Rhode Island Class A CDL Practice Test (RI) 8

5 out of 5 (34 votes)
80% Passing score
50 Questions
10 Mistakes allowed
Are you gearing up to ace your Rhode Island Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) test in 2026? Well, you've landed in the right place. Our eighth Rhode Island CDL practice test is tailor-made to set you on the right path. This permit practice test boasts a comprehensive set of 50 questions that mirror the actual DMV exam's style and content. Scoring at least 40 correct answers is your goal here to pass, but remember, this DMV practice test is more than just a hurdle to clear; it's a crucial part of your learning process. Designed specifically for Class A CDL applicants in Rhode Island, this CDL practice test covers a wide array of topics. From the nitty-gritty of pre-trip vehicle inspection to the nuances of gear shifting, and the essentials of controlling speed and communicating effectively on the road, we've got it all covered. The DMV practice test also includes important topics like tackling hills and steep downgrades, as well as vital drug and alcohol awareness, ensuring you're well-prepared for any question the DMV throws your way. Remember, while this RI CDL practice test is an invaluable tool in your preparation arsenal for 2026, it's not a substitute for mandatory online drivers education and ELDT programs. However, it complements these courses perfectly, helping you reinforce and master the material. The convenience of our online platform, accessible through various devices, ensures you can practice anytime, anywhere. And the best part? You can take this Rhode Island permit practice test multiple times. This means you can practice until you're confident and ready to move on to your next challenge. So, whether you're brushing up on your knowledge or taking a deep dive into the world of commercial driving for the first time, our 2026 Rhode Island CDL Class A practice test is here to guide you. Get ready to build a solid foundation and edge closer to achieving your CDL goals!
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Sample Rhode Island CDL Test Questions - General Knowledge

Question 1

An unblocked cargo article is 5 feet long or less and weighs more than 1,100 pounds. What is the minimum number of tiedowns?

  1. A 1
  2. B 2
  3. C 3
  4. D 4

Correct answer: B – 2

Federal cargo-securement rules require at least two tiedowns for an article that is 5 feet long or less, weighs more than 1,100 pounds, and is not blocked or braced against forward movement. One tiedown is permitted only when an article of that length weighs 1,100 pounds or less. The load described falls within the two-tiedown category.

Source: 49 CFR § 393.110(a)(1)–(2) – What else do I have to do to determine the minimum number of tiedowns?

Question 2

Which action helps protect an accident scene from another collision?

  1. A Leave the vehicle stopped in an active lane whenever possible
  2. B Stand in the traffic lane and wave at approaching vehicles
  3. C Call the motor carrier before warning traffic
  4. D Set out reflective triangles where approaching drivers can see them

Correct answer: D – Set out reflective triangles where approaching drivers can see them

The first priority at an accident scene is to protect the area from another collision. Activate the vehicle's flashers and place reflective triangles where approaching motorists can see them in time to respond. If the vehicle can be moved safely, getting it to the side of the road can also help keep traffic moving and reduce exposure.

Source: Rhode Island Commercial Driver License Manual — § 2.20.1, “Protect the Area”

Question 3

What can happen during a rear drive-wheel braking skid while towing a trailer?

  1. A The trailer may push the towing vehicle sideways into a jackknife
  2. B The locked drive wheels gain more traction than rolling wheels
  3. C The trailer automatically straightens the towing vehicle
  4. D Only the steering wheels slide sideways

Correct answer: A – The trailer may push the towing vehicle sideways into a jackknife

A rear drive-wheel braking skid occurs when the drive wheels lock and lose traction. The rear of the towing vehicle may begin sliding sideways while the trailer continues pushing forward. This force can rapidly create a jackknife. Releasing the brakes allows the drive wheels to roll again and begin regaining traction.

Source: Rhode Island Commercial Driver License Manual — § 2.19.1, “Drive-wheel Skids”, Rhode Island Commercial Driver License Manual — § 2.19.2, “Correcting a Drive-wheel Braking Skid”

Question 4

A yellow diamond sign displaying a black cross warns of:

This sign indicates _________________.
  1. A A pedestrian crossing
  2. B A railroad crossing
  3. C A rest area
  4. D A crossroad intersection ahead

Correct answer: D – A crossroad intersection ahead

The Cross Road warning sign indicates that an intersection is ahead and that vehicles may turn or enter from the intersecting roadway. It is a warning sign rather than a command to stop. Scan the intersection area and adjust your driving when traffic, visibility, or other conditions require it.

Source: Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways, 11th ed. with Rev. 1 — § 2C.41, “Intersection Warning Signs (W2-1 through W2-8)”

Question 5

In Rhode Island, where should warning devices be placed when a CMV is stopped on a one-way or divided highway?

  1. A At 10, 100, and 200 feet in both directions
  2. B At 50, 100, and 150 feet toward approaching traffic
  3. C At 10, 100, and 200 feet toward approaching traffic
  4. D At 100, 200, and 300 feet toward approaching traffic

Correct answer: C – At 10, 100, and 200 feet toward approaching traffic

The federal stopped-vehicle rule requires the warning devices to be placed 10 feet, 100 feet, and 200 feet toward approaching traffic on a one-way or divided highway. The devices must generally be set out within 10 minutes of stopping. This arrangement marks the vehicle's location and provides progressively earlier warning to approaching drivers.

Source: Rhode Island Commercial Driver License Manual — § 2.5, “When Parked at the Side of the Road”, 49 CFR § 392.22(b)(1), (b)(2)(i) – Emergency signals; stopped commercial motor vehicles

Question 6

An unblocked cargo article is longer than 5 feet but no longer than 10 feet. At least how many tiedowns are required?

  1. A 1
  2. B 2
  3. C 3
  4. D 4

Correct answer: B – 2

Federal cargo-securement rules require at least two tiedowns when an article is longer than 5 feet but no longer than 10 feet and is not blocked or braced against forward movement. The rule applies regardless of the article's weight within this length category. Additional securement may be necessary when other cargo-specific rules apply.

Source: 49 CFR § 393.110(a)(3) – What else do I have to do to determine the minimum number of tiedowns?