CDL driving test

Hi everyone,

I appreciate and value all the information from fellow drivers on this forum. I have 6 years experience driving an armored truck with Brinks Inc. and recently left for a better opportunity to drive a box truck to deliver to plumbing, hvac shops and a ton of new construction homes. So I have roughly only about 6 and half years “ professional” driving experience.

I want to take the next step and earn my CDL-B to open up even more opportunities and my current job “prefers” a CDL-B over a “for hire” endorsement and will give me a raise if I get my CDL-B. I currently have my CDL-B permit and I’m preparing for my pre trip and driving portion of the test that’s scheduled for June 15th. During my 6 1/2 years at Brinks and my current job both trucks have been automatics, so it’s been years since I’ve drove a manual. I obviously want to test with a manual so I’m not restricted to a automatic cdl. I’ve been driving a manual truck recently just as a refresher.

During the driving portion of my CDL test the book states you’re not allowed to engage the clutch in neutral for longer than what the vehicle length. I have a couple questions:

1. Does the state tester expect you to take off from first gear (granny gear) or will they usually allow you to take off straight from 2nd?

2. For an example let’s say I’m in 5th gear and approaching a stop sign. They don’t expect to downshift through every gear up to the stop sign 5th, 4th, 3rd, 2nd right? Are you allowed to approach the stop sign from 5th to 2nd while keeping the clutch engaged?

Again, thank you for your advice and time.