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 Vermont Commercial Driver’s 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

19. A low air pressure warning signal should activate:

Explanation
In an air brake system, a low air pressure warning signal must come on if air pressure in the tanks falls below 55 psi. This warning signal may come in the form of a light, a buzzer, or a wig wag.

20. Air tank drains should:

Explanation
In an air brake system, air tank drains are used to remove water and compressor oil from the air tanks. When operating a drain, be sure to drain the tank completely.

21. What helps prevent wheel lockup when braking?

Explanation
The purpose of an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) is to prevent wheel lockup while brakes are being applied.

22. 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.

23. A dual air brake system:

Explanation
A dual air brake system is made up of two separate air brake systems. The systems share a single set of brake controls, but each has its own air tanks, hoses, and lines. One system typically operates the regular brakes on the rear axle or axles while the other system operates the regular brakes on the front axle.

24. If the low air pressure warning signal comes on, you should:

Explanation
If the low air pressure warning signal comes on while you are driving a vehicle with air brakes, you should immediately bring the vehicle to a safe stop while you are still able to control the brakes. Inspect and repair the brakes as soon as possible.

25. What kind of force do emergency brakes use?

Explanation
Air brakes are really three different braking systems: the service brake, the parking brake, and the emergency brake. Emergency and parking brakes are applied with mechanical force.
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