North Dakota CDL Combination Test (ND) 2026

5 out of 5 (41 votes)
80% Passing score
20 Questions
4 Mistakes allowed
Are you aiming to obtain your Commercial Driver's License (CDL) combination vehicles endorsement in North Dakota? Our ND DMV practice test is designed to help you master the necessary knowledge and skills. This CDL combination test encompasses a variety of multiple-choice questions that cover crucial topics, such as coupling and uncoupling, pre-trip inspections, driving techniques, backing and maneuvering, and air brake systems. Each North Dakota combination vehicle test features 20 questions, requiring you to correctly answer at least 16 to pass. This ensures you have a firm grasp on the material and are well-prepared for the real test. You'll gain a deeper understanding of essential concepts, such as the increased stopping distances required for combination vehicles due to their heavier weight. Grasping these key principles is vital for maintaining road safety and effectively handling the unique challenges posed by these larger, heavier vehicles. To cater to different learning styles, our ND practice permit test includes visual aids, such as images, to help you better understand the questions. This feature is especially beneficial for visual learners who can connect the visual context with the written content, enhancing their comprehension. One of the standout features of our North Dakota combination CDL test is the immediate feedback provided for each question. As you progress through the permit practice test, you'll receive detailed explanations for every answer, helping you understand why a particular response is correct or incorrect. This feedback mechanism aids in reinforcing your knowledge and clarifying any misconceptions you may have. Moreover, the drivers permit practice test offers a no-pressure environment for you to study and learn. Unlike the actual written permit test, where the pressure to pass can be intense, our ND permit test practice allows you to learn at your own pace without any stress. This relaxed setting promotes better retention of information and a more enjoyable learning experience. By utilizing our combination CDL practice test, you're taking an essential step towards achieving your CDL combination vehicles endorsement. With comprehensive coverage of key topics, visual learning aids, immediate feedback, and a stress-free environment, our CDL combination practice test is your go-to resource for success.
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Sample North Dakota Combination Test Questions

Question 1

Which feature normally identifies an ABS-equipped trailer?

  1. A. Every trailer automatically has ABS
  2. B. The brakes lock during a high-speed test stop
  3. C. A yellow malfunction lamp is mounted on the trailer’s left side
  4. D. The trailer has spring brakes

Correct answer: C. – A yellow malfunction lamp is mounted on the trailer’s left side

North Dakota’s CDL manual identifies a yellow ABS malfunction lamp on the left side of an equipped trailer, at either the front or rear corner. Older trailers may not have been required to have ABS, although some were equipped voluntarily. When no lamp is present, ECU components and wheel-speed-sensor wiring may provide additional evidence.

Source: North Dakota Commercial Driver License Manual (2025–2027) — § 6.3.1, “Trailers Required to Have ABS”

Question 2

What does off-tracking describe?

  1. A. The tractor leaving the pavement during a turn
  2. B. The trailer swinging in the opposite direction after a curve
  3. C. The rear wheels following a different path from the front wheels
  4. D. A combination vehicle traveling on an unpaved road

Correct answer: C. – The rear wheels following a different path from the front wheels

During a turn, a vehicle’s rear wheels travel along a different, usually shorter, path than its front wheels. This is called off-tracking or cheating. Combination vehicles off-track more as their length increases, and the rear wheels of the last trailer generally track farthest inside the front wheels’ path.

Source: North Dakota Commercial Driver License Manual (2025–2027) — § 6.1.6, “Turn Wide”

Question 3

After disconnecting a semitrailer’s air and electrical lines, which practices help protect the connections?

  1. A. Hang the electrical cable with its plug pointing downward
  2. B. Attach the glad hands to dummy couplers
  3. C. Lock the glad hands together when suitable dummy couplers are unavailable
  4. D. All three practices

Correct answer: D. – All three practices

The glad hands may be attached to dummy couplers or coupled together when the fittings permit it. The electrical cable should hang with the plug downward to limit moisture entry. All disconnected lines must also be supported where they will not be damaged while the tractor is driven.

Source: North Dakota Commercial Driver License Manual (2025–2027) — § 6.4.2, “Uncoupling Tractor-Semitrailers”

Question 4

How often should each trailer air tank be drained?

  1. A. Weekly
  2. B. Daily
  3. C. Monthly
  4. D. Only when braking problems appear

Correct answer: B. – Daily

North Dakota’s CDL manual says each trailer air tank should be drained every day. Water and oil buildup can prevent the brakes from working correctly. Automatic drains remove most moisture, but the manual advises opening the drains to confirm that the tanks are being cleared properly.

Source: North Dakota Commercial Driver License Manual (2025–2027) — § 6.2.6, “Trailer Air Tanks”

Question 5

Before backing under a semitrailer, where should the tractor be positioned?

  1. A. Slightly toward the trailer’s passenger side
  2. B. At an angle that lets one locking jaw engage first
  3. C. Slightly toward the trailer’s driver side
  4. D. Directly in front of and aligned with the trailer

Correct answer: D. – Directly in front of and aligned with the trailer

Position the tractor directly in front of the trailer and check the alignment in both outside mirrors. Backing underneath at an angle may push the trailer sideways and damage its landing gear. Proper alignment also helps place the kingpin correctly in the fifth-wheel jaws.

Source: North Dakota Commercial Driver License Manual (2025–2027) — § 6.4.1, “Coupling Tractor-Semitrailers”

Question 6

Why should the trailer hand valve not be used for normal braking while driving?

  1. A. It cannot apply any trailer brakes
  2. B. It automatically applies the tractor parking brakes
  3. C. It releases air from every brake chamber
  4. D. Applying only the trailer brakes may cause a trailer skid

Correct answer: D. – Applying only the trailer brakes may cause a trailer skid

The trailer hand valve is intended for testing the trailer brakes, not normal driving. Using it on the road applies only the trailer brakes and can cause the trailer to skid. The foot brake applies the tractor and trailer service brakes together, reducing the danger of a trailer skid or jackknife.

Source: North Dakota Commercial Driver License Manual (2025–2027) — § 6.2.1, “Trailer Hand Valve”