Virginia CDL Air Brakes Practice Test (VA) 2

5 out of 5 (83 votes)
80% Passing score
20 Questions
4 Mistakes allowed
Get ready to ace your VA CDL air brakes practice test with our comprehensive and realistic Virginia DMV learners permit practice test. This test, designed with 20 multiple-choice questions, closely mirrors the actual DMV permit test, ensuring you grasp essential concepts and familiarize yourself with the format. Each question is crafted to reflect the critical components, operations, safety inspections, and stopping distance calculations relevant to air brake systems. Understanding dual air brake systems, which provide a crucial safety backup, is a key part of this practice, preparing you thoroughly for the real test. Virginia drivers know that navigating through varied terrain-from the bustling cities to the serene Blue Ridge Mountains-requires a thorough understanding of their vehicle's braking system. This VA CDL air brakes practice test is tailored specifically to address these unique driving conditions. The test allows unlimited attempts, letting you practice until you feel confident and ready to tackle the official DMV air brake test. This is particularly helpful as the DMV restricts the publication of actual permit test questions and answers, making our simulated test the best tool to prepare effectively. Our Virginia DMV learners permit practice test focuses exclusively on the air brakes endorsement, ensuring every question you encounter is relevant. Achieving a passing score requires correctly answering at least 16 out of the 20 questions, setting a realistic and attainable goal for your preparation. In addition to this specialized test, we offer a range of other CDL practice tests, including the general knowledge test, which is a prerequisite for obtaining your commercial driver's license. Incorporate this practice into your study routine, and you will be well-equipped to handle the demands of driving in Virginia. The blend of authentic practice experience and targeted learning will give you the confidence to pass the VA CDL air brake test. Whether you are preparing for the hustle and bustle of Richmond or the winding roads of the Shenandoah Valley, our practice test will ensure you are ready for any challenge the road throws your way.
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Sample Virginia Air Brakes Test Questions

Question 1

During a low-speed service-brake check, the vehicle pulls noticeably to one side. This may indicate a brake problem. True or false?

  1. A. True
  2. B. False

Correct answer: A. – True

The Virginia CDL inspection procedure calls for moving forward slowly at about 5 mph and firmly applying the service brake. Pulling to either side, an unusual pedal feel, or delayed stopping may reveal a problem that needs attention. This check can identify brake defects before the vehicle is operated on the road.

Source: Virginia Commercial Driver’s Manual — § 5.3, “Inspecting Air Brake Systems”

Question 2

If the ABS malfunctions, the vehicle’s regular brakes can still operate. True or false?

  1. A. True
  2. B. False

Correct answer: A. – True

An ABS malfunction does not, by itself, eliminate normal braking. ABS is an addition to the regular brakes and activates when wheels are about to lock. Continue using the brake pedal normally, but have the ABS serviced promptly because its wheel-lock protection may not be available.

Source: Virginia Commercial Driver’s Manual — § 5.4.2, “Braking with Antilock Brakes”

Question 3

During cold weather, what daily check should be made if the air-brake system has an alcohol evaporator?

  1. A. Drain all alcohol from the container
  2. B. Lubricate the system with lightweight oil
  3. C. Replace the alcohol container each day
  4. D. Check the alcohol level and refill as needed

Correct answer: D. – Check the alcohol level and refill as needed

The Virginia CDL manual directs drivers to inspect the alcohol container daily during cold weather and add alcohol when necessary. The evaporator introduces alcohol into the air system to help prevent ice in valves and other parts. Air tanks must still be drained as required to remove accumulated water and oil.

Source: Virginia Commercial Driver’s Manual — § 5.1.5, “Alcohol Evaporator”

Question 4

In an air-brake system, what is a “wig wag”?

  1. A. A mechanical arm that warns the driver of low air pressure
  2. B. An automatic air-tank drain
  3. C. A valve that speeds trailer-brake application
  4. D. A gauge that shows brake application pressure

Correct answer: A. – A mechanical arm that warns the driver of low air pressure

A wig wag is a mechanical low-air-pressure warning device. Its arm drops into the driver’s view when system pressure falls below 55 psi. An automatic version rises when pressure returns above 55 psi, while a manual-reset version must be moved back by the driver after pressure is restored.

Source: Virginia Commercial Driver’s Manual — § 5.1.11, “Low Air Pressure Warning”

Question 5

During an inspection, a working low-air-pressure warning signal should be present on an air-brake-equipped CDL vehicle. True or false?

  1. A. True
  2. B. False

Correct answer: A. – True

The low-air-pressure warning must be checked before operating an air-brake vehicle. The manual’s inspection procedure expects the signal to activate before tank pressure drops below 55 psi. Federal equipment rules require air-brake commercial vehicles to have a pressure gauge and warning signal, subject to a narrow exception for certain older, small property-carrying vehicles.

Source: Virginia Commercial Driver’s Manual — § 5.1.11, “Low Air Pressure Warning”, 49 CFR § 393.51(c), (f) — Warning signals, air pressure and vacuum gauges.

Question 6

Which substance is the intended working medium in an air-brake system?

  1. A. Water
  2. B. Air
  3. C. Compressor oil
  4. D. Air, water, and oil

Correct answer: B. – Air

Air-brake storage tanks hold compressed air that is used to operate the brakes. Water and compressor oil may enter the compressed-air supply, but they are harmful contaminants rather than working fluids. They collect in the tanks and must be drained because moisture can freeze and interfere with brake operation.

Source: Virginia Commercial Driver’s Manual — § 5.1.3, “Air Storage Tanks”; § 5.1.4, “Air Tank Drains”

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