Commercial Driver's License (General Knowledge)

Specialized & Licensing - Commercial Driver's License (General Knowledge) (part of DMV & Licensing)

CDL Classes and EndorsementsBasic Vehicle ControlTraffic Laws and Safe Driving Practices
Vehicle Inspection and MaintenanceCargo Securement and Weight LimitsHazardous Materials Regulations
Real-World Driving SituationsApplying for and Maintaining a CDLRecord-Keeping and Logbooks
Mastering the Written TestPreparing for the Road Test
CDL Classes and Endo...Basic Vehicle Contro...Traffic Laws and Saf...Vehicle Inspection a...Cargo Securement and...Hazardous Materials ...Real-World Driving S...Applying for and Mai...Record-Keeping and L...Mastering the Writte...Preparing for the Ro...
Basic Concepts

Traffic Laws and Safe Driving Practices

Obeying the Rules of the Road

CDL drivers must follow all standard traffic laws, plus some extra rules that only apply to commercial vehicles.

  • Speed Limits: Trucks often have lower speed limits than cars.
  • Lane Restrictions: Some highways restrict trucks to certain lanes.
  • Right-of-Way: Yielding rules are especially important at intersections and railroad crossings.

Defensive Driving

Defensive driving means always being alert and ready for the unexpected. Be prepared for sudden stops, weather changes, and unpredictable drivers.

  • Keep a safe following distance (at least 1 second for every 10 feet of vehicle length).
  • Scan ahead 12-15 seconds down the road.
  • Avoid distractions—stay off your phone!

Applicability

Following the law and driving defensively keeps your record clean and helps you (and others) get home safely.

Examples

  • A driver reduces speed in a construction zone, even though there are no workers present.

  • A commercial driver yields at a railroad crossing, even when the gate is up.

In a Nutshell

Knowing and following traffic laws is essential for safety and compliance.

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Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance