Free Illinois CDL Air Brakes Test 2025

Perfect for first-time and renewal CDL/CLP applicants, and those adding endorsements
Based on 2025 IL commercial driver's license manual
Triple-checked for accuracy
Updated for March 2025

Planning to drive commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) equipped with air brakes? Our practice materials are the perfect tool to prepare you for the DMV tests. Without passing, your CDL will include the restriction “L,” indicating you’re prohibited from operating CMVs with air brakes. Since semi-trucks and tractor-trailers are typically equipped with air brakes, obtaining this endorsement is essential. In fact, in Illinois, the air brakes qualification is a requirement of most companies due to the commonality of this braking system. From the flat plains of southern Illinois to the urban interchanges around Chicago and the icy winter conditions on major highways, air brake qualification is key to safety and control.

Industries across the Prairie State rely on drivers with the air brake qualification. Logistics and freight companies, charter bus services, school transportation, agriculture, manufacturing, and warehousing are just a few that require this. Schneider National, J.B. Hunt, and FedEx Freight all use vehicles equipped with air brakes. Intercity bus services like Greyhound and Megabus rely on drivers with the qualification. Additionally, regional groups like Windy City Limousine (in Chicago) and school districts are on the list because their vehicles are outfitted with air brakes. In the agriculture sector, air brakes are needed for the transport of corn, soybeans, and livestock. Likewise, the manufacturing and warehousing industries need the qualification for jobs with Caterpillar and Amazon. Simply put, the “L” restriction makes operating CMVs equipped with air brakes illegal, thus limiting your job prospects.

The official two-part DMV test covers the parts of an air brake system, effective operation, and air-brake inspection procedures. The skills test requires you to physically inspect an air brake system, identify its components, and operate a vehicle equipped with air brakes. This test includes checking air pressure, testing the brakes for leaks, and more. The multiple-choice written test requires a score of at least 80% to pass and features questions directly from material found in the state’s CDL manual (https://m.driving-tests.org/illinois/il-cdl-handbook/).

Our Illinois CDL Air Brakes Practice Tests take into consideration all that is required for the official DMV knowledge test and mimic the content and format you will face on the test. Our practice test questions and answers provide responses in real time so you can learn quickly and be confident of passing your official exam.

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What to expect on the actual IL DMV exam

questions

correct answers to pass

80%

passing score

Helpful links

IL DMV website

Official Illinois CDL manual (2025)

More IL DMV Written Exam Resources

IL CDL Air Brakes Test (you are here)

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Our commitment to accuracy and quality in our practice tests

Explore our rigorous, multi-tiered verification process that ensures each question mirrors the official manual for unparalleled accuracy.

Written by Andrei Zakhareuski Updated over a week ago

At Driving-Tests.org, we understand the importance of reliable and accurate practice tests to help you prepare for your DMV exam. That's why we've developed a meticulous process to create and continually update our practice questions, ensuring they reflect the most current driving laws and regulations.

Here's an inside look at how we maintain the highest quality in our practice tests.

Content Creation and Verification Process

Alignment with Official Manuals:
Every question we develop is based on the most recent version of each state's official driving manual. Our team regularly monitors each state DMV's website for the latest updates to ensure our practice tests are always aligned with the most current information.
Community Feedback Integration:
We leverage feedback from our vast community of users to understand which topics are most frequently tested. This helps us focus on the areas that are most relevant and beneficial for your preparation.
Expert Content Creation:
Our in-house editor, Steven, who has extensive experience in driver education, crafts each question with precision. He conducts a thorough review of each question against the official manuals to ensure accuracy.
Rigorous Review Process:
Once Steven has finalized a set of questions, our team conducts a joint review session. This second level of scrutiny involves content accuracy, proofreading, and fact-checking to eliminate any errors.
User Feedback Mechanism:
After a question goes live on our site, we keep the lines of communication open. Each question features a feedback button, inviting users to report any issues or errors. This continuous feedback loop allows us to address and rectify any concerns promptly.
Responsive Updates:
In line with our commitment to accuracy, we quickly update our practice questions to reflect any changes in the DMV manuals. Additionally, we update the free electronic copy of the state's driver's license manuals on our site, typically within a few days after the DMV publishes them.

Our thorough quality control process ensures that you have access to practice tests that are as accurate and up-to-date as possible. We believe in the power of well-prepared drivers and are dedicated to providing you with the best study tools to help you succeed on your DMV exam.

FREE Illinois CDL Air Brakes Test

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