First, you have to obtain a learner's permit. To do this, you simply study your CDL handbook, and take the following written tests:

• General Knowledge (covers introduction, driving safely, and cargo from the CDL handbook)
• Combination Vehicles
• Air Brakes (if needed)
• Hazmat (if needed)
• Passengers (if needed)
• Tankers (if needed)

Once you've taken those written tests, you can obtain a Class A learner's permit - by law, you cannot legally operate any combination which falls under the requirements of a Class A CDL without having first obtained the learner's permit.

When you're ready for your road test, you'll schedule the appointment with your DMV. You'll need a licenced Class A driver to transport you and the test vehicle to the DMV office. Now, Class A covers any combination over 26,000 lbs. GVWR in which the vehicle in tow is rated at over 10,000 lbs. This means you could take a Ford F-650 (rated at 26,000 lbs.) with an attached trailer rated at over 10,000 lbs., and use that for your road test. However, there is a catch - if you do this, you'll receive an "8" restriction, which prohibits you from operating tractor trailers, although you can operate other CDL combinations.

You must be at least 18 years of age to get a CDL - however, if you're under 21, you'll receive a "4" restriction, which restricts you to intrastate operations only. Additionally, you cannot receive a Hazmat endorsement if you are under 21.

Double trailer and tanker endorsements are simply written tests. Hazmat requires fingerprinting and a background check through the Transportation Safety Administration. Passenger vehicles require both a written test and a road test conducted in a passenger vehicle. If you have a Class A CDL, and take the road test for a passenger vehicle in a bus which is not a Class A CDL vehicle, you'll be restricted to non-articulated buses. School bus drivers are also required to undergo a background check.

First, make sure you are going at least the minimum speed. If you aren't, consider bringing your vehicle up to speed limit so you aren't becoming an annoyance to other drivers. If you are at maximum speed limit, pull over to let the motorcycle pass OR if safe for all drivers, wave him around you. If you pull over, make sure to put your turn signal ON first so the cyclist knows your intentions before you start to slow down. If you cannot pull over or let him pass by you, and you can't speed up to maximum speed limit, turn on your hazard lights to hopefully indicate to the cyclist that he is too close to you.

MAKE SURE

1. You keep an eye on him in case he tries to pass you.
2. You keep within the min to max speed limit. Don't "speed" to get him off your tail.
3. You keep over near the line on the side with the road's shoulder (right-left depends on which country you are in; keep to the right in the USA), in case he tries to pass you. Give him plenty of room near the center line in case he tries a dangerous pass.
4. If he does try to pass you, slow your speed a little so he gets around you quicker.

DO NOT:

1. Touch the brakes or slam on the brakes to make him back off. He could hit you or slide under your vehicle.
2. Tap or continually tap the brakes to show your annoyance. You could contribute to an accident. Plus, he won't accurately read your intentions or your message.
3. Make angry hand or finger gestures. Don't start a road rage incident. Stay calm, cool, and collected, even if the cyclist is acting foolish or annoying.