Free BC Air Brake Practice Test
Preparing for your Free BC Air Brake Practice Test? Our free, up-to-date British Columbia Air Brake Practice Tests are designed to help you pass confidently on your first try.
These practice tests are based on the Official British Columbia Air Brake Manual, your most trusted resource for understanding air brake components, system safety checks, daily inspections, and commercial driving regulations in BC.
Whether you’re aiming to get your Code 15 Air Brake Endorsement or just want to refresh your knowledge, our questions closely mirror the real exam format to make sure you’re ready.
What to Expect on the Official BC Air Brake (Code 15) Knowledge Test
To earn the Code 15 Air Brake Endorsement on your British Columbia commercial driver’s licence, you must successfully pass both a written knowledge test and a practical air brake pre-trip inspection. Here’s what to expect on the written portion of the test:
Number of Questions
25–30
Time Limit
30 minutes
Passing Score
80%
Based On
Where to Write
Frequently Asked Questions – BC Air Brake Endorsement
The Air Brake Endorsement (Code 15) is required to operate vehicles equipped with air brake systems in British Columbia. It is added to your commercial licence after passing both a written and practical test.
Any driver who wants to operate a commercial vehicle with an air brake system—such as buses, trucks, and trailers—must obtain the Code 15 endorsement.
You must:
Take an ICBC-approved air brake course (usually 16 hours of theory and practical training).
Pass the written knowledge test at an ICBC location.
Complete and pass a practical pre-trip air brake inspection.
Topics include:
Air brake components and functions
System checks and warning devices
Brake lag, fade, and failure prevention
Daily inspections and safe operating practices
There are typically 25 to 30 multiple-choice questions based on the ICBC Air Brake Manual.
You need to score 80% or higher to pass the knowledge test.
Once you earn the Code 15 endorsement, it stays valid as long as your commercial licence remains valid and is renewed on time.
If you already hold an air brake endorsement from another Canadian province, ICBC may recognize it. However, they may still require a written or practical test depending on your situation.
You can write the test at any ICBC Driver Licensing Office. It’s recommended to book an appointment in advance.
If you fail the written or practical test, you must wait at least one business day before retaking it. There may be a retest fee depending on location.
Free BC Commercial Test Practice – Air Brake (Code 15) Endorsement for Class 1, 2, 3, 4 Drivers
Getting your Code 15 Air Brake Endorsement is a crucial step toward legally operating commercial vehicles equipped with air brake systems in British Columbia. Whether you’re planning to drive a semi-truck, bus, or any heavy-duty vehicle with air brakes, you must pass both the BC air brake knowledge test and practical inspection.
Our free BC air brake practice tests are designed to help you pass with confidence on your first attempt. Every question is 100% based on the Official ICBC Air Brake Manual and reflects the real test format used at ICBC Driver Licensing Offices across the province.
With realistic multiple-choice questions, instant feedback, no registration required, and unlimited access, you’ll gain the skills and confidence needed to safely and legally operate air brake–equipped commercial vehicles.
Whether You’re:
✅ A new commercial driver preparing for your first Code 15 endorsement
✅ Upgrading your licence for better job opportunities
✅ Adding air brake certification to a Class 1, 2, 3, or 4 licence
Our BC air brake practice tests are the ideal preparation tool for exam success.
Ready to Launch Your Commercial Driving Career in BC?
Start practicing today and take your first confident step toward earning your BC Air Brake (Code 15) Endorsement. With focused test prep and expert tools, you’ll be fully prepared to pass and move forward in your driving career.
👉 Take Our Free BC Air Brake Practice Test
📘 Download the Official ICBC Air Brake Manual (PDF)
📺 Watch Our Commercial Licence Prep Videos on YouTube: @CanadianDriverKnowledgeTest
🌐 Visit: canadiandriverknowledgetest.ca
Air Brake System Components — Know Your Parts Inside and Out
Understanding how the system works is essential for passing your Free BC Air Brake Practice Test and the official Code 15 test.
Air Compressor: Engine-driven, it compresses air for the system. Controlled by a governor to maintain safe pressure ranges.
Air Tanks: Store compressed air. Must be drained daily to prevent moisture buildup, especially in BC’s damp coastal climate.
Brake Chambers: Convert air pressure into mechanical force. Regular inspection is key.
Slack Adjusters: Ensure correct pushrod stroke—common question in the Free BC Air Brake Practice Test.
Governor: Controls compressor cut-in (~85 psi) and cut-out (~135 psi).
Safety Valve: Prevents overpressure (usually around 150 psi).
Daily Air Brake Inspections & Leak Tests — Safety Starts Here
Daily checks are mandatory and a core part of the Free BC Air Brake Practice Test.
Drain Air Tanks: Prevent freezing and corrosion.
Visual Check: Ensure hoses and tanks are secure and leak-free.
Low-Air Warnings: Must activate around 60 psi.
Spring Brake Test: Confirm automatic engagement at low pressure.
Leak Rate Test: Maximum 3 psi/min (single vehicle), 4 psi/min (combination units).
Expect multiple test questions based on these inspection procedures in the Free BC Air Brake Practice Test.
Common Brake System Failures & Emergency Protocols
Knowing how to respond to emergencies is key for real-world driving and passing your Free BC Air Brake Practice Test.
Low Pressure: Spring brakes automatically engage—stop immediately.
Brake Fade: Use proper downhill techniques to prevent.
Stuck Valves or Lines: Must be repaired before travel.
Prepare for emergency scenarios using your Free BC Air Brake Practice Test.
Air Pressure Gauges & Monitoring — Master the Instruments
Air gauges are critical for safe operation and are covered extensively in the Free BC Air Brake Practice Test.
Primary & Secondary Gauges: Should be balanced.
Governor Function: Know cut-in and cut-out ranges.
Warning Systems: Activate below 60 psi.
Understand these gauges thoroughly with help from the Free BC Air Brake Practice Test.
Spring Brakes & Emergency Braking — Your Last Line of Defense
Spring brakes serve emergency and parking roles—knowledge of their use is essential for the Free BC Air Brake Practice Test.
Engage Automatically: When pressure drops below 60 psi.
For Parking & Emergency Use Only: Not for regular braking.
Practical Test: Involves spring brake application check.
You’ll see questions on this topic in the Free BC Air Brake Practice Test and during your hands-on exam.
Dual Air Brake Systems — Redundancy Saves Lives
Dual systems offer backup braking and are a key subject in the Free BC Air Brake Practice Test.
Two Circuits: One for front, one for rear brakes.
Warning Lights: Show which system is failing.
Partial Braking Available: If one system fails.
Study dual system operation thoroughly in the Free BC Air Brake Practice Test.
Manual vs. Automatic Slack Adjusters — Inspection & Adjustment
Expect detailed questions on slack adjusters in the Free BC Air Brake Practice Test.
Manual: Must be checked and adjusted regularly.
Automatic: Self-adjusting but still require inspection.
Pushrod Stroke Limit: Usually max 1 inch (25 mm).
Reinforce your understanding of slack adjusters with the Free BC Air Brake Practice Test.
Safe Driving Techniques with Air Brakes — Prevent Brake Failure
Driving habits directly affect brake safety—and your Free BC Air Brake Practice Test performance.
Snub Braking: Brief application, then release to cool.
Avoid Riding Brakes: Prevents overheating.
Downshift Early: Reduces dependence on brakes.
These techniques are tested in the Free BC Air Brake Practice Test and must be applied during road use.
Moisture & Freezing in Air Brake Systems — BC Weather Risks
BC’s wet and cold weather poses unique risks to air brake systems. Learn to handle them in the Free BC Air Brake Practice Test.
Frozen Lines: Restrict air flow.
Daily Draining: Essential to prevent freezing.
Air Dryers: Help remove moisture from the system.
Stay safe by studying cold-weather operation with the Free BC Air Brake Practice Test.
Preparing for BC’s Practical Air Brake Test — Hands-On Skills You Need
In addition to the written test, BC requires a hands-on air brake inspection. Practice the following, then test yourself with the Free BC Air Brake Practice Test:
System Charge & Gauge Monitoring
Governor Cut-In/Cut-Out Test
Spring Brake Application & Warning Check
Leak & Applied Pressure Tests
Pushrod Stroke Measurement
Full Component Walkaround Inspection
🛠 Tip: Practice your full inspection routine daily—and reinforce theory using the Free BC Air Brake Practice Test for best results.