Basic Control of Your Vehicle
What this domain tests
Basic Control tests starting, shifting, steering, turning, stopping, and backing. The exam focuses on smooth control, proper gear selection, mirror use, and knowing when to stop and get out to look.
Core rules
- Before moving, check mirrors, secure the load, and confirm the path is clear.
- Start smoothly and accelerate gradually. Avoid riding the clutch or slipping gears.
- Select the proper gear before a hill. Downshift before a downgrade, not during it, and avoid riding the brakes.
- Turns require wide swings and attention to off-tracking. Check mirrors throughout the turn.
- Backing is the highest-risk basic control. Use a spotter when possible, back toward the driver’s side, and get out to check if unsure.
- If you cannot see behind the vehicle, stop. GOAL-get out and look-is a control technique, not a sign of failure.
Worked example
A driver must back a 53-foot trailer into a tight dock on the right side. The driver stops, checks the area, uses a spotter, and backs slowly with the trailer tracking toward the dock. When the trailer drifts off line, the driver pulls forward to regain angle instead of forcing the turn. Forcing it risks hitting the dock or jackknifing. The pull-up costs seconds; a collision costs hours.
Traps that cost marks
Backing blind side without a spotter; riding the brakes downhill; shifting while turning; turning too sharply without checking off-tracking; and moving when the path is unclear.