Maryland CDL Combination Practice Test (MD) 2

5 out of 5 (52 votes)
80% Passing score
20 Questions
4 Mistakes allowed
Preparing for your CDL combination test in Maryland has never been easier. Our Maryland MVA permit practice test is designed to give you an authentic experience that closely mirrors the real MVA permit test. This Maryland combination CDL test consists of 20 multiple-choice questions covering essential topics such as inspection procedures, safe driving practices, and air brake systems. To pass, you'll need to answer at least 16 questions correctly. One of the critical areas covered is the risk of jackknifing, a dangerous situation where the trailer swings out of alignment with the tractor. Understanding how to avoid jackknifing through smooth braking and careful handling is crucial for safe driving. Our Maryland learner's permit practice test ensures you grasp these vital concepts, boosting your confidence for the actual test. The permit practice test is available online 24/7, allowing you to study at your convenience. Whether you're preparing in the bustling streets of Baltimore, the scenic routes of Western Maryland, or the coastal highways of the Eastern Shore, our DMV practice test is tailored to the specific rules, regulations, and road signs of Maryland. This state-specific focus means you're not just preparing for any test, but one that reflects the driving conditions unique to Maryland. Driving in MD can present unique challenges, from navigating the heavy traffic on I-95 to dealing with foggy conditions in the Appalachian region. Our Maryland combination vehicle test takes these local factors into account, ensuring you're well-prepared for anything the state's roads might throw at you. Although the MVA restricts the publication of actual test questions, our Maryland practice permit test is crafted to closely resemble the real thing, with similar phrasing and topics. This approach helps you get comfortable with the test format and question styles you'll encounter, making the actual permit test less daunting. Incorporate our CDL combination practice test into your study routine to ensure you're ready for the real test. With its thorough coverage of key topics and state-specific information, you'll be well-equipped to earn your Maryland CDL.
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Sample Maryland Combination Test Questions

Question 1

Which statement about a bobtail tractor is correct?

  1. A Its brakes work best because it carries little weight
  2. B It always stops sooner than a loaded combination
  3. C It may take longer to stop than a fully loaded tractor-semitrailer
  4. D Its wheels are harder to lock because the tractor is light

Correct answer: C – It may take longer to stop than a fully loaded tractor-semitrailer

A bobtail tractor is a tractor operating without a semitrailer. The Maryland manual warns that bobtails can be difficult to stop smoothly and may take longer to stop than a fully loaded tractor-semitrailer. With little weight on the tractor, stiff suspension and powerful brakes can reduce traction and make wheel lockup easier.

Source: Maryland Commercial Driver’s License Manual — § 6.1.3, “Brake Early”

Question 2

How should you test a trailer’s service brakes when a hand control is provided?

  1. A Move forward slowly and apply the trailer brakes with the hand control
  2. B Place the trailer air-supply control in emergency and pull forward
  3. C Shut off the engine and repeatedly press the brake pedal
  4. D Release all brakes and coast while watching the pressure gauge

Correct answer: A – Move forward slowly and apply the trailer brakes with the hand control

First confirm normal air pressure and release the parking brakes. Move forward slowly, then apply the trailer brakes with the hand control, if equipped; you should feel the brakes engage. This confirms that the trailer service brakes are connected and working. During normal operation, use the foot pedal because it applies the service brakes at all wheels.

Source: Maryland Commercial Driver’s License Manual — § 6.5.2, “Air Brake Checks,” “Test Trailer Service Brakes”

Question 3

Greater rearward amplification makes a trailer more likely to roll over during sudden steering. True or false?

  1. A True
  2. B False

Correct answer: A – True

This statement is true. Rearward amplification causes the back of a combination vehicle to respond more sharply than the tractor during a sudden lane change or steering maneuver. As the amount of amplification increases, the rear unit’s rollover risk also increases. Drivers should avoid abrupt lane changes and steer smoothly.

Source: Maryland Commercial Driver’s License Manual — § 6.1.2, “Steer Gently”

Question 4

When is it acceptable to use the trailer hand valve to hold a combination vehicle while parked?

  1. A When parked on a grade
  2. B While stopped at a loading dock
  3. C During freezing weather
  4. D Never

Correct answer: D – Never

Never use the trailer hand valve for parking. Air can leak out and release the trailer brakes, particularly on trailers that do not have spring brakes. Apply the vehicle’s parking brakes whenever you park. If a trailer has no spring brakes, use wheel chocks to prevent it from moving after its stored air pressure eventually leaks away.

Source: Maryland Commercial Driver’s License Manual — § 6.2.1, “Trailer Hand Valve”

Question 5

What should you do if the low-air-pressure warning activates while operating a combination vehicle?

  1. A Increase speed to raise compressor output
  2. B Stop and safely park as soon as possible
  3. C Make a sharp turn to test brake response
  4. D Apply only the trailer hand valve

Correct answer: B – Stop and safely park as soon as possible

A low-air warning may indicate an air leak or another pressure problem. Stop and safely park as soon as possible while you still have control of the brakes. Continuing to drive can allow the pressure to fall until the spring brakes apply or part of the service-brake system no longer operates fully.

Source: Maryland Commercial Driver’s License Manual — § 5.4.7, “Low Air Pressure”; § 5.2, “Dual Air Brake System”

Question 6

How often should each trailer air tank be drained?

  1. A Once each week
  2. B Every day
  3. C Once each month
  4. D Only after a brake problem develops

Correct answer: B – Every day

The Maryland manual instructs drivers to drain each trailer and converter-dolly air tank every day. Water and oil can collect in the reservoirs and interfere with proper brake operation. Even when tanks have automatic drains, the drain valves should still be opened to verify that moisture is being removed as intended.

Source: Maryland Commercial Driver’s License Manual — § 6.2.6, “Trailer Air Tanks”

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