Alaska General Knowledge CDL Prep Test (AK) 4

5 out of 5 (38 votes)
80% Passing score
20 Questions
4 Mistakes allowed
In Alaska, where the wilderness meets the road, obtaining your Commercial Driver's License (CDL) requires not just skill but also thorough preparation. Here's your third Alaska CDL General Knowledge Practice Test, a vital step in your CDL quest. This test features 20 questions, carefully selected to test your knowledge and readiness. Acing it means correctly answering at least 16 questions. What sets this practice test apart is its unwavering consistency; every time you take it, you'll face the same set of questions. This repetition is not just about memorization; it's about building a deep understanding of the material, ensuring you're as prepared as the Alaskan wilderness demands. This CDL practice test doesn't just stand alone; it's part of a wider network of resources available at your fingertips. Our DMV practice tests, including this one, are easily accessible online. Whether you're on a desktop at home, a tablet in a caf�, or using our mobile app while on the go, these tests are available wherever you are. The resemblance of our practice questions to those on the actual DMV CDL test is uncanny. They mirror the real test not only in the style and format but also in the substance of the questions. This similarity is intentional, crafted to give you a realistic taste of what the actual CDL permit test will entail. By the time you walk into the DMV, you'll feel like you've already been there, thanks to the authentic experience these practice tests provide.
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Sample Alaska CDL Test Questions - General Knowledge

Question 1

Why must the proper low gear be selected before starting down a steep grade?

  1. A Because service brakes should be the only method used to control speed
  2. B Because speed may build until shifting lower is impossible, eliminating engine braking
  3. C Because the selected gear will hold speed without any braking under all conditions
  4. D Because selecting a low gear prevents all transmission wear

Correct answer: B – Because speed may build until shifting lower is impossible, eliminating engine braking

Select the proper low gear before beginning the descent. If speed builds first, the driver may be unable to shift into the necessary lower gear and might not be able to reengage any gear. That would remove the engine-braking effect needed to help control speed and reduce reliance on the service brakes.

Source: Alaska Commercial Driver License Manual — § 2.16.3, “Select the Right Gear Before Starting Down the Grade”

Question 2

Under Alaska law, a first conviction for operating a commercial motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance results in CDL disqualification for at least:

  1. A 6 months
  2. B 2 years
  3. C 1 year
  4. D 3 years

Correct answer: C – 1 year

The state statute requires disqualification from operating a commercial motor vehicle for not less than one year after a first qualifying offense. The federal disqualification table also specifies one year for a first alcohol- or controlled-substance offense involving a CMV. The minimum becomes three years when the CMV is transporting hazardous materials as defined by the applicable rule.

Source: AS 28.33.140(a)(1)–(3), (d) — Conviction resulting in disqualification from driving commercial vehicle, 49 CFR § 383.51(b), Table 1 — Disqualification of drivers

Question 3

Which sequence correctly describes stab braking?

  1. A Avoid using the brakes until the vehicle has nearly stopped
  2. B Apply the brakes fully, release them when the wheels lock, and reapply after the wheels begin rolling
  3. C Maintain steady pedal pressure without allowing the wheels to lock
  4. D Use continuous light pedal taps throughout the stop

Correct answer: B – Apply the brakes fully, release them when the wheels lock, and reapply after the wheels begin rolling

The Alaska CDL manual describes stab braking as applying the brakes fully and releasing them when the wheels lock. Once the wheels begin rolling again, the brakes are applied fully another time. Reapplying too soon prevents the vehicle from straightening out.

Source: Alaska Commercial Driver License Manual — § 2.17.2, “How to Stop Quickly and Safely”

Question 4

Which set lists three cargo conditions a commercial driver is responsible for checking?

  1. A Cargo value, delivery order, and package dimensions
  2. B Required cargo inspections, proper weight distribution, and securement
  3. C The contents of every sealed load, shipping charges, and axle alignment
  4. D Loading the cargo personally, selecting the route, and opening every container

Correct answer: B – Required cargo inspections, proper weight distribution, and securement

The Alaska CDL manual makes drivers responsible for inspecting cargo, recognizing overloads or poor balance, and knowing that the cargo is secured. Federal rules also require proper distribution, securement, and periodic cargo checks. The inspection provisions do not apply when a sealed vehicle may not be opened or the loading method makes inspection impracticable.

Source: Alaska Commercial Driver License Manual — § 3.1, “Inspecting Cargo”, 49 CFR § 392.9 — Inspection of cargo, cargo securement devices and systems

Question 5

What does off-tracking describe when a combination vehicle turns?

  1. A The vehicle leaving a paved roadway
  2. B The tractor passing another vehicle on the right
  3. C The trailer drifting because of excessive speed
  4. D The rear wheels following a different, more inward path than the front wheels

Correct answer: D – The rear wheels following a different, more inward path than the front wheels

During a turn, a vehicle’s rear wheels do not follow exactly the same path as its front wheels. This inward tracking is called off-tracking or cheating. Longer vehicles off-track more, and the rear wheels of a trailer generally track farther inward than the rear wheels of the tractor.

Source: Alaska Commercial Driver License Manual — § 6.1.6, “Turn Wide”

Question 6

What should you do if a hydraulic brake system loses pressure?

  1. A Shift to a lower gear to help reduce speed
  2. B Pump the brake pedal to try to restore pressure
  3. C Control the parking brake carefully and look for an escape route
  4. D Use all of these actions as conditions require

Correct answer: D – Use all of these actions as conditions require

The Alaska CDL manual lists several responses to a loss of hydraulic pressure. Downshifting can help slow the vehicle, and pumping the pedal may generate enough pressure for braking. The parking brake may be applied with adjustable pressure to avoid wheel lock, while the driver searches for the least hazardous escape route.

Source: Alaska Commercial Driver License Manual — § 2.17.3, “Brake Failure”

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