How to Practice Backing for the CDL Exam

One of the most cumbersome and often worried about aspects of the CDL exam is the driving test. This test includes an extensive review and strict requirements for backing a vehicle. While backing a large vehicle or combination truck and trailer can be difficult, you can master it with practice and experience. Follow these steps to get the practice you need and master your backing skills.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Aquire the use of a trailer and tractor to use in a closed course under proper supervision of a licensed CDL instructor so you can practice backing for the CDL exam.

2. Design a course using cones to simulate the five basic backing scenarios frequently encountered. These are dock (or alley) backing with sight side approach, dock (or alley) backing with blind side approach, straight line backing, sight side parallel parking and blind side parallel parking.

3. Practice each backing scenario as often as you can. Properly use the mirrors and exit the vehicle to assure safe distances from objects. The more you practice the different backing scenarios the easier they become as you gain more experience for the CDL exam.

4. Ask a spotter to help guide you and to tell you if you get too close to or hit a cone.

5. Try all methods suggested to you from other drivers or instructors. There are many methods used by professionals to hone their skills. These include tricks like opening your door or window to improve vision while the vehicle is jack-knifed, or planning the route of the trailer tires.

6. Continue to practice the different backing techniques even after you believe you have them mastered, and continue to practice right up until your CDL exam time.