Denmark Category D/E Bus Trailer Theory Test cheat sheet

Færdselsloven §3: All road users must behave with due care and caution; drivers must be able to stop in the distance visible ahead.

Bus with trailer is a combination; maximum permitted speed on motorways is 80 km/h unless lower limits apply, and on other roads outside built-up areas 70 km/h (check current regulations).

Right-hand traffic; overtaking on the left is the rule. Overtaking on the right is only allowed in specific situations (e.g., queues, trams).

In built-up areas, speed limit is 50 km/h unless otherwise signed. On motorways, general limit is 130 km/h for cars, but lower for buses with trailers.

Seat belts must be used if fitted; passengers in buses must be informed. Children under 135 cm require approved child restraints in vehicles where such exist.

Driving under the influence: blood alcohol limit is 0.5 g/L (0.05%). For professional drivers, stricter rules may apply; suspension of driving licence is possible.

At pedestrian crossings, drivers must yield to pedestrians. In bus with trailer, remember increased stopping distance and blind spots.

Use of mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless hands-free and used safely. Professional drivers must comply with tachograph and rest rules.

Accident reporting: If involved in an accident with personal injury, stop, help, and call emergency services. Exchange information with other parties.

Maximum authorised mass (MAM) of a bus with trailer combination must not exceed 18,000 kg (or higher if approved by vehicle registration).

Trailer MAM must not exceed the bus's towing capacity as specified by the manufacturer. Check the vehicle registration document.

Maximum width: 2.55 m for standard vehicles; 2.60 m for refrigerated vehicles. Maximum height: 4.0 m. Maximum length: bus 12 m (or 15 m articulated), trailer 12 m, combination 18.75 m (or 25.25 m for specific combinations).

Coupling: Ensure trailer is securely attached; use safety cable for breakaway. Check lights, brakes, and tyre condition of trailer.

Load must be secured to prevent shifting; use straps, nets, or other approved securing devices. Load must not exceed axle weights or gross vehicle weight.

Passenger safety: In a bus, all passengers must be seated or standing in designated areas; aisles and exits must be clear. In trailer, passengers are not allowed unless specially designed and permitted.

Weight distribution: Load should be evenly distributed; too much weight on rear axle can affect steering and braking. Check axle load limits on registration document.

Trailer braking system: Must be compatible with bus; check connection and function before driving. For trailers over 750 kg, overrun or power brakes required.

Turning: Account for off-tracking (rear wheels cut inside). Use wide turns to avoid hitting kerbs or obstacles; check mirrors for trailer swing.

Reversing: Use mirrors and if possible a guide. Reversing with trailer requires steering opposite to desired direction of trailer; practice in safe area.

Braking: Increase following distance due to longer stopping distance. Use engine brake and retarder to reduce brake fade. Avoid sudden braking on curves.

Stability: High centre of gravity and trailer can cause rollover risk. Reduce speed in curves and avoid abrupt steering. Load heavy items low.

Hill starts: Use parking brake or hill-hold to prevent rolling back. Ensure trailer brakes are applied when parked.

Wet or slippery roads: Reduce speed, increase distance, avoid cruise control. Trailer may skid; steer gently.

Blind spots: Larger with trailer; use mirrors and camera systems. Always check before changing lanes or turning.

Fuel-efficient driving: Smooth acceleration, anticipate traffic, use momentum. Avoid excessive idling.

Load securing: Use approved lashings, straps with tensioners. Number of straps depends on load weight and friction. Minimum lashing capacity: 50% of load weight.

Passenger safety: Ensure all passengers wear seat belts if available. Standees only allowed in designated areas with handholds. Emergency exits must be unobstructed.

Trailer load: Must be secured and not exceed trailer's MAM. Check that load does not protrude dangerously; mark if protruding over 1 m at rear.

Fire safety: Bus must have fire extinguishers and first aid kit. Check expiry dates. Know location of emergency exits and how to operate them.

Passenger communication: In case of emergency, give clear instructions. Use PA system if available.

Safe coupling: Ensure trailer is properly hitched, safety cable attached, lights working, and brakes tested. Use wheel chocks when coupling.

Pre-trip inspection: Check tyres, lights, brakes, coupling, load securing, and emergency equipment.

Passenger comfort: Avoid harsh driving; ensure ventilation and temperature control.

EU rules: Maximum daily driving time 9 hours (extendable to 10 hours twice a week). Weekly driving max 56 hours; fortnightly max 90 hours.

Breaks: After 4.5 hours driving, take a 45-minute break (can be split into 15+30 minutes).

Daily rest: 11 hours (reducible to 9 hours three times between weekly rests). Weekly rest: 45 hours (reducible to 24 hours).

Tachograph: Must be used correctly; record all activities (driving, other work, availability, rest). Manual entries for non-driving days.

Driver card: Personal; must not be used by others. Report lost/stolen card immediately. Download data regularly (every 28 days for driver card, 90 days for vehicle unit).

Enforcement: Roadside checks; fines for infringements. Company responsible for compliance.

Professional driver responsibilities: Ensure vehicle roadworthy, comply with traffic laws, and complete training (e.g., CPC).

Record keeping: Keep tachograph records for at least one year; produce on request.

Scene safety: Park safely, turn on hazard lights, put on reflective vest, place warning triangle (if required). Call emergency number 112.

First aid: Check airway, breathing, circulation (ABC). Control bleeding with direct pressure. Do not move injured unless necessary.

Bus evacuation: Use emergency exits (doors, windows, roof hatches). Assist passengers; ensure no one left behind.

Fire: Use fire extinguisher if safe; aim at base of fire. Evacuate immediately if fire cannot be controlled.

Accident reporting: Exchange details with other parties; report to police if injury or significant damage. Complete accident report form.

Incident with trailer: Secure scene; check for leaks or hazards. Do not disconnect trailer unless necessary and safe.

Passenger care: Keep calm, provide reassurance, and administer first aid until help arrives.

Documentation: Record incident details, take photos if safe, and note witness information.

Daily checks: Tyres (pressure, tread depth min 1.6 mm for cars, 1.0 mm for large vehicles? Actually for buses: 1.5 mm? Check: For vehicles over 3.5 t, min tread depth 1.0 mm. For trailers, same. For buses: 1.5 mm? I'll use: min tread depth 1.0 mm for large vehicles, 1.6 mm for cars.)

Brake system: Check air pressure (for air brakes), brake fluid level, and test brakes. Trailer brakes must engage when bus brakes applied.

Lights: Check all lights including indicators, brake lights, and trailer lights. Ensure reflectors are clean.

Coupling: Inspect hitch, safety cable, and electrical connection. Lubricate as needed.

Tyres: Check for damage, wear, and correct pressure. Twin tyres must be matched.

Periodic inspection: Bus must undergo annual roadworthiness test (syn) after 1 year, then annually. Trailer also requires inspection.

Maintenance: Follow manufacturer's service schedule. Keep records.

Defect reporting: Report any defects to operator; do not drive unsafe vehicle.

Eco-driving: Smooth acceleration and deceleration, use highest gear possible, anticipate traffic to avoid stop-start.

Idling: Turn off engine when stationary for more than 1 minute (except in traffic). Reduces fuel consumption and emissions.

Tyre pressure: Correct pressure reduces rolling resistance and fuel use. Check weekly.

Load: Remove unnecessary weight; roof racks increase drag.

Noise reduction: Avoid revving engine, use engine brake wisely, and keep vehicle maintained to reduce noise.

Route planning: Use GPS to avoid congestion and choose efficient routes.

Alternative fuels: Consider electric or hybrid buses; but for this exam, focus on efficient driving.

Fuel consumption: A bus with trailer consumes more fuel; plan for refuelling and use fuel-efficient techniques.