I just passed my final road test last week. Big thanks to this video for tips and what to expect. I took my road test in Miami Florida. It wasn't too difficult. I took all my right turns super wide just to be safe and I was good. Shifted smoothly, watched my mirrors every 6-8 seconds, and kept the truck going super slow (I figured they can't fail you for going too slow). I just stayed calm and focused on the driving. I did my road test in a day cab Peterbilt (10 speed), with a 45' trailer. Officially a CDL-A Holder!!!!
Great job, thanks for sharing and enjoy your career as a Class A commercial driver. I want to mention for others who may read this that taking turns too wide can count points against on the driving test.
Section 13 in the CDL manual begins by stating you must obey all traffic signs, signals, and laws. That includes the posted speed limit. Two of the items I mention for automatically fails are "Dangerous Act", and "Not obeying signs/signals". With that being said, It's not an automatic fail for speed and can simply be a point deducted in the Expressway section and Urban/Rural driving sections of the test. Yes, if you become a road hazard you will most likely fail. It is at the discretion of the examiner. As an examiner, I will fail you quicker for speeding than driving too slow, Guaranteed!
One year into my cdl career and wanted to come through and say thank you for how much your videos helped me and continue to help me. Every time I’m moving my vehicle I hear your voice saying move it 6 inches, or move it 1 foot. Nice gentle increments
This is one of the best cdl road test videos on here and so far the best I've seen. Former cdl truck driver that wants to get his cdl license again, looking at videos to refresh my experience. This video has the visual executing of driving a truck with a professional voice over of each decision and execution. Good job and worth the viewing.
I've been practicing in school and I know that I've done all of this multiple times already. However, with my test coming up my nerves are getting the best of me. Watching your thoroughly explained video is putting me more at ease to know what to expect and remember. Thank you very much for your time and consideration for those trying to pass.
I know by saying just relax is easier said than done. If you take your time and don't go on to the next step until you have each step correct then i think you'll be ok!
Quick question for you Mike! I have my CDL permit and Iv been trying to go to school but my current employer has been beating around the bush about it. Half of my job is taking loads local but this week I have to do a little “interstate commerce” because I’m headed to NC from SC to do a job! (I’m not a hotshotter yet). Im am way over the limit as far as GVWR is concerned…. The trailer alone is a 32’ PJ gooseneck with 2 12k dexter axels (25,000 GVWR) not including truck! Now with this being part of my job and my hands being tied with my current employer…. What happens to me if DOT pulls me? I will be going past a HUGE weight station on my way there🤦♂️. Really don’t want to jeopardize my permit but there is nothing I can do…. I get fired if I don’t do as I’m asked😕
@@ThaKid13 Sorry for the delay in responding. Let me start by saying, if you drive a commercial vehicle without the proper license or endorsements the fine is up to 5K. Refer to page 1.4 in the CDL Drivers manual. Driving under the threat of being terminated if you don't haul an illigal load is stressful. The truck/trailer combination requires a CDL. Please post what happened.
Thank you Mr. Logan. I passed my CDL test today in an automatic. This video along with section 13 in the manual, are a must have to pass. Your patience as a teacher was very helpful. I'll try again in a manual but I need more practice. Thank you so much
This video is a must see for anyone pursuing their CDL. It, along with the skills test videos helped me know what to expect. Took me 3 tries to get past some really strict examiners, but I pulled it off thanks to you and your videos Mike. Thank you. You are what RUclips is all about.
Thanks you so much for this video! I was able to pass my CDL on road test today because of this. My instructor even told me he was impressed!! I cannot thank you enough for the free information.
You know it’s crazy out of all the right turns and left turns I’ve done at my school for the last four months none of the instructors ever told me when I’m making a right turn you don’t want to stay in the left lane too long because your trailer will go there that is so true I’ve never heard that until I watch this video thanks that’s a gem Appreciate it Mr. Logan
Your video is very helpful. I have my road test coming up this week. My instructor said that the tester would ask me the clearance of any bridges or overpasses that I went under. Gotta keep my eyes peeled for those!
Yes, Two signs will be asked. Pay attention, the signs pertain to information you'll need to access for trafic situations, and those items pertaining to commercial vehicle, warning signs for example, Low overpass...Truck routes those are the signs that commercial drivers need to be aware of. Warning signs are always yellow.....easy, you'll do good!
Very concise and detailed. I look forward to my NY road test when the time arrives in a few weeks. Thank you sir for your instruction as it brings safe and valid common sense information which inspires me and brings me confidence to pass the road and be a safe a truck driver. I appreciate you sharing your knowledge and experience. Thank you and may God bless you!
You are a very great awesome teacher. You explain everything thoroughly in a way everyone can understand. Keep up the good work. I will be applying what I learn from all of your video’s when it’s my time. Thank You!
Great video. If you're driving a manual it would've been super helpful to show us when you were making your downshift and what gear you were in all situations, even coming to a stop. Also, I was taught to begin making a right turn far sooner than when equal to the center lane markings, the middle of the road basically. I'm more confused about that now.
The focus of this video is an example of what you will be tested on during the driving portion of the CDL exam. As far as the shifting part I think that would be best illustrated in a separate video. I’ve watched a factory video from Eaton Fuller and they explain how to shift much better than I could ever do. Many tests are in trucks equipped with automatic transmissions. I explained making right turns like this. Position the truck is close to the center lane as possible and then drive out to the second 12 foot lane and in many cases that’s going to be where opposing traffic is. Of course yield to traffic, but stay in that lane until the trailer tires are close to clearing approximately 10 to 15 feet and then return back to your lane. That’s how much space it takes to make the turn. If you’re making the turn without stopping, you need to do that at 10 mph, which in a typical 10 speed would be fourth gear, or a low RPM in fifth gear. Put the brakes on and slow the truck to that speed and then downshift to that gear well in advance. In a wide sweeping right hand turn, you could do that at 15 to 20 mph and that would be fifth gear or six gear. It’s important to learn the speed that is associated with each gear for the truck that you’re driving. That way when you make a decision about which gear to shift into simply look at your speedometer, and that will tell you the speed and then you’ve memorize the gears for each speed range you can make the selection. If you’ve come to a complete stop, simply put the brakes on and right before the truck comes to a complete stop push the clutch in and then select the gear that you’re going to start out in. Sit there with a clutch pushed in and the transmission in gear and then makes the turn when it’s safe to do so.
Thank you very much for this video, there is nothing like having someone who drives every day to show you how to do things right. I'm going to drivers school now and was honestly unsure if i could actually get this stuff down, but you make it look smooth and easy.
Good luck and thanks for the comment, you'll do fine. I was an instructor and examiner for several years and yes I do own my own truck and drive everyday.
This comment was posted in the Basic Skill section, It pertains to downshifting. Maybe it will help someone watching this Driving Video Hello Fransisco, I think another Video would help. Until then try two things, #1 first when you downshift you have to increase the RPM when you get the stick in nuetral, approximately 300 to 400 rpm, try 400 to start. You need to practice doing a consistant rev for downshifting. To practice this stop the truck and place it in neutral, set the brake, while watching the tachometer push the throttle quickly and touch the floor with the pedal. How much did the RPM increase? It should go from 600 RPM to about 1000 RPM. Don't hold it on the floor, the RPM will go up too high. Practice this several times. Because you have to double clutch for the CDL Test, this technique will get the down shift done in the least amount of time. #2 Next (say this to yourself) NEUTRAL REV, Clutch a small amount---place the shifter in neutral---REV---As soon as the RPM is increased 300 to 400 RPM as you practiced it---Go to the next lower gear. One last thing don't do the down shift until the RPM falls to around 900 to 1100 rpm. Your REV will go up to around 1300 to 1500 for the down shift. Show less
@@lydiaanderson0083 I'm doing great! I'm retired and traveling when I can. This year I went to see family in Florida and also went to Mexica and Brazil. I have more plans in the near future. Thank for the inquire! 😉😄
I passed all my tests just failed on road test stopping traffic intersection automatic fail i hope i pass this monday wish me luck ur video helped alot 💙
I'm sorry to hear this. I would love more information about the conclusion, "stopping traffic intersection" so I could elaborate. My assumption is you did something that caused traffic to come to a stop in a intersection. Let us know what happened. Thank you!
@@Fatherofali1 There are times when it is necessary to slow or stop depending on what the traffic is doing that you are following. With that being said it you braked or stopped and that was not necessary then perhaps you impeded traffic. A dangerous act is an automatic failure and perhaps what you did fell under that category.
Thank You Mr. Logan!... Your video tutorials are the best!!!. You give more details, and I was able to understand your explanation on doing Alley dock backing... I'll recommend your videos to other CDL students
I used to have my cdl, didn't renew it and now after 10 years I'm going to get it again. Anyway, looking at many videos to refresh memory, there's a LOT of worthless videos out there. However your video is perfect, reminded me exactly of taking the drive test years ago.Thank you for providing an excellent video, practical, thoughtful, we'll spoken; well done!
I just failed my road test today for hitting the curb on the last turn. I go back next week to retest. I'm gonna make dang sure I turn it wide as can be on that last turn.
I feel for you, i’ve tested several who have failed at the very last for doing that exact same thing. Just a word of caution, try not to take turns too wide because that can also be a point against you. Thanks for the comment, good luck going forward!
I remember I had rubbed a curb slightly lifted the trailer I looked at the examiner for a second and she said to continue on there's nothing that I could have done I was trapped in a lane because cars were speeding all around me and she said Hey it's just the test route you're fine keep going but it freaked me out and she didn't tell me if I failed she just Said to continue then once that stress was over and we're on a straight away she actually asked me a question what would you do differently, I said I would have never entered that circle with that many vehicles if I could have avoided it and I would have got into the other lane way back she takes some responsibility for not telling me which way we were going into the last 2nd and knew that I couldn't get over because of traffic all around us. 😂 Then she let me sweat for a few more minutes made a left hand turn And then said that normally would have been an automatic fail I'm not gonna tell you what DMV this is but she said That if she failed me she'd have to answer to the girls in the office because I was too cute. WTF 😂 So you can be a train wreck as long as you're cute I guess I don't know man good luck on your test bro. Try not to enter any curves when there's any vehicles around if you can avoid it
@@whoflungpooonu6047 Very unethical and unprofessional! As a test administrator you're supposed to give direction well enough in advance so the applicant can make decisions as to what to do. That includes slowing or stopping and not getting forced into a congested situation that causes you to run over curbs. Then the examiner scores accordingly without asking what you would do differently. There is one time that the examiner can ask anything and that's during the vehicle Inspection. If you start to explain an area on the inspection and you don't cover the majority of the inspection criteria they can ask you for additional information. That's a clear indication you haven't said enough. If you're asked that, you better come up with something. The air brake test is excluded. You need to know this 100% correctly. Thank you for the comment!
very informative video! I got my Class B CDL 5 years ago and I'm at a point where I want to get my Class A. I've always wanted to try out the big rigs and I want to be making more money. I plan to go to CDL school in a few months to get my Class A and then I will more than likely go with a mega carrier and do OTR for a year of experience so then I can go local / regional.
Sounds like you have a great plan. Going local or regional. Get you home on a regular schedule. You can also look for companies who have their private fleet. These are companies, like Walmart, Ace Hardware, “McKee foods, corporation, manufacture of Little Debbie products” those that deliver products to their own customer base on a regular schedule. Many of these companies bid the route every six months to one year so you are able to change it and with seniority have weekends off at some point. Those are the companies that I focused on and worked for. The pay and benefits package is also very nice. Best of luck!
@@mikelogan99CDLClassAskillstest Yeah after I get my 6-12 months of OTR experience I will 100% be looking for local or regional routes. The ones you mentioned are on my list as well as I know there's a Publix distributor near me as well. Also, I might look into LTL companies because I've heard good things about them.
Hey bro thanks for this video. my road test is set for this morning at ten. I'm feeling very comfortable .It teaches me a lot points that my instructor fail to teach. I must pass after watching this video.
Very educational thank you! 🙏 taking my test on June 8th! unfortunately I'm testing near Austin, TX so the chances of having that little traffic are non existent but the basics stay the same so this will help immensely either way!
Thank you for the comment and good luck with your test. I will say I shot this video on a Sunday and the traffic was not as busy as usual. Tell us how you did on your test!
Thanks for the well thought out and clear representation of what is expected. Side note: I felt like it was in GJ right away and then confirmed by road signs etc. Made me a bit homesick, (I'm from 4 corners area)but was cool that I knew exactly where this was. Great job 👏. Now to watch some more of your videos.
I reviewed the CDL drivers license manual and it states to Activate the four way flashers and then apply the parking brake. The test is based on the CDL manual. Thank you for the comment!
One thing the instructors at my trucking school ask is ;"If you have to make an emergency stop for longer than ten minutes what do you do? " and you have to tell them "I would pull all the way to the right ,put on my four way flashers and set my three red reflective triangles behind my trailer at ten feet,one hundred feet and two hundred feet behind my trailer. " The only difference between what you did and the school does is you didn't mention that part about if stopped for ten minutes or longer. Other than that great video!
Thats ok, but My videos are designed to prepare you for the cdl test and during the road side stop there is no part of the procedure that asks you to review a greater than a 10 minute stop. It's not part of the test. It is good to know but you'll not be tested on it.
Many states require two safety stops. One on a downhill grade and one on an uphill. Follow the same steps just make sure you don’t roll backwards when on the uphill. Before you accelerate away from your safety stops check both mirrors. It’s required to check for pedestrians on the curbside. They also usually require you to demonstrate that you know how and when to downshift when going up or down a grade.
We're grading on many more than two. Every turn that requires a stop is graded. there are 8 of those. Intersections that are controlled by stop lights and stop signs are graded. The roadside stop is graded. This video does not run the test route therefore you won't see the uphill grades that are tested or the decending roads. everything you mentioned is good information. Thanks!
Helpful in a way video taking my road test next friday a little nervous hoping i do good have another prolly 6 or 7 days of schooliny before the test so im hoping i get better and can ace my test taking it in kalkaska michigan
Mike---this reminds me of a twilight zone episode. the one where the whole town is deserted. did you pay every one to stay off the road at that hour, or is that town really that quiet? Our roads are not that dead at 3 AM.
That's funny, It's been a couple of years ago but I think it was in the middle of the afternoon on a Sunday. The traffic is always light. I love it! Thanks for the comment
Stop like always, place your foot on the brake, You'll downshift on the exir ramp when the RPM drops too low. Control the vehicle with the brake pedal, never put the truck in neautral. Stop the truck and wait with the clutch pushed in until it's time to go. There's really no fancy way to do it. Controlling the vehicle at all times shows the examiner you're ready for your CDL
Yes, with 21 grade points for each turn and there are 8 turns you'll see that there are a lot of points. All total you'll have between 300 and 400 grade points. Don't panic though it's not hard because you already know how to drive, It's just the adjustment to this type of vehicle. A passing score is 30 points or less incurred.
going next week to take my test... a question that still puzzles me is what is the appropriate gear to make a turn in? or what would be the desired gear range i should be in while making a turn? thanks for the video
I can explain a typical 10 speed. The first 5 gears in the low range can take the truck to approximately 15 mph in 5th gear. Taking an immediate right turn should be done at about 10 mph so gear down to 4th gear. If it's wider turn for example a sharp curve or you're in a right turn lane you could do that in 5th at 15mph. A curve with a yellow warning sign indicating 20 mph that would be 6th gear. 7th gear (add 2+5) =7th so 25mph. 8th is the same 3+5= 8 so 35mph for 8th gear. 9th is 4+5=9 45mph and 10th is 55mph 5+5=10 and beyond. Drive your truck and watch the speeds for each gear and learn them. If you need to downshift from a hard stop and you dropped several mph you need to check your speed to know what gear to downshift to. You can't always go one gear at a time. I hope this helps.
Hi,what does it mean illegal Jack break use?I saw that sign in Oregon when driving down the hill and was thinking how do I get down without using Jake brakes
Could you please explain by steps how to stop on the side of the road, correct me if I wrong: “Driver please stop on side of the road” 1) right turn signal 2) full stop 3) 4 way flashers 4) pull tractor-trailer brakes In order to continue we should: 1) push tractor-trailer brakes 2) turn off 4 way flashers 3) turn on left turn signal 4) start to accelerate Is it correct order or not? Thank you!
The overview is this; At____________ pull the vehicle over to the left side of the road. Stop and secure the vehicle as if you were going to get out and check something on the rear. Add these steps, Check mirrors when you pull over and when you go again downshift correctly stop smoothly, no hard braking make sure you're all the way off the road in the correct area you were told. Don't roll backwards when it's time to go. Up-shift correctly
@@timothyleyva1986 Yes, these are the steps printed directly from the test. On the approach 1...Signal 2...Traffic check 3...Shifting 4...Lane selection 5...Lane keep Stopping 1...Vehicle position 2...Vehicle secured 3...Wheels 4...4 way flashers Resume 1...4 ways flashers, meaning cancel 2...Signal, meaning left signal 3...Traffic check 4...rolling, meaning letting the truck roll backwards 5...shifting 6...traffic check I hope this helps
The book says never downshift on a downgrade, Does that apply to any downgrade or are you expected to downshift for a stop at a slight downgrade? It's not too uncommon for a light to be at the bottom of a hill or downgrade, would you stop and reset or are you expected to downshift?
What the book is saying is correct and you should have your foot on the brake while going downhill. You should down shift before going down a grade and control the truck with the service brake. As you gain experience you'll find out that you can downshift on a grade as long as you slow the truck and bring the engine RPM down below what it is at a normal downshift. Downshifting is there to assist in slowing but the main way and most important is to control the truck with the service brake. I hope I'm clear on this.
I get the reason for failing if you curb check the trailer. But sometimes you cant help it because it seems like a lot of cars pull over the white line or don't care that you have a trailer. I feel it should vary based on the situation, like if there is a car there it should be fine. But that's my thought and someone that gets paid more than me designed the test. Great video btw it was very instructional and makes the test seem like its easier than most make it seem.
Thanks Seth for the comment. I have a different approach to the situation so let me explain. You're tested and also developing skills to maintain control of the vehicle at all times. When you're confronted with a situation like this or any other you should recognize it and stop or slow down so you can maneuver the vehicle properly. That means in most cases moving your vehicle out of your space so you can clear the curbs or other obstacles. You need to do this when all traffic has cleared away so you can use spaces and lanes that you don't have the right of way to.
I just passed my final road test last week. Big thanks to this video for tips and what to expect. I took my road test in Miami Florida. It wasn't too difficult. I took all my right turns super wide just to be safe and I was good. Shifted smoothly, watched my mirrors every 6-8 seconds, and kept the truck going super slow (I figured they can't fail you for going too slow). I just stayed calm and focused on the driving. I did my road test in a day cab Peterbilt (10 speed), with a 45' trailer. Officially a CDL-A Holder!!!!
Great job, thanks for sharing and enjoy your career as a Class A commercial driver. I want to mention for others who may read this that taking turns too wide can count points against on the driving test.
Congrats
In Texas they will fail you for going too slow saying you've become a road hazard.
Section 13 in the CDL manual begins by stating you must obey all traffic signs, signals, and laws. That includes the posted speed limit. Two of the items I mention for automatically fails are "Dangerous Act", and "Not obeying signs/signals". With that being said, It's not an automatic fail for speed and can simply be a point deducted in the Expressway section and Urban/Rural driving sections of the test. Yes, if you become a road hazard you will most likely fail. It is at the discretion of the examiner. As an examiner, I will fail you quicker for speeding than driving too slow, Guaranteed!
Lucas W did you go to cdl school?
Big thanks for the video really helpful
Got my CDL today 🤠
That's great, Enjoy the new career
Congratulations
One year into my cdl career and wanted to come through and say thank you for how much your videos helped me and continue to help me. Every time I’m moving my vehicle I hear your voice saying move it 6 inches, or move it 1 foot. Nice gentle increments
@hello Goss how are you doing?
Way cool. No BS. Very ARTICULATE. To the point. No fluff. Great instructions
Thank you for the compliment!
My CDL exam is next week Ima make sure to use everything I watched in this video thanks for the help.
This is one of the best cdl road test videos on here and so far the best I've seen. Former cdl truck driver that wants to get his cdl license again, looking at videos to refresh my experience. This video has the visual executing of driving a truck with a professional voice over of each decision and execution. Good job and worth the viewing.
Thank you for the comment!
This video helped me passed my CDL today..thanks a lot Mike 💪💪💪
I've been practicing in school and I know that I've done all of this multiple times already. However, with my test coming up my nerves are getting the best of me. Watching your thoroughly explained video is putting me more at ease to know what to expect and remember. Thank you very much for your time and consideration for those trying to pass.
I know by saying just relax is easier said than done. If you take your time and don't go on to the next step until you have each step correct then i think you'll be ok!
Passed my road test last week watching this video!
That’s awesome, Thank you!
Thank you for taking time out of your life to show people how it’s done! It doesn’t go unnoticed! We appreciate it 🤘🏻🫡
I appreciate that!
Quick question for you Mike! I have my CDL permit and Iv been trying to go to school but my current employer has been beating around the bush about it. Half of my job is taking loads local but this week I have to do a little “interstate commerce” because I’m headed to NC from SC to do a job! (I’m not a hotshotter yet). Im am way over the limit as far as GVWR is concerned…. The trailer alone is a 32’ PJ gooseneck with 2 12k dexter axels (25,000 GVWR) not including truck! Now with this being part of my job and my hands being tied with my current employer…. What happens to me if DOT pulls me? I will be going past a HUGE weight station on my way there🤦♂️. Really don’t want to jeopardize my permit but there is nothing I can do…. I get fired if I don’t do as I’m asked😕
@@ThaKid13 Sorry for the delay in responding. Let me start by saying, if you drive a commercial vehicle without the proper license or endorsements the fine is up to 5K. Refer to page 1.4 in the CDL Drivers manual. Driving under the threat of being terminated if you don't haul an illigal load is stressful. The truck/trailer combination requires a CDL. Please post what happened.
thanks a lot for this vid. this helped me become mentally prepared for my test. 👍
thank you for taking your time and explain step by step blessings
Thanks for the video. Very well simulated and clearly explained all the necessary steps required.
Thank you!
Thank you Mr. Logan. I passed my CDL test today in an automatic. This video along with section 13 in the manual, are a must have to pass. Your patience as a teacher was very helpful. I'll try again in a manual but I need more practice. Thank you so much
I think you can get a job with the restriction. If I were an active driver I would prefer an automatic. Best of luck going forward.
Best road test video out there
Thank you, I hope it helps
This video is a must see for anyone pursuing their CDL. It, along with the skills test videos helped me know what to expect. Took me 3 tries to get past some really strict examiners, but I pulled it off thanks to you and your videos Mike. Thank you. You are what RUclips is all about.
Very nice comment Clay, I appreciate it very much!
I wish I had found this video before my road test, I will test again next week and feel sure this insight will put me over the top!
Best of luck!
@hello Vic how are you doing?
Thanks you so much for this video! I was able to pass my CDL on road test today because of this. My instructor even told me he was impressed!!
I cannot thank you enough for the free information.
Congratulations! The best of luck to you going forward… Happy Trucking!
@@mikelogan99CDLClassAskillstest you're the goat !!!!
@@Ace_boy318 Thanks!!
Passed my CDL exam today and this video was a HUGE help to me! Thank you Mr. Logan!
Congratulations, Thank you for letting us know you passed and best of luck to you going forward in your new career.
Excellent! Appreciate your narration and commentary on what the examiner will be saying as you proceed through the test.
Thank you!
You know it’s crazy out of all the right turns and left turns I’ve done at my school for the last four months none of the instructors ever told me when I’m making a right turn you don’t want to stay in the left lane too long because your trailer will go there that is so true I’ve never heard that until I watch this video thanks that’s a gem Appreciate it Mr. Logan
It’s very true and I appreciate you taking the time to mention this. Thank you!
That's what I called proper teaching, thanks very much.
Thank you!
Your video is very helpful. I have my road test coming up this week. My instructor said that the tester would ask me the clearance of any bridges or overpasses that I went under. Gotta keep my eyes peeled for those!
Yes, Two signs will be asked. Pay attention, the signs pertain to information you'll need to access for trafic situations, and those items pertaining to commercial vehicle, warning signs for example, Low overpass...Truck routes those are the signs that commercial drivers need to be aware of. Warning signs are always yellow.....easy, you'll do good!
Very concise and detailed.
I look forward to my NY road test when the time arrives in a few weeks. Thank you sir for your instruction as it brings safe and valid common sense information which inspires me and brings me confidence to pass the road and be a safe a truck driver. I appreciate you sharing your knowledge and experience.
Thank you and may God bless you!
I appreciate you watching my video and thank you for the comment. You’ll do well!
You are a very great awesome teacher. You explain everything thoroughly in a way everyone can understand. Keep up the good work. I will be applying what I learn from all of your video’s when it’s my time. Thank You!
very structural very clear spoken easy to understand. definitely does give confidence for a road test.
Glad it was helpful! Thank You!
Great video. If you're driving a manual it would've been super helpful to show us when you were making your downshift and what gear you were in all situations, even coming to a stop. Also, I was taught to begin making a right turn far sooner than when equal to the center lane markings, the middle of the road basically. I'm more confused about that now.
The focus of this video is an example of what you will be tested on during the driving portion of the CDL exam. As far as the shifting part I think that would be best illustrated in a separate video. I’ve watched a factory video from Eaton Fuller and they explain how to shift much better than I could ever do. Many tests are in trucks equipped with automatic transmissions. I explained making right turns like this. Position the truck is close to the center lane as possible and then drive out to the second 12 foot lane and in many cases that’s going to be where opposing traffic is. Of course yield to traffic, but stay in that lane until the trailer tires are close to clearing approximately 10 to 15 feet and then return back to your lane. That’s how much space it takes to make the turn. If you’re making the turn without stopping, you need to do that at 10 mph, which in a typical 10 speed would be fourth gear, or a low RPM in fifth gear. Put the brakes on and slow the truck to that speed and then downshift to that gear well in advance. In a wide sweeping right hand turn, you could do that at 15 to 20 mph and that would be fifth gear or six gear. It’s important to learn the speed that is associated with each gear for the truck that you’re driving. That way when you make a decision about which gear to shift into simply look at your speedometer, and that will tell you the speed and then you’ve memorize the gears for each speed range you can make the selection. If you’ve come to a complete stop, simply put the brakes on and right before the truck comes to a complete stop push the clutch in and then select the gear that you’re going to start out in. Sit there with a clutch pushed in and the transmission in gear and then makes the turn when it’s safe to do so.
The best road test tips video I keep watching this video and I have read test on Jan 12 Thursday wish me good luck
Two more days, best of luck...let us know if you passed.
How did it go
well done.. prepares student nicely
Thanks Mike, awesome video!!!. So useful and very well explained
Thank you my friend for the kind word!
Very helpful. Testing in a couple weeks.
Best of luck!
👍👍 two thumbs up for u sir
Nice tour of the Grand Junction area!
Great video I have my cdl incense with all the endorsement s on it
That's awesome, thanks for sharing!
Thank you
Great video. Thank you for speaking clearly and to the point with elementary descriptions.. Good video quality.
Video quality is a bit shakey but I think it helps based on the comments
Thank you very much for this video, there is nothing like having someone who drives every day to show you how to do things right. I'm going to drivers school now and was honestly unsure if i could actually get this stuff down, but you make it look smooth and easy.
Good luck and thanks for the comment, you'll do fine. I was an instructor and examiner for several years and yes I do own my own truck and drive everyday.
Im in Canada ontario going for my cdl test on the 14 and I watched this video and was awesome helped me a lot hope to be on the road soon
Best of luck!
I passed , thanks Mike.
Awesome! best of luck going forward!
Good job mike, good video. Thanks!
This comment was posted in the Basic Skill section, It pertains to downshifting. Maybe it will help someone watching this Driving Video
Hello Fransisco, I think another Video would help. Until then try two things, #1 first when you downshift you have to increase the RPM when you get the stick in nuetral, approximately 300 to 400 rpm, try 400 to start. You need to practice doing a consistant rev for downshifting. To practice this stop the truck and place it in neutral, set the brake, while watching the tachometer push the throttle quickly and touch the floor with the pedal. How much did the RPM increase? It should go from 600 RPM to about 1000 RPM. Don't hold it on the floor, the RPM will go up too high. Practice this several times. Because you have to double clutch for the CDL Test, this technique will get the down shift done in the least amount of time. #2 Next (say this to yourself) NEUTRAL REV, Clutch a small amount---place the shifter in neutral---REV---As soon as the RPM is increased 300 to 400 RPM as you practiced it---Go to the next lower gear. One last thing don't do the down shift until the RPM falls to around 900 to 1100 rpm. Your REV will go up to around 1300 to 1500 for the down shift.
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@hello Mike how are you doing?
@@lydiaanderson0083 I'm doing great! I'm retired and traveling when I can. This year I went to see family in Florida and also went to Mexica and Brazil. I have more plans in the near future. Thank for the inquire! 😉😄
@@mikelogan99CDLClassAskillstest I hope we can get to know each other and can you suggest a way we can talk off here if you don't mind
@@lydiaanderson0083 I have an email available for additional inquires located in the video discription.
I passed all my tests just failed on road test stopping traffic intersection automatic fail i hope i pass this monday wish me luck ur video helped alot 💙
I'm sorry to hear this. I would love more information about the conclusion, "stopping traffic intersection" so I could elaborate. My assumption is you did something that caused traffic to come to a stop in a intersection. Let us know what happened. Thank you!
@@mikelogan99CDLClassAskillstest he said i braked in the middle of traffic light intersection while turning left. Like automatic fail ✔️
@@mikelogan99CDLClassAskillstest i pass yay 😀 thanks for the tips
@@Fatherofali1 There are times when it is necessary to slow or stop depending on what the traffic is doing that you are following. With that being said it you braked or stopped and that was not necessary then perhaps you impeded traffic. A dangerous act is an automatic failure and perhaps what you did fell under that category.
@@Fatherofali1 Great job, I'm glad to hear this and it show that being persistent will make your dreams come true.
THANKS A LOT FROM ORLANDO FLORIDA
You’re very welcome, most of my family are from Orlando! I go there often!
Thank You Mr. Logan!... Your video tutorials are the best!!!. You give more details, and I was able to understand your explanation on doing Alley dock backing... I'll recommend your videos to other CDL students
Thank you, I appreciate the recognition! Best of luck to you.
The best video ever, thank you so much! 🙏
Glad you liked it!
Glad you liked it, thank you!
I used to have my cdl, didn't renew it and now after 10 years I'm going to get it again. Anyway, looking at many videos to refresh memory, there's a LOT of worthless videos out there. However your video is perfect, reminded me exactly of taking the drive test years ago.Thank you for providing an excellent video, practical, thoughtful, we'll spoken; well done!
Thank you for the kind words, the video was a bit shakey but overall i think it has been helpful.
I am having my tests tomorrow, wish me good luck guys
I'm late posting your comment, sorry. Did you pass?
Did you pass? I just failed my road test today for skidding the curb on the last turn back into the testing site 🤦♀️ going next week to retest.
I just failed my road test today for hitting the curb on the last turn. I go back next week to retest. I'm gonna make dang sure I turn it wide as can be on that last turn.
I feel for you, i’ve tested several who have failed at the very last for doing that exact same thing. Just a word of caution, try not to take turns too wide because that can also be a point against you. Thanks for the comment, good luck going forward!
I remember I had rubbed a curb slightly lifted the trailer I looked at the examiner for a second and she said to continue on there's nothing that I could have done I was trapped in a lane because cars were speeding all around me and she said Hey it's just the test route you're fine keep going but it freaked me out and she didn't tell me if I failed she just Said to continue then once that stress was over and we're on a straight away she actually asked me a question what would you do differently, I said I would have never entered that circle with that many vehicles if I could have avoided it and I would have got into the other lane way back she takes some responsibility for not telling me which way we were going into the last 2nd and knew that I couldn't get over because of traffic all around us. 😂 Then she let me sweat for a few more minutes made a left hand turn And then said that normally would have been an automatic fail I'm not gonna tell you what DMV this is but she said That if she failed me she'd have to answer to the girls in the office because I was too cute. WTF 😂 So you can be a train wreck as long as you're cute I guess I don't know man good luck on your test bro. Try not to enter any curves when there's any vehicles around if you can avoid it
@@whoflungpooonu6047 Very unethical and unprofessional! As a test administrator you're supposed to give direction well enough in advance so the applicant can make decisions as to what to do. That includes slowing or stopping and not getting forced into a congested situation that causes you to run over curbs. Then the examiner scores accordingly without asking what you would do differently.
There is one time that the examiner can ask anything and that's during the vehicle Inspection. If you start to explain an area on the inspection and you don't cover the majority of the inspection criteria they can ask you for additional information. That's a clear indication you haven't said enough. If you're asked that, you better come up with something. The air brake test is excluded. You need to know this 100% correctly.
Thank you for the comment!
Thanks Mike for your help this video is very helpful my road test is coming up March 30, 2022 thanks
You’re very welcome, my thoughts are with you. Let us know how you do. Thanks!
Good luck I take mine last week in April
Thank you, thank you👍
Thanks 🙏 you excellent video
Thanks very good info, I'm in the process to get my CDL-A every little help is appreciated
I always welcome questions at my email for additional information, mikelogan99@gmail.com
Thanks for the comment!
Thank you 🙏
Thanks for this video I was a big help! I passed my test!!!👍🏽🚛
That’s awesome, enjoy your career Daniel!
Well done video,,I'm stressing out about my skills test and down shifting,,,but thank you for your time
Great video thanks for making it.
Thank you!
very informative video! I got my Class B CDL 5 years ago and I'm at a point where I want to get my Class A. I've always wanted to try out the big rigs and I want to be making more money. I plan to go to CDL school in a few months to get my Class A and then I will more than likely go with a mega carrier and do OTR for a year of experience so then I can go local / regional.
Sounds like you have a great plan. Going local or regional. Get you home on a regular schedule. You can also look for companies who have their private fleet. These are companies, like Walmart, Ace Hardware, “McKee foods, corporation, manufacture of Little Debbie products” those that deliver products to their own customer base on a regular schedule. Many of these companies bid the route every six months to one year so you are able to change it and with seniority have weekends off at some point. Those are the companies that I focused on and worked for. The pay and benefits package is also very nice. Best of luck!
@@mikelogan99CDLClassAskillstest Yeah after I get my 6-12 months of OTR experience I will 100% be looking for local or regional routes. The ones you mentioned are on my list as well as I know there's a Publix distributor near me as well. Also, I might look into LTL companies because I've heard good things about them.
Thank you it’s a great video!!
Great video
Thanks!
thanks you sir.
Thank you again Mike
You're Welcome!
Hey bro thanks for this video. my road test is set for this morning at ten. I'm feeling very comfortable .It teaches me a lot points that my instructor fail to teach. I must pass after watching this video.
Glad you were able to gather additional information, Let me know if you passed.
Did u pass?
Very educational thank you! 🙏 taking my test on June 8th! unfortunately I'm testing near Austin, TX so the chances of having that little traffic are non existent but the basics stay the same so this will help immensely either way!
Thank you for the comment and good luck with your test. I will say I shot this video on a Sunday and the traffic was not as busy as usual. Tell us how you did on your test!
Did you pass
Thanks 🙏
very well explain I love it keep on making more videos
I'm working on the next series "Starting a trucking company." I recently bought a truck for a Intrastate operation and now hauling Logs. Stay tuned,
Thank you for the clear narration.
Thank you!
good video thanks
Thanks for the well thought out and clear representation of what is expected.
Side note: I felt like it was in GJ right away and then confirmed by road signs etc.
Made me a bit homesick, (I'm from 4 corners area)but was cool that I knew exactly where this was. Great job 👏. Now to watch some more of your videos.
You’re correct, GJ it is! Thank you for the comment!
Thanks for video road test
Great information thanks bro 🙏🏽
thank you!
I was taught to pull out the yellow parking control valve prior to activating the 4 way flasher.
I reviewed the CDL drivers license manual and it states to Activate the four way flashers and then apply the parking brake. The test is based on the CDL manual. Thank you for the comment!
You the best man... thank you so much
Good job👍👍👍
You did the best video 👏🏿
Thank you!
One thing the instructors at my trucking school ask is ;"If you have to make an emergency stop for longer than ten minutes what do you do? " and you have to tell them "I would pull all the way to the right ,put on my four way flashers and set my three red reflective triangles behind my trailer at ten feet,one hundred feet and two hundred feet behind my trailer. " The only difference between what you did and the school does is you didn't mention that part about if stopped for ten minutes or longer. Other than that great video!
Thats ok, but My videos are designed to prepare you for the cdl test and during the road side stop there is no part of the procedure that asks you to review a greater than a 10 minute stop. It's not part of the test. It is good to know but you'll not be tested on it.
Mike Logan Ok I thought it was maybe an Indiana thing
AWESOME thank you so much
You’re welcome!
Great info . I test Thursday Dec 19th
Best of luck to you!
@@mikelogan99CDLClassAskillstest Thank you mike.
Thank you. !
You are welcome!
Many states require two safety stops. One on a downhill grade and one on an uphill. Follow the same steps just make sure you don’t roll backwards when on the uphill. Before you accelerate away from your safety stops check both mirrors. It’s required to check for pedestrians on the curbside. They also usually require you to demonstrate that you know how and when to downshift when going up or down a grade.
We're grading on many more than two. Every turn that requires a stop is graded. there are 8 of those. Intersections that are controlled by stop lights and stop signs are graded. The roadside stop is graded. This video does not run the test route therefore you won't see the uphill grades that are tested or the decending roads.
everything you mentioned is good information. Thanks!
Thank u mike🙏
My pleasure!
This video is 7 years ago and the title is for 2023. Genius man.
That’s to indicate that there hasn’t been any changes and it’s all still applicable.
Well done!
Thank You!
Helpful in a way video taking my road test next friday a little nervous hoping i do good have another prolly 6 or 7 days of schooliny before the test so im hoping i get better and can ace my test taking it in kalkaska michigan
Check your email for a response! Best of luck
The best on youtube
Thank you!
Hey I know where this is! Grand junction! I love GJ.
You're correct!
I thank you so much for the education here . I passed today due to the education here . I thank you
Way to go!! congratulations
congrats
@@mikelogan99CDLClassAskillstest Lifesaver video. My test is tomorrow. Great job.
Mike---this reminds me of a twilight zone episode. the one where the whole town is deserted.
did you pay every one to stay off the road at that hour, or is that town really that quiet? Our roads are not that dead at 3 AM.
That's funny, It's been a couple of years ago but I think it was in the middle of the afternoon on a Sunday. The traffic is always light. I love it! Thanks for the comment
Very good job sir thanks so much
Most welcome
Hey I recognize those mountains, that's Grand Junction, CO!
Mike, do you downshift on exit ramp, or push in clutch, go to neutral & use brakes? Thanks so much for ALL of your instructional videos
Stop like always, place your foot on the brake, You'll downshift on the exir ramp when the RPM drops too low. Control the vehicle with the brake pedal, never put the truck in neautral. Stop the truck and wait with the clutch pushed in until it's time to go. There's really no fancy way to do it. Controlling the vehicle at all times shows the examiner you're ready for your CDL
Mike Logan you’re the. best, thank you
Nice video
Thanks
How is the Road Test scored? Are there a set amount of points like the Vehicle Controls Skills test?
Yes, with 21 grade points for each turn and there are 8 turns you'll see that there are a lot of points. All total you'll have between 300 and 400 grade points. Don't panic though it's not hard because you already know how to drive, It's just the adjustment to this type of vehicle. A passing score is 30 points or less incurred.
going next week to take my test... a question that still puzzles me is what is the appropriate gear to make a turn in? or what would be the desired gear range i should be in while making a turn? thanks for the video
I can explain a typical 10 speed. The first 5 gears in the low range can take the truck to approximately 15 mph in 5th gear. Taking an immediate right turn should be done at about 10 mph so gear down to 4th gear. If it's wider turn for example a sharp curve or you're in a right turn lane you could do that in 5th at 15mph. A curve with a yellow warning sign indicating 20 mph that would be 6th gear. 7th gear (add 2+5) =7th so 25mph. 8th is the same 3+5= 8 so 35mph for 8th gear. 9th is 4+5=9 45mph and 10th is 55mph 5+5=10 and beyond. Drive your truck and watch the speeds for each gear and learn them. If you need to downshift from a hard stop and you dropped several mph you need to check your speed to know what gear to downshift to. You can't always go one gear at a time. I hope this helps.
Hi,what does it mean illegal Jack break use?I saw that sign in Oregon when driving down the hill and was thinking how do I get down without using Jake brakes
That community has a noise ordinance, that's all
Could you please explain by steps how to stop on the side of the road, correct me if I wrong:
“Driver please stop on side of the road”
1) right turn signal
2) full stop
3) 4 way flashers
4) pull tractor-trailer brakes
In order to continue we should:
1) push tractor-trailer brakes
2) turn off 4 way flashers
3) turn on left turn signal
4) start to accelerate
Is it correct order or not?
Thank you!
The overview is this;
At____________ pull the vehicle over to the left side of the road. Stop and secure the vehicle as if you were going to get out and check something on the rear.
Add these steps,
Check mirrors when you pull over and when you go again
downshift correctly
stop smoothly, no hard braking
make sure you're all the way off the road in the correct area you were told.
Don't roll backwards when it's time to go.
Up-shift correctly
So we do have to set the tractor-trailer brakes, is that correct
@@timothyleyva1986 Yes, these are the steps printed directly from the test.
On the approach
1...Signal
2...Traffic check
3...Shifting
4...Lane selection
5...Lane keep
Stopping
1...Vehicle position
2...Vehicle secured
3...Wheels
4...4 way flashers
Resume
1...4 ways flashers, meaning cancel
2...Signal, meaning left signal
3...Traffic check
4...rolling, meaning letting the truck roll backwards
5...shifting
6...traffic check
I hope this helps
I have my road test tomorrow 😌 my nerves are will
Stay calm and let us know if you pass.
Did you past?
well?
I don’t know where he is but there are hardly any cars 🚗 to be seen. It definitely wouldn’t be like this in Atlanta
I’m in Grand Junction, Colorado on a Sunday.
It is best to lane change on a straight stretch of road. Proceeds to lane change on a curve. I kid, but overall, very well done video.
That's Ok, keeping your truck within your lane counts. Good luck
The book says never downshift on a downgrade, Does that apply to any downgrade or are you expected to downshift for a stop at a slight downgrade? It's not too uncommon for a light to be at the bottom of a hill or downgrade, would you stop and reset or are you expected to downshift?
What the book is saying is correct and you should have your foot on the brake while going downhill. You should down shift before going down a grade and control the truck with the service brake. As you gain experience you'll find out that you can downshift on a grade as long as you slow the truck and bring the engine RPM down below what it is at a normal downshift. Downshifting is there to assist in slowing but the main way and most important is to control the truck with the service brake. I hope I'm clear on this.
I get the reason for failing if you curb check the trailer. But sometimes you cant help it because it seems like a lot of cars pull over the white line or don't care that you have a trailer. I feel it should vary based on the situation, like if there is a car there it should be fine. But that's my thought and someone that gets paid more than me designed the test. Great video btw it was very instructional and makes the test seem like its easier than most make it seem.
Thanks Seth for the comment. I have a different approach to the situation so let me explain. You're tested and also developing skills to maintain control of the vehicle at all times. When you're confronted with a situation like this or any other you should recognize it and stop or slow down so you can maneuver the vehicle properly. That means in most cases moving your vehicle out of your space so you can clear the curbs or other obstacles. You need to do this when all traffic has cleared away so you can use spaces and lanes that you don't have the right of way to.
@@mikelogan99CDLClassAskillstest I see your point now, it makes more sense. Thank you for the explanation.