2026 | HHM Certification Examination
160+ Original Questions with Verified Answers
Introduction
This structured California Household Movers Practice Exam for 2026 provides 165 original questions with
verified answers and rationales. It is designed to prepare household goods carriers, moving company
representatives, and industry professionals for the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC)
Household Movers certification examination, emphasizing CPUC regulations (General Orders 115 series),
estimates and billing, weighing procedures, valuation and liability, claim procedures, documentation
requirements, consumer protection laws, and dispute resolution processes specific to California household
moving regulations.
Exam Structure
California HHM Practice Exam: 165 Questions
• Section 1: CPUC Regulations & Licensing (14 Questions)
• Section 2: Estimates & Binding/Non-Binding Estimates (14 Questions)
• Section 3: Order for Service & Documentation (14 Questions)
• Section 4: Weighing Procedures (14 Questions)
• Section 5: Valuation & Liability (14 Questions)
• Section 6: Charges & Payments (14 Questions)
• Section 7: Pickup & Delivery Requirements (14 Questions)
• Section 8: Claim Procedures (14 Questions)
• Section 9: HHG Definitions & Prohibited Items (14 Questions)
• Section 10: Consumer Protection & Red Flags (10 Questions)
,• Section 11: Cancellation, Refund & Delivery Delays (10 Questions)
• Section 12: Dispute Resolution (10 Questions)
• Section 13: State-Specific Consumer Protection Laws (9 Questions)
Answer Format
All correct answers appear in bold cyan blue, accompanied by concise rationales explaining the specific
CPUC General Order or Tariff rule, the correct estimate type and requirement, the appropriate valuation
coverage and liability limit, the correct weighing procedure, the proper claim filing procedure and time limit,
the required documentation for a compliant move, and why alternative options violate CPUC regulations or
California consumer protection laws for household movers.
, California HHM Practice Exam 2026
CPUC Regulations & Licensing
Question 1
Which California regulatory body governs household goods movers?
A. California Department of Transportation (Caltrans)
B. California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC)
C. California Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA)
D. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)
Rationale: The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) is the state agency responsible for regulating household
goods carriers under General Order (G.O.) 115-A. While the FMCSA regulates interstate movers, intrastate moves
within California fall under CPUC jurisdiction. Caltrans and the DCA do not regulate household movers.
Question 2
What is the CPUC consumer complaint hotline telephone number?
A. 1-800-368-7238
B. 1-800-649-7570
C. 1-800-555-1212
D. 1-800-974-7100
Rationale: The CPUC consumer complaint hotline is 1-800-649-7570. Under G.O. 115-A, carriers are required to
inform shippers of this number so they can report problems, file complaints, or verify carrier licensing. Displaying this
number on documentation helps ensure consumer protection and regulatory compliance.
Question 3
Under CPUC General Order 115-A, what type of permit must a household goods carrier hold to legally
operate?
A. A Federal Motor Carrier Permit (FMCP)
B. A Caltrans transportation permit
C. An active CPUC carrier permit
D. A local city business license only
Rationale: G.O. 115-A requires all household goods carriers operating within California to hold an active CPUC carrier
permit (also called a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity or Permit). Operating without a valid permit
constitutes a violation subject to fines up to $10,000 per day. Consumers can verify a carrier's permit status by calling
the CPUC at 1-800-649-7570 or checking online.
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, California HHM Practice Exam 2026
Question 4
What must be displayed on both sides of the moving vehicle according to CPUC regulations?
A. The company logo and website only
B. The carrier's CPUC permit number, company name, and the words 'Household Goods
Carrier'
C. The driver's name and personal phone number
D. A federal DOT number and vehicle weight limit
Rationale: Under G.O. 115-A, Section III, every vehicle used in the transportation of household goods must display the
carrier's CPUC permit number, the company's name as it appears on the permit, and the words 'Household Goods
Carrier' on both sides of the vehicle. This identification requirement allows consumers and CPUC enforcement to verify
legal operation. Failure to display proper markings is a citable offense under G.O. 115-D.
Question 5
Which CPUC General Order establishes the maximum rates and charges for household goods carriers?
A. General Order 115-A
B. General Order 115-C
C. General Order 115-D
D. General Order 115-E
Rationale: G.O. 115-C establishes maximum rate schedules that household goods carriers may charge for intrastate
moves. Carriers must file their tariffs with the CPUC and may not charge more than the maximum rates published. G.O.
115-A covers licensing and operational rules, G.O. 115-D addresses enforcement and penalties, and G.O. 115-E
pertains to insurance requirements.
Question 6
What is the minimum cargo insurance coverage required by CPUC G.O. 115-E for household goods carriers?
A. $10,000 per occurrence
B. $25,000 per occurrence
C. $40,000 per occurrence
D. $100,000 per occurrence
Rationale: G.O. 115-E requires household goods carriers to maintain a minimum of $40,000 in cargo (goods-in-transit)
insurance per occurrence. This coverage protects the shipper's belongings in the event of loss or damage during
transport. Carriers must also maintain bodily injury and property damage (liability) coverage, and must file proof of
insurance with the CPUC.
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