CPC Exams

Faith+1

Hi All!

I have my 2 CPC exams for my C license next week. Can someone please tell me what I can expect? Are they Hard and whats the best way to study for it.

Thanks in advance!

ADI34722

Hi Faith,

I take it you have the 2 theory tests next week for the Cat C. There is source material on the RSA website that i would recommend you study inside and out. http://www.rsa.ie/SERVICES/RSA_Services/CPC_Unit.html

Also there is alot of time for you to complete the exam so please take your time. We have noticed over the last few weeks that just about everybody is passing the question section of the CPC without issue but its the case studies that are causing headaches. Know them inside out really.

Good luck in your test and ill check back soon if you have anymore questions.

Faith+1

Thanks for the info ADI34722! The case studies on the website are they the ones that I will be tested on??

ADI34722

Faith+1 wrote: »

Thanks for the info ADI34722! The case studies on the website are they the ones that I will be tested on??

Correct. There are 6 in total and they will ask you 3 of them and you should know all inside and out. Forget about the bus ones. Truck only. You can go to Easons and buy the DSA CPC theory test book and covers issues on driving hours, regulations and other stuff, thats not really apparent in the case studies. Its about €15 and is worth keeping.

I am still checking this post everyday so if you have anymore questions you can post here or PM me.

Faith+1

So do they allow me to view the case studies during the test or do I have to know them myself??? Sorry if I'm asking stupid questions.

ADI34722

Faith+1 wrote: »

So do they allow me to view the case studies during the test or do I have to know them myself??? Sorry if I'm asking stupid questions.

Yes. You will have it in a split screen in front of you with mulitipul choice answers on the other screen. They may only require one answer or a few so read the question 2 or 3 times. BTW there are no stupid questions you can ask so anything your unsure of, just ask away.

eoinor

Can you recommend any material to study for the case studies? I downloaded the DSV bool but it isn't much help.
Thanks.

ADI34722

eoinor wrote: »

Can you recommend any material to study for the case studies? I downloaded the DSV bool but it isn't much help.
Thanks.

Did you download the 6 case studies from the RSA website. In theory that should be all you need. The DSA book is quite helpful. Also i would assume your going to take lessons to get your full licence. You could quiz your instructor for helpful hints.

eoinor

Thanks, think I got the wrong DSA book, going to get the right one today.

Faith+1

I have the same problem. I'm still going over the Case Studys but the RSA doesn't give you example questions!! How the hell are you meant to study for this exam!

ADI34722

Faith+1 wrote: »

I have the same problem. I'm still going over the Case Studys but the RSA doesn't give you example questions!! How the hell are you meant to study for this exam!

Trust me guys i understand your frustration i really do. Gonna work with the people here and see if we can get a variety of questions that could possiblly be asked. Stick with us and see what we come up with.

ADI34722

Our truck instructor has found a book called "CPC truck and bus theory" Its published by the DSA and includes sample questions on the case study section. I havent seen yet myself but will have a look tomorrow. He got it in Easons.

nekem8

Hi,
I am about to go for a CPC case study test. I have bought the book and found some case study materials and questions as well. I have read about the trucker and the lettuce etc... but what will they ask about these essays? I have no idea so if anyone knows please let me know at least roughly what can I expect please.
Thank you in advance

Faith+1

Nekem8 I'm in the same boat as you. Fortunately ADI is trying to help us with some info!!:)

nekem8

That's cool but how?

ADI34722

Right guys i may have a soluition to your problems. Using our head truck instructor who recently completed the CPC all 3 stages were going to take one of the case studies and draw up some sample questions. 25 in total just like the real thing. We will divesify the questions from the most simple to the most diffcult. With the permission of the moderatiors, I will leave them up with no correct answers for 24 hours and then post the correct answers. Ill have them up on Friday morning and post answers on Sat morning.

Please keep in mind while working from source material and the experance of some one who got 100% in all 3 stages we cannot know for certian what questions you will be asked. This is simply a guideline for whats coming up.

nekem8

ADI34722 wrote: »

Right guys i may have a soluition to your problems. Using our head truck instructor who recently completed the CPC all 3 stages were going to take one of the case studies and draw up some sample questions. 25 in total just like the real thing. We will divesify the questions from the most simple to the most diffcult. With the permission of the moderatiors, I will leave them up with no correct answers for 24 hours and then post the correct answers. Ill have them up on Friday morning and post answers on Sat morning.

Please keep in mind while working from source material and the experance of some one who got 100% in all 3 stages we cannot know for certian what questions you will be asked. This is simply a guideline for whats coming up.

Thank you so much. I will be here Friday to take the test.

Many Thanks

eoinor

I passed the MCQ today and the truck case study.
The MCQ was no problem, just learn them off.
The case studies were a bit harder, I wouldn't have passed without this book http://www.tsoshop.co.uk/bookstore.asp?trackid=000177&FO=1277398&ProductID=9780115530814&Action=Book
I got it in Easons in Dundrum.
This thread was a good help to;
http://www.boards.ie/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=2055660538&page=2
They ask 15 multiple choice questions on each one. I'll put spoiler covers over my answers, which may be wrong. I think it is silly they don't tell you which ones you got wrong and brought in the test before there is any Irish book or CD. Some of the questions are very badly worded so you have to read them very carefully!

The ones I can remember were:
Case Study 2 Jim:
How long since Jim had to renew his ADR licence?

Two years ago(valid for 5 Years

Why Couldn't Jim use the direct route on the detour?

His truck had too many axles

What sign Did Jim see going up the Hill?(Picture of 4 signs)

Picture of axle x3 with red line through it

Which wheels lifted?

Offside front and rear

What helped keep the truck from over turning?

Single wheels

Was Jim correct to drive to the outside of the turn?

Yes

Why did Jim empty the fuel evenly from the tank?

Too maintain stability

When Jim relaxed the foot brake what force was acting on the fuel in the tank?

Centripetal

What does this sign mean?(Picture of clearance sign on bridge)

Vehicles over this hight are not allowed under the bridgh

What hight of vehicle can pass under this bridge?(Picture of clearance sign on bridge)

This is not a trick! Read the sign

In case of a bridge strike where will you find the number to contact Eireann road Eireann?

On a sign on the bridge

*What was worst situation that could happen on bend ?

The truck could overturn

*
There was also a question about the wave effect in the tank.

Case Study 3 Graham:
What plate did Graham Consult when checking the truck weight?

The manufacturers plate

Which is the Correct way to load the 22 palates? (A picture of 4 options for loading 22 palates in a 26 palate truck)
What should Graham have made sure was still visible after attaching the load sheets?

The number plate

What time should Graham have taken his first brake?

11:30

What time could Graham start driving the next morning?

3AM

Did Graham brake the maximum driving hours rule?

NO, He drove for 10hrs

What distance should Graham have kept from the car in the rain?

Twice the dry distance

Which of the following would not effect the tension of the lashings?

Weather conditions

How long had Graham had his national Road haulage operators licences?

2 years

Over what size of load is a national Road haulage operators licences required?
What did Graham neglect to check on his walk around check?

Windscreen Wipers and washers

Case Study 5 Larry:
Over what weight of vehicle is a national Road haulage operators licences required?

£.5 tonnes

Who was responsible for securing the ramps on the vehicle?

Larry

What did Larry NOT need to check during his walk around check?

Radio system

What did Larry neglect to check during his cockpit check?

Parking brake

Which best describes the part of the truck that swung into the Cyclists path?

The distance from the middle of the rear wheels to the rear end of the truck

What part of the vehicle could have been by Larry taking the turn too fast?

The suspension

Where should Larry have tried to steer the truck after the blow out?

To the left side of the road

What was Larry's truck equipped with to warn other motorists?

Hazard lights

*What types of chains should Larry have used to secure the load?

Solid steel links

*

The topics I would pay extra attention to are:
Driving hours
Walk around/cockpit checks.
ADR licence
Consignment Notes
National road haulage licences (only the UK system is explained in the DSA book)

Good luck for anyone going for the test!

nekem8

Thanks a lot at least now I have a rough idea what will be in the test!

Best Regards

Nekem8

Westwood

Many thanks eoiner congrats!! look forward to Adi's too tommorow

eoinor

No worries! Good luck with the test!
My answers may not be right, I didn't get them all right during the test so if anyone spots mistakes let me know and I'll correct them.

ADI34722

CPC Truck – Case Study 1


Gavin drives a refrigerated truck for Pugh’s Produce. He is responsible for delivering fresh
produce to supermarkets around Ireland. This morning, Gavin’s job was to drive from
Dublin to Cork with a large truck full of crates of lettuce. He had a scheduled ‘delivery
window’ of noon to 1 pm. After loading the crates into the truck and stacking them evenly
and at a low level, Gavin calculated the weight of the truck with the crates. He was
satisfied that the weight was under the maximum permitted axle weight and gross vehicle
weight (GVW).
Gavin performed the daily walk-around and cockpit checks of his vehicle. He checked the
following:

Gavin’s Walk-Around Check
● Brakes
● Lights & Indicators
● Tyres & Wheel Securing Nuts
& Markers
● Mirrors/Glass
● Speedometer
● Tachograph
● Number Plates
● Reflectors & Reflective Plates
● Exhaust System
● Coupling Gear
● Correct Plating
● Current Test Certificate
● Proper Licencing with Disc
Displayed
● Insurance
● Seat Belts
● Construction ans Use
● Load being carried
Gavin’s Cockpit Drill
● Doors
● Seat
● HandbrakeMirrors
● Fuel

On this trip Gavin would have to travel on his least favourite route, which was a long stretch
of two-lane road. While on the road, he came upon a car going significantly under the
speed limit. Since the car was travelling slowly and the oncoming lane was clear, Gavin
decided to pass the vehicle. He signalled, overtook the car, quickly switched back into the
correct lane, and checked his mirrors. However, he did not immediately see the car in his
mirrors when he switched back into the correct lane.
At one point during the trip, Gavin was not paying close attention to the road and suddenly
realised that he had to make a quick left turn to keep on his route. He hit the brakes but
still took the corner very fast. The pressure of the turn caused the trailer door to open.
Some of the heads of lettuce rolled out onto the road, indicating that one of the crates had
opened and spilled due to an obviously unsecured door. Gavin knew he had to pull over and
assess the situation. Not seeing any ‘No Parking’ signs, he parked on the left side of the
road, parallel with the kerb. Since the ground was level, he put the transmission into
neutral, got out of the cab, and headed to the back of the trailer to assess the situation. As
he secured the cargo and door, he remembered that he had not checked the trailer door
before starting his journey.
Fortunately, there were no other vehicles following him when he had turned left. Gavin
was able to collect the lettuce that had spilled onto the road. He decided he would dispose
of it at his next stop. He was grateful that he was not responsible for the lettuce that had
been damaged.
As Gavin drove into Cork, the traffic was heavy and it was raining hard. He kept the same
separation distance from the car ahead of him as he had before it began raining. He was
thankful that he had made good time before the rain started. He knew he was well within
the scheduled delivery window. It looked like he would get home in the afternoon as he
had planned. Gavin arrived at the supermarket at 12:30 pm.

ADI34722

Hi guys, this is the case study we will be using today. Questions are being typed up and will be put in post by post.

ADI34722

How should Gavin calculate the weight of his load?

A. Count the heads of lettuce

B. Know the average weights of the lettuce and the crates.

C. Ask the supplier

D. Doesn't matter as long as it fits in the truck.

ADI34722

Whats missing from Gavin's walk around check?

A. Reflectors clean

B. Lights and Indicators

C. Doors and load secured correctly

D. Tax and Insurance displayed

ADI34722

What should NOT form part of his walk around check?

A. Lights

B. Mirrors

C. Tax disk

D. Seatbelts

ADI34722

How should Gavin react to the sudden left turn?

A. Go past, turn around and come back.

B. The way he did it was fine, if the door was closed properly the lettuce not have fell out.

C. Brake hard and reverse back.

ADI34722

Who was responcible for the Lettuce?

A. The company who supplied the load.

B. Gavin as he is the driver.

C. Gavins Boss.

D. No-one its only lettuce

ADI34722

What should Gavin have done before exiting the truck?

A. What he did was fine. The truck was on a level surface.

B. Apply handbrake, Switch off engine, Leave in neutral.

C. Apply handbrake, Switch off engine, Leave in a low gear.

D. Switch off engine, Leave in a high gear, Apply handbrake.

ADI34722

What is wrong with gavins approach to driving in the rain?

1. Nothing. Gavin is an experianced driver and knows best.

2. If Gavins truck has ABS then it should be fine as the lettuce is a light load.

3. He should be allowing up to double stopping distance in the rain.

4. He should drive very slowly in the rain, just incase.

ADI34722

What is wrong with Gavins overtaking manouver?

A. Nothing as his manouver was completely safe.

B. Gavin should ensure he can see the vehicle he is passing in his side mirror before returning to the left lane.

C. Gavin didnt check his mirror before moving out to pass the car.

D. Gavin should check his mirrors before moving out and see the vehicle in his mirror before moving back in to his lane, remembering to signal back in.

ADI34722

Whats the maximum amount hours Gavin allowed to drive in one day as part of his job?

A. 8

B. 10

C. 12

D. 9

ADI34722

How many times a week can drive the maximum amount of hours in a day?

A. Once

B. Twice

C. Three

D. Five

ADI34722

What Tachograph records should gavin keep in the truck with him?

A. The current week.

B. Two weeks.

C. Three previous weeks and the current week.

D. Doesnt matter.

ADI34722

What should Gavin do with the damaged lettuce?

A. Put it in the back with the other lettuce?

B. Separate and seal it from the other produce as it could contaminate the rest of the load.

C. Put it in the cab with him.

D. Dispose of it in the nearest bin or in the roadside as it could contaminate the rest of the load.

ADI34722

Im still waiting on the other 3 questions so feel free to post away while waiting.

Jack 11

when will you put up the answers:

ADI34722

Jack 11 wrote: »

when will you put up the answers:

Today. Sorry about the delay but we have been fairly busy here.

Elessar

Don't want to derail but can someone tell me - is it a MUST to pass the CPC exams to take your truck test? If you don't want to drive professionally or are exempt from CPC, can you still take the driving test without CPC?

gorrrr72

Doing the MCQ for bus and truck and case studies for truck tomorrow. Hope to get as much info as possible on this thread before then.

gorrrr72

gorrrr72 wrote: »

Doing the MCQ for bus and truck and case studies for truck tomorrow. Hope to get as much info as possible on this thread before then.

Ah well, I thought their might be some additional help before my test today. I'm going to do the MCQ first so I might have time to check back before the case studies later this afternoon.

gorrrr72

Tests went well. For anyone doing the MCQ's it's nothing to worry about. Just download the questions from the CPC section of the theorytest website. All the questions were from that, there was no additional questions from the 1st theory test.

I finished it in 20 mins and got 100% correct.
As for the case studies there was a lot of stuff I didn't know about international licenses and ADR stuff but managed a score of 73%, 87 % and 87%.

I'd bone up on working hours/rest periods. Weights and widths of vehicles. And the type of licenses needed, ADR signage etc.

Faith+1

Guys,
I did the MCQ and Case Studies on monday and had no problem. The questions were pretty standard. The Case Studies was a bit harder. It seems the RSA likes to ask questions that most people wouldn't have a clue about unless they drove trucks for a living. I'd recommend reading DSA's guide to HGV, I picked my copy up for €20 in Easons. Now all I need to do is find a good driving school. Any recommendations??? Cheers in advance!

andy13

Hi,my name is andy and I have been reading this post and finding it very helpful but i notice that there is no answers to the case studies?why is this and how do i get them?I did get case studies but i failed.just have a few examples here,john drives a tanker,doesnt concentrate and,what force caused the tanker to roll over,any one?if someone could get back to me asap i would really appreciate it.

eoinor

Hi Andy, If you highlight the shaded parts of my post you will see my answers, some may be wrong, but I did pass. Also get the DSA book. Good luck!

liam7831

Hi guys, Any help much appreciated,

I currently have a provisional C License. What steps do i now follow before I can apply for the driving test??

Is there some course i gotta do before I can do the driving test.

Thanks for the help

Faith+1

Well you have the Provisional so that's a good start!

You basically have two choices. The first you can simply apply for the C License test straight away and bypass the whole CPC thing.
The only problem with this method is, if you pass your truck test you cannot drive trucks for payment because you don't have the CPC. So you'll have the C catagory on your license but won't be able to use it.
I wouldn't recommend this choice at all.:(

The best way to get your C License is:
1. Get your C Provisional (Check)
2. Apply and pass the Multible Choice Questions (Stage 1 of CPC)
3. Apply and pass Case Studies (Stage 2 of CPC)
4. Apply for your test on Drivingtest.ie
(Be sure to apply for the CPC TRUCK TEST Part 1 and CPC
PRACTICAL TEST(stage 3 of CPC) not the Standard TRUCK TEST!)
It costs €110 for the CPC Truck test and €32 for the CPC Practical test.
5. Find a good instructor and get driving.
6. Pass both and get you C Licence and Driver CPC
7. Train at least 35 hours over a 5 year period to keep you CPC privileges.

I'm up to stage 5 and it's not as hard as it looks believe me! Anyway good luck with your driving career!

Elessar

I'll be doing the standard truck test because I have no desire to drive commercially. If, say, in 10 years I was offered a job to drive commercially, can I do the CPC training or would I have to go back to the start and do another theory+driving test?

Faith+1

Elessar wrote: »

can I do the CPC training or would I have to go back to the start and do another theory+driving test?

Yes, you can do the standard truck test and decide years from now that you want to drive commerically and do the Driver CPC then (3 Stages listed above). Thankfully you won't have to do the theory or Truck Practical test again.
The only thing I'd say about that is in 10 years time the CPC could be alot more difficult to pass and very expensive to do. You know yourself the RSA and the European Council will continually find more ways to make money from the common driver!

Richie15

If you do the normal non-commercial truck (or bus) test now and skip the CPC, then later decide to get a job driving, you'll have to have the four parts done within two years. That includes the two CPC theory tests, the driving test and the CPC practical. They can't take your licence away if you fail the driving test, as far as I know, but you do have to pass it again to get the CPC.

Faith+1

Richie15 wrote: »

They can't take your licence away if you fail the driving test, as far as I know, but you do have to pass it again to get the CPC.

Exactly my point buddy! If you're going for your truck you're better off going the CPC route. It'll be one of those things you'll regret down the line if you just have the standard C licence.:cool: