Illinois CDL Practice Exam

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $2.99 payment

Study for the Illinois CDL Exam. Utilize comprehensive quizzes featuring multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Gear up for success on your test!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.

What does Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) refer to?

The weight of the vehicle alone
The combined weight of a powered unit and trailer
The total weight of a single vehicle plus its load
The maximum weight specified by the manufacturer

The correct answer is: The total weight of a single vehicle plus its load

Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) refers to the total weight of a vehicle when it is fully loaded, which includes the weight of the vehicle itself along with any cargo, passengers, fuel, and other items that may be aboard. This measurement is important for commercial drivers because it helps determine the vehicle's compliance with legal weight limits and regulations. In the context of choice C, the definition encompasses all aspects of the vehicle's weight, providing a comprehensive view of how much weight is being carried on the vehicle. Understanding GVW is crucial for safe driving and for ensuring that the vehicle is not overloaded, which could compromise safety and performance on the road. The other options describe different weight categories. For instance, the weight of the vehicle alone is its curb weight, and the combined weight of a powered unit and trailer refers to Gross Combined Weight (GCW). The maximum weight specified by the manufacturer relates to the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), which is the maximum safe weight that can be legally loaded onto a vehicle. Knowing these distinctions helps drivers accurately assess vehicle limits and maintains compliance with regulations.