Double
This endorsement is required if the driver will pull two or three trailers. To receive this endorsement, applicants must pass a test. The test consists of 20 multiple choice questions. To pass, the applicant must answer at least 16 questions correctly. Each question has four possible answer choices. Test questions come from the North Dakota Commercial Driver Guide. Questions come from chapters covering: Driving Safely, Transporting Cargo Air Brakes (if applicable), Combination Vehicles and Doubles and Triples. The Double/Triple endorsement can be used with the Class A CDL.
1. Doubles and triples:
To avoid rolling over and jackknifing, doubles and triples must be driven smoothly. To allow this, drivers should look well ahead of their vehicles so they can spot hazards early and have as much time as possible to make the necessary maneuvers.
2. Tie-downs are used to:
On flatbed trailers and trailers without sides, cargo must be tied down to prevent it from shifting or falling in transit. There should be at least one tie-down for every 10 feet of cargo. Regardless of the size of the cargo, at least two tie-downs must be used.
3. If you are being tailgated, you should:
If you are being tailgated, it is best to allow more room to open up in front of your vehicle. This will help you avoid the need for sudden stops, which could result in the tailgater rear-ending you, and will make it easier for the tailgater to pass. Speeding up may only make things more dangerous by prompting the other driver to continue tailgating you at a higher speed.
4. Retreaded tires:
Regrooved, recapped, or retreaded tires are prohibited from use on the front wheels of a bus.
5. To help prevent rollovers, you should:
To lower the risk of a rollover, load your cargo as closely to the ground as possible. To further reduce this risk, take curves and corners slowly.
6. If an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) malfunctions:
On a vehicle with ABS, a yellow malfunction lamp on the instrument panel will illuminate to alert you if the braking system is not working.
7. If the low pressure warning light comes on while you are driving:
If the low air pressure warning light turns on, you should stop and safely park your vehicle as soon as possible. Controlled braking will be possible only as long as enough air remains in the tanks.
See the exact questions that will be on the 2024 North Dakota DMV exam.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. Meet the eligibility requirements:
- Hold a valid North Dakota CDL.
- Be at least 21 years old.
- Pass a knowledge test specific to the Doubles/Triples endorsement.
2. Study for the CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement exam:
- Obtain the North Dakota Commercial Driver's License Manual and study the section on Doubles/Triples.
- Use online study resources such as practice tests and flashcards.
3. Schedule and pass the CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement knowledge test:
- Visit a North Dakota Department of Transportation Driver License Site to take the knowledge test.
- Bring your CDL and any necessary fees with you.
- Pass the test with a score of at least 80%.
4. Pay the required fee:
- The fee for a Doubles/Triples endorsement is $5.
5. Receive your new CDL with the Doubles/Triples endorsement:
- Once you have passed the knowledge test and paid the required fee, your new CDL with the Doubles/Triples endorsement will be issued to you.
1. Age: You must be at least 21 years old to drive a commercial vehicle carrying cargo across state lines or transporting hazardous materials.
2. Hold a valid CDL: You must already have a valid North Dakota CDL or apply for one before obtaining the Doubles/Triples endorsement.
3. Pass a Doubles/Triples endorsement knowledge test: You must pass a knowledge test specific to the Doubles/Triples endorsement at a North Dakota Department of Transportation Driver License Site.
4. Pass a driving skills test: You must demonstrate your ability to drive a Doubles/Triples combination vehicle safely by passing a driving skills test.
5. Medical certification: You must meet the medical certification requirements established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
6. Background check: You must pass a background check, which includes a review of your driving record and criminal history.
7. Pay the required fees: The fee for a Doubles/Triples endorsement is $5 in North Dakota.
Note that additional requirements may apply depending on your specific situation, such as if you are applying for hazardous materials (HazMat) endorsement or if you have any medical conditions that may affect your ability to drive safely.
Additionally, it's important to be aware of the weight and length limits for Doubles/Triples trailers, as well as safe driving practices and techniques for maneuvering these types of vehicles. You may consider taking a training course specifically focused on driving vehicles with Doubles/Triples trailers to gain more knowledge and experience in this area.
Overall, while North Dakota does not require specific experience or training for the Doubles/Triples endorsement, it's important to approach this process with caution and prioritize safety in your driving practices.
In addition to the Doubles/Triples endorsement knowledge test, you may also be required to take other written exams depending on the type of commercial vehicle you plan to operate. For example, if you plan to transport hazardous materials, you will need to take a separate HazMat endorsement knowledge test.
It's important to study and prepare for all necessary written tests thoroughly before taking them. You can find study materials and resources on the North Dakota Department of Transportation website or through commercial driving training programs.
Some of the specific skills or maneuvers you may be asked to demonstrate during the skills test include:
1. Properly coupling and uncoupling Doubles/Triples trailers
2. Inspecting Doubles/Triples trailers for safety and compliance with regulations
3. Maneuvering the vehicle through a course that simulates real-world driving conditions, such as backing up, turning, and changing lanes
4. Demonstrating safe driving practices when operating Doubles/Triples trailers, such as maintaining proper speed and following distance, using turn signals and mirrors, and communicating with other drivers on the road
During the skills test, you will be evaluated by a licensed CDL examiner who will observe your performance and score you based on your ability to complete each maneuver safely and effectively. It's important to practice your driving skills with Doubles/Triples trailers extensively before taking the skills test to ensure that you are fully prepared to demonstrate your abilities.
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), you must have a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement to operate a commercial motor vehicle with two or three trailers, each with a weight of more than 10,000 pounds. This applies to Class A vehicles, which are the types of vehicles typically used for commercial purposes.
Driving a commercial vehicle without the proper CDL endorsements can result in penalties such as fines, license suspension or revocation, and even criminal charges in some cases. It's essential to obtain the necessary endorsements and follow all regulations related to commercial driving to ensure safety on the road and avoid legal consequences.
It's important to note that adding a CDL endorsement may require additional fees, and you may need to provide proof of additional training or experience before you can take the required tests. However, adding an endorsement is generally faster and less expensive than applying for a new CDL license.
If you are unsure whether you need a specific endorsement for your commercial driving needs, or if you have any questions about the process of adding an endorsement to your CDL license, it's a good idea to contact the North Dakota Department of Transportation or consult with a licensed CDL training provider.
Some of the restrictions and limitations for drivers with a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement are:
1. Weight: The weight of each trailer must not exceed 28,000 pounds, and the combined weight of all trailers must not exceed 80,000 pounds.
2. Length: The maximum length of the double trailers is 28 feet each, and triple trailers must not exceed 48 feet in total length.
3. Type of cargo: The type of cargo that can be transported with double or triple trailers may be limited by local laws or regulations.
4. Driving conditions: Drivers with a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement may not be allowed to operate double or triple trailers in certain driving conditions, such as adverse weather or high winds.
5. Experience: Drivers may need to have a minimum amount of experience driving commercial vehicles before they can be authorized to drive double or triple trailers.
It's important to note that these restrictions and limitations may vary depending on the state or jurisdiction. Drivers should always check local laws and regulations to ensure compliance with all requirements before operating a commercial vehicle with double or triple trailers.
The weight limits for double/triple trailers with a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement in North Dakota are:
- The weight of each trailer must not exceed 28,000 pounds.
- The combined weight of all trailers must not exceed 80,000 pounds.
The length limits for double/triple trailers with a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement in North Dakota are:
- The maximum length of the double trailers is 28 feet each.
- Triple trailers must not exceed 48 feet in total length.
It's important to note that these weight and length limits may vary depending on the state or jurisdiction. Drivers should always check local laws and regulations to ensure compliance with all requirements before operating a commercial vehicle with double or triple trailers.
1. Weight distribution: Proper weight distribution is critical when driving double/triple trailers. Drivers should ensure that the weight is evenly distributed across all trailers to prevent jackknifing, rollovers, and other accidents.
2. Turning: Double/triple trailers require more space to turn than a single trailer. Drivers should be aware of the turning radius of their vehicle and plan their turns accordingly.
3. Braking: Double/triple trailers require more time and distance to stop than a single trailer. Drivers should apply the brakes gently and avoid sudden stops.
4. Speed: Drivers should always obey posted speed limits and adjust their speed according to road conditions.
5. Adverse weather conditions: Double/triple trailers are more susceptible to adverse weather conditions such as high winds, snow, and ice. Drivers should adjust their driving behavior accordingly.
6. Inspections: Regular inspections of the vehicle, including brakes, tires, lights, and coupling systems, are critical to ensuring safe operation of double/triple trailers.
7. CDL requirements: Drivers must have a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement on their license to operate these vehicles legally.
It's important for drivers with a CDL Doubles/Triples endorsement to be aware of these safety considerations and regulations to ensure safe operation of their vehicle and comply with North Dakota's laws and regulations.