Before driving a coupled tractor-trailer, what should be true of the trailer landing gear?
Detailed Explanation
Landing gear must be fully raised and free of missing, bent, or damaged parts. The crank handle must also be secured so it cannot swing or catch on objects.
Correct Answer: It is fully raised with the crank handle secured
Why This Matters on the CDL Test
Use this as part of your General Knowledge review. The real CDL knowledge test rewards drivers who understand the reason behind each rule, not only the answer letter, so read the explanation and then try a few related questions.
How to Remember It
Say the rule in your own words, then explain why the wrong answers are unsafe or incomplete. That habit makes similar General Knowledge questions easier when the exam changes the wording.
Answer Review
Choose "It is fully raised with the crank handle secured" because this answer matches the safe CDL action for transmission types and gear selection. On the knowledge test, the safest answer is usually the one that protects space, control, visibility, legal compliance, or inspection accuracy before the vehicle is put at risk.
Why the other answers are weaker
- It is raised only one inch from the pavement"It is raised only one inch from the pavement" does not best answer this transmission types and gear selection question. When you see a similar option on the CDL permit test, compare it against the exact safety rule and choose the answer that prevents the most immediate risk.
- It remains down to support the trailer in turns"It remains down to support the trailer in turns" does not best answer this transmission types and gear selection question. When you see a similar option on the CDL permit test, compare it against the exact safety rule and choose the answer that prevents the most immediate risk.
Test-Day Checklist
- Read the question once for the topic, then read it again for the exact CDL action being tested in General Knowledge.
- Eliminate answers that sound convenient but skip an inspection, warning sign, or safety step.
- Say the correct rule out loud before moving on so you can recognize it when the exam changes the wording.
Ready to practice for real?
Take our free, full-length General Knowledge practice test. Simulates the actual DMV exam with timed questions.
Start Practice TestRelated Questions
What is off-tracking in a tractor-trailer?
Which New York CDL test should a driver study for before operating a tractor-trailer combination?
Why should a driver inspect air and electrical lines on a tractor-trailer?
Why should the trailer hand valve not be used while driving?
After coupling a tractor and semitrailer, how much space should be visible between the upper and lower fifth-wheel plates?
Keep Studying General Knowledge
Question pages help you review one rule at a time. To build test-day speed, move back into the full General Knowledge practice test and answer a mixed set without looking at the explanation first.
State CDL Practice Paths
After you understand this answer, use a state practice path to connect the federal CDL rule with the DMV test pages drivers search for most.