NJ CDL Combination case studies
NJ CDL Combination · Put your knowledge to work in context.
The New Jersey Commercial Driver License (CDL) Combination Vehicles endorsement covers the knowledge and skills needed to operate a tractor-trailer or other vehicle with a trailer. This page is an independent study resource for candidates preparing for the combination vehicles portion of the NJ CDL knowledge exam. It is not affiliated with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) or any government agency, and it does not reproduce any official test. The material is organized around four domains: combination vehicle inspection and coupling/uncoupling; driving combination vehicles safely, including turns, braking, speed, and space management; air brakes and combination vehicle braking systems; and skid control, jackknifing, and hazard response. The NJ CDL Combination case studies are 5 cases and about 2,725 words.
1Coupling at a Newark Terminal: The Gap Under the Fifth Wheel
At 05:40 at a terminal in Newark, you are assigned a 53-foot empty van and a day cab tractor. The trailer sits on level asphalt with its landing gear down and trailer spring brakes set.
679 words, about 3 min2Right Turn With a 53-Foot Trailer in Jersey City
You are driving a 3-axle tractor with a 53-foot trailer, about 70 feet overall, to a grocery dock in Jersey City. You need to turn right from a four-lane arterial onto a 24-foot-wide two-way street.
567 words, about 3 min3Air Loss on Route 495 Near the Lincoln Tunnel
You are driving a 5-axle combination at about 78,000 lb gross on Route 495 westbound toward the Lincoln Tunnel. Traffic is stop-and-go.
558 words, about 3 min4Trailer Swing on Wet Route 17
It is a Friday afternoon in Paramus. Light rain has just started after two dry weeks, so the asphalt on Route 17 south is slick with oil and water.
547 words, about 3 min5Steer Tire Blowout on the New Jersey Turnpike
You are southbound on the New Jersey Turnpike in the center lane at 60 mph, pulling a loaded 53-foot trailer, gross weight about 76,000 lb. Without warning, the right steer tire blows.
374 words, about 2 min