Blog

It’s no secret that commercial drivers must understand how to navigate their trucks and work vehicles safely, as well as earn a commercial driver’s license (CDL). Some of these maneuvers may seem basic, but the size of a commercial vehicle makes it a challenge to perform them correctly. Here, the highly recommended, professional instructors at Mike’s Driving School review the driving maneuvers and strategies drivers need to understand to earn a CDL.

What Maneuvers Are Required on a CDL Driving Exam?

The three parts of a CDL exam are a pre-inspection test, a backing test, and a road skills test. An examiner can evaluate a driver on any of the following maneuvers during a CDL exam. They can fail a driver if a maneuver isn’t performed completely or correctly:

Pre-Inspection Maneuvers

Part of a CDL exam includes a pre-inspection test. The section of the exam tests how well a driver understands the vehicle’s parts and their functions, ensuring everything meets safety standards.

A pre-inspection test includes:

• Checking the vehicle’s most recent inspection report
• Looking under the vehicle for leaks
• Making sure the vehicle’s lights work
• Reviewing the tires’ condition and tread depth
• Studying fluid levels under the vehicle’s hood
• Evaluating the vehicle’s braking system

Backing Maneuvers

During the backing test, an examiner will evaluate a driver’s ability to execute common driving maneuvers and track how often a driver crosses over boundaries. Maneuvers include:

• Offset backing (left and right): A driver will back their vehicle up into an area, which is either to the left or right of the vehicle’s rear. After driving forward and straight into the outer area, the driver must then back the vehicle into the opposite area. They will continue backing up until the vehicle reaches the top of the boundary.
• Straight line backing: This is when a driver backs up their vehicle straight, without veering to the left or right across a boundary.

Road Skills Maneuvers

Examiners evaluate a number of road maneuvers, including:

• Entering an intersection
• Following the speed limit
• Moving under bridges and overpasses
• Starting and stopping the vehicle
• Turning and using turn signals
• Changing lanes and checking mirrors and blind spots

S.A.F.E.R. Strategies for Commercial Drivers

Commercial drivers must also execute different safety strategies while on the road. This acronym S.A.F.E.R., standing for Space, Attitude, Foresight, Eyesight, and Responsiveness, can help instill safe driving techniques:

• Space: Large commercial vehicles take a longer time to start and stop. Make sure there is enough room between your vehicle and the one in front of you.
• Attitude: Remain calm and composed so you can make good decisions on the road.
• Foresight: Learn how to manage driving situations based on what other drivers or pedestrians do. Also, learn to adjust for inclement weather conditions.
• Eyesight: Use your vehicle’s mirrors to prevent blind spots and maintain a constant overview of your surroundings.
• Responsiveness: Knowing how your vehicle responds will help you react to different situations you face on the road.

Learn About Essential Driving Maneuvers From Mike’s Driving School

Mastering these driving maneuvers is essential for a driver to earn their CDL and demonstrate safe driving skills. Driving is only one aspect of passing a CDL exam. It’s important to study the CDL manual and know federal and state rules and regulations.

Make sure you’re prepared on the day of your CDL exam. Reach out to Mike’s Driving School at our CDL training yard in Clayton, New Jersey, to learn about our CDL program. Contact us to schedule an appointment today.