Small things to know before the road test?

Maybe @brian991219 will be around later.
I’d probably fail if I had to go by the book.

 

Drive like you are back at 16 years old, by the book is what they are looking for. Both hands on the wheel, at or under speed limit, good following distance and stop at or behind stop lines/signs. I can't speak to the State of Maine directly but most states use the same basic criteria.

Obey the speed limit and posted truck signs, the route will not have any tricks but be aware of what is around you.

Somewhere along the route you will be asked to simulate a breakdown -pull over and park or at least asked what you would do on a specific type of road. Know your triangle placement spacing from your CDL manual and be sure to also check for traffic in your right mirror even if it is up against the curb or shoulder.

Double clutch, it is ok to scratch a gear but missing one and not recovering without stopping is a failure. Basically the right gear is the one that doesn't result in chatter, lugging or overrevving the motor.

Don't let your trailer wheels drift over the fog line even in tight turns as this is a failure. The examiner will look in your spot mirrors to watch for this and lane placement. Stay centered as best you can.

When doing the backing maneuvers in the lot you can't use the rear window, can't put your head out the driver window nor can you lift your butt out of the seat. You need to be able to do the skills while wearing the seatbelt and fully seated. Each skill has its own instructions and score creiteria -listen to the instructions.

Air brake test must be done exactly as the book instructs word for word without missing a pressure, time or function to test. This is an automatic failure. I suggest watching a study video because the CDL guide from most states doesn't spell out the exact scriot the examiner will be looking for or all 16 steps in a easy to follow order.

Listen carefully to the examiner when they give you instructions. There are no trick questions and they won't ask you to do anything illegal. If you don't understand just ask for clarification.

Lastly, say out loud what you are seeing, doing and why. This is especially important when doing the pre-trip and driving. You have to repeat yourself over and over with the what and how of what you are inspecting i.e. inspect belts for cracks, frays, abrasions or metal components for cracks, illegal welds, loose fasteners on so on.