look out the window in CDL test?

I have no idea what your state requires but on a personal note I can't understand why looking out the window is frowned upon. I look out the window all the time when I'm going forward.

 

I stuck my head out the window while performing my backing maneuvers. I lost point when I stepped out and stood on the fuel tank while alley docking.

 

I do not want to say that it is necessarily wrong to look back out the window, though an examiners opinion may differ. I am only trying to encourage a good practice of becoming accustomed to using the mirrors as much as possible and not relying on turning ones head around. Many backing incidents occur at the front of a vehicle as it swings around, the driver often forgetting about what is coming around along side the front end. Facing forward and using the mirrors as intended reduces the chances of that happening significantly.

BTW, I drive a day cab as well, and do take advantage of the rear window when it suits me.

 

When I took my class A test (12/2014 in CT) you could look out the driver side window for ally dock maneuver but I also kept checking the right side mirror and right side front of truck to make sure nothing "popped up" from not looking there. You could NOT look out the rear window of the day cab test truck.

I also drive a day cab for my job and use the rear window as a tool when I have to. Best to use the tools at hand when on the job than bend up the truck/trailer.

Funny you guys talk about standing on the running board when driver side ally dock backing. One night I stayed late at school for something and the teachers where having a contest with the students to see who could get it in the hole the best first shot no pull ups. One of the show off teachers did it standing on the running board and got to say did a pretty good job too. The teachers also knew I could do it, not on the running board, and said go do it. This was not my class and was dark, my class was during day light hours. I got to say I did pretty good as I only had to go about 6" deeper in the hole to pass the state test. The way I was dressed and how well I did the class thought I was a teacher and was shocked when told I was not.
Dave ----

 

Ive been told by many newbies they were told mirrors only--which imho is not a bad idea--and while I have ALWAYS opened the door and turned--but have been driven along hood pete for well over 30 years ad they are a lil different animal--and advise all younger drivers to at least turn and look out window for better visibility--but there are lots of times you arent gonna want to do that--think bad wx--lol--but again you are taking a test--and chances are the examiner is lookin for certain things that may have no application in the real world--give them what they want and move on....