Fig. B)
12a) at a 350 to 400 Nm torque wrench setting. locking nut (12).
Step 5. Adjust the Adjustment Screw Step 3. Rotate Safety Cover Bar and Lift
Trailer Drawbeam
• Adjust the adjustment screw (3) until a 0.3 -
0.5 mm vertical clearance between the guard • Rotate the safety cover bar (4) outwards so
disk (13) and the ball cup (6) is reached. Lock that it is completely open.
setting with counter nut (11).
• 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 back in its housing.
Step 4. Lock Safety Screw and Tighten

Self-Locking Nut
Figure B
• Fit in safety lock screw (2) and tighten in self- 6.5 – Inspecting a
locking nut (12). Combination Vehicle
6.4.7 – Coupling a Gooseneck Hitch Use the seven-step inspection procedure de-
scribed in Section 2 to inspect your combination
• If you are hooking up a Gooseneck or a fifth
vehicle. There are more things to inspect on a
wheel hitch, the procedure is a little different
combination vehicle than on a single vehicle.
from a receiver and ball, but it is not more
(For example, tires, wheels, lights, reflectors,
difficult.
etc.) However, there are also some new things
to check. These are discussed below.
Step 1. Open the Latch and Lubricate the
Gooseneck Ball
6.5.1 – Additional Things to Check
• Open the clamp latch on the Gooseneck During a Walk-around Inspection
coupler.
Do these checks in addition to those already
• In the event that the safety cover bar (4) will • Make sure that the Gooseneck ball is properly listed in Section 2.
not perfectly lodge into its seating appropri- lubricated.
Coupling System Areas
ately, travel is strictly forbidden.
Step 2. Position Coupler and Latch the • Check fifth wheel (lower).
Clamp » Securely mounted to frame.
» No missing or damaged parts.
• Position the trailer’s coupler directly over
» Enough grease.
the ball and lower the Gooseneck trailer into
» No visible space between upper and lower
position and latch the clamp.
fifth wheel.
» Locking jaws around the shank, not the
Step 3. Attach Safety Chains
head of kingpin. See Figure 6.8.
• Attach your safety chains. Remember that » Release arm properly seated and safety
all trailers are required by law to have safety latch/lock engaged.
chains.
Step 6. Protect Coupling Ball and Anchor Step 4. Connect Trailer Light Wiring
Edge onto Ball
• Connect your trailer light wiring to your ve-
• Protect the part that is still visible of the cou- hicle’s connector.
pling ball (5) with the rubber dust proof bel-
• Check all of your lights, including your brake
lows protection cover (7). Accurately anchor
lights.
the edge directly onto the ball itself.
Step 5. Lower and Stow the Trailer Jacks
Step 7. Lubricate the Drawbar Eye
• Completely lower and stow the trailer jacks,
• Lubricate the inside of the drawbar eye ball
allowing the weight to settle onto the tow
cup (6) directly through the grease nipple (18).
vehicle.
6.4.6 – Uncoupling a Drawbar
6.4.8 – Uncoupling a Gooseneck Hitch
Step 1. Turn Trailer Brake On
Step 1. Remove Safety Pin and Clip
• Make sure that the trailer brake is on.
• Simply remove safety pin and clip. Figure 6.8
Step 2. Remove Cover and Loosen Screws
Step 2. Rotate Handle and Raise Trailer • Check fifth wheel (upper).
• Remove the rubber dust proof bellows protec- Off Ball » Glide plate securely mounted to trailer
tion cover (7). frame.
• Rotate handle to this position (Fig. B) and
» Kingpin not damaged.
• Loosen the adjustment screw (3) and the raise trailer off ball. Coupler will return to
counter nut (11). load position automatically.
59
• Air and electric lines to trailer. • Crank handle in place and secured. shut-off valve at the rear of the last trailer. You
» Electrical cord firmly plugged in and se- should hear air escaping, showing the entire
• If power operated, no air or hydraulic leaks.
cured. system is charged. Close the emergency line
» Air lines properly connected to glad valve. Open the service line valve to check that
6.5.2 – Combination Vehicle
hands, no air leaks, properly secured with service pressure goes through all the trailers
Brake Check
enough slack for turns. (this test assumes that the trailer handbrake or
» All lines free from damage. Do these checks in addition to Section 5.3: the service brake pedal is on), and then close
Inspecting Air Brake Systems. the valve. If you do NOT hear air escaping from
• Sliding fifth wheel.
The following section explains how to check both lines, check that the shut-off valves on the
» Slide not damaged or parts missing.
air brakes on combination vehicles. Check the trailer(s) and dolly(ies) are in the OPEN position.
» Properly greased.
brakes on a double or triple trailer as you would You MUST have air all the way to the back for
» All locking pins present and locked in
any combination vehicle. all the brakes to work.
place.
» If air powered--no air leaks. Check That Air Flows to All Trailers. Use Test Tractor Protection Valve. Charge the
» Check that fifth wheel is not so far forward the tractor parking brake and/or chock the trailer air brake system. (That is, build up nor-
that tractor frame will hit landing gear, or wheels to hold the vehicle. Wait for air pres- mal air pressure and push the “air supply”
the cab hit the trailer, during turns. sure to reach normal, then push in the red knob in.) Shut the engine off. Step on and off
“trailer air supply” knob. This will supply air the brake pedal several times to reduce the air
Landing Gear
to the emergency (supply) lines. Use the trailer pressure in the tanks. The trailer air supply
• Fully raised, no missing parts, not bent or handbrake to provide air to the service line. Go control (also called the tractor protection valve
otherwise damaged. to the rear of the rig. Open the emergency line control) should pop out (or go from “normal”
to “emergency” position) when the air pres-
sure falls into the pressure range specified by
the manufacturer. (Usually within the range
of 20 to 45 psi.)
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE 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
Subsection 6.3, 6.4 and 6.5 cause the emergency brakes to come on, with
• What might happen if the trailer is too • How do you know if your trailer is possible loss of control.
high when you try to couple? equipped with antilock brakes?
Test Trailer Emergency Brakes. Charge the
• You should look into the back of the • Which shut-off valves should be open trailer air brake system and check that the trailer
fifth wheel to see if it is locked onto the and which closed? rolls freely. Then stop and pull out the trailer
kingpin. True or False? air supply control (also called tractor protection
• How can you test that air flows to all
valve control or trailer emergency valve), or
• To drive you need to raise the landing trailers?
place it in the “emergency” position. Pull gently
gear only until it just lifts off the
• How can you test the tractor protection on the trailer with the tractor to check that the
pavement. True or False?
valve? trailer emergency brakes are on.
These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer them all, re-read subsections Test Trailer Service Brakes. Check for normal
6.3, 6.4 and 6.5. air pressure, release the parking brakes, move
the vehicle forward slowly, and apply trailer
brakes with the hand control (trolley valve), if
so equipped. You should feel the brakes come
on. This tells you the trailer brakes are con-
nected and working. (The trailer brakes should
be tested with the hand valve but controlled in
normal operation with the foot pedal, which
applies air to the service brakes at all wheels.)
60
SECTION 7
DOUBLES AND 7.1.4 – Look Far Ahead 7.2.1 – Coupling Twin Trailers
TRIPLES Doubles and triples must be driven very
smoothly to avoid rollover or jackknife. There-
Secure Second (Rear) Trailer. If the second
trailer doesn’t have spring brakes, drive the trac-
fore, look far ahead so you can slow down or tor close to the trailer, connect the emergency
change lanes gradually when necessary. line, charge the trailer air tank, and discon-
This Section Covers nect the emergency line. This will set the trailer
7.1.5 – Manage Space emergency brakes (if the slack adjusters are cor-
Pulling Double/Triple Doubles and triples take up more space than
rectly adjusted). Chock the wheels if you have
any doubt about the brakes.
Trailers........................ 7.1 other commercial vehicles. They are not only
For the safest handling on the road, the more
longer, but also need more space because they
heavily loaded semitrailer should be in first
Coupling and can’t be turned or stopped suddenly. Allow
position behind the tractor. The lighter trailer
more following distance. Make sure you have
Uncoupling .................7.2 large enough gaps before entering or crossing
should be in the rear.
A converter gear on a dolly is a coupling de-
traffic. Be certain you are clear at the sides before
Inspecting Doubles changing lanes.
vice of one or two axles and a fifth wheel by
which a semitrailer can be coupled to the rear of
and Triples..................7.3 a tractor-trailer combination forming a double
7.1.6 – Adverse Conditions
bottom rig. See Figure 7.1.
Checking Be more careful in adverse conditions. In
Position Converter Dolly in Front of Sec-
Air Brakes...................7.4 bad weather, slippery conditions, and moun-
ond (Rear) Trailer. Release dolly brakes by
tain driving, you must be especially careful if
opening the air tank petcock. (Or, if the dolly
you drive double and triple bottoms. You will
has spring brakes, use the dolly parking brake
have greater length and more dead axles to pull
This section has information you need to control.)
with your drive axles than other drivers. There
pass the CDL knowledge test for driving safely If the distance is not too great, wheel the dolly
is more chance for skids and loss of traction.
with double and triple trailers. It tells about how into position by hand so it is in line with the
important it is to be very careful when driv- kingpin.
7.1.7 – Parking the Vehicle
ing with more than one trailer, how to couple Or, use the tractor and first semitrailer to pick
and uncouple correctly, and about inspecting Make sure you do not get in a spot you cannot up the converter dolly:
doubles and triples carefully. (You should also pull straight through. You need to be aware of
• Position combination as close as possible to
study Sections 2, 5, and 6.) how parking lots are arranged in order to avoid
converter dolly.
a long and difficult escape.
• Move dolly to rear of first semitrailer and
7.1.8 – Antilock Braking Systems couple it to the trailer.
on Converter Dollies
• Lock pintle hook.
Converter dollies built on or after March 1,
• Secure dolly support in raised position.
1998, are required to have antilock brakes. These
7.1 – Pulling Double/ dollies will have a yellow lamp on the left side • Pull dolly into position as close as possible
Triple Trailers of the dolly. to nose of the second semitrailer.
• Lower dolly support.
Take special care when pulling two and 7.2 – Coupling and Uncoupling
three trailers. There are more things that can • Unhook dolly from first trailer.
Knowing how to couple and uncouple cor-
go wrong, and doubles/triples are less stable
rectly is basic to safe operation of doubles and • Wheel dolly into position in front of second
than other commercial vehicles. Some areas of
triples. Wrong coupling and uncoupling can trailer in line with the kingpin.
concern are discussed below.
be very dangerous. Coupling and uncoupling
steps for doubles and triples are listed below.
7.1.1 – Prevent Trailer from
Rolling Over
To prevent trailers from rolling over, you
must steer gently and go slowly around corners,
on ramps, off ramps, and curves. A safe speed
on a curve for a straight truck or a single trailer
combination vehicle may be too fast for a set of
doubles or triples.
7.1.2 – Beware of the

Crack-the-whip Effect
Doubles and triples are more likely to turn
over than other combination vehicles because
of the “crack-the-whip” effect. You must steer
gently when pulling trailers. The last trailer
in a combination is most likely to turn over. If
you don’t understand the crack-the-whip effect,
study subsection 6.1.2 of this manual.
7.1.3 – Inspect Completely

There are more critical parts to check when
you have two or three trailers. Check them all.
Follow the procedures described later in this
section. Figure 7.1
61
SECTION 7: DOUBLES AND TRIPLES
Connect Converter Dolly to Front Trailer • Apply converter gear spring brakes or chock » Locking jaws around the shank, not the
wheels. head of kingpin.
• Back first semitrailer into position in front
» Release arm properly seated and safety
of dolly tongue. • Release pintle hook on first semi-trailer.
latch/lock engaged.
• Hook dolly to front trailer. • Slowly pull clear of dolly.
• Check fifth wheel (upper).
• Lock pintle hook. Never unlock the pintle hook with the dolly » Glide plate securely mounted to trailer
still under the rear trailer. The dolly tow bar may frame.
• Secure converter gear support in raised po-
fly up, possibly causing injury, and making it » Kingpin not damaged.
sition.
very difficult to re-couple.
• Air and electric lines to trailer.
Connect Converter Dolly to Rear Trailer
» Electrical cord firmly plugged in and se-
7.2.3 – Coupling and Uncoupling
• Make sure trailer brakes are locked and/or cured.
Triple Trailers
wheels chocked. » Air lines properly connected to glad
Couple Tractor/First Semitrailer to Second/ hands, no air leaks, properly secured with
• Make sure trailer height is correct. (It must
Third Trailers enough slack for turns.
be slightly lower than the center of the fifth
» All lines free from damage.
wheel, so trailer is raised slightly when dolly • Couple tractor to first trailer. Use the method
is pushed under.) already described for coupling tractor-semi- • Sliding fifth wheel.
trailers. » Slide not damaged or parts missing.
• Back converter dolly under rear trailer.
» Properly greased.
• Move converter dolly into position and cou-
• Raise landing gear slightly off ground to » All locking pins present and locked in
ple first trailer to second trailer using the
prevent damage if trailer moves. place.
method for coupling doubles. Triples rig is
» If air powered, no air leaks.
• Test coupling by pulling against pin of the now complete.
» Check that fifth wheel is not so far forward
second semitrailer.
Uncouple Triple-trailer Rig that the tractor frame will hit landing gear,
• Make visual check of coupling. (No space or cab will hit the trailer, during turns.
• Uncouple third trailer by pulling the dolly
between upper and lower fifth wheel. Lock-
out, then unhitching the dolly using the Landing Gear
ing jaws closed on kingpin.)
method for uncoupling doubles.
• Fully raised, no missing parts, not bent or
• Connect safety chains, air hoses, and light
• Uncouple remainder of rig as you would any otherwise damaged.
cords.
double-bottom rig using the method already
• Crank handle in place and secured.
• Close converter dolly air tank petcock and described.
shut-off valves at rear of second trailer (ser- • If power operated, no air or hydraulic leaks.
vice and emergency shut-offs). 7.2.4 – Coupling and Uncoupling
Double and Triple Trailers
Other Combinations
• Open shut-off valves at rear of first trailer
• Shut-off valves (at rear of trailers, in service
(and on dolly if so equipped). The methods described so far apply to the
and emergency lines).
more common tractor-trailer combinations.
• Raise landing gear completely. » Rear of front trailers: OPEN.
However, there are other ways of coupling
» Rear of last trailer: CLOSED.
• Charge trailer brakes (push “air supply” knob and uncoupling the many types of truck-trailer
» Converter dolly air tank drain valve:
in), and check for air at rear of second trailer and tractor-trailer combinations that are in use.
CLOSED.
by opening the emergency line shut-off. If air There are too many to cover in this manual.
pressure isn’t there, something is wrong and You will need to learn the correct way to couple • Be sure air lines are supported and glad
the brakes won’t work. and uncouple the vehicle(s) you will drive ac- hands are properly connected.
cording to the manufacturer and/or owner
• If spare tire is carried on converter gear
7.2.2 – Uncoupling Twin Trailers specifications.
(dolly), make sure it’s secured.
Uncouple Rear Trailer
• Be sure pintle-eye of dolly is in place in pintle
• Park rig in a straight line on firm level
7.3 – Inspecting Doubles hook of trailer(s).
ground.
and Triples
• Make sure pintle hook is latched.
• Apply parking brakes so rig won’t move. Use the seven-step inspection procedure de-
• Safety chains should be secured to trailer(s).
scribed in Section 2 to inspect your combina-
• Chock wheels of second trailer if it doesn’t
tion vehicle. There are more things to inspect • Be sure light cords are firmly in sockets on
have spring brakes.
on a combination vehicle than on a single ve- trailers.
• Lower landing gear of second semitrailer hicle. Many of these items are simply more of
enough to remove some weight from dolly. what you would find on a single vehicle. (For 7.3.2 – Additional Things to Check
example, tires, wheels, lights, reflectors, etc.) During a Walk-around Inspection
• Close air shut-offs at rear of first semitrailer
However, there are also some new things to
(and on dolly if so equipped). Do these checks in addition to subsection 5.3,
check. These are discussed below.
Inspecting Air Brake Systems.
• Disconnect all dolly air and electric lines and
secure them. 7.3.1 – Additional Checks
• Release dolly brakes. Do these checks in addition to those already
7.4 – Doubles/Triples
listed in Section 2, Step 5: Do Walk-around In-
Air Brake Check
• Release converter dolly fifth wheel latch.
spection.
Check the brakes on a double or triple trailer
• Slowly pull tractor, first semitrailer, and dolly
Coupling System Areas as you would any combination vehicle. Sub-
forward to pull dolly out from under rear
section 6.5.2 explains how to check air brakes
semitrailer. • Check fifth wheel (lower).
on combination vehicles. You must also make
» Securely mounted to frame.
Uncouple Converter Dolly the following checks on your double or triple
» No missing or damaged parts.
trailers
• Lower dolly landing gear. » Enough grease.
» No visible space between upper and lower
• Disconnect safety chains.
fifth wheel.

SECTION 7: DOUBLES AND TRIPLES
7.4.1 – Additional Air Brake Checks drain all the air from the tractor. This would Test Trailer Service Brakes. Check for normal
cause the emergency brakes to come on, with air pressure, release the parking brakes, move
Check That Air Flows to All Trailers (Dou-
possible loss of control. the vehicle forward slowly, and apply trailer
ble and Triple Trailers). Use the tractor park-
brakes with the hand control (trolley valve), if
ing brake and/or chock the wheels to hold the Test Trailer Emergency Brakes. Charge the
so equipped. You should feel the brakes come
vehicle. Wait for air pressure to reach normal, trailer air brake system and check that the trailer
on. This tells you the trailer brakes are con-
then push in the red “trailer air supply” knob. rolls freely. Then stop and pull out the trailer
nected and working. (The trailer brakes should
This will supply air to the emergency (supply) air supply control (also called tractor protection
be tested with the hand valve, but controlled in
lines. Use the trailer handbrake to provide air to valve control or trailer emergency valve) or place
normal operation with the foot pedal, which
the service line. Go to the rear of the rig. Open it in the “emergency” position. Pull gently on the
applies air to the service brakes at all wheels.)
the emergency line shut-off valve at the rear of trailer with the tractor to check that the trailer
the last trailer. You should hear air escaping, emergency brakes are on.
showing the entire system is charged. Close
the emergency line valve. Open the service
line valve to check 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
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE
hear air escaping from both lines, check that the
shut-off valves on the trailer(s) and dolly(ies) are Section 7
in the OPEN position. You MUST have air all • What is a converter dolly? • What should you check for when
the way to the back for all the brakes to work. inspecting the converter dolly? The pintle
• Do converter dollies have spring brakes?
Test Tractor Protection Valve. Charge the hook?
trailer air brake system. (That is, build up nor- • What three methods can you use to
• Should the shut-off valves on the rear of
mal air pressure and push the “air supply” secure a second trailer before coupling?
the last trailer be open or closed? On the
knob in.) Shut the engine off. Step on and off • How do you check to make sure trailer first trailer in a set of doubles? On the
the brake pedal several times to reduce the air height is correct before coupling? middle trailer of a set of triples?
pressure in the tanks. The trailer air supply
control (also called the tractor protection valve • What do you check when making a visual • How can you test that air flows to all
control) should pop out (or go from “normal” check of coupling? trailers?
to “emergency” position) when the air pres- • Why should you pull a dolly out from • How do you know if your converter dolly
sure falls into the pressure range specified by under a trailer before you disconnect it is equipped with antilock brakes?
the manufacturer. (Usually within the range from the trailer in front?
of 20 to 45 psi.)
If the tractor protection valve doesn’t work These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer them all, re-read Section 7.
properly, an air hose or trailer brake leak could
63
SECTION 8
TANK VEHICLES 8.1 – Inspecting Tank Vehicles
Tank vehicles have special items that you
need to check. Tank vehicles come in many
This Section Covers types and sizes. You need to check the vehicle’s
operator manual to make sure you know how
Inspecting Tank to inspect your tank vehicle.
Vehicles ...................... 8.1 8.1.1 – Leaks
Driving Tank On all tank vehicles, the most important item
to check for is leaks. Check under and around
Vehicles ..................... 8.2 the vehicle for signs of any leaking. Don’t carry
liquids or gases in a leaking tank. To do so is Figure 8.1
Safe Driving Rules .... 8.3 a crime. You will be cited and prevented from
driving further. You may also be liable for the
8.2.2 – Danger of Surge
clean up of any spill. In general, check the fol-
This section has information needed to pass lowing: Liquid surge results from movement of the
the CDL knowledge test for driving a tank ve- liquid in partially filled tanks. This movement
• Check the tank’s body or shell for dents or
hicle. (You should also study Sections 2, 5, can have bad effects on handling. For example,
leaks.
6, and 9.) A tank endorsement is required for when coming to a stop, the liquid will surge
certain vehicles that transport liquids or gases. • Check the intake, discharge, and cut-off back and forth. When the wave hits the end
The liquid or gas does not have to be a hazard- valves. Make sure the valves are in the cor- of the tank, it tends to push the truck in the
ous material. A tank endorsement is required if rect position before loading, unloading, or direction the wave is moving. If the truck is on a
your vehicle needs a Class A or B CDL and you moving the vehicle. slippery surface such as ice, the wave can shove
want to haul a liquid or liquid gas in tank or tanks a stopped truck out into an intersection. The
• Check pipes, connections, and hoses for
having an individual rated capacity of more than driver of a liquid tanker must be very familiar
leaks, especially around joints.
119 gallons and an aggregate rated capacity of with the handling of the vehicle.
1000 gallons or more that is either permanently • Check manhole covers and vents. Make
or temporarily attached to the vehicle or the sure the covers have gaskets and they close 8.2.3 – Bulkheads
chassis. A tank endorsement is also required correctly. Keep the vents clear so they work
Some liquid tanks are divided into several
for Class C vehicles when the vehicle is used correctly.
smaller tanks by bulkheads. When loading
to transport hazardous materials in liquid or and unloading the smaller tanks, the driver
gas form in the above described rated tanks. 8.1.2 – Check Special Purpose
must pay attention to weight distribution. Don’t
Before loading, unloading, or driving a tanker, Equipment
put too much weight on the front or rear of the
inspect the vehicle. This makes sure that the If your vehicle has any of the following equip- vehicle.
vehicle is safe to carry the liquid or gas and is ment, make sure it works:
safe to drive. 8.2.4 – Baffled Tanks
• Vapor recovery kits.
Baffled liquid tanks have bulkheads in them
• Grounding and bonding cables.
with holes that let the liquid flow through. The
• Emergency shut-off systems. baffles help to control the forward and back-
ward liquid surge. Side-to-side surge can still
• Built in fire extinguisher.
occur. This can cause a roll over.
Never drive a tank vehicle with open valves
or manhole covers. 8.2.5 – Un-baffled Tanks
Un-baffled liquid tankers (sometimes called
8.1.3 – Special Equipment
“smooth bore” tanks) have nothing inside to
Check the emergency equipment required for slow down the flow of the liquid. Therefore,
your vehicle. Find out what equipment you’re forward-and-back surge is very strong. Un-
required to carry and make sure you have it baffled tanks are usually those that transport
(and it works). food products (milk, for example). (Sanitation
regulations forbid the use of baffles because
of the difficulty in cleaning the inside of the
8.2 – Driving Tank Vehicles tank.) Be extremely cautious (slow and careful)
in driving smooth bore tanks, especially when
Hauling liquids in tanks requires special
starting and stopping.
skills because of the high center of gravity and
liquid movement. See Figure 8.1.
8.2.6 – Outage
8.2.1 – High Center of Gravity Never load a cargo tank totally full. Liquids
expand as they warm and you must leave room
High center of gravity means that much of
for the expanding liquid. This is called “out-
the load’s weight is carried high up off the road.
age.” Since different liquids expand by differ-
This makes the vehicle top-heavy and easy to
ent amounts, they require different amounts of
roll over. Liquid tankers are especially easy to
outage. You must know the outage requirement
roll over. Tests have shown that tankers can turn
when hauling liquids in bulk.
over at the speed limits posted for curves. Take
highway curves and on ramp/off ramp curves
8.2.7 – How Much to Load?
well below the posted speeds.
A full tank of dense liquid (such as some
acids) may exceed legal weight limits. For that
reason, you may often only partially fill tanks
Image courtesy ©iStockphoto.com/uniball

SECTION 8: TANK VEHICLES
with heavy liquids. The amount of liquid to load
into a tank depends on:
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE
• The amount the liquid will expand in transit.
Section 8
• The weight of the liquid.
• How are bulkheads different than baffles? • What three things determine how much
• Legal weight limits. liquid you can load?
• Should a tank vehicle take curves, on
ramps, or off ramps at the posted speed • What is outage?
8.3 – Safe Driving Rules limits?
• How can you help control surge?
• How are smooth bore tankers different to
In order to drive tank vehicles safely, you • What two reasons make special care
drive than those with baffles?
must remember to follow all the safe driving necessary when driving tank vehicles?
rules. A few of these rules are:
These questions may be on the test. If you can’t answer them all, re-read Section 8.
8.3.1 – Drive Smoothly
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.
8.3.3 – Curves 8.3.5 – Skids
8.3.2 – Controlling Surge
Slow down before curves, then accelerate Don’t over steer, over accelerate, or over
Keep a steady pressure on the brakes. Do not
slightly through the curve. The posted speed brake. If you do, your vehicle may skid. On tank
release too soon when coming to a stop.
for a curve may be too fast for a tank vehicle. trailers, if your drive wheels or trailer wheels
Brake far in advance of a stop and increase
begin to skid, your vehicle may jackknife. When
your following distance.
8.3.4 – Stopping Distance any vehicle starts to skid, you must take action
If you must make a quick stop to avoid a
to restore traction to the wheels.
crash, use controlled or stab braking. If you do Keep in mind how much space you need to
not remember how to stop using these methods, stop your vehicle. Remember that wet roads dou-
review subsection 2.17.2. Also, remember that if ble the normal stopping distance. Empty tank
you steer quickly while braking, your vehicle vehicles may take longer to stop than full ones.
may roll over.
IMPORTANT NOTICE!!
Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) Effective February 7, 2022

FMCSA’s Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) regulations set the baseline for training requirements for entry-level drivers. This
includes those applying to:
• Obtain a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time;
• Upgrade an existing Class B CDL to a Class A CDL; or
• Obtain a school bus (S), passenger (P), or hazardous materials (H) endorsement for the first time.
The ELDT regulations are not retroactive; the entry-level driver training requirements do not apply to individuals holding a valid CDL
or an S, P, or H endorsement issued prior to February 7, 2022.
If an applicant who obtains a CLP prior to February 7, 2022, obtains a CDL before the CLP or renewed CLP expires, the applicant is
not subject to the ELDT requirements.
For more information about the ELDT regulations and the Training Provider registry, visit https://tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov.
65
SECTION 9
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 9.1 – The Intent of the
Regulations
9.1.1 – Contain the Material

This Section Covers
Transporting hazardous materials can be
The Intent of the Driving and risky. The regulations are intended to protect
you, those around you, and the environment.
Regulations ................ 9.1 Parking Rules .............9.4 They tell shippers how to package the materials
safely and drivers how to load, transport, and
Bulk Tank Loading, Communications unload the material. These are called “contain-
Unloading and Rules...........................9.5 ment rules.”
Marking ..................... 9.2 Emergencies ..............9.6 9.1.2 – Communicate the Risk

Driver To communicate the risk, shippers must warn
Loading and drivers and others about the material’s hazards.
Responsibilities..........9.3 Unloading ...................9.4 The regulations require shippers to put hazard
warning labels on packages, provide proper
shipping papers, emergency response informa-
tion, and placards. These steps communicate the
Hazardous materials are products that pose a risk to health, safety, and property during hazard to the shipper, the carrier, and the driver.
transportation. The term often is shortened to HAZMAT, which you may see on road signs, or to
HM in government regulations. Hazardous materials include explosives, various types of gas, 9.1.3 – Assure Safe Drivers
solids, flammable and combustible liquid, and other materials. Because of the risks involved and and Equipment
the potential consequences these risks impose, all levels of government regulate the handling In order to get a hazardous materials en-
of hazardous materials. dorsement on a CDL, you must pass a written
The Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) is found in parts 100 - 185 of title 49 of the Code test about transporting hazardous materials. To
of Federal Regulations. The common reference for these regulations is 49 CFR 100 - 185 pass the test, you must know how to:
The Hazardous Materials Table in the regulations contains a list of these items. However,
this list is not all-inclusive. Whether or not a material is considered hazardous is based on its • Identify what are hazardous materials.
characteristics and the shipper’s decision on whether or not the material meets a definition of a • Safely load shipments.
hazardous material in the regulations.
The regulations require vehicles transporting certain types or quantities of hazardous materials • Properly placard your vehicle in accordance
to display diamond-shaped, square on point, warning signs called placards. with the rules.
This section is designed to assist you in understanding your role and responsibilities in haul- • Safely transport shipments.
ing hazardous materials. Due to the constantly changing nature of government regulations, it
is impossible to guarantee absolute accuracy of the materials in this section. An up-to-date Learn the rules and follow them. Following
copy of the complete regulations is essential for you to have. Included in these regulations is a the rules reduces the risk of injury from haz-
complete glossary of terms. ardous materials. Taking shortcuts by breaking
You must have a commercial driver license (CDL) with a hazardous materials endorsement rules is unsafe. Non-compliance with regula-
before you drive any size vehicle that is used to transport hazardous material as defined in 49 tions can result in fines and jail.
CFR 383.5. You must pass a written test about the regulations and requirements to get this Inspect your vehicle before and during each
endorsement. trip. Law enforcement officers may stop and
Everything you need to know to pass the written test is in this section. However, this is only inspect your vehicle. When stopped, they may
a beginning. Most drivers need to know much more on the job. You can learn more by reading check your shipping papers, vehicle placards,
and understanding the federal and state rules applicable to hazardous materials, as well as, and the hazardous materials endorsement on
attending hazardous materials training courses. Your employer, colleges and universities, and your driver license, and your knowledge of haz-
various associations usually offer these courses. You can get copies of the Federal Regulations ardous materials.
(49 CFR) through your local Government Printing Office bookstore and various industry publish-
ers. Union or company offices often have copies of the rules for driver use. Find out where you 9.2 – Hazardous Materials
can get your own copy to use on the job. Transportation—
The regulations require training and testing for all drivers involved in transporting hazardous Who Does What
materials. Your employer or a designated representative is required to provide this training and
testing. Hazardous materials employers are required to keep a record of training for each em-
ployee as long as that employee is working with hazardous materials, and for 90 days thereafter. 9.2.1 – The Shipper
The regulations require that hazardous materials employees be trained and tested at least once • Sends products from one place to another by
every three years. truck, rail, vessel, or airplane.
All drivers must be trained in the security risks of hazardous materials transportation. This
training must include how to recognize and respond to possible security threats. • Uses the hazardous materials regulations to
The regulations also require that drivers have special training before driving a vehicle transport- determine the product’s:
ing certain flammable gas materials or highway route controlled quantities of radioactive materials. • Identification number.
In addition, drivers transporting cargo tanks and portable tanks must receive specialized train-
ing. Each driver’s employer or his or her designated representative must provide such training. • Proper shipping name.
Some locations require permits to transport certain explosives or bulk hazardous wastes. • Hazard class.
States and counties also may require drivers to follow special hazardous materials routes. The
federal government may require permits or exemptions for special hazardous materials cargo such • Packing group.
as rocket fuel. Find out about permits, exemptions, and special routes for the places you drive. • Correct packaging.
• Correct label and markings.
• Correct placards.

SECTION 9: HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
• Must package, mark, and label the materials;
prepare shipping papers; provide emergency
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS CLASS
response information; and supply placards. Class Division Name of Class or Division Examples
• Certify on the shipping paper that the ship- 1.1 Mass Explosion Dynamite
ment has been prepared according to the
1.2 Projection Hazard Flares
rules (unless you are pulling cargo tanks
supplied by you or your employer). 1.3 Fire Hazard Display Fireworks
1
9.2.2 – The Carrier 1.4 Minor Explosion Ammunition
• Takes the shipment from the shipper to its 1.5 Very Insensitive Blasting Agents
destination. 1.6 Extremely Insensitive Explosive Devices
• Prior to transportation, checks that the ship- 2.1 Flammable Gases Propane
per correctly described, marked, labeled, and
otherwise prepared the shipment for trans- 2 2.2 Non-Flammable Gases Helium
portation. 2.3 Poisonous/Toxic Gases Fluorine, Compressed
• Refuses improper shipments. 3 - Flammable Liquids Gasoline
• Reports accidents and incidents involving 4.1 Flammable Solids Ammonium Picrate, Wetted
hazardous materials to the proper govern-
ment agency. 4 4.2 Spontaneously Combustible White Phosphorus
4.3 Dangerous When Wet Sodium
9.2.3 – The Driver
5.1 Oxidizers Ammonium Nitrate
• Makes sure the shipper has identified, 5
marked, and labeled the hazardous materi- 5.2 Organic Peroxides Methyl Ethyl Ketone Peroxide
als properly. 6.1 Poison (Toxic Material) Potassium Cyanide
• Refuses leaking packages and shipments. 6
6.2 Infectious Substances Anthrax Virus
• Placards vehicle when loading, if required. 7 - Radioactive Uranium
• Safely transports the shipment without delay. 8 - Corrosives Battery Fluid
• Follows all special rules about transporting
Miscellaneous Hazardous Ma-
hazardous materials. 9 - Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCB)
terials
• Keeps hazardous materials shipping papers
ORM-D (Other Regulated Mate-
and emergency response information in the e - Food Flavorings, Medicines
rial-Domestic)
proper place.
- Combustible Liquids Fuel Oil
9.3 – Communication Rules Figure 9.1
9.3.1 – Definitions
• Carriers and drivers to quickly identify haz- the outside of a vehicle and on bulk packages,
Some words and phrases have special mean- ardous materials shipping papers, or keep which identify the hazard class of the cargo. A
ings when talking about hazardous materials. them on top of other shipping papers and placarded vehicle must have at least four identi-
Some of these may differ from meanings you keep the required emergency response in- cal placards. They are put on the front, rear, and
are used to. The words and phrases in this sec- formation with the shipping papers. both sides of the vehicle. See Figure 9.3. Plac-
tion may be on your test. The meanings of other ards must be readable from all four directions.
• Drivers to keep hazardous materials ship-
important words are in the glossary at the end They are at least 10 3/4 inches square, square-
ping papers:
of Section 9.
» In a pouch on the driver’s door, or
A material’s hazard class reflects the risks as-
» In clear view within immediate reach
sociated with it. There are nine different hazard
while the seat belt is fastened while driv-
classes. The types of materials included in these
ing, or
nine classes are in Figure 9.1.
» On the driver’s seat when out of the ve-
A shipping paper describes the hazardous ma-
hicle.
terials being transported. Shipping orders, bills
of lading, and manifests are all shipping papers.
9.3.2 – Package Labels
Figure 9.6 shows an example shipping paper.
After an accident or hazardous materials Shippers put diamond-shaped hazard warn-
spill or leak, you may be injured and unable to ing labels on most hazardous materials pack-
communicate the hazards of the materials you ages. These labels inform others of the hazard.
are transporting. Firefighters and police can If the diamond label won’t fit on the package,
prevent or reduce the amount of damage or shippers may put the label on a tag securely at-
injury at the scene if they know what hazardous tached to the package. For example, compressed
materials are being carried. Your life, and the gas cylinders that will not hold a label will have
lives of others, may depend on quickly locating tags or decals. Labels look like the examples
the hazardous materials shipping papers. For in Figure 9.2
that reason the rules require:
9.3.3 – Lists of Regulated Products
• Shippers to describe hazardous materials
correctly and include an emergency response Placards. Placards are used to warn others of
Examples of HAZMAT Labels
telephone number on shipping papers. hazardous materials. Placards are signs put on
Figure 9.2
67
class or division, identification number, packag- • Amount of all hazardous materials of all
ing group, and required labels. classes on your vehicle.
Six different symbols may appear in Column
Column 4 lists the identification number for
1 of the table.
each proper shipping name. Identification num-
(+) – Shows the proper shipping name, haz- bers are preceded by the letters “UN” or “NA.”
ard class, and packing group to use, The letters “NA” are associated with proper
even if the material doesn’t meet the shipping names that are only used within the
hazard class definition. United States and to and from Canada. The
identification number must appear on the ship-
(A) – Means the hazardous material de-
ping paper as part of the shipping description
scribed in Column 2 is subject to the
and also appear on the package. It also must
HMR only when offered or intended
appear on cargo tanks and other bulk packag-
for transport by air unless it is a haz-
ing. Police and firefighters use this number to
ardous substance or hazardous waste.
quickly identify the hazardous materials.
(W) – Means the hazardous material de- Column 5 shows the packing group (in Ro-
scribed in Column 2 is subject to the man numeral) assigned to a material.
HMR only when offered or intended Column 6 shows the hazard warning label(s)
Examples of HAZMAT Placards for transportation by water unless it shippers must put on packages of hazardous
Figure 9.3 is a hazardous substance, hazardous materials. Some products require use of more
waste, or marine pollutant. than one label due to a dual hazard being
present.
(D) – Means the proper shipping name is
on-point, in a diamond shape. Cargo tanks and Column 7 lists the additional (special) provi-
appropriate for describing materials
other bulk packaging display the identification sions that apply to this material. When there is
for domestic transportation, but may
number of their contents on placards or orange an entry in this column, you must refer to the
not be proper for international trans-
panels or white square-on-point displays that federal regulations for specific information. The
portation.
are the same size as placards. numbers 1-6 in this column mean the hazardous
Identification numbers are a four-digit code (I) – Identifies a proper shipping name that material is a poison inhalation hazard (PIH).
used by first responders to identify hazardous is used to describe materials in inter- PIH materials have special requirements for
materials. An identification number may be national transportation. A different shipping papers, marking, and placards.
used to identify more than one chemical. The shipping name may be used when only Column 8 is a three-part column showing
letters “NA or “UN” will precede the identifica- domestic transportation is involved. the section numbers covering the packaging
tion number. The United States Department of requirements for each hazardous material.
(G) – Means this hazardous material de-
Transportation’s Emergency Response Guide- NOTE: Columns 9 and 10 do not apply to
scribed in Column 2 is a generic ship-
book (ERG) lists the chemicals and the identi- transportation by highway.
ping name. A generic shipping name
fication numbers assigned to them.
must be accompanied by a technical Appendix A to 49 CFR 172.101 - The List
There are three main lists used by shippers,
name on the shipping paper. A tech- of Hazardous Substances and Reportable
carriers, and drivers when trying to identify
nical name is a specific chemical that Quantities. The DOT and the EPA want to
hazardous materials. Before transporting a
makes the product hazardous know about spills of hazardous substances.
material, look for its name on three lists. Some
They are named in the List of Hazardous Sub-
materials are on all lists, others on only one. Column 2 lists the proper shipping names
stances and Reportable Quantities. See Figure
Always check the following lists: and descriptions of regulated materials. En-
9.5. Column 3 of the list shows each product’s
tries are in alphabetical order so you can more
• Section 172.101, the Hazardous Materials reportable quantity (RQ). When these materials
quickly find the right entry. The table shows
Table. are being transported in a reportable quantity or
proper shipping names in regular type. The
greater in one package, the shipper displays the
• Appendix A to Section 172.101, the List of shipping paper must show proper shipping
letters RQ on the shipping paper and package.
Hazardous Substances and Reportable Quan- names. Names shown in italics are not proper
The letters RQ may appear before or after the
tities. shipping names.
basic description. You or your employer must
Column 3 shows a material’s hazard class or
• Appendix B to Section 172.101, the List of report any spill of these materials, which occurs
division, or the entry “Forbidden.” Never trans-
Marine Pollutants. in a reportable quantity.
port a “Forbidden” material. Placard hazardous
If the words INHALATION HAZARD ap-
The Hazardous Materials Table. Figure 9.4 materials shipments based on the quantity and
pear on the shipping paper or package, the rules
shows part of the Hazardous Materials Table. hazard class. You can decide which placards to
require display of the POISON INHALATION
Column 1 tells which shipping mode(s) the en- use if you know these three things:
HAZARD or POISON GAS placards, as appro-
try affects and other information concerning
• Material’s hazard class. priate. These placards must be used in addi-
the shipping description. The next five columns
tion to other placards, which may be required
show each material’s shipping name, hazard • Amount being shipped.
49 CFR 172.101 HAZARDOUS MATERIALS TABLE

Hazardous Packaging (173. ***)
Materials
Hazard Identifica- Special
Description Label
Symbols Class or tion Num- PG Provisions
& Proper Codes Exceptions Non Bulk Bulk
Division bers (172.102)
Shipping
Names
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8A) (8B) (8C)
Acetalde-
A hyde am- 9 UN1841 III 9 IB8, IP6 155 204 240
monia
Figure 9.4

APPENDIX A TO 49 CFR 172 9.3.5 – The Item Description
If a shipping paper describes both hazardous
LIST OF HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES AND and non-hazardous products, the hazardous
REPORTABLE QUANTITIES materials will be either:
Reportable Quantity (RQ) Pounds (Kilo- • Entered first.

Hazardous Substances
grams) • Highlighted in a contrasting color.
Phenyl mercaptan @ 100 (45.4) • Identified by an “X” placed before the ship-
Phenylmercury acetate 100 (45.4) ping description (ID#, Shipping Name,
Hazard Class, Packing Group) in a column
N-Phenylthiourea 100 (45.4) captioned “HM.” The letters “RQ” may be
Phorate 10 (4.54) used instead of “X” if a reportable quantity
is present in one package.
Phosgene 10 (4.54)
The basic description of hazardous materi-
Phosphine 100 (45.4) * als includes the identification number, proper
shipping name, hazard class or division, and the
Phosphoric acid 5,000 (2270)
packing group, if any, in that order. The packing
Phosphoric acid, diethyl group is displayed in Roman numerals and may
100 (45.4)
4-nitrophenyl ester be preceded by “PG.”
Shipping name, hazard class, and identifica-
Phosphoric acid, lead salt 10 (.454)
tion number must not be abbreviated unless
* Spills of 10 pounds or more must be reported. specifically authorized in the hazardous materi-
als regulations. The description must also show:
Figure 9.5
• The total quantity and unit of measure.
• The letters RQ, if a reportable quantity.
by the product’s hazard class. Always display shipping papers near the description of the
• If the letters RQ appear, the name of the
the hazard class placard and the POISON IN- material: “Marine Pollutant.”
hazardous substance (if not included in the
HALATION HAZARD placard, even for small
shipping name).
amounts. 9.3.4 – The Shipping Paper
• The number and type of packages (example:
Appendix B to 49 CFR 172.101 – List of The shipping paper shown in Figure 9.6 de-
“6 Drums”)
Marine Pollutants. Appendix B is a listing scribes a shipment. A shipping paper for haz-
of chemicals that are toxic to marine life. For ardous materials must include: • For all materials with the letter “G” (Generic)
highway transportation, this list is only used in Column 1, the technical name of the haz-
• Page numbers if the shipping paper has more
for chemicals in a container with a capacity of ardous material.
than one page. The first page must tell the total
119 gallons or more without a placard or label
number of pages. For example, “Page 1 of 4.” Shipping papers also must list an emergency
as specified by the HMR.
response telephone number. The emergency
Any bulk packages of a Marine Pollutant • A proper shipping description for each haz-
response telephone number is the responsibil-
must display the Marine Pollutant marking ardous material.
ity of the shipper. It can be used by emergency
(white triangle with a fish and an “X” through
• A shipper’s certification, signed by the ship- responders to obtain information about any
the fish). This marking (it is not a placard) must
per, saying they prepared the shipment ac- hazardous materials involved in a spill or fire.
also be displayed on the outside of the vehicle.
cording to the regulations. The telephone number must be:
In addition, a notation must be made on the
SHIPPING PAPER
ABC Corporation DEF Corporation
TO: 88 Valley Street FROM: 55 Mountain Street Page 1 of 1
Anywhere, VA Nowhere, CO
Quantity HM Description Weight

UN1076, Phosgene, 2.3
Poison, Inhalation Hazard, Zone A (UN1076 is the Identification
RQ
Number from Column 4 of the Hazardous materials Table.)
1 cylinder (“RQ” means that this is 25 lbs
(Phosgene is the proper shipping name from Column 2 of the
a reportable quantity.)
Hazardous Materials Table.) (2.3 is the Hazard Class from Col-
umn 3 of the Hazardous Materials Table.)
This is to certify that the above named materials are properly classified, described, packaged marked and labeled, and are in proper condition
for transportation according to the applicable regulations of the United States Department of Transportation.
Shipper: DEF Corporation Carrier: Safety First
Per: Smith Per:
Date: October 15, 2003 Date:
Special Instructions: 24 hour Emergency Contact, John Smith 1-800-555-5555
Figure 9.6
69
PLACARD TABLE 1 book (ERG). Motor carriers may assist shippers
by keeping an ERG on each vehicle carrying
ANY AMOUNT hazardous materials. The driver must provide
If your vehicle contains any amount of…… Placard as… the emergency response information to any
federal, state, or local authority responding to
1.1 Mass Explosives Explosives 1.1
a hazardous materials incident or investigat-
1.2 Project Hazards Explosives 1.2 ing one.
Total quantity and number & type of pack-
1.3 Mass Fire Hazards Explosives 1.3
ages must appear before or after the basic de-
2.3 Poisonous/Toxic Gases Poison Gas scription. The packaging type and the unit of
measurement may be abbreviated. For example:
4.3 Dangerous When Wet Dangerous When Wet
• 10 ctns. UN1263, Paint, 3, PG ll, 500 lbs.
5.2 (Organic Peroxide, Type B, liquid or solid,
Organic Peroxide The shipper of hazardous wastes must put
Temperature controlled)
the word WASTE before the proper shipping
6.1 (Inhalation hazard zone A & B only) Poison/toxic inhalation name of the material on the shipping paper
7 (Radioactive Yellow III label only) Radioactive (hazardous waste manifest). For example:
• UN1090, Waste Acetone, 3, PG ll.
Figure 9.7
A non-hazardous material may not be de-
scribed by using a hazard class or an identifica-
• The number of the person offering the haz- hazardous material being shipped. The emer- tion number. Shippers must keep a copy of ship-
ardous material for transportation (if the gency response information must be able to be ping papers (or an electronic image) for a period
shipper/offer is the emergency response used away from the motor vehicle and must of 2 years (3 years for hazardous waste) after
information (ERI) provider); or provide information on how to safely handle the material is accepted by the initial carrier.
incidents involving the material. It must include
• The number of an agency or organization ca- If one provides a carrier service only and is
information on the shipping name of the haz-
pable of, and accepting responsibility for, pro- not the originator of the shipment, a carrier is
ardous materials, risks to health, fire, explosion,
viding the detailed information. The person required to keep a copy of the shipping paper
and initial methods of handling spills, fires, and
who is registered with the ERI provider must (or electronic image) for a period of 1 year.
leaks of the materials.
be identified by name, or contract number or
Such information can be on the shipping
other unique identified assigned by the ERI 9.3.6 – Shipper’s Certification
paper or some other document that includes
provider, on the shipping paper.
the basic description and technical name of the When the shipper packages hazardous ma-
Shippers also must provide emergency re- hazardous material. Or, it may be in a guidance terials, he/she certifies that the package has
sponse information to the motor carrier for each book such as the Emergency Response Guide- been prepared according to the rules. The
signed shipper’s certification appears on the
original shipping paper. The only exceptions
are when a shipper is a private carrier trans-
PLACARD TABLE 2 porting their own product and when the pack-
1,001 POUNDS OR MORE age is provided by the carrier (for example, a
Category of Material (Hazard class or division num- cargo tank). Unless a package is clearly unsafe
Placard Name or does not comply with the HMR, you may
ber and additional description, as appropriate)
accept the shipper’s certification concerning
1.4 Minor Explosion Explosives 1.4 proper packaging. Some carriers have addi-
tional rules about transporting hazardous
1.5 Very Insensitive Explosives 1.5
materials. Follow your employer’s rules when
1.6 Extremely Insensitive Explosives 1.6 accepting shipments.
2.1 Flammable Gases Flammable Gas
9.3.7 – Package Markings and Labels
2.2 Non- Flammable Gases Non-Flammable Gas.
Shippers print required markings directly
3 Flammable Liquids Flammable on the package, an attached label, or tag. An
important package marking is the name of the
Combustible Liquid Combustible* hazardous material. It is the same name as the
4.1 Flammable Solids Flammable Solid one on the shipping paper. The requirements
for marking vary by package size and material
4.2 Spontaneously Combustible Spontaneously Combustible being transported. When required, the shipper
5.1 Oxidizers Oxidizer will put the following on the package:
5.2 (other than organic peroxide, Type B, liquid or solid, • The name and address of shipper or con-
Organic Peroxide signee.
Temperature Controlled)
6.1 (other than inhalation hazard zone A or B) Poison • The hazardous material’s shipping name and
identification number.
6.2 Infectious Substances (None)
• The labels required.
8 Corrosives Corrosive
It is a good idea to compare the shipping pa-
9 Miscellaneous Hazardous Materials Class 9** per to the markings and labels. Always make
ORM-D (None) sure that the shipper shows the correct basic
description on the shipping paper, and verifies
* FLAMMABLE may be used in place of a COMBUSTIBLE on a cargo tank or portable tank. that the proper labels are shown on the pack-
** Class 9 Placard is not required for domestic transportation. ages. If you are not familiar with the material,
ask the shipper to contact your office.
Figure 9.8

If rules require it, the shipper will put RQ,
MARINE POLLUTANT, BIOHAZARD, HOT,
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE
or INHALATION-HAZARD on the package.
Packages with liquid containers inside will also Subsections 9.1, 9.2 and 9.3
have package orientation markings with the ar-
• Shippers package in order to (fill in the • A hazardous materials identification
rows pointing in the correct upright direction.
blank) the material. number must appear on the (fill in the
The labels used always reflect the hazard class
blank) and on the (fill in the blank). The
of the product. If a package needs more than one • Driver placard their vehicle to (fill in the
identification number must also appear
label, the labels must be close together, near the blank) the risk.
on cargo tanks and other bulk packaging.
proper shipping name.
• What three things do you need to know to
• Where must you keep shipping papers
decide which placards (if any) you need?
9.3.8 – Recognizing Hazardous describing hazardous materials?
Materials These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer them all, re-read subsections
Learn to recognize shipments of hazardous 9.1, 9.2 and 9.3.
materials. To find out if the shipment includes
hazardous materials, look at the shipping paper.
Does it have:
• An entry with a proper shipping name, haz-
• Easily seen from the direction it faces. hazardous material. Certain bulk packages only
ard class, and identification number?
have to be placarded on the two opposite sides
• Placed so the words or numbers are level and
• A highlighted entry, or one with an X or RQ or may display labels. All other bulk packages
read from left to right.
in the hazardous materials column? must be placarded on all four sides.
• At least three inches away from any other
Other clues suggesting hazardous materials:
markings.
• What business is the shipper in? Paint dealer?
9.4 – Loading and Unloading
• Kept clear of attachments or devices such as
Chemical supply? Scientific supply house?
ladders, doors, and tarpaulins. Do all you can to protect containers of haz-
Pest control or agricultural supplier? Explo-
ardous materials. Don’t use any tools, which
sives, munitions, or fireworks dealer? • Kept clean and undamaged so that the color,
might damage containers or other packaging
format, and message are easily seen.
• Are there tanks with diamond labels or plac- during loading. Don’t use hooks.
ards on the premises? • Be affixed to a background of contrasting
color. 9.4.1 – General Loading
• What type of package is being shipped? Cyl-
Requirements
inders and drums are often used for hazard- • The use of “Drive Safely” and other slogans
ous materials shipments. is prohibited. Before loading or unloading, set the parking
brake. Make sure the vehicle will not move.
• Is a hazard class label, proper shipping name, • The front placard may be on the front of the
Many products become more hazardous
or identification number on the package? tractor or the front of the trailer.
when exposed to heat. Load hazardous mate-
• Are there any handling precautions? To decide which placards to use, you need rials away from heat sources.
to know: Watch for signs of leaking or damaged
(IMPORTANT NOTE: To view complete
containers: LEAKS SPELL TROUBLE! Do not
regulatory requirements for the transporta- • The hazard class of the materials.
transport leaking packages. Depending on the
tion of hazardous materials one should refer
• The amount of hazardous materials shipped. material, you, your truck, and others could be
to the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 49,
in danger. It is illegal to move a vehicle with
Parts 100-185.) • The total weight of all classes of hazardous
leaking hazardous materials.
materials in your vehicle.
9.3.9 – Hazardous Waste Manifest Containers of hazardous materials must be
9.3.11 – Placard Tables braced to prevent movement of the packages
When transporting hazardous wastes, you
during transportation.
must sign by hand and carry a Uniform Haz- There are two placard tables, Table 1 and Table
ardous Waste Manifest. The name and EPA 2. Table 1 materials must be placarded whenever No Smoking. When loading or unloading
registration number of the shippers, carriers, any amount is transported. See Figure 9.7. hazardous materials, keep fire away. Don’t let
and destination must appear on the manifest. Except for bulk packaging, the hazard classes people smoke nearby. Never smoke around:
Shippers must prepare, date, and sign by hand in Table 2 need placards only if the total amount
• Class 1 (Explosives)
the manifest. Treat the manifest as a shipping transported is 1,001 pounds or more including
paper when transporting the waste. Only give the package. Add the amounts from all shipping • Class 2.1 (Flammable Gas )
the waste shipment to another registered car- papers for all the Table 2 products you have on
• Class 3 (Flammable Liquids)
rier or disposal/treatment facility. Each carrier board. See Figure 9.8.
transporting the shipment must sign by hand the Placards used to identify the primary or sub- • Class 4 (Flammable Solids)
manifest. After you deliver the shipment, keep sidiary hazard class of a material must have the
• Class 5 (Oxidizers)
your copy of the manifest. Each copy must have hazard class or division number displayed in
all needed signatures and dates, including those the lower corner of the placard. Permanently Secure Against Movement. Brace containers
of the person to whom you delivered the waste. affixed subsidiary hazard placards without the so they will not fall, slide, or bounce around
hazard class number may be used as long as during transportation. Be very careful when
9.3.10 – Placarding they stay within color specifications. loading containers that have valves or other
Placards may be displayed for hazardous fittings. All hazardous materials packages must
Attach the appropriate placards to the ve-
materials even if not required so long as the be secured during transportation.
hicle before you drive it. You are only allowed
placard identifies the hazard of the material After loading, do not open any package dur-
to move an improperly placarded vehicle dur-
being transported. ing your trip. Never transfer hazardous materi-
ing an emergency, in order to protect life or
Bulk packaging is a single container with a als from one package to another while in transit.
property.
capacity of 119 gallons or more. A bulk package, You may empty a cargo tank, but do not empty
Placards must appear on both sides and both
and a vehicle transporting a bulk package, must any other package while it is on the vehicle.
ends of the vehicle. Each placard must be:
be placarded, even if it only has the residue of a
71
Do not transfer a Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3 from
DO NOT LOAD TABLE one vehicle to another on a public roadway
Do Not Load In The Same Vehicle With except in an emergency. If safety requires an
emergency transfer, set out red warning reflec-
Animal or human food unless the poison
tors, flags, or electric lanterns. You must warn
package is over packed in an approved way.
Division 6.1 or 2.3 (POISON or poison inhala- others on the road.
Foodstuffs are anything you swallow. Howev-
tion hazard labeled material). Never transport damaged packages of ex-
er, mouthwash, toothpaste, and skin creams
plosives. Do not take a package that shows any
are not foodstuff.
dampness or oily stain.
Division 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 Explosives, Division 5.1 Do not transport Division 1.1 or 1.2 in vehicle
(Oxidizers), Class 3 (Flammable Liquids), Class combinations if:
Division 2.3 (Poisonous) gas Zone A or Divi- 8 (Corrosive Liquids), Division 5.2 (Organic
• There is a marked or placarded cargo tank
sion 6.1 (Poison) liquids, PGI, Zone A. Peroxides), Division 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 Explosives, Di-
in the combination.
vision 1.5 (Blasting Agents), Division 2.1 (Flam-
mable Gases), Class 4 (Flammable Solids). • The other vehicle in the combination con-
tains:
Charged storage batteries. Division 1.1.
» Division 1.1 A (Initiating Explosives).
Any other explosives unless in authorized » Packages of Class 7 (Radioactive) materials
Class 1 (Detonating primers). labeled “Yellow III.”
containers or packages.
» Division 2.3 (Poisonous Gas) or Division
Acids, corrosive materials, or other acidic 6.1 (Poisonous) materials.
materials which could release hydrocyanic » Hazardous materials in a portable tank, on
Division 6.1 (Cyanides or cyanide mixtures). acid. a DOT Spec 106A or 110A tank.
For Example: Cyanides, Inorganic, n.o.s., Sil-
ver Cyanide, Sodium Cyanide. Class 4 (Flammable Solids) and Class 5
(Oxidizers) Materials. Class 4 materials are
Other materials unless the nitric acid is not solids that react (including fire and explosion) to
Nitric acid (Class 8).
loaded above any other material. water, heat, and air or even react spontaneously.
Class 4 and 5 materials must be completely
Figure 9.9 enclosed in a vehicle or covered securely. Class
4 and 5 materials, which become unstable and
Cargo Heater Rules. There are special cargo • Covered with a fire and water resistant tarp. dangerous when wet, must be kept dry while
heater rules for loading: in transit and during loading and unloading.
Precautions for Specific Hazards
Materials that are subject to spontaneous com-
Class 1 (Explosives) Materials. Turn your bustion or heating must be in vehicles with suf-
• Class 2.1 (Flammable Gas ) engine off before loading or unloading any ex- ficient ventilation.
plosives. Then check the cargo space. You must:
• Class 3 (Flammable Liquids) Class 8 (Corrosive) Materials. If loading by
• Disable cargo heaters. Disconnect heater hand, load breakable containers of corrosive liq-
The rules usually forbid use of cargo heat-
power sources and drain heater fuel tanks. uid one by one. Keep them right side up. Do not
ers, including automatic cargo heater/air condi-
drop or roll the containers. Load them onto an
tioner units. Unless you have read all the related • Make sure there are no sharp points that
even floor surface. Stack carboys only if the lower
rules, don’t load the above products in a cargo might damage cargo. Look for bolts, screws,
tiers can bear the weight of the upper tiers safely.
space that has a heater. nails, broken side panels, and broken floor-
Do not load nitric acid above any other product.
boards.
Use Closed Cargo Space. You cannot have Load charged storage batteries so their liquid
overhang or tailgate loads of: • Use a floor lining with Division 1.1, 1.2, or won’t spill. Keep them right side up. Make sure
1.3. The floors must be tight and the liner other cargo won’t fall against or short circuit
must be either non-metallic material or non- them.
• Class 4 (Flammable Solids) ferrous metal. Never load corrosive liquids next to or above:
• Class 5 (Oxidizers) Use extra care to protect explosives. Never • Division 1.4 (Explosives C).
use hooks or other metal tools. Never drop,
You must load these hazardous materials into • Division 4.1 (Flammable Solids).
throw, or roll packages. Protect explosive pack-
a closed cargo space unless all packages are:
ages from other cargo that might cause damage. • Division 4.3 (Dangerous When Wet).
• Fire and water resistant.
• Class 5 (Oxidizers).
• Division 2.3, Zone B (Poisonous Gases).
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE Never load corrosive liquids with:

• Division 1.1 or 1.2.
Subsections 9.4 • Division 1.2 or 1.3.
• Around which hazard classes must you • At the shipper’s dock you’re given a • Division 1.5 (Blasting Agents).
never smoke? paper for 100 cartons of battery acid. You
• Division 2.3, Zone A (Poisonous Gases).
already have 100 pounds of dry Silver
• Which three hazard classes should not
Cyanide on board. What precautions do • Division 4.2 (Spontaneously Combustible
be loaded into a trailer that has a heater/
you have to take? Materials).
air conditioner unit?
• Name a hazard class that uses transport • Division 6.1, PGI, Zone A (Poison Liquids).
• Should the floor liner required for Division
indexes to determine the amount that can
1.1 or 1.2 materials be stainless steel? Class 2 (Compressed Gases) Including
be loaded in a single vehicle.
Cryogenic Liquids. If your vehicle doesn’t
These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer them all, re-read subsection 9.4. have racks to hold cylinders, the cargo space
floor must be flat. The cylinders must be:

• Held upright. are required. Specification cargo tanks must ing the filling hole, and maintain the ground
show re-test date markings. until after closing the filling hole.
• In racks attached to the vehicle or in boxes
Portable tanks must also show the lessee
that will keep them from turning over.
or owner’s name. They must also display the 9.5.4 – Compressed Gas
Cylinders may be loaded in a horizontal posi- shipping name of the contents on two opposing
Keep liquid discharge valves on a com-
tion (lying down) if it is designed so the relief sides. The letters of the shipping name must
pressed gas tank closed except when load-
valve is in the vapor space. be at least two inches tall on portable tanks
ing and unloading. Unless your engine runs
with capacities of more than 1,000 gallons and
Division 2.3 (Poisonous Gas) or Division a pump for product transfer, turn it off when
one-inch tall on portable tanks with capacities
6.1 (Poisonous) Materials. Never transport loading or unloading. If you use the engine,
of less than 1,000 gallons. The identification
these materials in containers with interconnec- turn it off after product transfer, before you
number must appear on each side and each
tions. Never load a package labeled POISON unhook the hose. Unhook all loading/unload-
end of a portable tank or other bulk packag-
or POISON INHALATION HAZARD in the ing connections before coupling, uncoupling, or
ing that hold 1,000 gallons or more and on two
driver’s cab or sleeper or with food material moving a cargo tank. Always chock trailers and
opposing sides, if the portable tank holds less
for human or animal consumption. There are semi-trailers to prevent motion when uncoupled
than 1,000 gallons. The identification numbers
special rules for loading and unloading Class 2 from the power unit.
must still be visible when the portable tank is
materials in cargo tanks. You must have special
on the motor vehicle. If they are not visible,
training to do this.
you must display the identification number 9.6 – Hazardous Materials --
Class 7 (Radioactive) Materials. Some pack- on both sides and ends of the motor vehicle. Driving and Parking Rules
ages of Class 7 (Radioactive) materials bear a Intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) are bulk
number called the “transport index.” The ship- packages, but are not required to have the own-
9.6.1 – Parking with Division 1.1,
per labels these packages Radioactive II or Ra- er’s name or shipping name.
1.2, or 1.3 Explosives
dioactive III, and prints the package’s transport
index on the label. Radiation surrounds each 9.5.2 – Tank Loading Never park with Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3 explo-
package, passing through all nearby packages. sives within five feet of the traveled part of the
The person in charge of loading and unload-
To deal with this problem, the number of pack- road. Except for short periods of time needed
ing a cargo tank must be sure a qualified person
ages you can load together is controlled. Their for vehicle operation necessities (e.g., fueling),
is always watching. This person watching the
closeness to people, animals, and unexposed do not park within 300 feet of:
loading or unloading must:
film is also controlled. The transport index tells
• A bridge, tunnel, or building.
the degree of control needed during transporta- • Be alert.
tion. The total transport index of all packages • A place where people gather.
• Have a clear view of the cargo tank.
in a single vehicle must not exceed 50.Table A
• An open fire.
to this section shows rules for each transport • Be within 25 feet of the tank.
index. It shows how close you can load Class If you must park to do your job, do so only
• Know of the hazards of the materials in-
7 (Radioactive) materials to people, animals, briefly.
volved.
or film. For example, you can’t leave a package Don’t park on private property unless the
with a transport index of 1.1 within two feet of • Know the procedures to follow in an emer- owner is aware of the danger. Someone must
people or cargo space walls. gency. always watch the parked vehicle. You may let
someone else watch it for you only if your ve-
Mixed loads. The rules require some products • Be authorized to move the cargo tank and
hicle is:
to be loaded separately. You cannot load them able to do so.
together in the same cargo space. Figure 9.9 lists • On the shipper’s property.
There are special attendance rules for cargo
some examples. The regulations (the Segrega-
tanks transporting propane and anhydrous • On the carrier’s property.
tion Table for Hazardous Materials) name other
ammonia.
materials you must keep apart. • On the consignee’s property.
Close all manholes and valves before moving
a tank of hazardous materials, no matter how You are allowed to leave your vehicle un-
9.5 – Bulk Packaging Marking, small the amount in the tank or how short the attended in a safe haven. A safe haven is an
Loading and Unloading distance. Manholes and valves must be closed approved place for parking unattended ve-
to prevent leaks. It is illegal to move a cargo tank hicles loaded with explosives. Designation of
The glossary at the end of this section gives with open valves or covers unless it is empty authorized safe havens is usually made by local
the meaning of the word bulk. Cargo tanks are according to 49 CFR 173.29. authorities.
bulk packaging permanently attached to a ve-
hicle. Cargo tanks remain on the vehicle when 9.5.3 – Flammable Liquids 9.6.2 – Parking a Placarded Vehicle
you load and unload them. Portable tanks are Not Transporting Division
Turn off your engine before loading or un-
bulk packaging, which are not permanently 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3) Explosives
loading any flammable liquids. Only run the
attached to a vehicle. The product is loaded or
engine if needed to operate a pump. Ground a You may park a placarded vehicle (not laden
unloaded while the portable tanks are off the ve-
cargo tank correctly before filling it through an with explosives) within five feet of the traveled
hicle. Portable tanks are then put on a vehicle for
open filling hole. Ground the tank before open- part of the road only if your work requires it.
transportation. There are many types of cargo
tanks in use. The most common cargo tanks are
MC306 for liquids and MC331 for gases.
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE
9.5.1 – Markings
You must display the identification number Subsections 9.5
of the hazardous materials in portable tanks
• What are cargo tanks? • Your engine runs a pump used during
and cargo tanks and other bulk packaging
delivery of compressed gas. Should
(such as dump trucks). Identification numbers • How is a portable tank different from a
you turn off the engine before or after
are in column 4 of the Hazardous Materials cargo tank?
unhooking hoses after delivery?
Table. The rules require black 100 mm (3.9 inch)
numbers on orange panels, placards, or a white, These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer them all, re-read subsection 9.5
diamond-shaped background if no placards
73
Do so only briefly. Someone must always watch 9.6.6 – No Smoking Part 397. The carrier must also give written in-
the vehicle when parked on a public roadway or structions on what to do if delayed or in an ac-
Do not smoke within 25 feet of a placarded
shoulder. Do not uncouple a trailer and leave it cident. The written instructions must include:
cargo tank used for Class 3 (flammable liquids)
with hazardous materials on a public street. Do
or Division 2.1 (gases). Also, do not smoke or • The names and telephone numbers of people
not park within 300 feet of an open fire.
carry a lighted cigarette, cigar, or pipe within to contact (including carrier agents or ship-
25 feet of any vehicle, which contains: pers).
9.6.3 – Attending Parked Vehicles
• Class 1 (Explosives) • The nature of the explosives transported.
The person attending a placarded vehicle
must: • Class 3 (Flammable Liquids) • The precautions to take in emergencies such
as fires, accidents, or leaks.
• Be in the vehicle, awake, and not in the sleep- • Class 4 (Flammable Solids)
er berth, or within 100 feet of the vehicle and Drivers must sign a receipt for these docu-
• Class 4.2 (Spontaneously Combustible)
have it within clear view. ments. You must be familiar with, and have in
your possession while driving, the:
• Be aware of the hazards of the materials be- 9.6.7 – Refuel with Engine Off
ing transported. • Shipping papers.
Turn off your engine before fueling a motor
• Know what to do in emergencies. vehicle containing hazardous materials. Some- • Written emergency instructions.
one must always be at the nozzle, controlling
• Be able to move the vehicle, if needed. • Written route plan.
fuel flow.
• A copy of FMCSR, Part 397.
9.6.4 – No Flares!
9.6.8 – 10 B:C Fire Extinguisher
You might break down and have to use 9.6.11 – Equipment for Chlorine
The power unit of placarded vehicles must
stopped vehicle signals. Use reflective triangles
have a fire extinguisher with a UL rating of 10 A driver transporting chlorine in cargo tanks
or red electric lights. Never use burning signals,
B:C or more. must have an approved gas mask in the vehicle.
such as flares or fuses, around a:
The driver must also have an emergency kit for
• Tank used for Class 3 (Flammable Liquids) 9.6.9 – Check Tires controlling leaks in dome cover plate fittings on
or Division 2.1 (Flammable Gas) whether the cargo tank.
Make sure your tires are properly inflated.
loaded or empty.
Check placarded vehicles with dual tires at the
9.6.12 – Stop Before Railroad
• Vehicle loaded with Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3 start of each trip and when you park. You must
Crossings
Explosives. check the tires each time you stop. The only
acceptable way to check tire pressure is to use Stop before a railroad crossing if your vehicle:
9.6.5 – Route Restrictions a tire pressure gauge.
• Is placarded.
Do not drive with a tire that is leaking or flat
Some states and counties require permits to
except to the nearest safe place to fix it. Remove • Carries any amount of chlorine.
transport hazardous materials or wastes. They
any overheated tire. Place it a safe distance from
may limit the routes you can use. Local rules • Has cargo tanks, whether loaded or empty
your vehicle. Don’t drive until you correct the
about routes and permits change often. It is your used for hazardous materials.
cause of the overheating. Remember to follow
job as driver to find out if you need permits or
the rules about parking and attending plac- You must stop 15 to 50 feet before the nearest
must use special routes. Make sure you have all
arded vehicles. They apply even when checking, rail. Proceed only when you are sure no train
needed papers before starting.
repairing, or replacing tires. is coming and you can clear the tracks without
If you work for a carrier, ask your dispatcher
stopping. Don’t shift gears while crossing the
about route restrictions or permits. If you are
9.6.10 – Where to Keep Shipping tracks.
an independent trucker and are planning a new
Papers and Emergency
route, check with state agencies where you plan
Response Information
to travel. Some localities prohibit transporta- 9.7 – Hazardous Materi-
tion of hazardous materials through tunnels, Do not accept a hazardous materials ship- als-Emergencies
over bridges, or other roadways. Always check ment without a properly prepared shipping pa-
before you start. per. A shipping paper for hazardous materials
9.7.1 – Emergency Response
Whenever placarded, avoid heavily popu- must always be easily recognized. Other people
Guidebook (ERG)
lated areas, crowds, tunnels, narrow streets, must be able to find it quickly after a crash.
and alleys. Take other routes, even if inconve- The Department of Transportation has a
• Clearly distinguish hazardous materials
nient, unless there is no other way. Never drive guidebook for firefighters, police, and industry
shipping papers from others by tabbing them
a placarded vehicle near open fires unless you workers on how to protect themselves and the
or keeping them on top of the stack of papers.
can safely pass without stopping. public from hazardous materials. The guide is
If transporting Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3 explo- • When you are behind the wheel, keep ship- indexed by proper shipping name and hazard-
sives, you must have a written route plan and ping papers within your reach (with your ous materials identification number. Emergency
follow that plan. Carriers prepare the route plan seat belt on), or in a pouch on the driver’s personnel look for these things on the shipping
in advance and give the driver a copy. You may door. They must be easily seen by someone paper. That is why it is vital that the proper
plan the route yourself if you pick up the explo- entering the cab. shipping name, identification number, label,
sives at a location other than your employer’s and placards are correct.
• When not behind the wheel, leave shipping
terminal. Write out the plan in advance. Keep
papers in the driver’s door pouch or on the
a copy of it with you while transporting the 9.7.2 – Crashes/Incidents
driver’s seat.
explosives. Deliver shipments of explosives only
As a professional driver, your job at the scene
to authorized persons or leave them in locked • Emergency response information must be
of a crash or an incident is to:
rooms designed for explosives storage. kept in the same location as the shipping
A carrier must choose the safest route to paper. • Keep people away from the scene.
transport placarded radioactive materials. Af-
• Papers for Division 1.1, 1.2 or, 1.3 Explosives. • Limit the spread of material, only if you can
ter choosing the route, the carrier must tell the
safely do so.
driver about the radioactive materials, and show A carrier must give each driver transporting
the route plan. Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3 explosives a copy of Fed- • Communicate the danger of the hazardous
eral Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR), materials to emergency response personnel.

• Provide emergency responders with the • Your name, the carrier’s name, and the name sion 2.3 (Poison Gases) or Division 6.1 (Poison
shipping papers and emergency response of the community or city where your termi- Materials) might be flammable, take the added
information. nal is located. precautions needed for flammable liquids or
gases. Do not allow smoking, open flame, or
Follow this checklist: • The proper shipping name, hazard class,
welding. Warn others of the hazards of fire,
and identification number of the hazardous
• Check to see that your driving partner is OK. of inhaling vapors, or coming in contact with
materials, if you know them.
the poison.
• Keep shipping papers with you.
This is a lot for someone to remember. It is A vehicle involved in a leak of Division 2.3
• Keep people far away and upwind. a good idea to write it all down for the person (Poison Gases) or Division 6.1 (Poisons) must
you send for help. The emergency response be checked for stray poison before being used
• Warn others of the danger.
team must know these things to find you and again.
• Call for help. to handle the emergency. They may have to If a Division 6.2 (Infectious Substances) pack-
travel miles to get to you. This information will age is damaged in handling or transportation,
• Follow your employer’s instructions.
help them to bring the right equipment the first you should immediately contact your super-
time, without having to go back for it. visor. Packages that appear to be damaged or
9.7.3 – Fires
Never move your vehicle, if doing so will show signs of leakage should not be accepted.
You might have to control minor truck fires cause contamination or damage the vehicle. Keep
Class 7 (Radioactive Materials). If radioac-
on the road. However, unless you have the train- upwind and away from roadside rests, truck
tive material is involved in a leak or broken
ing and equipment to do so safely, don’t fight stops, cafes, and businesses. Never try to repack
package, tell your dispatcher or supervisor as
hazardous materials fires. Dealing with hazard- leaking containers. Unless you have the training
soon as possible. If there is a spill, or if an inter-
ous materials fires requires special training and and equipment to repair leaks safely, don’t try it.
nal container might be damaged, do not touch or
protective gear. Call your dispatcher or supervisor for instruc-
inhale the material. Do not use the vehicle until
When you discover a fire, call for help. You tions and, if needed, emergency personnel.
it is cleaned and checked with a survey meter.
may use the fire extinguisher to keep minor truck
fires from spreading to cargo before firefighters 9.7.4 – Responses to Specific Class 8 (Corrosive Materials). If corrosives
arrive. Feel trailer doors to see if they are hot be- Hazards spill or leak during transportation, be careful to
fore opening them. If hot, you may have a cargo avoid further damage or injury when handling
Class 1 (Explosives). If your vehicle has a
fire and should not open the doors. Opening the containers. Parts of the vehicle exposed to
breakdown or accident while carrying explo-
doors lets air in and may make the fire flare up. a corrosive liquid must be thoroughly washed
sives, warn others of the danger. Keep bystand-
Without air, many fires only smolder until fire- with water. After unloading, wash out the inte-
ers away. Do not allow smoking or open fire
men arrive, doing less damage. If your cargo is rior as soon as possible before reloading.
near the vehicle. If there is a fire, warn everyone
already on fire, it is not safe to fight the fire. Keep If continuing to transport a leaking tank
of the danger of explosion.
the shipping papers with you to give to emer- would be unsafe, get off the road. If safe to do
Remove all explosives before separating vehi-
gency personnel as soon as they arrive. Warn so, contain any liquid leaking from the vehicle.
cles involved in a collision. Place the explosives
other people of the danger and keep them away. Keep bystanders away from the liquid and its
at least 200 feet from the vehicles and occupied
If you discover a cargo leak, identify the haz- fumes. Do everything possible to prevent injury
buildings. Stay a safe distance away.
ardous materials leaking by using shipping pa- to yourself and to others.
pers, labels, or package location. Do not touch Class 2 (Compressed Gases). If compressed
any leaking material--many people injure them- gas is leaking from your vehicle, warn others 9.7.5 – Required Notification
selves by touching hazardous materials. Do not of the danger. Only permit those involved in
The National Response Center helps coordi-
try to identify the material or find the source of removing the hazard or wreckage to get close.
nate emergency response to chemical hazards.
a leak by smell. Toxic gases can destroy your You must notify the shipper if compressed gas
It is a resource to the police and firefighters. It
sense of smell and can injure or kill you even is involved in any accident.
maintains a 24-hour toll-free line listed below.
if they don’t smell. Never eat, drink, or smoke Unless you are fueling machinery used in
You or your employer must phone when any
around a leak or spill. road construction or maintenance, do not trans-
of the following occur as a direct result of a
If hazardous materials are spilling from your fer a flammable compressed gas from one tank
hazardous materials incident:
vehicle, do not move it any more than safety to another on any public roadway.
requires. You may move off the road and away • A person is killed.
Class 3 (Flammable Liquids). If you are
from places where people gather, if doing so
transporting a flammable liquid and have an • An injured person requires hospitalization.
serves safety. Only move your vehicle if you
accident or your vehicle breaks down, prevent
can do so without danger to yourself or others. • Estimated property damage exceeds $50,000.
bystanders from gathering. Warn people of the
Never continue driving with hazardous ma-
danger. Keep them from smoking. • The general public is evacuated for more than
terials leaking from your vehicle in order to find
Never transport a leaking cargo tank farther one hour.
a phone booth, truck stop, help, or similar rea-
than needed to reach a safe place. Get off the
son. Remember, the carrier pays for the cleanup • One or more major transportation arteries
roadway if you can do so safely. Don’t transfer
of contaminated parking lots, roadways, and or facilities are closed for one hour or more.
flammable liquid from one vehicle to another
drainage ditches. The costs are enormous, so
on a public roadway except in an emergency. • Fire, breakage, spillage, or suspected radioac-
don’t leave a lengthy trail of contamination.
tive contamination occurs.
If hazardous materials are spilling from your Class 4 (Flammable Solids) and Class 5
vehicle: (Oxidizing Materials). If a flammable solid • Fire, breakage, spillage or suspected contami-
or oxidizing material spills, warn others of the nation occur involving shipment of etiologic
• Park it.
fire hazard. Do not open smoldering packages agents (bacteria or toxins).
• Secure the area. of flammable solids. Remove them from the
• A situation exists of such a nature (e.g., con-
vehicle if you can safely do so. Also, remove
• Stay there. tinuing danger to life exists at the scene of an
unbroken packages if it will decrease the fire
incident) that, in the judgment of the carrier,
• Send someone else for help. hazard.
should be reported.
When sending someone for help, give that Class 6 (Poisonous Materials and Infec-
National Response Center
person: tious Substances). It is your job to protect
(800) 424-8802
yourself, other people, and property from harm.
• A description of the emergency.
Remember that many products classed as poi- Persons telephoning the National Response
• Your exact location and direction of travel. son are also flammable. If you think a Divi- Center should be ready to give:
75
RADIOACTIVE SEPARATION • Their name.
TABLE A • Name and address of the carrier they work for.
Minimum Distance In Feet o Nearest Undeveloped Film To People • Phone number where they can be reached.
Total
Or Cargo
Transport Over 12 • Date, time, and location of incident.
0-2 Hrs. 2-4 Hrs. 4-8 Hrs. 8-12 Hrs. Compartment
Index Hrs. Partitions • The extent of injuries, if any.
None 0 0 0 0 0 0 • Classification, name, and quantity of hazard-
0.1 To 1.0 1 2 3 4 5 1 ous materials involved, if such information
is available.
1.1 To 5.0 3 4 6 8 11 2
• Type of incident and nature of hazardous ma-
5.1 To 10.0 4 6 9 11 15 3 terials involvement and whether a continuing
danger to life exists at the scene.
10.1 To 20.0 5 8 12 16 22 4
If a reportable quantity of hazardous sub-
20.1 To 30.0 7 10 15 20 29 5
stance was involved, the caller should give the
30.1 To 40.0 8 11 17 22 33 6 name of the shipper and the quantity of the
hazardous substance discharged.
40.1 To 50.0 9 12 19 24 36
Be prepared to give your employer the required
Figure 9.10 information as well. Carriers must make detailed
written reports within 30 days of an incident.
CHEMTREC
(800) 424-9300
HAZARD CLASS DEFINITIONS The Chemical Transportation Emergency
TABLE B Center (CHEMTREC) in Washington also has a
24-hour toll-free line. CHEMTREC was created
Class Class Name Example
to provide emergency personnel with technical
1 Explosives Ammunition, Dynamite, Fireworks information about the physical properties of
hazardous materials. The National Response
2 Gases Propane, Oxygen, Helium Center and CHEMTREC are in close commu-
3 Flammable Gasoline Fuel, Acetone nication. If you call either one, they will tell
the other about the problem when appropriate.
4 Flammable Solids Matches, Fuses Do not leave radioactive yellow - II or yellow
Ammonium Nitrate, Hydrogen - III labeled packages near people, animals, or
5 Oxidizers film longer than shown in Figure 9.10
Peroxide
6 Poisons Pesticides, Arsenic Classes of Hazardous Materials. Hazard-
ous materials are categorized into nine major
7 Radioactive Uranium, Plutonium hazard classes and additional categories for
8 Corrosives Hydrochloric Acid, Battery Acid consumer commodities and combustible liq-
uids. The classes of hazardous materials are
9 Miscellaneous Hazardous Materials Formaldehyde, Asbestos listed in Figure 9.11
ORM-D
None Hair Spray or Charcoal
(Other Regulated Material-Domestic) 9.8 – Hazardous Materials
None Combustible Liquids Fuel Oils, Lighter Fluid Glossary
Figure 9.11 This glossary presents definitions of certain
terms used in this section. A complete glossary of
terms can be found in the federal Hazardous Ma-
terials Rules (49 CFR 171.8). You should have an
up-to-date copy of these rules for your reference.
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE
NOTE: You will not be tested on this glossary.
Subsections 9.4 Sec. 171.8 Definitions and abbreviations.
• If your placarded trailer has dual tires, • You’re hauling 100 pounds of Division 4.3 Bulk packaging – Packaging, other than a ves-
how often should you check the tires? (dangerous when wet) materials. Do you sel, or a barge, including a transport vehicle or
need to stop before a railroad-highway freight container, in which hazardous materi-
• What is a safe haven? als are loaded with no intermediate form of
crossing?
• How close to the traveled part of the containment and which has:
• At a rest area you discover your
roadway can you park with Division 1.2 or 1. A maximum capacity greater than 450 L (119
hazardous materials shipments slowly
1.3 materials? gallons) as a receptacle for a liquid;
leaking from the vehicle. There is no
• How close can you park to a bridge, phone around. What should you do? 2. A maximum net mass greater than 400 kg
tunnel, or building with the same load? (882 pounds) or a maximum capacity greater
• What is the Emergency Response Guide
• What type of fire extinguisher must (ERG)? than 450 L (119 gallons) as a receptacle for a
placarded vehicles carry? solid; or
These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer them all, re-read subsections 3. A water capacity greater than 454 kg (1000
9.6 and 9.7. pounds) as a receptacle for a gas as defined
in Sec. 173.115.

Cargo tank - A bulk packaging which: 3. When in a mixture or solution HAZARDOUS
» For radionuclides, conforms to paragraph
1. Is a tank intended primarily for the carriage
7 of Appendix A to Sec. 172.101.
SUBSTANCE
of liquids or gases and includes appurtenanc-
» For other than radionuclides, is in a concen- CONCENTRATIONS
es, reinforcements, fittings, and closures (for
tration by weight which equals or exceeds
“tank”, see 49 CFR 178.345-1(c), 178.337-1, or Concentration by Weight
the concentration corresponding to the RQ RQ Pounds
178.338-1, as applicable);
of the material, as shown in Figure 9.12. (Kilograms
Percent PPM
2. Is permanently attached to or forms a part
This definition does not apply to petroleum
of a motor vehicle, or is not permanently at- 5,000 (2,270) 10 100,000
products that are lubricants or fuels (see 40 CFR
tached to a motor vehicle but which, by rea-
300.6).
son of its size, construction, or attachment to a 1,000 (454) 2 20,000
motor vehicle is loaded or unloaded without Hazardous waste – For the purposes of this
being removed from the motor vehicle; and chapter, means any material that is subject to 100 (45.4) .2 2,000
the Hazardous Waste Manifest Requirements
3. Is not fabricated under a specification for cyl-
of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 10 (4.54) .02 200
inders, portable tanks, tank cars, or multi unit
specified in 40 CFR Part 262.
tank car tanks.
1 (0.454) .002 20
Intermediate bulk container (IBC) – A rig-
Carrier – A person engaged in the transporta-
id or flexible portable packaging, other than a
tion of passengers or property by: Figure 9.12
cylinder or portable tank, which is designed
1. Land or water as a common, contract, or pri- for mechanical handling. Standards for IBCs
vate carrier, or manufactured in the United States are set forth
172.101 for any material identified in Column 1
in subparts N and O §178.
2. Civil aircraft. of the Appendix.
Limited quantity – The maximum amount of
Consignee – The business or person to whom RSPA – now PHMSA – The Pipeline and Haz-
a hazardous material for which there may be
a shipment is delivered. ardous Materials Safety Administration, U.S.
specific labeling or packaging exception.
Department of Transportation, Washington,
Division – A subdivision of a hazard class.
Marking – The descriptive name, identification DC 20590.
EPA – U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. number, instructions, cautions, weight, specifi-
Shipper’s certification – A statement on a
cation, or UN marks or combinations thereof,
FMCSR – The Federal Motor Carrier Safety shipping paper, signed by the shipper, saying
required by this subchapter on outer packaging
Regulations. he/she prepared the shipment properly accord-
of hazardous materials.
ing to law. For example:
Freight container – a reusable container having
Mixture – A material composed of more than
a volume of 64 cubic feet or more, designed and “This is to certify that the above named ma-
one chemical compound or element.
constructed to permit being lifted with its contents terials are properly classified, described, pack-
intact and intended primarily for containment of Name of contents – The proper shipping name aged, marked and labeled, and are in proper
packages (in unit form) during transportation. as specified in Sec. 172.101. condition for transportation according to the
applicable regulations or the Department of
Fuel tank – A tank, other than a cargo tank, Non-bulk packaging – A packaging, which has:
Transportation.” or
used to transport flammable or combustible
1. A maximum capacity of 450 L (119 gallons)
liquid or compressed gas for the purpose of “I hereby declare that the contents of this
as a receptacle for a liquid;
supplying fuel for propulsion of the transport consignment are fully and accurately described
vehicle to which it is attached, or for the opera- 2. A maximum net mass less than 400 kg (882 above by the proper shipping name and are
tion of other equipment on the transport vehicle. pounds) and a maximum capacity of 450 classified, packaged, marked and labeled/
L (119 gallons) or less as a receptacle for a placarded, and are in all respects in proper
Gross weight or gross mass – The weight of
solid; or condition for transport by * according to ap-
the packaging plus the weight of its contents.
plicable international and national government
3. A water capacity greater than 454 kg (1,000
Hazard class – The category of hazard as- regulations.”
pounds) or less as a receptacle for a gas as
signed to a hazardous material under the defi-
defined in Sec. 173.115. * words may be inserted here to indicate
nitional criteria of Part 173 and the provisions
mode of transportation (rail, aircraft, mo-
of the Sec. 172.101 Table. A material may meet N.O.S. - Not otherwise specified.
tor vehicle, vessel)
the defining criteria for more than one hazard
Outage or ullage – The amount by which a
class but is assigned to only one hazard class. Shipping paper – A shipping order, bill of
packaging falls short of being liquid full, usu-
lading, manifest, or other shipping document
Hazardous materials – A substance or mate- ally expressed in percent by volume.
serving a similar purpose and containing the
rial which has been determined by the Secretary
Portable tank – Bulk packaging (except a cyl- information required by Sec. 172.202, 172.203,
of Transportation to be capable of posing an
inder having a water capacity of 1,000 pounds or and 172.204.
unreasonable risk to health, safety, and property
less) designed primarily to be loaded onto, or on,
when transported in commerce, and which has Technical name – A recognized chemical
or temporarily attached to a transport vehicle
been so designated. The term includes hazard- name or microbiological name currently used
or ship and equipped with skids, mountings, or
ous substances, hazardous wastes, marine pol- in scientific and technical handbooks, journals,
accessories to facilitate handling of the tank by
lutants, elevated temperature materials and ma- and texts.
mechanical means. It does not include a cargo
terials designated as hazardous in the hazardous
tank, tank car, multi unit tank car tank, or trailer Transport vehicle – A cargo-carrying vehicle
materials table of §172.101, and materials that
carrying 3AX, 3AAX, or 3T cylinders. such as an automobile, van, tractor, truck, semi-
meet the defining criteria for hazard classes and
trailer, tank car, or rail car used for the trans-
divisions in §173, subchapter c of this chapter. Proper shipping name – The name of the
portation of cargo by any mode. Each cargo-
hazardous materials shown in Roman print
Hazardous substance - A material, including carrying body (trailer, rail car, etc.) is a separate
(not italics) in Sec. 172.101.
its mixtures and solutions, that: transport vehicle.
P.s.i. or psi – Pounds per square inch.
1. Is listed in Appendix A to Sec. 172.101; UN standard packaging – A specification
P.s.i.a. or psia – Pounds per square inch absolute. packaging conforming to the standards in the
2. Is in a quantity, in one package, which equals
UN recommendations.
or exceeds the reportable quantity (RQ) listed Reportable quantity (RQ) - The quantity
in Appendix A to Sec. 172.101; and specified in Column 2 of the Appendix to Sec. UN – United Nations.
77
SECTION 10
SCHOOL BUSES 10.1 – Danger Zones and
Use of Mirrors THE DANGER ZONES
10.1.1 – Danger Zones

This Section Covers
The danger zone is the area on all sides of the
Danger Zones and bus where children are in the most danger of
being hit, either by another vehicle or their own
Use of Mirrors .......... 10.1 bus. The danger zones may extend as much as 30
feet from the front bumper with the first 10 feet
Loading and being the most dangerous, 10 feet from the left
Unloading ................ 10.2 and right sides of the bus and 10 feet behind the
rear bumper of the school bus. In addition, the
Emergency Exit and area to the left of the bus is always considered
dangerous because of passing cars. Figure 10.1
Evacuation............... 10.3 illustrates these danger zones.
Railroad-highway 10.1.2 – Correct Mirror Adjustment

Grade Crossings ..... 10.4 Proper adjustment and use of all mirrors is
vital to the safe operation of the school bus in
Student order to observe the danger zone around the bus
and look for students, traffic, and other objects
Management ........... 10.5 in this area. You should always check each mir-
ror before operating the school bus to obtain
Antilock Braking maximum viewing area. If necessary, have the
Systems....................10.6 mirrors adjusted. Figure 10.1
Special Safety 10.1.3 – Outside Left and Right
Side Flat Mirrors 10.1.5 – Outside Left and Right
Considerations.........10.7 Side Crossover Mirrors
These mirrors are mounted at the left and right
front corners of the bus at the side or front of the These mirrors are mounted on both left and
windshield. They are used to monitor traffic, right front corners of the bus. They are used to
Because state and local laws and regula- check clearances and students on the sides and see the front bumper “danger zone” area directly
tions regulate so much of school transporta- to the rear of the bus. There is a blind spot im- in front of the bus that is not visible by direct vi-
tion and school bus operations, many of the mediately below and in front of each mirror and sion, and to view the “danger zone” area to the
procedures in this section may differ from state directly in back of the rear bumper. The blind left side and right side of the bus, including the
to state. You should be thoroughly familiar with spot behind the bus extends 50 to 150 feet and service door and front wheel area. The mirror
the laws and regulations in your state and local could extend up to 400 feet depending on the presents a view of people and objects that does
school district. length and width of the bus. not accurately reflect their size and distance from
Ensure that the mirrors are properly adjusted the bus. The driver must ensure that these mir-
so you can see: rors are properly adjusted.
Ensure that the mirrors are properly adjusted
• 200 feet or 4 bus lengths behind the bus.
so you can see:
• Along the sides of the bus.
• The entire area in front of the bus from the
• The rear tires touching the ground. front bumper at ground level to a point where
direct vision is possible. Direct vision and mir-
Figure 10.2 shows how both the outside left
ror view vision should overlap.
and right side flat mirrors should be adjusted.
• The right and left front tires touching the
10.1.4 – Outside Left and Right ground.
Side Convex Mirrors
• The area from the front of the bus to the ser-
The convex mirrors are located be-low the vice door.
outside flat mirrors. They are used to monitor
• These mirrors, along with the convex and
the left and right sides at a wide angle.
flat mirrors, should be viewed in a logical se-
They provide a view of traffic, clearances, and quence to ensure that a child or object is not
students at the side of the bus. These mirrors in any of the danger zones.
present a view of people and objects that does
not accurately reflect their size and distance Figure 10.4 illustrates how the left and right
from the bus. side crossover mirrors should be adjusted.
You should position these mirrors to see: 10.1.6 – Overhead Inside
• The entire side of the bus up to the Rearview Mirror
mirror mounts. This mirror is mounted directly above the
• Front of the rear tires touching the windshield on the driver’s side area of the bus.
ground. This mirror is used to monitor passenger activ-
ity inside the bus. It may provide limited vis-
• At least one traffic lane on either side ibility directly in back of the bus if the bus is
of the bus. equipped with a glass-bottomed rear emergency
Figure 10.3 shows how both the outside left door. There is a blind spot area directly behind
and right side convex mirrors should be adjusted. the driver’s seat as well as a large blind spot area
Image courtesy ©iStockphoto.com/GordonsLife

SECTION 10: SCHOOL BUSES
LEFT AND RIGHT SIDE LEFT AND RIGHT SIDE LEFT AND RIGHT SIDE
FLAT MIRRORS CONVEX MIRRORS CROSSOVER MIRRORS
Figure 10.4
10.2.2 – Loading Procedures

• Perform a safe stop as described in subsec-
tion 10.2.1.
• Students should wait in a designated loca-
Figure 10.2 Figure 10.3 tion for the school bus, facing the bus as it
approaches.
• Students should board the bus only when
that begins at the rear bumper and could extend volve the proper use of mirrors, alternating flash- signaled by the driver.
up to 400 feet or more behind the bus. You must ing lights, and when equipped, the moveable stop
• Monitor all mirrors continuously.
use the exterior side mirrors to monitor traffic signal arm and crossing control arm.
that approaches and enters this area. When approaching the stop, you should: • Count the number of students at the bus stop
and be sure all board the bus. If possible, know
You should position the mirror to see: • Approach cautiously at a slow rate of speed.
names of students at each stop. If there is a
• The top of the rear window in the top of the • Look for pedestrians, traffic, or other objects student missing, ask the other students where
mirror. before, during, and after coming to a stop. the student is.
• All of the students, including the heads of the • Continuously check all mirrors. • Have the students board the school bus slowly,
students right behind you. in single file, and use the handrail. The dome
• If the school bus is so equipped, activate al-
light should be on while loading in the dark.
ternating flashing amber warning lights at
10.2 – Loading and Unloading least 200 feet or approximately 5-10 seconds • Wait until students are seated and facing for-
before the school bus stop or in accordance ward before moving the bus.
More students are killed while getting on with state law.
• Check all mirrors. Make certain no one is run-
or off a school bus each year than are killed as
• Turn on right turn signal indicator about 100- ning to catch the bus.
passengers inside of a school bus. As a result,
300 feet or approximately 3-5 seconds before
knowing what to do before, during, and after • If you cannot account for a student outside,
pulling over.
loading or unloading students is critical. This secure the bus, take the key, and check around
section will give you specific procedures to help • Continuously check mirrors to monitor the and underneath the bus.
you avoid unsafe conditions which could result danger zones for students, traffic, and other
• When all students are accounted for, prepare
in injuries and fatalities during and after loading objects.
to leave by:
and unloading students.
• Move as far as possible to the right on the trav- » Closing the door.
The information in this section is intended to
eled portion of the roadway. » Engaging the transmission.
provide a broad overview, but is not a definitive
» Releasing the parking brake.
set of actions. It is imperative that you learn and When stopping you should:
» Turning off alternating flashing red lights.
obey the state laws and regulations governing
• Bring school bus to a full stop with the front » Turning on left turn signal.
loading/unloading operations in your state.
bumper at least 10 feet away from students at » Checking all mirrors again.
the designated stop. This forces the students » Allowing congested traffic to disperse.
10.2.1 – Approaching the Stop
to walk to the bus so you have a better view
• When it is safe, move the bus to enter traffic
Each school district establishes official routes of their movements.
flow and continue the route.
and official school bus stops. All stops should be
• Place transmission in Park, or if there is no
approved by the school district prior to making The loading procedure is essentially the same
Park shift point, in Neutral and set the parking
the stop. You should never change the location wherever you load students, but there are slight
brake at each stop.
of a bus stop without written approval from the differences. When students are loading at the
appropriate school district official. • Activate alternating red lights when traffic is a school campus, you should:
You must use extreme caution when ap- safe distance from the school bus and ensure
• Turn off the ignition switch.
proaching a school bus stop. You are in a very the safety arm and stop sign is extended.
demanding situation when entering these areas. • Remove key if leaving driver’s compartment.
• Make a final check to see that all traffic has
It is critical that you understand and follow all
stopped before completely opening the door • Position yourself to supervise loading as re-
state and local laws and regulations regarding
and signaling students to approach. quired or recommended by your state or local
approaching a school bus stop. This would in-
regulations.
79
10.2.3 – Unloading Procedures • Look for traffic in both directions, making the object, or returning to pick up the object may
on the Route sure roadway is clear. cause the student to disappear from the driver’s
sight at a very dangerous moment.
• Perform a safe stop at designated unloading • Proceed across the roadway, continuing to
Students should be told to leave any dropped
areas as described in subsection 10.2.1. look in all directions.
object and move to a point of safety out of the
• Have the students remain seated until told NOTE: The school bus driver should enforce danger zones and attempt to get the driver’s at-
to exit. any state or local regulations or recommenda- tention to retrieve the object.
tions concerning student actions outside the
• Check all mirrors. Handrail Hang-ups. Students have been
school bus.
injured or killed when clothing, accessories,
• Count the number of students while unload-
or even parts of their body get caught in the
ing to confirm the location of all students be- 10.2.4 – Unloading Procedures
handrail or door as they exited the bus. You
fore pulling away from the stop. at School
should closely observe all students exiting the
• Tell students to exit the bus and walk at least 10 State and local laws and regulations regarding bus to confirm that they are in a safe location
feet away from the side of the bus to a position unloading students at schools, particularly in prior to moving the bus.
where the driver can plainly see all students. situations where such activities take place in the
school parking lot or other location that is off the 10.2.6 – Post-trip Inspection
• Check all mirrors again. Make sure no stu-
traveled roadway, are often different than unload-
dents are around or returning to the bus. When your route or school activity trip is fin-
ing along the school bus route. It is important that
ished, you should conduct a post-trip inspection
• If you cannot account for a student outside the the school bus driver understands and obeys state
of the bus.
bus, secure the bus, and check around and and local laws and regulations. The following
You should walk through the bus and around
underneath the bus. procedures are meant to be general guidelines.
the bus looking for the following:
When unloading at the school you should
• When all students are accounted for, prepare
follow these procedures: • Articles left on the bus.
to leave by:
» Closing the door. • Perform a safe stop at designated unloading • Sleeping students.
» Engaging transmission. areas as described in subsection 10.2.1.
• Open windows and doors.
» Releasing parking brake.
• Secure the bus by:
» Turning off alternating flashing red lights. • Mechanical/operational problems with the
» Turning off the ignition switch.
» Turning on left turn signal. bus, with special attention to items that are
» Removing key if leaving driver’s compart-
» Checking all mirrors again. unique to school buses – mirror systems, flash-
ment.
» Allowing congested traffic to disperse. ing warning lamps and stop signal arms.
• Have the students remain seated until told
• When it is safe, move the bus, enter the traffic • Damage or vandalism.
to exit.
flow and continue the route.
Any problems or special situations should
• Position yourself to supervise unloading as
NOTE: If you have missed a student’s unload- be reported immediately to your supervisor or
required or recommended by your state or
ing stop, do not back up. Be sure to follow local school authorities.
local regulations.
procedures.
• Have students exit in orderly fashion.
Additional Procedures for Students That 10.3 – Emergency Exit
Must Cross the Roadway. You should under- • Observe students as they step from bus to and Evacuation
stand what students should do when exiting a see that all move promptly away from the
school bus and crossing the street in front of the unloading area. An emergency situation can happen to any-
bus. In addition, the school bus driver should one, anytime, anywhere. It could be a crash, a
• Walk through the bus and check for hiding/
understand that students might not always do stalled school bus on a railroad-highway crossing
sleeping students and items left by students.
what they are supposed to do. If a student or or in a high-speed intersection, an electrical fire
students must cross the roadway, they should • Check all mirrors. Make certain no students in the engine compartment, a medical emergency
follow these procedures: are returning to the bus. to a student on the school bus, etc. Knowing what
to do in an emergency–before, during and after
• Walk approximately 10 feet away from the • If you cannot account for a student outside the
an evacuation–can mean the difference between
side of the school bus to a position where you bus and the bus is secure, check around and
life and death.
can see them. underneath the bus.
• Walk to a location at least 10 feet in front of the • When all students are accounted for, prepare 10.3.1 – Planning for Emergencies
right corner of the bumper, but still remaining to leave by:
Determine Need to Evacuate Bus. The first
away from the front of the school bus. » Closing the door.
and most important consideration is for you to
» Fastening safety belt.
• Stop at the right edge of the roadway. You recognize the hazard. If time permits, school
» Starting engine.
should be able to see the student’s feet. bus drivers should contact their dispatcher to
» Engaging the transmission.
explain the situation before making a decision
When students reach the edge of the roadway, » Releasing the parking brake.
to evacuate the school bus.
they should: » Turning off alternating flashing red lights.
As a general rule, student safety and control is
» Turning on left turn signal.
• Stop and look in all directions, making sure best maintained by keeping students on the bus
» Checking all mirrors again.
the roadway is clear and is safe. during an emergency and/or impending crisis
» Allowing congested traffic to disperse.
situation, if so doing does not expose them to
• Check to see if the red flashing lights on the
• When it is safe, pull away from the unload- unnecessary risk or injury. Remember, the deci-
bus are still flashing.
ing area. sion to evacuate the bus must be a timely one.
• Wait for your signal before crossing the roadway. A decision to evacuate should include consid-
10.2.5 – Special Dangers of eration of the following conditions:
Upon your signal, the students should:
Loading and Unloading
• Is there a fire or danger of fire?
• Cross far enough in front of the school bus to
Dropped or Forgotten Objects. Always focus
be in your view. • Is there a smell of raw or leaking fuel?
on students as they approach the bus and watch
• Stop at the left edge of the school bus, stop, for any who disappear from sight. • Is there a chance the bus could be hit by other
and look again for your signal to continue to Students may drop an object near the bus dur- vehicles?
cross the roadway. ing loading and unloading. Stopping to pick up

• Is the bus in the path of a sighted tornado or • Lead students upwind of the bus at least 300 • Protect the scene. Set out emergency warning
rising waters? feet if there is a risk from spilled hazardous devices as necessary and appropriate.
materials.
• Are there downed power lines? • Prepare information for emergency responders.
• If the bus is in the direct path of a sighted
• Would removing students expose them to
tornado and evacuation is ordered, escort stu-
speeding traffic, severe weather, or a danger-
dents to a nearby ditch or culvert if shelter in
10.4 – Railroad-highway
ous environment such as downed power lines?
a building is not readily available, and direct
Crossings
• Would moving students complicate injuries them to lie face down, hands covering their
such as neck and back injuries and fractures? head. They should be far enough away so the 10.4.1 – Types of Crossings
bus cannot topple on them. Avoid areas that
• Is there a hazardous spill involved? Some- Passive Crossings. This type of crossing does
are subject to flash floods.
times, it may be safer to remain on the bus not have any type of traffic control device. You
and not come in contact with the material. General Procedures. Determine if evacuation must stop at these crossings and follow proper
is in the best interest of safety. procedures. However, the decision to proceed
Mandatory Evacuations. The driver must
rests entirely in your hands. Passive crossings
evacuate the bus when: • Determine the best type of evacuation:
require you to recognize the crossing, search for
» Front, rear or side door evacuation, or some
• The bus is on fire or there is a threat of a fire. any train using the tracks and decide if there
combination of doors.
is sufficient clear space to cross safely. Passive
• The bus is stalled on or adjacent to a railroad- » Roof or window evacuation.
crossings have yellow circular advance warning
highway crossing.
• Secure the bus by: signs, pavement markings and crossbucks to
• The position of the bus may change and in- » Placing transmission in Park, or if there is assist you in recognizing a crossing.
crease the danger. no shift point, in Neutral.
Active Crossings. This type of crossing has a
» Setting parking brakes.
• There is an imminent danger of collision. traffic control device installed at the crossing to
» Shutting off the engine.
regulate traffic at the crossing. These active de-
• There is a need to quickly evacuate because » Removing ignition key.
vices include flashing red lights, with or without
of a hazardous materials spill. » Activating hazard-warning lights.
bells and flashing red lights with bells and gates.
• If time allows, notify dispatch office of evacu-
10.3.2 – Evacuation Procedures
ation location, conditions, and type of assis- 10.4.2 – Warning Signs and Devices
Be Prepared and Plan Ahead. When possible, tance needed.
Advance Warning Signs. The round, black-
assign two responsible, older student assistants
• Dangle radio microphone or telephone out on-yellow warning sign is placed ahead of a
to each emergency exit. Teach them how to assist
of driver’s window for later use, if operable. public railroad-highway crossing. The advance
the other students off the bus. Assign another
warning sign tells you to slow down, look and
student assistant to lead the students to a “safe • If no radio, or radio is inoperable, dispatch a
listen for the train, and be prepared to stop at
place” after evacuation. However, you must rec- passing motorist or area resident to call for
the tracks if a train is coming. See Figure 10.5.
ognize that there may not be older, responsible help. As a last resort, dispatch two older, re-
students on the bus at the time of the emergency. sponsible students to go for help. Pavement Markings. Pavement markings
Therefore, emergency evacuation procedures mean the same as the advance warning sign.
• Order the evacuation.
must be explained to all students. This includes They consist of an “X” with the letters “”RR”
knowing how to operate the various emergency • Evacuate students from the bus. and a no-passing marking on two-lane roads.
exits and the importance of listening to and fol- » Do not move a student you believe may There is also a no passing zone sign on two-
lowing all instructions given by you. have suffered a neck or spinal injury un- lane roads. There may be a white stop line
Some tips to determine a safe place: less his or her life is in immediate danger. painted on the pavement before the railroad
» Special procedures must be used to move tracks. The front of the school bus must remain
• A safe place will be at least 100 feet off the road
neck spinal injury victims to prevent fur- behind this line while stopped at the crossing.
in the direction of oncoming traffic. This will
ther injury. See Figure 10.6.
keep the students from being hit by debris if
another vehicle collides with the bus. • Direct a student assistant to lead students to Crossbuck Signs. This sign marks the cross-
the nearest safe place. ing. It requires you to yield the right-of-way to
• Lead students upwind of the bus if fire is
the train. If there is no white line painted on
present. • Walk through the bus to ensure no students
the pavement, you must stop the bus before
remain on the bus. Retrieve emergency equip-
• Lead students as far away from railroad tracks the crossbuck sign. When the road crosses over
ment.
as possible and in the direction of any oncom- more than one set of tracks, a sign below the
ing train. • Join waiting students. Account for all students crossbuck indicates the number of tracks. See
and check for their safety. Figure 10.7.
ROUND YELLOW PAVEMENT MARKINGS MULTIPLE TRACKS

WARNING SIGN
81
down on the service brake or set the park- and have moved away. If necessary, pull the bus
GATES/LIGHTS ing brakes. over to handle the problem.
» Turn off all radios and noisy equipment,
and silence the passengers. 10.5.2 – Handling Serious Problems
» Open the service door and driver’s window.
Tips on handling serious problems:
Look and listen for an approaching train.
• Follow your school’s procedures for discipline
• Crossing the Track:
or refusal of rights to ride the bus.
» Check the crossing signals again before
proceeding. • Stop the bus. Park in a safe location off the
» At a multiple-track crossing, stop only be- road, perhaps a parking lot or a driveway.
fore the first set of tracks. When you are
• Secure the bus. Take the ignition key with you
sure no train is approaching on any track,
if you leave your seat.
proceed across all of the tracks until you
have completely cleared them. • Stand up and speak respectfully to the offend-
» Cross the tracks in a low gear. Do not er or offenders. Speak in a courteous manner
change gears while crossing. with a firm voice. Remind the offender of the
» If the gate comes down after you have expected behavior. Do not show anger, but do
Figure 10.8 started across, drive through it even if it show that you mean business.
means you will break the gate.
• If a change of seating is needed, request that
Flashing Red Light Signals. At many high-
the student move to a seat near you.
way-rail grade crossings, the crossbuck sign has 10.4.4 – Special Situations
flashing red lights and bells. When the lights be- • Never put a student off the bus except at school
Bus Stalls or Trapped on Tracks. If your bus
gin to flash, stop! A train is approaching. You are or at his or her designated school bus stop. If
stalls or is trapped on the tracks, get everyone
required to yield the right-of-way to the train. you feel that the offense is serious enough
out and off the tracks immediately. Move ev-
If there is more than one track, make sure all that you cannot safely drive the bus, call for a
eryone far from the bus at an angle, which is
tracks are clear before crossing. See Figure 10.8. school administrator or the police to come and
both away from the tracks and toward the train.
remove the student. Always follow your state
Gates. Many railroad-highway crossings have
Police Officer at the Crossing. If a police officer or local procedures for requesting assistance.
gates with flashing red lights and bells. Stop when
is at the crossing, obey directions. If there is no
the lights begin to flash and before the gate lowers
police officer, and you believe the signal is mal-
across the road lane. Remain stopped until the
functioning, call your dispatcher to report the situ-
10.6 – Antilock Braking Systems
gates go up and the lights have stopped flashing.
ation and ask for instructions on how to proceed.
Proceed when it is safe. If the gate stays down
10.6.1 – Vehicles Required to Have
after the train passes, do not drive around the Obstructed View of Tracks. Plan your route
Antilock Braking Systems
gate. Instead, call your dispatcher. See Figure 10.8. so it provides maximum sight distance at high-
way-rail grade crossings. Do not attempt to cross The Department of Transportation requires
10.4.3 – Recommended Procedures the tracks unless you can see far enough down that antilock braking systems be on:
the track to know for certain that no trains are
Each state has laws and regulations govern- • Air brakes vehicles, (trucks, buses, trailers and
approaching. Passive crossings are those that do
ing how school buses must operate at railroad- converter dollies) built on or after March 1, 1998.
not have any type of traffic control device. Be
highway crossings. It is important for you to
especially careful at “passive” crossings. Even • Hydraulically braked trucks and buses with
understand and obey these state laws and regu-
if there are active railroad signals that indicate a gross vehicle weight rating of 10,000 lbs or
lations. In general, school buses must stop at all
the tracks are clear, you must look and listen to more built on or after March 1, 1999.
crossings, and ensure it is safe before proceed-
be sure it is safe to proceed.
ing across the tracks. The specific procedures Many buses built before these dates have been
required in each state vary. Containment or Storage Areas. If it won’t fit, voluntarily equipped with ABS.
A school bus is one of the safest vehicles on don’t commit! Know the length of your bus and Your school bus will have a yellow ABS mal-
the highway. However, a school bus does not the size of the containment area at highway-rail function lamp on the instrument panel if it is
have the slightest edge when involved in a crash crossings on the school bus route, as well as any equipped with ABS.
with a train. Because of a train’s size and weight it crossing you encounter in the course of a school
cannot stop quickly. An emergency escape route activity trip. When approaching a crossing with a 10.6.2 – How ABS Helps You
does not exist for a train. You can prevent school signal or stop sign on the opposite side, pay atten-
When you brake hard on slippery surfaces
bus/train crashes by following these recom- tion to the amount of room there. Be certain the bus
in a vehicle without ABS, your wheels may lock
mended procedures. has enough containment or storage area to com-
up. When your steering wheels lock up, you lose
pletely clear the railroad tracks on the other side
• Approaching the Crossing: steering control. When your other wheels lock
if there is a need to stop. As a general rule, add 15
» Slow down, including shifting to a lower up, you may skid or even spin the vehicle.
feet to the length of the school bus to determine an
gear in a manual transmission bus, and ABS helps you avoid wheel lock up and main-
acceptable amount of containment or storage area.
test your brakes. tain control. You may or may not be able to stop
» Activate hazard lights approximately 200 faster with ABS, but you should be able to steer
feet before the crossing. Make sure your 10.5 – Student Management around an obstacle while braking, and avoid
intentions are known. skids caused by over braking.
» Scan your surroundings and check for traf-
10.5.1 – Don’t Deal with On-bus
fic behind you. 10.6.3 – Braking with ABS
Problems When Loading
» Stay to the right of the roadway if possible.
and Unloading When you drive a vehicle with ABS, you
» Choose an escape route in the event of a
should brake as you always have. In other words:
brake failure or problems behind you. In order to get students to and from school
safely and on time, you need to be able to con- • Use only the braking force necessary to stop
At the Crossing:
centrate on the driving task. safely and stay in control.
» Stop no closer than 15 feet and no farther
Loading and unloading requires all your
than 50 feet from the nearest rail, where you • Brake the same way, regardless of whether
concentration. Don’t take your eyes off what is
have the best view of the tracks. you have ABS on the bus. However, in emer-
happening outside the bus.
» Place the transmission in Park, or if there gency braking, do not pump the brakes on a
If there is a behavior problem on the bus, wait
is no Park shift point, in Neutral and press bus with ABS.
until the students unloading are safely off the bus

• As you slow down, monitor your bus and back 10.7.2 – Driving in High Winds 10.7.4 – Tail Swing
off the brakes (if it is safe to do so) to stay in
Strong winds affect the handling of the school A school bus can have up to a three-foot tail
control.
bus! The side of a school bus acts like a sail on a swing. You need to check your mirrors before
sailboat. Strong winds can push the school bus and during any turning movements to monitor
10.6.4 – Braking if ABS is Not Working
sideways. They can even move the school bus the tail swing.
Without ABS, you still have normal brake off the road or, in extreme conditions, tip it over.
functions. Drive and brake as you always have. If you are caught in strong winds:
Vehicles with ABS have yellow malfunction
• Keep a strong grip on the steering wheel. Try
lamps to tell you if something is not working.
to anticipate gusts.
The yellow ABS malfunction lamp is on the bus’s
instrument panel. • You should slow down to lessen the effect of
As a system check on newer vehicles, the the wind, or pull off the roadway and wait.
malfunction lamp comes on at start-up for a
• Contact your dispatcher to get more informa-
bulb check and then goes out quickly. On older
tion on how to proceed.
systems, the lamp could stay on until you are
driving over five mph.
If the lamp stays on after the bulb check, or
10.7.3 – Backing Make Your
goes on once you are under way, you may have
lost ABS control at one or more wheels.
Backing a school bus is strongly discouraged.
You should back your bus only when you have
Commercial Road
Remember, if your ABS malfunctions, you still no other safe way to move the vehicle. You should
have regular brakes. Drive normally, but get the never back a school bus when students are outside Test Online!
system serviced soon. of the bus. Backing is dangerous and increases
your risk of a collision. If you have no choice and
10.6.5 – Safety Reminders you must back your bus, follow these procedures:
• ABS won’t allow you to drive faster, follow • Post a lookout. The purpose of the lookout is
at
more closely, or drive less carefully. to warn you about obstacles, approaching per-
sons, and other vehicles. The lookout should
• ABS won’t prevent power or turning skids–
not give directions on how to back the bus.
ABS should prevent brake-induced skids but
not those caused by spinning the drive wheels • Signal for quiet on the bus.
dds.georgia.gov
or going too fast in a turn.
• Constantly check all mirrors and rear windows.
• ABS won’t necessarily shorten stopping dis-
• Back slowly and smoothly.
tance. ABS will help maintain vehicle control,
but not always shorten stopping distance. • If no lookout is available:
» Set the parking brake.
• ABS won’t increase or decrease ultimate stop-
» Turn off the motor and take the keys with
ping power–ABS is an “add-on” to your nor-
you.
mal brakes, not a replacement for them.
» Walk to the rear of the bus to determine
• ABS won’t change the way you normally whether the way is clear.
brake. Under normal brake conditions, your
• If you must back-up at a student pick-up point,
vehicle will stop as it always stopped. ABS
be sure to pick up students before backing and
only comes into play when a wheel would nor-
watch for late comers at all times.
mally have locked up because of over braking.
• Be sure that all students are in the bus before
• ABS won’t compensate for bad brakes or poor
backing.
brake maintenance.
• Remember: The best vehicle safety feature is
still a safe driver.
• Remember: Drive so you never need to use TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE
your ABS.
• Remember: If you need it, ABS could help to Section 10
prevent a serious crash. • Define the danger zone. How far does the • What position should students be in
danger zone extend around the bus? front of the bus before they cross the
10.7 – Special Safety roadway?
• What should you be able to see if
Considerations the outside flat mirrors are adjusted • Under what conditions must you
properly? The outside convex mirrors? evacuate the bus?
10.7.1 – Strobe Lights The crossover mirrors?
• How far from the nearest rail should you
Some school buses are equipped with roof- • You are loading students along the route. stop at a highway-rail crossing?
mounted, white strobe lights. If your bus is so When should you activate your alternating
• What is a passive highway-rail crossing?
equipped, the overhead strobe light should be flashing amber warning lights?
Why should you be extra cautious at this
used when you have limited visibility. This • You are unloading students along your type of crossing?
means that you cannot easily see around you – route. Where should students walk to
in front, behind, or beside the school bus. Your • How should you use your brakes if your
after exiting the bus?
visibility could be only slightly limited or it could vehicle is equipped with antilock brakes
be so bad that you can see nothing at all. In all • After unloading at school, why should you (ABS)?
instances, understand and obey your state or lo- walk through the bus?
cal regulations concerning the use of these lights. These questions may be on your test. If you can’t answer them all, re-read Section 10.
83
SECTION 11
PRE-TRIP 11.1 – Internal Inspection Temperature Gauge
(All Vehicles) • Make sure the temperature gauge is working.
INSPECTION TEST
Study the following vehicle parts for the type • Temperature should begin to climb to the
of vehicle you will be using during the CDL normal operating range or temperature light
This Section Covers skills tests. You should be able to identify each
part and tell the examiner what you are looking
should be off.
Air Gauge
Internal Inspection for or inspecting.
• Make sure the air gauge is working properly.
(All Vehicles) ..............11.1 11.1.1 – Engine Compartment
• Build air pressure to governor cut-out, rough-
(Engine Off)
ly 120-140 psi.
External Inspection Leaks/Hoses
Ammeter/Voltmeter
(All Vehicles) .............11.2 • Look for puddles on the ground.
• Check that gauges show alternator and/or gen-
School Bus Only....... 11.3 • Look for dripping fluids on underside of en- erator is charging or that warning light is off.
gine and transmission.
Mirrors and Windshield
Trailer ....................... 11.4 • Inspect hoses for condition and leaks.
• Mirrors should be clean and adjusted prop-
Coach/Transit Bus ... 11.5 Oil Level erly from the inside.
• Indicate where dipstick is located. • Windshield should be clean with no illegal
Taking the CDL Pre-trip stickers, no obstructions, or damage to the
• See that oil level is within safe operating
Inspection Test ........ 11.6 glass.
range. Level must be above refill mark.
Emergency Equipment
Coolant Level
• Check for spare electrical fuses.
During the pre-trip inspection, you must • Inspect reservoir sight glass, or
show that the vehicle is safe to drive. You will • Check for three red reflective triangles, or 3
• (If engine is not hot), remove radiator cap and
have to walk around the vehicle and point to liquid burning flares.
check for visible coolant level.
or touch each item and explain to the exam- • Check for a properly charged and properly
iner what you are checking and why. You will Power Steering Fluid
secured fire extinguisher.
have to point to or touch items under the hood • Indicate where power steering fluid dipstick
or under the vehicle (this will require you to NOTE: If the vehicle is not equipped with
is located.
physically maneuver/crawl under the hood or electrical fuses, you must mention this to the
under the vehicle). • Check for adequate power steering fluid examiner.
level. Level must be above refill mark.
Steering Play
• Engine Compartment Belts
• Non-power steering: Check for excessive play
• Check the following belts for snugness (up to by turning steering wheel back and forth.
3/4 inch play at center of belt), cracks, or frays: Play should not exceed 10 degrees (or about
» Power steering belt. two inches on a 20-inch wheel).
» Water pump belt.
• Power steering: With the engine running,
» Alternator belt.
check for excessive play by turning the steering
» Air compressor belt.
wheel back and forth. Play should not exceed
NOTE: If any of the components listed above 10 degrees (or about two inches on a 20-inch
are not belt driven, you must: wheel) before front left wheel barely moves.
• Tell the examiner which component(s) are Wipers/Washers
not belt driven.
• Check that wiper arms and blades are secure,
• Make sure component(s) are operating prop- not damaged, and operate smoothly.
erly, are not damaged or leaking, and are
• If equipped, windshield washers must oper-
mounted securely.
ate correctly.
Safe Start
Lights/Reflectors/Reflector Tape Condi-
• Depress clutch. tion (Sides & Rear)
• Place gearshift lever in neutral (or park, for • Test that dash indicators work when corre-
automatic transmissions). sponding lights are turned on:
» Left turn signal.
• Start engine, then release clutch slowly.
» Right turn signal.
» Four-way emergency flashers.
11.1.2 – Cab Check/Engine Start
» High beam headlight.
Oil Pressure Gauge » Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) indicator.
» DEF indicator
• Make sure oil pressure gauge is working.
• Check that all external lights and reflective
• Check that pressure gauge shows increasing
equipment are clean and functional. Light
or normal oil pressure or that the warning
and reflector checks include:
light goes off.
» Clearance lights (red on rear, amber else-
• If equipped, oil temperature gauge should where).
begin a gradual rise to the normal operat- » Headlights (high and low beams).
ing range. » Taillights.
» Backing lights.

SECTION 11: PRE-TRIP INSPECTION TEST
» Turn signals. • If equipped with a hydraulic brake reserve the foot brake and hold it for one minute.
» Four-way flashers. (back-up) system, with the key off, depress Check the air gauge to see if the air pres-
» Brake lights. the brake pedal and listen for the sound of sure drops more than three pounds in one
» Red reflectors (on rear) and amber reflec- the reserve system electric motor. minute (single vehicle) or four pounds in
tors (elsewhere). one minute (combination vehicle). Special
• Check that the warning buzzer or light is off.
» Reflector tape condition note: if the air gauge does not work unless
Hydraulic Brake Master Cylinder- electrical power is supplied to it, then you
NOTE: Checks of brake, turn signal and four-
will need to turn the electrical power switch
way flasher functions must be done separately. • Check master cylinder is securely attached
to the on positions on this step.
and not leaking.
Horn » Without restarting the engine, turn electri-
• Checks brake fluid level in reservoir to ensure cal power to the on or “battery charge” posi-
• Check that air horn and/or electric horn
it is between the add and full marks. tion and begin fanning off the air pressure
work.
by rapidly applying and releasing the foot
Air Brake Check (Air Brake Equipped Ve-
Heater/Defroster brake. Low air warning devices (buzzer,
hicles Only)
light, flag) should activate before air pres-
• Test that the heater and defroster work.
• Failure to perform all three components of sure drops below 55 psi or level specified
Parking Brake Check the air brake check in the correct order will by the manufacturer.
result in an automatic failure of the pre-trip » Continue to fan off the air pressure. At
• With the parking brake engaged (trailer
inspection test and you will not be allowed approximately 40 psi on a tractor-trailer
brakes released on combination vehicles),
to proceed to Basic Skills and/or the Road combination vehicle (or level specified by
check that the parking brake will hold ve-
test. Air brake safety devices vary. However, the manufacturer), the tractor protection
hicle by gently trying to pull forward with
this procedure is designed to see that any valve and parking brake valve should close
parking brake on.
safety device operates correctly as air pres- (pop out). On other combination vehicle
• With the parking brake released and the sure drops from normal to a low air condi- types and single vehicle types, the parking
trailer parking brake engaged (combination tion. For safety purposes, you will use brake valve should close (pop out).
vehicles only), check that the trailer parking wheel chocks during the air brake check.
Service Brake Check
brake will hold vehicle by gently trying to pull The proper procedures for inspecting the air
forward with the trailer parking brake on. brake system are as follows: You will be required to check the application of
» With the air pressure built up to governor air or hydraulic service brakes. This procedure
Hydraulic Brake Check
cutoff (120 - 140 psi), shut off the engine, is designed to determine that the brakes are
Failure to complete the hydraulic brake check chock your wheels, release the parking working correctly and that the vehicle does not
correctly will result in an automatic failure of brake (all vehicles) and the tractor protec- pull to one side or the other.
the pre-trip inspection test and you will not tion valve (combination vehicle), fully apply
be allow to proceed to Basic Skills and/or the
Road test.
• Pump the brake pedal three times, then hold it
down for five seconds. The brake pedal should
not move (depress) during the five seconds.
NOTICE:
ELDT REGISTRY COMING FEBRUARY 7, 2022
Beginning February 7, 2022, an entry-level driver will only be permitted to take the relevant CDL skills or
knowledge test after completing the training required by the ELDT regulations, from a provider listed on the
Training Provider Registry.
This includes an individual seeking to take the CDL skills test required to obtain a Class A or Class B CDL for
the first time; to upgrade an existing Class B to a Class A CDL; or to obtain a passenger (P) or school bus (S)
endorsement for the first time. It also includes an individual seeking to take the knowledge test required to
obtain a hazardous materials (H) endorsement for the first time.
The Training Provider Registry will help commercial driver’s license (CDL) applicants connect with training
providers who are self-certified to provide required entry-level driver training. Sign up to receive news and
updates from FMCSA about the Training Provider Registry and the new requirements for CDL applicants,
training providers, and State Driver Licensing Agencies (SDLAs). Sign up for updates at https://
tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov/.
85
Pull forward at 5 mph, apply the service cracked, or dented and are mounted securely. • Check that door(s) are not damaged and
brake and stop. Check to see that the vehicle that they open and close properly from the
Brake Hoses/Lines
does not pull to either side and that it stops outside.
when brake is applied. • Look for cracked, worn, or leaking hoses,
• Hinges should be secure with seals intact.
lines, and couplings.
Safety Belt
• Check that mirror(s) and mirror brackets are
Drum Brake
• Check that the safety belt is securely mount- not damaged and are mounted securely with
ed, adjusts, latches properly and is not ripped • Check for cracks, dents, or holes. Also check no loose fittings.
or frayed. for loose or missing bolts.
Fuel Tank
• Check for contaminates such debris or oil/
• Check that tank(s) are secure, cap(s) are tight,
11.2 – External Inspection grease.
and that there are no leaks from tank(s) or
(All Vehicles) • Brake linings (where visible) should not be lines.
worn dangerously thin.
Battery/Box
11.2.1– Steering
Brake Linings
• Wherever located, see that battery(s) are se-
Steering Box/Hoses
• On some brake drums, there are openings cure, connections are tight, and cell caps are
• Check that the steering box is securely where the brake linings can be seen from present.
mounted and not leaking. Look for any miss- outside the drum. For this type of drum,
• Battery connections should not show signs
ing nuts, bolts, and cotter keys. check that a visible amount of brake lining
of excessive corrosion.
is showing.
• Check for power steering fluid leaks or dam-
• Battery box and cover or door must be secure.
age to power steering hoses. NOTE: Be prepared to perform the same
brake components inspection on every axle Drive Shaft
Steering Linkage
(power unit and trailer, if equipped).
• See that drive shaft is not bent or cracked.
• See that connecting links, arms, and rods
from the steering box to the wheel are not 11.2.4 – Wheels • Couplings should be secure and free of for-
worn or cracked. eign objects.
Rims
• Check that joints and sockets are not worn Exhaust System
• Check for damaged or bent rims. Rims can-
or loose and that there are no missing nuts,
not have welding repairs. • Check system for damage and signs of leaks
bolts, or cotter keys.
such as rust or carbon soot.
Tires
11.2.2 – Suspension • System should be connected tightly and
The following items must be inspected on
mounted securely.
Springs/Air/Torque every tire:
• Checks DEF tank to ensure the level of diesel
• Look for missing, shifted, cracked, or broken • Tread depth: Check for minimum tread
exhaust fluid in the tank is adequate (more
leaf springs. depth (4/32 on steering axle tires, 2/32 on
than 1/8th tank) checks that DEF indicator
all other tires).
• Look for broken or distorted coil springs. on the dash is working properly
• Tire condition: Check that tread is evenly worn
• If vehicle is equipped with torsion bars, Frame
and look for cuts or other damage to tread or
torque arms, or other types of suspension
sidewalls. Also, make sure that valve caps and • Look for cracks, broken welds, holes or other
components, check that they are not damaged
stems are not missing, broken, or damaged. damage to the longitudinal frame members,
and are mounted securely.
cross members, box, and floor.
• Tire inflation: Check for proper inflation by
• Air ride suspension should be checked for
using a tire gauge. Note: You will not get
damage and leaks. 11.2.6 – Rear of Vehicle
credit if you simply kick the tires to check
Mounts for proper inflation. Splash Guards
• Look for cracked or broken spring hangers, Hub Oil Seals/Axle Seals • If equipped, check that splash guards or mud
missing or damaged bushings, and broken, flaps are not damaged and are mounted se-
• See that hub oil/grease seals and axle seals
loose, or missing bolts, u-bolts or other axle curely.
are not leaking and, if wheel has a sight glass,
mounting parts. (The mounts should be
oil level is adequate. Doors/Ties/Lifts
checked at each point where they are secured
to the vehicle frame and axle[s].) Lug Nuts • Check that doors and hinges are not dam-
aged and that they open, close, and latch
Shock Absorbers • Check that all lug nuts are present, free of
properly from the outside, if equipped.
cracks and distortions, and show no signs of
• See that shock absorbers are secure and that
looseness such as rust trails or shiny threads. • Ties, straps, chains, and binders must also
there are no leaks.
be secure.
• Make sure all bolt holes are not cracked or
NOTE: Be prepared to perform the same sus-
distorted. • If equipped with a cargo lift, look for leaking,
pension components inspection on every axle
damaged or missing parts and explain how
(power unit and trailer, if equipped). Spacers or Budd Spacing
it should be checked for correct operation.
If equipped, check that spacers are not bent,
11.2.3 – Brakes • Lift must be fully retracted and latched se-
damaged, or rusted through.
curely.
Slack Adjustors and Pushrods Spacers should be evenly centered, with the
dual wheels and tires evenly separated.
• Look for broken, loose, or missing parts. 11.2.7 – Tractor/Coupling
NOTE: Be prepared to perform the same
• For manual slack adjustors, the brake pushrod Air/Electric Lines
wheel inspection on every axle (power unit
should not move more than one inch (with the
and trailer, if equipped). • Listen for air leaks. Check that air hoses and
brakes released) when pulled by hand.
electrical lines are not cut, chafed, spliced, or
Brake Chambers 11.2.5 – Side of Vehicle worn (steel braid should not show through).
• See that brake chambers are not leaking, Door(s)/Mirror(s) • Make sure air and electrical lines are not
88
tangled, pinched, or dragging against trac- no loose or missing nuts or bolts and cotter Lights/Reflectors
tor parts. pin is in place.
In addition to checking the lights and reflec-
Catwalk/Steps Tongue or Draw-bar tive devices listed in Section 10.2 of this manual,
school bus drivers must also check the following
• Check that the catwalk is solid, clear of ob- • Check that the tongue/draw-bar is not bent
(external) lights and reflectors:
jects, and securely bolted to tractor frame. or twisted and checks for broken welds and
stress cracks. • Strobe light, if equipped.
• Check that steps leading to the cab entry
and catwalk (if equipped) are solid, clear of • Check that the tongue/draw-bar is not worn • Stop arm light, if equipped.
objects, and securely bolted to tractor frame. excessively.
• Alternately flashing amber lights, if equipped.
Mounting Bolts Tongue Storage Area
• Alternately flashing red lights.
• Look for loose or missing mounting brackets, • Check that the storage area is solid and se-
Student Mirrors
clamps, bolts, or nuts. Both the fifth wheel cured to the tongue.
and the slide mounting must be solidly at- In addition to checking the external mirrors,
• Check that cargo in the storage area i.e.
tached. school bus drivers must also check the internal
chains, binders, etc. are secure.
and external mirrors used for observing students:
• On other types of coupling systems (i.e., ball
hitch, pintle hook, etc.), inspect all coupling • Check for proper adjustment.
components and mounting brackets for miss-
11.3 – School Bus Only
• Checks that all internal and external mirrors
ing or broken parts.
Emergency Equipment and mirror brackets are not damaged and
Hitch Release Lever are mounted securely with no loose fittings.
In addition to checking for spare electrical
• Check to see that the hitch release lever is in fuses (if equipped), three red reflective triangles, • Checks that visibility is not impaired due to
place and is secure. and a properly charged and rated fire extin- dirty mirrors.
guisher, school bus drivers must also inspect
Locking Jaws Stop Arm/ Safety Arm
the following emergency equipment:
• Look into fifth wheel gap and check that lock- If equipped, check the stop arm that it is
• Emergency Kit
ing jaws are fully closed around the kingpin. mounted securely to the vehicle , checks for
• Body Fluid Cleanup Kit loose fittings and damage, checks that stop arm
• On other types of coupling systems (i.e., ball
extends fully when operated and stop arm lights
hitch, pintle hook, etc.), inspect the locking Lighting Indicators
are operational.
mechanism for missing or broken parts and
In addition to checking the lighting indica- Checks that safety arm is securely mounted
make sure it is locked securely. If present,
tors listed in Section 10.2 of this manual, school and functions properly in conjunction with
safety cables or chains must be secure and
bus drivers must also check the following light- stop arm.
free of kinks and excessive slack.
ing indicators (internal panel lights):
Passenger Entry/Lift
5th Wheel Skid Plate
• Alternately flashing amber lights indicator,
• Check that the entry door is not damaged,
• Check for proper lubrication and that 5th if equipped.
operates smoothly, and closes securely from
wheel skid plate is securely mounted to the
• Alternately flashing red lights indicator. the inside.
platform and that all bolts and pins are secure
and not missing. • Strobe light indicator, if equipped. • Hand rails are secure and the step light is
working, if equipped.
Platform (Fifth Wheel)
• Check for cracks or breaks in the platform
structure which supports the fifth wheel
skid plate.
Release Arm (Fifth Wheel)
• If equipped, make sure the release arm is
in the engaged position and the safety latch
is in place.
Kingpin/Apron/Gap
• Check that the kingpin is not bent.
• Make sure the visible part of the apron is not
bent, cracked, or broken.
• Check that the trailer is laying flat on the fifth
wheel skid plate (no gap).
Locking Pins (Fifth Wheel)
• If equipped, look for loose or missing pins
in the slide mechanism of the sliding fifth
wheel. If air powered, check for leaks.
• Make sure locking pins are fully engaged.
• Check that the fifth wheel is positioned prop-
erly so that the tractor frame will clear the
landing gear during turns.
Sliding Pintle
• Check that the sliding pintle is secured with
89
• The entry steps must be clear with the treads • Look for cracks, broken welds, holes or other • See that the vehicle is sitting level (front and
not loose or worn excessively. damage to the frame, cross members, box, rear), and if air-equipped, check for audible
and floor. air leaks from the suspension system.
• If equipped with a handicap lift, look for
leaking, damaged, or missing parts and ex- Tandem Release Arm/Locking Pins Fuel Tank(s)
plain how lift should be checked for correct
• If equipped, make sure the locking pins are • See that fuel tank(s) are secure with no leaks
operation. Lift must be fully retracted and
locked in place and release arm is secured. from tank(s) or lines.
latched securely.
Baggage Compartments
Emergency Exit 11.4.3 – Remainder of Trailer
• Check that baggage and all other exterior
• Make sure that all emergency exits are not Remainder of Trailer
compartment doors are not damaged, operate
damaged, operate smoothly, and close se-
Please refer to Section 11.2 of this manual for properly, and latch securely.
curely from the inside.
detailed inspection procedures regarding the
Battery/Box
• Check that any emergency exit warning de- following components:
vices are working. • Wherever located, see that battery(s) are se-
• Wheels.
cure, connections are tight, and cell caps are
Seating
• Suspension system. present.
• Look for broken seat frames and check that
• Brakes. • Battery connections should not show signs
seat frames are firmly attached to the floor.
of excessive corrosion.
• Doors/ties/lift.
• Check that seat cushions are attached se-
• Check that battery box and cover or door is
curely to the seat frames. • Splash guards.
not damaged and is secure.
11.4 – Trailer 11.5 – Coach/Transit Bus 11.5.4 – Remainder of

Coach/Transit Bus
11.4.1 – Trailer Front 11.5.1 – Passenger Items Remainder of Vehicle
Air/Electrical Connections Passenger Entry/Lift Please refer to Section 11.2 of this manual for
detailed inspection procedures for the remain-
• Check that trailer air connectors are sealed • Check that entry doors operate smoothly and
der of the vehicle.
and in good condition. close securely from the inside.
Remember, the pre-trip inspection must
• Make sure glad hands are locked in place, • Check that hand rails are secure and, if be passed before you can proceed to the
free of damage or air leaks. equipped, that the step light(s) are working. basic vehicle control skills test.
• Make sure the trailer electrical plug is firmly • Check that the entry steps are clear, with the
seated and locked in place. treads not loose or worn excessively. 11.6 – Taking the CDL Pre-trip
Header Board • If equipped with a handicap lift, look for any
Inspection Test
leaking, damaged or missing part, and explain
• If equipped, check the header board to see
how it should be checked for correct operation. 11.6.1 – Class A Pre-trip
that it is secure, free of damage, and strong
Inspection Test
enough to contain cargo. • Lift should be fully retracted and latched
securely. If you are applying for a Class A CDL, you
• If equipped, the canvas or tarp carrier must
will be required to perform one of the four ver-
be mounted and fastened securely. Emergency Exits
sions of a pre-trip inspection in the vehicle you
• On enclosed trailers, check the front area • Make sure that all emergency exits are not have brought with you for testing. Each of the
for signs of damage such as cracks, bulges, damaged, operate smoothly, and close se- four tests are equivalent and you will not know
or holes. curely from the inside. which test you will take until just before the
testing begins.
• Check that any emergency exit warning de-
11.4.2 – Side of Trailer All of the tests include an engine start, an
vices are working.
in-cab-inspection, and an inspection of the cou-
Landing Gear
Passenger Seating pling system. Then, your test may require an
• Check that the landing gear is fully raised, inspection of the entire vehicle or only a portion
• Look for broken seat frames and check that
has no missing parts, crank handle is secure, of the vehicle which your CDL Examiner will
seat frames are firmly attached to the floor.
and the support frame is not damaged. explain to you.
• Check that seat cushions are attached se-
• If power operated, check for air or hydraulic
curely to the seat frames. 11.6.2 – Class B and C Pre-trip
leaks.
Inspection Test
Doors/Ties/Lifts 11.5.2 – Entry/Exit
If you are applying for a Class B CDL, you
• If equipped, check that doors are not dam- Doors/Mirrors will be required to perform one of the three
aged. Check that doors open, close, and latch versions of a pre-trip inspection in the vehicle
• Check that entry/exit doors are not dam-
properly from the outside. you have brought with you for testing. Each of
aged and operate smoothly from the outside.
the three tests are equivalent and you will not
• Check that ties, straps, chains, and binders Hinges should be secure with seals intact.
know which test you will take until just before
are secure.
• Make sure that the passenger exit mirrors the testing begins.
• If equipped with a cargo lift, look for leaking, and all external mirrors and mirror brackets All of the tests include an engine start and an
damaged or missing parts and explain how are not damaged and are mounted securely in-cab inspection. Then, your test may require
it should be checked for correct operation. with no loose fittings. an inspection of the entire vehicle or only a por-
tion of the vehicle which your CDL Examiner
• Lift should be fully retracted and latched
11.5.3 – External Inspection of will explain to you. You will also have to inspect
securely.
Coach/Transit Bus any special features of your vehicle (e.g, school
Frame or transit bus).
Level/Air Leaks
90
91
11: PRE-TRIP INSPECTION TEST
SECTION
Remove Page for Practice Pre-trip Inspection Test
SECTION 12
BASIC VEHICLE 12.2 – EXERCISES
CONTROL
SKILLS TEST 12.2.1 – Straight Line Backing
You may be asked to back your vehicle
in a straight line between two rows of
This Section Covers cones without touching or crossing over
the exercise boundaries.
Skills Test Scoring ... 12.1
Skills Test 12.2.2 – Offset Back/Right
Exercises ..................12.2 You may be asked to back into a space
that is to the right rear of your vehicle.
Your basic control skills could be tested You will drive straight forward to the
using one or more of the following exercises outer boundary. From that position you
shown (Figures 12.2.1 through 12.2.6) off-road must back the vehicle into the opposite
lane until the front of your vehicle has
or somewhere on the street during the road test.
passed the first set of cones without
striking boundary lines or cones.
12.1 – SCORING
12.2.3 – Offset Back/Left
If the driver fails the basic control skills test, You may be asked to back into a space
the test will stop and the applicant cannot pro- that is to the left rear of your vehicle. You
ceed any further in the CDL testing. will drive straight forward to the outer
• Crossing Boundaries (encroachments) boundary. From that position, you must
back the vehicle into the opposite lane
• Pull-ups until the front of your vehicle has passed
• Outside Vehicle Observations (Looks) the first set of cones without striking
• Final Position/Inside Parallel boundary lines or cones.
Encroachments – The examiner will score the 12.2.4 – Parallel Park

number of times you touch or cross over an ex- (Driver Side)
ercise boundary line or cone with any portion
of your vehicle. Each encroachment will count You may be asked to park in a parallel
as an error. parking space that is on your left. You are
to drive past the entrance to the parallel
Pull-ups – When a driver stops and pulls forward parking space with your vehicle parallel
to clear an encroachment or to get a better posi- to the parking area; and back into the
tion, it is scored as a “pull-up.” Stopping without space without crossing front, side or
changing direction does not count as a pull-up. rear boundaries marked by cones. You
You will not be penalized for initial pull-ups. are required to get your entire vehicle
However, an excessive number of pull-ups, will completely into the space.
count as errors (you will be advised the number
of non-scored pull-ups you are allowed for each 12.2.5 – Parallel Park
skill you are tested on). (Conventional)
Outside Vehicle Observations (Looks) – You You may be asked to park in a paral-
may be permitted to safely stop and exit the ve- lel parking space that is on your right.
hicle to check the external position of the vehicle You are to drive past the entrance to the
(look). When doing so, you must place the vehicle parallel parking space with your vehicle
in neutral and set the parking brake(s). Then, when parallel to the parking area; and back into
exiting the vehicle, you must do so safely by facing the space without crossing front, side or
the vehicle and maintaining three points of contact rear boundaries marked by cones. You
with the vehicle at all times (when exiting a bus, are required to get your entire vehicle
maintain a firm grasp on the handrail at all times). completely into the space.
If you do not safely secure the vehicle or safely exit
the vehicle it may result in an automatic failure of
the basic control skills test.
The maximum number of times that you may 12.2.6 – Alley Dock
look to check the position of you vehicle is two (2) You may be asked to sight-side back
except for the Straight Line Backing exercise, which your vehicle into an alley. You will drive
allows one look. Each time you open the door, past the alley and position your vehicle
move from a seated position where in physical parallel to the outer boundary. From that
control of the vehicle or on a bus walk to the back position, back into the alley bringing the
of a bus to get a better view, it is scored as a “look.” rear of your vehicle within three feet of
the rear of the alley without touching
Final Position/Inside Parallel – It is important boundary lines or cones. Your vehicle
that you finish each exercise exactly as the exam- must be straight within the alley/lane
iner has instructed you. If you do not maneuver when you have completed the maneuver.
the vehicle into its final position as described by
the examiner, you will be penalized and fail the
basic skills test.
93
SECTION 13
ON-ROAD 13.1 – How You Will Be Tested • Vehicle should not move into oncoming traffic.
DRIVING 13.1.1 – Turns

• Vehicle should finish turn in correct lane.
After turn:
You have been asked to make a turn:
• Make sure turn signal is off.
This Section Covers • Check traffic in all directions.
• Get up to speed of traffic, use turn signal,
How You Will • Use turn signals and safely get into the lane and move into right-most lane when safe to
needed for the turn. do so (if not already there).
Be Tested ................. 13.1 As you approach the turn: • Check mirrors and traffic.
• Use turn signals to warn others of your turn.
13.1.2 – Intersections
You will drive over a test route that has • Slow down smoothly, change gears as needed
As you approach an intersection:
a variety of traffic situations. At all times to keep power, but do not coast unsafely. Un-
during the test, you must drive in a safe and safe coasting occurs when your vehicle is out • Check traffic thoroughly in all directions.
responsible manner; and… of gear (clutch depressed or gearshift in neu-
• Decelerate gently.
tral) for more than the length of your vehicle.
• Wear your safety belt.
• Brake smoothly and, if necessary, change
If you must stop before making the turn:
• Obey all traffic signs, signals, and gears.
laws. • Come to a smooth stop without skidding.
• If necessary, come to a complete stop (no
• Complete the test without an accident • Come to a complete stop behind the stop line, coasting) behind any stop signs, signals,
or moving violation. crosswalk, or stop sign. sidewalks, or stop lines maintaining a safe
gap behind any vehicle in front of you.
During the driving test, the examiner will be • If stopping behind another vehicle, stop
scoring you on specific driving maneuvers as where you can see the rear tires on the ve- • Your vehicle must not roll forward or back-
well as on your general driving behavior. You hicle ahead of you (safe gap). ward.
will follow the directions of the examiner. Direc-
• Do not let your vehicle roll. When driving through an intersection:
tions will be given to you so you will have plenty
of time to do what the examiner has asked. You • Keep the front wheels aimed straight ahead. • Check traffic thoroughly in all directions.
will not be asked to drive in an unsafe manner.
When ready to turn: • Decelerate and yield to any pedestrians and
If your test route does not have certain traf-
traffic in the intersection.
fic situations, you may be asked to simulate a • Check traffic in all directions.
traffic situation. You will do this by telling the • Do not change lanes while proceeding
• Keep both hands on the steering wheel dur-
examiner what you are or would be doing if through the intersection.
ing the turn.
you were in that traffic situation.
• Keep your hands on the wheel.
• Keep checking your mirror to make sure the
vehicle does not hit anything on the inside Once through the intersection:
of the turn.
• Continue checking mirrors and traffic.
• Accelerate smoothly and change gears as
necessary.
13.1.3 – Urban Business

During this part of the test, you are expected
to make regular traffic checks and maintain a
safe following distance. Your vehicle should be
centered in the proper lane (right-most lane) and
you should keep up with the flow of traffic but
not exceed the posted speed limit.
13.1.4 –Lane Changes

During multiple lane portions of the test, you
will be asked to change lanes to the left, and
then back to the right. You should make the
necessary traffic checks first, then use proper
signals and smoothly change lanes when it is
safe to do so.
13.1.5 – Expressway
Before entering the expressway:
• Check traffic.
• Use proper signals.
• Merge smoothly into the proper lane of traffic.
Once on the expressway:
• Maintain proper lane positioning, vehicle
spacing, and vehicle speed.
Image courtesy ©iStockphoto.com/2windspa
94
SECTION 13: ON-ROAD DRIVING
• Continue to check traffic thoroughly in all • Before entering the curve, reduce speed so You will be scored on your overall per-
directions. further braking or shifting is not required formance in the following general driving
in the curve. behavior categories:
When exiting the expressway:
• Keep vehicle in the lane.
• Make necessary traffic checks. 13.1.11 – Clutch Usage
• Continue checking traffic in all directions. (for Manual Transmission)
• Use proper signals.
• Always use clutch to shift.
• Decelerate smoothly in the exit lane. 13.1.8 – Railroad Crossing
• Double-clutch when shifting. Do not rev or
• Once on the exit ramp, you must continue Before reaching the crossing, all commercial
lug the engine.
to decelerate within the lane markings and drivers should:
maintain adequate spacing between your • Do not ride clutch to control speed, coast with
• Decelerate, brake smoothly, and shift gears
vehicle and other vehicles. the clutch depressed, or “pop” the clutch.
as necessary.
13.1.6 – Stop/Start • Look and listen for the presence of trains. 13.1.12 – Gear Usage
(for Manual Transmission)
For this maneuver, you will be asked to pull • Check traffic in all directions.
your vehicle over to the side of the road and • Do not grind or clash gears.
Do not stop, change gears, pass another ve-
stop as if you were going to get out and check
hicle, or change lanes while any part of your • Select gear that does not rev or lug engine.
something on your vehicle. You must check
vehicle is in the crossing.
traffic thoroughly in all directions and move to • Do not shift in turns and intersections.
If you are driving a bus, a school bus, or a
the right-most lane or shoulder of road.
vehicle displaying placards, you should be
As you prepare for the stop: 13.1.13 – Brake Usage
prepared to observe the following procedures
• Check traffic. at every railroad crossing (unless the crossing • Do not ride or pump brake.
is exempt):
• Activate your right turn signal. • Do not brake harshly. Brake smoothly using
• As the vehicle approaches a railroad crossing, steady pressure.
• Decelerate smoothly, brake evenly, change
activate the four-way flashers.
gears as necessary.
13.1.14 – Lane Usage
• Stop the vehicle within 50 feet but not less
• Bring your vehicle to a full stop without
than 15 feet from the nearest rail. • Do not put vehicle over curbs, sidewalks, or
coasting.
lane markings.
• Listen and look in both directions along the
Once stopped:
track for an approaching train and for signals • Stop behind stop lines, crosswalks, or stop
• Vehicle must be parallel to the curb or shoul- indicating the approach of a train. If operat- signs.
der of the road and safely out of the traffic ing a bus, you may also be required to open
• Complete a turn in the proper lane on a mul-
flow. the window and door prior to crossing tracks.
tiple lane road (vehicle should finish a left
• Vehicle should not be blocking driveways, • Keep hands on the steering wheel as the ve- turn in the lane directly to the right of the
fire hydrants, intersections, signs, etc. hicle crosses the tracks. center line).
• Cancel your turn signal. • Do not stop, change gears, or change lanes • Finish a right turn in the right-most (curb)
while any part of your vehicle is proceeding lane.
• Activate your four-way emergency flashers.
across the tracks.
• Move to or remain in right-most lane unless
• Apply the parking brake.
• Four-way flashers should be deactivated after lane is blocked.
• Move the gear shift to neutral or park. the vehicle crosses the tracks.
13.1.15 – Steering
• Remove your feet from the brake and clutch • Continue to check mirrors and traffic.
pedals. • Do not over or under steer the vehicle.
Not all driving road test routes will have a
When instructed to resume: railroad crossing. You may be asked to explain • Keep both hands on the steering wheel at
and demonstrate the proper railroad crossing all times unless shifting. Once you have
• Check traffic and your mirrors thoroughly
procedures to the examiner at a simulated lo- completed shift, return both hands to the
in all directions.
cation. steering wheel.
• Turn off your four-way flashers.
13.1.9 – Bridge/Overpass/Sign 13.1.16 – Regular Traffic Checks
• Activate the left turn signal.
After driving under an overpass, you may be • Check traffic regularly.
• When traffic permits, you should release the
asked to tell the examiner what the posted clear-
parking brake and pull straight ahead. • Check mirrors regularly.
ance or height was. After going over a bridge,
• Do not turn the wheel before your vehicle you may be asked to tell the examiner what the • Check mirrors and traffic before, while in
moves. posted weight limit was. If your test route does and after an intersection.
not have a bridge or overpass, you may be asked
• Check traffic from all directions, especially • Scan and check traffic in high volume areas
about another traffic sign. When asked, be pre-
to the left. and areas where pedestrians are expected
pared to identify and explain to the examiner
to be present.
• Steer and accelerate smoothly into the proper any traffic sign which may appear on the route.
lane when safe to do so.
13.1.17 – Use of Turn Signals
13.1.10 – Student Discharge
• Once your vehicle is back into the flow of
(School Bus) • Use turn signals properly.
traffic, cancel your left turn signal.
If you are applying for a School Bus endorse- • Activate turn signals when required.
13.1.7 – Curve ment, you will be required to demonstrate load-
• Activate turn signals at appropriate times.
ing and unloading students. Please refer to sec-
When approaching a curve:
tion 10 of this manual for procedures on loading • Cancel turn signals upon completion of a
• Check traffic thoroughly in all directions. and unloading school students. turn or lane change.
95

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..___.

,, [U)[U)gj GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF DRIVER SERVICES

•R,ei nstate me nts ·Chang,e of Address

CONTENTS Our Mission

DDS ONLINE SERVICES

dds.georgia.gov and like DDS on Facebook! DDS-2203-P (3/2017)

DDS Issues Real ID Driver’s

“I wish you safe passage and encourage you to

COMMISSIONER’S MESSAGE BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MESSAGE

“Operating a commercial vehicle Board of Directors

Basic Vehicle Control. You will be tested on Figure 1.2

THE “MOVE OVER” LAW

14 GEORGIA COMMERCIAL DRIVERS MANUAL

FMCSA CERTIFICATIONS (INITIAL BESIDE APPLICABLE STATEMENTS)

Sample – Self-certification requirements (driver would initial A, B, C or D)

STEERING SYSTEM KEY SUSPENSION PARTS SAFETY DEFECT:

Figure 2.1 Figure 2.2 Figure 2.3

2.3.2 – Multi-speed Rear Axles and

Figure 2.8 Figure 2.9 Figure 2.10

2.6.1 – Stopping Distance

2.7.2 – Space Behind

ROUND YELLOW PAVEMENT MARKINGS MULTIPLE TRACKS GATES/LIGHTS

Figure 2.15 Figure 2.16 Figure 2.17 Figure 2.18

Extinguish with Nonconducting Agents Knowing how to fight fires is important.

D Purple K Dry Chemical

B or C KCL Dry Chemical

D Dry Powder Special Compound

B or C Carbon Dioxide (Dry)

B or C Halogenated Agent (Gas)

A Water With Anti-Freeze

A or B Water, Loaded Steam Style

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE

Figure 2.22 • Position yourself upwind. Let the wind carry

2.23.3 – When You Do Become Sleepy Figure 2.24

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE

3.2.4 – Balance the Weight

3.4 – Cargo Needing

3.4.1 – Dry Bulk

3.4.2 – Hanging Meat

4.3.1 – Passenger Supervision

There are many parts to an air brake system.

Air Brake 5.1.1 – Air Compressor

Figure 5.3 Figure 5.4

LOW AIR PRESSURE WARNING DEVICES

5.4.5 – Brake Fading or Failure

INFLUENCE OF COMBINATION TYPE ON REARWARD AMPLIFICATION

6.1.6 – Turn Wide

Step 7. Pull Tractor Partially Step 3. Unlock the Coupler

Figure 16 Step 3. Lower the Drawbeam

Step 4. Lock Safety Screw and Tighten

7.1.2 – Beware of the

7.1.3 – Inspect Completely

62 GEORGIA COMMERCIAL DRIVERS MANUAL

Image courtesy ©iStockphoto.com/uniball

64 GEORGIA COMMERCIAL DRIVERS MANUAL

Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) Effective February 7, 2022

9.1.1 – Contain the Material

Marking ..................... 9.2 Emergencies ..............9.6 9.1.2 – Communicate the Risk

66 GEORGIA COMMERCIAL DRIVERS MANUAL