Ask X3What does 49 CFR 383.135 (Passing knowledge and skills tests) require?
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Based on 49 CFR 383.135, here are the practical requirements for driver applicants taking knowledge and skills tests:
Knowledge Tests:
* To pass each knowledge test, a driver applicant must correctly answer at least 80 percent of the questions.
* If an applicant fails the air brake knowledge test (scoring under 80%) but still receives a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) or Commercial Driver's License (CDL), an air brake restriction must be placed on it.
* If an applicant fails the combination vehicle knowledge test (scoring under 80%), they cannot be issued a Group A CLP or CDL.
Skills Tests:
* To pass each skills test segment, the applicant must successfully perform all skills listed in § 383.113 and reach the required scores in the examiner manual's Appendix A.
* An applicant will automatically fail the skills test if they break traffic laws, cause an accident during the test, or commit any other offense listed as an automatic failure in the driver and examiner manuals.
* License Restrictions based on the test vehicle:
* If tested in a vehicle *without* air brakes, an air brake restriction must be added to the CDL.
* If tested in a vehicle with *air over hydraulic brakes*, a full air brake restriction must be added.
* If tested in a vehicle with an *automatic transmission*, a manual transmission restriction must be added.
* If tested in a Group A combination vehicle with a *non-fifth wheel connection*, a tractor-trailer restriction must be added.
* Removing Restrictions:
* To remove air brake, air over hydraulic, or manual transmission restrictions, the driver does not need to retake the full skills test. The State can give a modified skills test showing the driver can safely operate those systems. To remove air brake restrictions specifically, the driver must also pass the air brake pre-trip inspection and the air brake knowledge test.
* To remove a tractor-trailer restriction, the driver must retake all three skills tests in a representative tractor-trailer.
State Recordkeeping:
* States must record and keep the knowledge and skills test scores for all applicants, making them part of the driver history record or linking them to it in a separate file.