What minimum tread depth is required in every major groove of a commercial vehicle’s front tires?
Correct answer: 4/32 inch
Front tires require at least 4/32 inch; other tires require at least 2/32 inch.
Source: Texas DL-7C, March 2026, section 2–3, PDF page 28: Tires ↗
During the CDL vehicle inspection test, what must an applicant do when identifying an item?
Correct answer: Point to or touch it, name it, and explain why it is inspected
The inspection test requires identification of the component and an explanation of its safety purpose or condition.
Source: Texas DL-7C, March 2026, section 2–3, PDF page 30: Vehicle inspection ↗
What extra following time should be added when traveling above 40 mph?
Correct answer: One additional second
Apply the length rule, then add one second when speed exceeds 40 mph.
Source: Texas DL-7C, March 2026, section 2–3, PDF page 44: Following distance ↗
For an accessible, unsealed truck load, when must the driver first recheck cargo securement after starting the trip?
Correct answer: Within the first 50 miles
Inspect within the first 50 miles and correct any insecure loading. Separate exceptions apply to sealed loads the driver is ordered not to open and loads that cannot practicably be inspected.
Source: 49 CFR 392.9(b): inspection intervals and sealed/inaccessible-load exceptions ↗
What aggregate working load limit must a cargo securement system provide?
Correct answer: At least one-half the weight of the secured article or group
Aggregate working load limit must cover at least half the restrained cargo weight. Direct tie-downs count differently from tie-downs passing over or around cargo; do not simply add every strap rating.
Source: FMCSA Cargo Securement Rules: Minimum Working Load Limit ↗
Before backing with a helper, which signal should you both agree on?
Correct answer: A clear stop signal
The helper must remain visible, and both people need to understand the hand signals. Section 2.2.4 specifically emphasizes agreeing on a stop signal.
Source: Texas DL-7C, March 2026, section 2–3, PDF page 36: Backing control ↗
You are looking 12 to 15 seconds ahead as recommended for commercial driving. How should you also monitor the nearer road?
Correct answer: Shift attention between distant and nearby conditions
Looking well ahead does not replace monitoring nearby hazards. The handbook describes shifting attention back and forth between near and far to maintain awareness.
Source: Texas DL-7C, March 2026, section 2–3, PDF page 37: Visual scanning ↗
On a straight divided highway with a clear view, what spacing does the handbook give for the three warning devices behind a stopped truck?
Correct answer: 10, 100, and 200 feet toward approaching traffic
All three warn traffic approaching from the direction serving that roadway. Adjust for an obstructed view.
Source: Texas DL-7C, March 2026, section 2–3, PDF page 39: Roadside warning ↗
A car ahead drifts within its lane while its driver looks down repeatedly. How should you react?
Correct answer: Leave extra room and anticipate an unexpected movement
Recognizing distraction in another driver helps you protect your own space.
Source: Texas DL-7C, March 2026, section 2–3, PDF page 51: Hazard awareness ↗
A properly inflated tire’s pressure rises during hot-weather operation. Should you bleed air to its cold-pressure reading?
Correct answer: No, it could become underinflated when it cools
Heat raises pressure; follow cold-inflation specifications rather than vent hot tires.
Source: Texas DL-7C, March 2026, section 2–3, PDF page 56: Hot tires ↗
One train has passed a crossing with two tracks. What must you check before proceeding?
Correct answer: Whether another train is approaching on either track
A train can conceal another train. Obey warning devices and verify the crossing is clear.
Source: Texas DL-7C, March 2026, section 2–3, PDF page 59: Railroad crossings ↗
After a collision, you are uninjured and able to act. What is an immediate priority?
Correct answer: Prevent another collision at the scene
Protect the area, request assistance, and keep emergency access clear.
Source: Texas DL-7C, March 2026, section 2–3, PDF page 65: Accident procedures ↗
For a small fire you can safely tackle with the correct extinguisher and an escape path, where should you aim?
Correct answer: At the base of the fire
The extinguishing agent must reach the burning material rather than only the rising flames.
Source: Texas DL-7C, March 2026, section 2–3, PDF page 66: Fire extinguishers ↗
Why inspect a front-end header board before carrying a load?
Correct answer: It helps restrain forward cargo movement toward the cab
A sound front-end structure protects against cargo moving forward in a sudden stop.
Source: Texas DL-7C, March 2026, section 2–3, PDF page 75: Header boards ↗
Before moving an oversize or overweight load, what arrangements should you establish?
Correct answer: Applicable permits, route and time limits, and required warning or escort equipment
A sign alone does not authorize a special load. Determine the applicable movement conditions and equipment before departure.
Source: Texas DL-7C, March 2026, section 2–3, PDF page 75: Oversized loads ↗
An approaching driver leaves bright lights on. What should you do?
Correct answer: Look toward the right edge reference without staring into the glare
Avoid adding glare or losing sight of your own lane; reduce speed when needed.
Source: Texas DL-7C, March 2026, section 2–3, PDF page 54: Night glare ↗
When should you learn how to fit the chains carried for your drive tires?
Correct answer: Before encountering conditions that require them
Check fit and condition in advance so the equipment can be used correctly when required.
Source: Texas DL-7C, March 2026, section 2–3, PDF page 55: Winter preparation ↗
Does buying a cold medicine without a prescription prove it is safe before commercial driving?
Correct answer: No, it may cause drowsiness or impair driving
Check warnings and appropriate medical advice; over-the-counter availability is not a safety guarantee.
Source: Texas DL-7C, March 2026, section 2–3, PDF page 69: Medication ↗
A breakdown forces your truck to stop on the highway shoulder. Which lights should you switch on immediately to warn approaching traffic?
Correct answer: The four-way emergency flashers
Flashers warn that the vehicle is stopped. They do not replace the required warning devices that must also be placed promptly.
Source: Texas DL-7C, March 2026, section 2–3, PDF page 39: Roadside warning lights ↗
A newer streamlined truck climbed a hill in a relatively high gear. Should you automatically use that same gear to descend?
Correct answer: No, the descent may require a lower gear suited to that truck and grade
Reduced drag and different engine performance can make the old same-gear rule unsuitable. Select the correct low gear before descending.
Source: Texas DL-7C, March 2026, section 2–3, PDF page 60: Downhill gear selection ↗
