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 Virginia Commercial Driver 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

1. 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.

2. Anti-Lock Braking Systems (ABS):

Explanation
If equipped, ABS is in addition to a vehicle's normal braking system and does not increase or decrease the braking power of any other system. ABS only activates when a vehicle's wheels are about to lock.

3. An Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS):

Explanation
Anti-Lock Braking Systems (ABS) are compatible with air brakes and help a driver maintain control of their vehicle by preventing wheel lockup.

4. If an air compressor is belt-driven, the belt should be routinely checked to ensure that it is:

Explanation
If your vehicle has air brakes, the air compressor drive belt should be checked before each drive. Check the tightness of the belt and verify that it is in good condition.

5. A ____ allows a driver to gradually apply spring brakes.

Explanation
A modulating control valve allows a driver to gradually apply spring brakes. In equipped vehicles, the valve is controlled by a lever located on the dashboard.

6. When an S-cam turns inside a brake drum, the S-cam:

Explanation
When a brake pedal is pressed and the S-cam is turned, the S-cam presses the brake shoes against the inside of the brake drum. This causes friction and will cause the vehicle to slow.
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