Free Nova Scotia Commercial Driver Licence Practice Test Part 1

Preparing for your Free Nova Scotia Commercial Driver Licence Practice Test? Whether you’re aiming to drive a tractor-trailer, semi, or other heavy commercial vehicles, our free and up-to-date Nova Scotia Class 1 Licence Practice Tests are designed to help you succeed. Based on Nova Scotia’s Official Commercial Driver’s Handbook, these tests cover all the essential knowledge required to operate commercial vehicles safely and legally across the province.

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Commercial Truck License Test Part 1

1 / 30

What is the minimum brake chamber pressure required before testing air brakes?

2 / 30

Who is legally responsible for knowing and following the safety policies of the carrier?

3 / 30

How often must a truck or trailer over 11,794 kg be inspected under the Vehicle Inspection Program?

4 / 30

Which type of vehicle inspection helps ensure problems are identified before the vehicle is operated on the road?

5 / 30

What is required when a load extends more than 1.5 metres beyond the rear of the vehicle during daytime?

6 / 30

Which of the following must be included in the safety equipment for a commercial vehicle?

7 / 30

When is a driver legally required to carry a trip inspection report?

8 / 30

What is the legal minimum age to apply for a Class 1 commercial licence?

9 / 30

What does the abbreviation GVW stand for in commercial vehicle regulations?

10 / 30

What is the first step in a trip air brake inspection?

11 / 30

What are the two main categories of vehicle defects?

12 / 30

Which of the following must be completed before transporting dangerous goods?

13 / 30

What does the "Q" endorsement on a driver’s licence indicate?

14 / 30

What is the required equipment for an overhanging load during nighttime?

15 / 30

If an air compressor takes more than 3 minutes to build pressure from 50 to 90 PSI, what does this indicate?

16 / 30

What is the primary purpose of the National Safety Code (NSC)?

17 / 30

What action should you take if a major defect is discovered during a pre-trip inspection?

18 / 30

What is the minimum tire tread depth allowed on a steering axle?

19 / 30

What is the stopping sequence for a driver when encountering a hazard?

20 / 30

What is the minimum following distance recommended for large commercial vehicles under normal conditions?

21 / 30

What is one of the main purposes of the circle check before a trip?

22 / 30

How often must a school bus be inspected under the Vehicle Inspection Program?

23 / 30

What is the maximum speed limit for a long combination vehicle unless otherwise posted?

24 / 30

When are drivers required to complete a post-trip inspection?

25 / 30

What does “off-tracking” refer to in commercial driving?

26 / 30

Why is it important to report vehicle defects to the carrier immediately?

27 / 30

What is a "circle check"?

28 / 30

What should a driver do if the low air pressure warning fails to activate below 60 PSI?

29 / 30

When is a commercial driver exempt from completing a daily log?

30 / 30

What is one sign of a problem with the vehicle’s air brake system?

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What to Expect on the Official Nova Scotia Class 1 Knowledge Test

Before you can legally operate a tractor-trailer or semi-truck in Nova Scotia, you must pass the Class 1 Knowledge Test. This written exam evaluates your understanding of commercial vehicle safety, air brake systems, pre-trip inspections, and Nova Scotia’s traffic laws. The test is based on the Nova Scotia Commercial Driver’s Handbook and the Air Brake Manual.

Road Signs & Traffic Signals Approx. 40 multiple-choice questions on regulatory, warning, and information signs, pavement markings, and signal lights
Rules of the Road Covers Nova Scotia–specific traffic laws, commercial vehicle regulations, right-of-way rules, emergency procedures, and more
Vehicle Operation & Inspection Focuses on daily trip inspections, cargo securement, coupling and uncoupling, fuel use, and defensive driving techniques
Air Brake Knowledge Required for most Class 1 drivers – includes brake system components, air loss checks, brake adjustment procedures, and safe operation practices
Passing Score You must score at least 80% to pass the Nova Scotia Class 1 knowledge test

Nova Scotia Commercial Driver’s Licence Test FAQ

  • Class 1 – Tractor-trailers (with/without air brakes)

  • Class 2 – Large buses (24+ passengers)

  • Class 3 – Straight-body trucks over 14,000 kg

  • Class 4 – Small buses, ambulances, taxis

  • Class 5 (with endorsements) – Personal vehicles (not commercial, but required as a base for Class 1)

  • Hold a full Class 5 licence (for at least 1 year)

  • Be at least 19 years old

  • Pass the Class 1 knowledge test

  • Pass the Air Brake knowledge and practical test (if applicable)

  • Provide a medical report (required every 5 years or annually for some conditions)

  • Pass a vision test

  • Complete and pass a Class 1 road test

  • Road signs and traffic signals

  • Nova Scotia traffic laws and commercial regulations

  • Vehicle operation and inspections

  • Coupling and uncoupling

  • Cargo securement

  • Air brake systems (if needed)

  • Fuel efficiency and defensive driving

  • The number of questions varies slightly, but typically 40–50 multiple choice questions

  • You must score at least 80% to pass

Yes—most Class 1 vehicles are equipped with air brakes, so the Air Brake Endorsement (Code 15) is generally required.

  • Includes a 20-question knowledge test

  • Also includes a practical air brake pre-trip test

  • At Access Nova Scotia offices across the province

  • You must book an appointment in advance for both knowledge and road tests

As of now, Nova Scotia does not mandate MELT (Mandatory Entry-Level Training) for Class 1, but many employers prefer or require it.

  • Written test fee: ~$15

  • Road test: ~$53

  • Licence upgrade: ~$80

  • Air Brake Endorsement: ~$15 (plus training if required)

  • Optional private training: $10,000–$30,000 depending on the school

  • Generally valid for 5 years

  • You must submit a new medical report at renewal

  • Commercial drivers may need more frequent vision and medical checks

  • Study the Nova Scotia Commercial Driver’s Handbook

  • Review the Air Brake Manual

  • Take free online practice tests covering signs, rules, inspections, and air brake systems

Free Nova Scotia Truck Driver Licence Practice Test

Free Nova Scotia Commercial Test Practice – Truck, Bus & Air Brake (Class 1, 2, 3, Q)

Getting your Nova Scotia commercial driver’s licence is your gateway to a rewarding and high-demand career in transportation—whether you’re hauling goods across the Maritimes, operating school or transit buses, or driving heavy vehicles in industries like construction, agriculture, and logistics. But before you can hit the road, you must pass the Nova Scotia commercial knowledge test, and strong preparation is the key to success.

Our free Nova Scotia commercial practice tests are built to help you pass on your first attempt. Every question is 100% based on the Nova Scotia Commercial Driver’s Handbook and Air Brake Manual, closely mirroring the format used at Access Nova Scotia testing centers. With realistic multiple-choice questions, unlimited access, and no registration required, you’ll build the knowledge and confidence needed to succeed.

Whether you’re just getting started, upgrading to a Class 1 licence, or adding the Q (Air Brake) endorsement, these Nova Scotia commercial practice tests are your go-to tool for exam preparation.


🚛 Ready to Start Your Commercial Driving Career in Nova Scotia?

Start practicing today and take your first step toward earning your Nova Scotia commercial driver’s licence. With the right tools and commitment, you’ll be fully prepared to pass your test and drive safely and professionally.


👉 Take Our Free Nova Scotia Commercial Practice Test
📘 Download the Official Nova Scotia Commercial Driver’s Handbook (PDF)
📘 Download the Nova Scotia Air Brake Manual (PDF)
📺 Watch Our Licence Prep Videos on YouTube: @usadmvpermitpracticetest
🌐 Visit: usadmvpermitpracticetest.com

01

About the Nova Scotia Commercial Knowledge Test

Before you can operate a commercial vehicle in Nova Scotia, you must pass the Commercial Knowledge Test, based on the Nova Scotia Commercial Driver’s Handbook and the Air Brake Manual.

What’s Covered:

  • Nova Scotia traffic laws and commercial vehicle regulations

  • Daily trip inspections and safety procedures

  • Cargo securement and hazard awareness

  • Road signs, signals, and defensive driving

  • Air brake system knowledge (for Q endorsement applicants)

Test Format:

  • Multiple-choice questions

  • Written at an Access Nova Scotia testing location

  • Passing score: 80% per section

02

Practice Before You Write – Free Nova Scotia Commercial Licence Practice Test

Be fully prepared with our free Nova Scotia commercial practice tests—crafted using the official handbooks.

✅ Realistic multiple-choice questions
✅ Instant feedback with clear explanations
✅ Full coverage of knowledge areas required by Access Nova Scotia
✅ Unlimited practice – no login or payment required

👉 Start practicing now and increase your chances of passing on the first attempt!

03

What to Study for the Nova Scotia Commercial Driver’s Test

Use the Nova Scotia Commercial Driver’s Handbook as your primary study guide. Key topics include:

  • Pre-trip and post-trip inspection procedures

  • Defensive and fuel-efficient driving

  • Driving in poor weather and challenging road conditions

  • Load securement, weights, and dimensions

  • Air brake operation and safety

  • Road signs, provincial laws, and permits

📘 Pair your studying with our free practice tests for the best results.

04

Eligibility Requirements for a Nova Scotia Commercial Licence

To apply for a Class 1, 2, or 3 commercial licence in Nova Scotia, you must:

  • Be at least 19 years old

  • Hold a full Class 5 licence

  • Pass a vision test

  • Submit a medical report

  • Pass the written knowledge test (and air brake test if required)

  • Successfully complete a road test in a vehicle matching your licence class

05

Air Brake (Q) Endorsement in Nova Scotia

Most Class 1, 2, and 3 vehicles in Nova Scotia are equipped with air brake systems. To operate them legally, you need the Q endorsement.

To earn the Q endorsement:

  • Complete an approved Air Brake Course (theory + practical)

  • Pass the Air Brake knowledge test

  • Perform a hands-on brake system inspection

  • Have the Q endorsement added at Access Nova Scotia

👉 Use our Air Brake Practice Tests to boost your confidence and pass with ease.

06

Booking Your Nova Scotia Commercial Knowledge Test

Book your commercial knowledge test through Access Nova Scotia. To book, you’ll need:

  • A valid Nova Scotia driver’s licence

  • A completed medical report form

  • Proof of training (if applicable)

  • Payment for testing fees

🚛 Road tests must be booked in advance. Knowledge tests are scheduled at your local Access Nova Scotia center.

07

How to Pass the Nova Scotia Commercial Licence Test – Tips & Tricks

✔️ Master your pre-trip inspection checklist—it’s critical for the road test
✔️ Focus on brake system components and load securement
✔️ Study traffic signs and right-of-way rules thoroughly
✔️ Use realistic practice tests to improve retention and reduce test anxiety
✔️ Ask questions—talk to instructors or experienced drivers

08

Get Started – Free Nova Scotia Commercial Practice Test

✅ 100% based on Nova Scotia’s official driver’s handbooks
✅ No registration required – unlimited access
✅ Real-time feedback with explanations
✅ Available for Class 1, 2, 3, and Q (Air Brake Endorsement)

👉 Start Your Free Nova Scotia Practice Test Now
📘 Download the Nova Scotia Commercial Driver’s Handbook (PDF)
📘 Download the Nova Scotia Air Brake Manual (PDF)
📺 Watch Licence Prep Videos on YouTube: @usadmvpermitpracticetest
🌐 Visit: usadmvpermitpracticetest.com

09

Commercial Driving Opportunities in Nova Scotia

After earning your commercial licence in Nova Scotia, a wide range of job opportunities become available across industries like:

  • Freight and logistics

  • Construction and heavy equipment hauling

  • School and transit bus operations

  • Agricultural transport

  • Local delivery and courier services

  • Long-haul trucking across Canada and the U.S.

Nova Scotia employers often offer competitive wages, benefits, and training opportunities for Class 1–3 drivers. You may also choose to become an owner-operator and run your own trucking business.

10

Nova Scotia Commercial Driver Training Programs

While Nova Scotia currently does not mandate MELT (Mandatory Entry-Level Training) for Class 1 drivers, it is highly recommended. Commercial driver training is available through certified schools in:

  • Dartmouth

  • Sydney

  • Masstown

Training covers air brakes, vehicle inspections, cargo securement, defensive driving, and more. Some employers may also offer training sponsorships or tuition reimbursement.

📘 Contact training providers or visit novascotia.ca for more information.

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