Knowledge Test Class A
This license is required for driving any legal combination of vehicles, with a gross combination weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the GVWR of a trailer exceeds 10,000 pounds To receive this license, applicants must pass a 50-question test. To pass, applicants must answer 40 questions correctly. Each question has four possible answer choices. Test questions come from the West Virginia Commercial Driver’s License Manual. Questions come from chapters covering: Introduction, Driving Safely, Transporting Cargo Safely, Air Brakes (if applicable), Combination, Doubles and Hazardous Materials. Endorsements that may be used with a Class A CDL are: Hazardous materials, Tank, Passenger, HazMat and Tank, Air Brakes and School bus.
Number of Question
Passing Score
8. You should not use the parking brake:
Explanation
A parking brake should not be used if the vehicle's brakes are very hot from use on a steep downgrade or if the brakes are very wet and temperatures are freezing. Using the parking brake when brakes are hot could cause damage to the brakes, and using the brakes when they are wet in freezing weather may cause the brakes to ice up, rendering the vehicle immobile.
9. If your vehicle is equipped with a cargo lift, you should ensure that:
Explanation
When checking a cargo lift as part of your vehicle inspection test, you should check for leaking, damaged, or missing parts. The lift must be fully retracted and latched securely.
10. In very hot weather, tires should be checked regularly because:
Explanation
Air expands as it gets warmer, so the air pressure in your tires could reach dangerously high levels while being used in very hot weather. If this happens, stop and let your tires cool. Do not let air out of the tires, as this could result in the pressure dropping to an unsafe level once the tires cool down.
11. How many points will be added to your driving record for speeding between 11 and 14 mph over posted speed limit?
Explanation
In West Virginia's point system, driving between 11 mph and 14 mph faster than the posted speed limit will incur three points on a driver's record. If a driver accrues 12 points or more, their license will be suspended.
12. When taking the on-road driving test, you must do all of the following, except:
Explanation
During the on-road driving test, you must drive in a safe and responsible manner; wear your safety belt; obey all traffic signs, signals, and laws; and complete the test without any accidents or moving violations.
13. How can you avoid becoming drowsy on a trip?
Explanation
Strategies to reduce the risk of fatigue while driving include getting seven to eight hours of sleep beforehand; scheduling trips for the hours during which you are normally awake; planning to take breaks during the trip; and exercising regularly.
14. Bent lock rings:
Explanation
Mismatched, bent, or cracked lock rings are dangerous and should not be used.
See the exact questions that will be on the 2025 West Virginia DMV exam.
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Alexa shares with us how she went in for her Class A permit and decided to get her Hazmat endorsement as a bonus!
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Frequently Asked Questions
A Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) in West Virginia is a type of license that allows the holder to operate a combination of vehicles with a total weight of 26,001 pounds or more, provided that the vehicle being towed weighs more than 10,000 pounds. This license also allows the holder to operate vehicles in Class B and Class C categories.
Here are the steps to obtain a Class A CDL license in West Virginia:
1. Obtain a West Virginia CDL handbook from the DMV or download it online.
2. Obtain a valid medical certificate from a certified medical examiner.
3. Obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) by passing the knowledge tests for the type of vehicle you wish to operate.
4. Practice operating a commercial vehicle under the supervision of a qualified CDL holder.
5. Pass the skills test, which includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
6. Submit required documents and fees to obtain your Class A CDL.
It is important to note that additional endorsements may be required for certain types of commercial vehicles, such as hazardous materials or passenger transport.
Here are the steps to obtain a Class A CDL license in West Virginia:
1. Obtain a West Virginia CDL handbook from the DMV or download it online.
2. Obtain a valid medical certificate from a certified medical examiner.
3. Obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) by passing the knowledge tests for the type of vehicle you wish to operate.
4. Practice operating a commercial vehicle under the supervision of a qualified CDL holder.
5. Pass the skills test, which includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
6. Submit required documents and fees to obtain your Class A CDL.
It is important to note that additional endorsements may be required for certain types of commercial vehicles, such as hazardous materials or passenger transport.
With a Class A CDL license in West Virginia, you can operate a combination of vehicles with a total weight of 26,001 pounds or more, provided that the vehicle being towed weighs more than 10,000 pounds. This includes:
1. Tractor-trailers or semi-trucks with double or triple trailers
2. Truck and trailer combinations
3. Livestock carriers
4. Flatbeds with oversized loads
5. Tanker trucks carrying liquids or gases
6. Dump trucks with trailers
It is important to note that certain endorsements may be required to operate specific types of vehicles, such as hazardous materials or passenger transport. Always check with the West Virginia DMV and federal regulations to ensure you have the necessary endorsements for the type of vehicle you plan to operate.
1. Tractor-trailers or semi-trucks with double or triple trailers
2. Truck and trailer combinations
3. Livestock carriers
4. Flatbeds with oversized loads
5. Tanker trucks carrying liquids or gases
6. Dump trucks with trailers
It is important to note that certain endorsements may be required to operate specific types of vehicles, such as hazardous materials or passenger transport. Always check with the West Virginia DMV and federal regulations to ensure you have the necessary endorsements for the type of vehicle you plan to operate.
To obtain a Class A CDL license in West Virginia, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Be at least 18 years of age to obtain a CDL license for intrastate (within West Virginia) driving, and at least 21 years of age to obtain a CDL license for interstate (across state lines) driving.
2. Hold a valid non-commercial driver's license.
3. Obtain a valid medical certificate from a certified medical examiner.
4. Pass the knowledge tests for the type of vehicle you wish to operate and obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP).
5. Practice operating a commercial vehicle under the supervision of a qualified CDL holder.
6. Pass the skills test, which includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
7. Submit required documents and fees to obtain your Class A CDL.
In addition to these general requirements, certain endorsements may be required for specific types of commercial vehicles, such as hazardous materials or passenger transport. You will also need to provide proof of West Virginia residency and your Social Security Number when applying for your CDL license.
1. Be at least 18 years of age to obtain a CDL license for intrastate (within West Virginia) driving, and at least 21 years of age to obtain a CDL license for interstate (across state lines) driving.
2. Hold a valid non-commercial driver's license.
3. Obtain a valid medical certificate from a certified medical examiner.
4. Pass the knowledge tests for the type of vehicle you wish to operate and obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP).
5. Practice operating a commercial vehicle under the supervision of a qualified CDL holder.
6. Pass the skills test, which includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
7. Submit required documents and fees to obtain your Class A CDL.
In addition to these general requirements, certain endorsements may be required for specific types of commercial vehicles, such as hazardous materials or passenger transport. You will also need to provide proof of West Virginia residency and your Social Security Number when applying for your CDL license.
In West Virginia, the minimum age requirement for a Class A CDL license is 18 years old for intrastate (within West Virginia) driving. However, to operate a commercial vehicle across state lines, you must be at least 21 years old due to federal regulations.
It is important to note that some employers may have their own age requirements for hiring CDL drivers, and certain endorsements may also have age restrictions. Always check with the West Virginia DMV and federal regulations to ensure you meet all age requirements before applying for a CDL license or endorsement.
It is important to note that some employers may have their own age requirements for hiring CDL drivers, and certain endorsements may also have age restrictions. Always check with the West Virginia DMV and federal regulations to ensure you meet all age requirements before applying for a CDL license or endorsement.
Yes, you may need endorsements for a Class A CDL license depending on the type of commercial vehicle you plan to operate. The following are the endorsements that may be required:
1. T - Double/Triple Trailers: Required for drivers who plan to operate multiple trailers.
2. P - Passenger: Required for drivers who plan to transport more than 15 passengers (including the driver) in a commercial vehicle.
3. N - Tank Vehicle: Required for drivers who plan to transport liquid or gaseous materials in tanks.
4. H - Hazardous Materials: Required for drivers who plan to transport hazardous materials.
5. X - Combination of Tank Vehicle and Hazardous Materials: Required for drivers who plan to transport hazardous materials in tanks.
To obtain an endorsement, you must pass additional written knowledge tests and meet any additional requirements, such as background checks or specialized training courses. It is important to note that some employers may require specific endorsements, so it's always a good idea to research the requirements for the job you're interested in before pursuing a CDL license or endorsement.
1. T - Double/Triple Trailers: Required for drivers who plan to operate multiple trailers.
2. P - Passenger: Required for drivers who plan to transport more than 15 passengers (including the driver) in a commercial vehicle.
3. N - Tank Vehicle: Required for drivers who plan to transport liquid or gaseous materials in tanks.
4. H - Hazardous Materials: Required for drivers who plan to transport hazardous materials.
5. X - Combination of Tank Vehicle and Hazardous Materials: Required for drivers who plan to transport hazardous materials in tanks.
To obtain an endorsement, you must pass additional written knowledge tests and meet any additional requirements, such as background checks or specialized training courses. It is important to note that some employers may require specific endorsements, so it's always a good idea to research the requirements for the job you're interested in before pursuing a CDL license or endorsement.
The Class A CDL skills test consists of three parts: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
1. Pre-trip Inspection: In this part of the test, you will be required to inspect the vehicle for safety issues and mechanical problems. You will need to identify and explain the parts of the vehicle you are inspecting.
2. Basic Vehicle Control: In this part of the test, you will be required to demonstrate your ability to control the vehicle in a controlled environment. You will be asked to perform various maneuvers such as driving forward and backward, shifting gears, turning within a specified area, and stopping at a designated point.
3. On-Road Driving: In this part of the test, you will be required to demonstrate your ability to safely operate the commercial vehicle on public roads. You will need to follow instructions from the examiner and demonstrate your ability to drive in traffic, change lanes, make turns, perform safe merges and exits from highways or interstates.
To pass the Class A CDL skills test, you must successfully complete each part of the exam with minimal errors. It is important to study and practice thoroughly before taking the exam, as it is a comprehensive test that requires both knowledge and practical skills.
1. Pre-trip Inspection: In this part of the test, you will be required to inspect the vehicle for safety issues and mechanical problems. You will need to identify and explain the parts of the vehicle you are inspecting.
2. Basic Vehicle Control: In this part of the test, you will be required to demonstrate your ability to control the vehicle in a controlled environment. You will be asked to perform various maneuvers such as driving forward and backward, shifting gears, turning within a specified area, and stopping at a designated point.
3. On-Road Driving: In this part of the test, you will be required to demonstrate your ability to safely operate the commercial vehicle on public roads. You will need to follow instructions from the examiner and demonstrate your ability to drive in traffic, change lanes, make turns, perform safe merges and exits from highways or interstates.
To pass the Class A CDL skills test, you must successfully complete each part of the exam with minimal errors. It is important to study and practice thoroughly before taking the exam, as it is a comprehensive test that requires both knowledge and practical skills.
Yes, there are some restrictions or limitations for drivers with a Class A CDL license. These restrictions or limitations vary depending on the state and the specific circumstances of the driver. Here are some common restrictions or limitations:
1. Air Brake Restriction: If a driver does not pass the air brake knowledge test or does not complete the skills test in a vehicle equipped with air brakes, they will have an air brake restriction added to their CDL license.
2. Automatic Transmission Restriction: If a driver takes their skills test in a vehicle with an automatic transmission, they will have an automatic transmission restriction added to their CDL license.
3. Intrastate Only Restriction: If a driver operates only within their state's borders, they may have an intrastate only restriction added to their CDL license.
4. Medical Certification: Drivers with certain medical conditions may be required to obtain a medical certification and carry it with them while driving.
5. Passenger Restrictions: Drivers who do not pass the passenger endorsement test or who do not complete the skills test in a passenger vehicle will have a passenger restriction added to their CDL license.
It is important for drivers to understand any restrictions or limitations on their CDL license and comply with them to avoid potential fines or legal issues.
1. Air Brake Restriction: If a driver does not pass the air brake knowledge test or does not complete the skills test in a vehicle equipped with air brakes, they will have an air brake restriction added to their CDL license.
2. Automatic Transmission Restriction: If a driver takes their skills test in a vehicle with an automatic transmission, they will have an automatic transmission restriction added to their CDL license.
3. Intrastate Only Restriction: If a driver operates only within their state's borders, they may have an intrastate only restriction added to their CDL license.
4. Medical Certification: Drivers with certain medical conditions may be required to obtain a medical certification and carry it with them while driving.
5. Passenger Restrictions: Drivers who do not pass the passenger endorsement test or who do not complete the skills test in a passenger vehicle will have a passenger restriction added to their CDL license.
It is important for drivers to understand any restrictions or limitations on their CDL license and comply with them to avoid potential fines or legal issues.
In West Virginia, the Class A CDL written test is only available in English. This means that if you want to obtain a Class A CDL license in West Virginia, you must be able to read and understand written English. Additionally, the CDL skills test will also be conducted in English. However, if you have difficulty reading or understanding English, you may be able to request an interpreter during the test. It is important to contact your local DMV office in advance to inquire about the availability of interpreters and any other accommodations that may be available for non-English speakers.
Yes, if you have a disability that may affect your ability to take the Class A CDL written test, you may be able to request accommodations. The West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offers reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Some examples of accommodations that may be available include extra time to complete the test, a separate testing room, or a reader or sign language interpreter.
To request accommodations, you should contact the West Virginia DMV directly and provide documentation of your disability and how it affects your ability to take the test. The DMV may also require additional information or documentation from a qualified medical professional. It is important to request accommodations in advance of your scheduled test date in order to allow sufficient time for processing and arranging the necessary accommodations.
To request accommodations, you should contact the West Virginia DMV directly and provide documentation of your disability and how it affects your ability to take the test. The DMV may also require additional information or documentation from a qualified medical professional. It is important to request accommodations in advance of your scheduled test date in order to allow sufficient time for processing and arranging the necessary accommodations.
Yes, if you fail the Class A CDL written test in West Virginia, you are allowed to retake the test. However, there are some restrictions on how soon you can retake the test.
If you fail the written test, you must wait at least one business day before you can retake it. If you fail the test three times, you must wait at least 30 days before you can retake it again. If you fail the test six times, you must wait at least 180 days before you can retake it again.
It is important to note that there is a fee for each attempt at the written test. Therefore, it is recommended that you study thoroughly and prepare adequately before taking the test to increase your chances of passing on your first attempt and avoid additional fees.
If you fail the written test, you must wait at least one business day before you can retake it. If you fail the test three times, you must wait at least 30 days before you can retake it again. If you fail the test six times, you must wait at least 180 days before you can retake it again.
It is important to note that there is a fee for each attempt at the written test. Therefore, it is recommended that you study thoroughly and prepare adequately before taking the test to increase your chances of passing on your first attempt and avoid additional fees.
