California Commercial Learner's Permit & CDL Preparation California CDL Commercial Handbook
Basic control test

Move slowly enough to see and correct the vehicle before crossing a boundary.

Practice backing observations, straight-line control, offset backing, parallel parking, alley dock, pull-ups, encroachments and final position.

Control beats speed

Use setup, mirror scans, outside observations when permitted, small steering corrections, and pull-ups before the vehicle becomes badly misaligned.

Know the possible exercises

California's handbook describes a subset of straight-line backing, offset backing, parallel parking, alley dock and related low-speed control exercises.

Practice the trailer path

Class A applicants must understand delayed trailer response, tractor correction and when to follow the trailer back into alignment.