Air Brakes

This endorsement is required for driving a vehicle with air brakes. To receive this endorsement, applicants must pass a written test. The test consists of 25 multiple choice.. Read More

This endorsement is required for driving a vehicle with air brakes. To receive this endorsement, applicants must pass a written test. The test consists of 25 multiple choice questions. Each question has three answer choices. To pass, the applicant must answer at least 20 questions correctly. Test questions come from the Idaho Commercial Driver’s License Manual. Questions come from the chapter covering: Air Brakes. The Air Brakes endorsement may be used with the Class A, B or C CDL.

Number of Question
Passing Score

13. While driving, ____ generally holds spring brakes in place.

Explanation
While driving, spring brakes are generally held in place by air pressure. If the air pressure gets low enough, the springs will activate the brakes.

14. When experiencing cold weather, be sure to check your vehicle's alcohol evaporator:

Explanation
An alcohol evaporator can help prevent ice from building up in an air brake system. In cold weather, the evaporator should be checked and refilled every day.

15. How is the parking brake released?

Explanation
In vehicles with air brakes, the parking brake is controlled by a knob. The knob is pulled out to apply the brakes, and pushed in to release them.

16. To confirm that a trailer has ABS, you can:

Explanation
If you are unsure if a trailer is equipped with an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), look under the vehicle for the electronic control unit and wheel speed sensor wires coming from the back of the brakes.

17. In a vehicle with dual air brakes, a leak in one system ____ the second system.

Explanation
A dual air brake system is made up of two separate air brake systems. If there is an air leak in one system, it may not affect the other.

18. Front wheel braking works:

Explanation
Front wheel braking is effective under all road conditions. It is unlikely that you will experience a front wheel skid, even on ice.
DMV Writen Test