Practice Test Instructions:

Choose the best answer and receive instant feedback.
Click next to go to the next question.
Check your results at the end.
Start a new version and keep studying!

Each test contains questions based on information in the official driver's handbook.

Good luck - PuedoManejar.com!

Want to Pass Your CDL Test the First Time?

Get Your Study Guide and Pass Your Written Exam!

190 ratings

Find more free DMV practice tests from PuedoManejar.com to help you pass your real exams!

How to Use this Free CDL Practice Test

Each free practice test includes 15 multiple-choice questions based on the CDL manual. You can take the test as many times as you want.

Each time you take the test, you will receive a new set of 15 questions. The questions are generated randomly, so you can be sure that you are practicing a wide range of topics.

Before you know it, you will be ready to pass your written test and get your Commercial Learner’s Permit!

Get some more practice with the CDL Written Exam Simulation.

How many questions are on the CDL permit test?

Number of Questions: 50
Passing Score: 80%
Time Limit: 60 minutes
Format: Multiple Choice & True/False

The general knowledge CDL Test is the first step towards getting your Commercial Driver’s License.

All Class A, Class B, and Class C CDL applicants for every type of commercial motor vehicle (CMV) must pass this exam.

How many questions can you miss on the CDL general knowledge test?

You can miss up to 10 questions on the CDL general knowledge exam.

To pass, you’ll need to score at least 80%, which is 40 correct answers.

What happens if you fail the CDL permit test?

In most states, you’ll have a maximum of 3 attempts to pass each of your CDL written exams and skills tests.

If you fail, you’ll typically need to wait at least 3 to 5 days before trying again.

Failing 3 times in a row will typically require you to start the application process over with a new CLP.

Be sure to spend time studying and preparing before your first attempt.

If you fail, take the time to go over the topics and sections that gave you the most trouble.

Note that if you do not complete the requirements of your CLP and CDL within 12 months, you’ll need to reapply in most states. This includes passing all of the required knowledge and skills tests.

Is the CDL test hard?

Most CDL applicants would consider the CDL exams to be more difficult than your standard driver’s license tests.

However, if you spend time preparing you’ll be able to pass.

Be sure to read through and study the official CDL handbook, use some CDL study guides, and take as many free CDL practice tests as you need.

The test is based on the CDL Manual and focuses on the sections that cover:

General Trucking Knowledge (Section 1)
Driving Safely (Section 2)
Transporting Cargo Safely (Section 3)

There are 50 written questions in multiple choice and true/false format. You’ll have a time limit of 60 minutes to get a passing score of 80% (40 correct answers).

All questions are based upon the CDL Manual, which is mostly the same from state to state.

Your state-specific test may include a few state-specific questions regarding CDL processes, fees, and procedures.

The official, up-to-date handbook is available from your state DMV.

After passing the CDL knowledge tests, you’ll then typically take any other endorsement/restriction written tests that apply to the type of CDL you are applying for.

For most CDL holders, this will usually include at least the Combination Vehicles test.

Upon passing the test, you’ll receive your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP), which will allow you to begin practicing for your CDL skills test and/or move on to the skills portion of your trucking school.

You can prepare for the CDL general knowledge test by reading and studying the CDL Manual and taking some practice tests.

Who needs to take the CDL General Knowledge Test?

The General Knowledge Test is necessary for anyone who wants to get ANY class or endorsement of Commercial Driver’s License.

Passing the General Knowledge Test gets you your CLP, which allows you to begin practicing for the inspections and skills portion of your CDL exam.

If you were to just take the CDL General Knowledge Test, you could go on to pass a skills test in an appropriate commercial vehicle to receive a Class B CDL.

To open up job opportunities and driving options, you’ll probably want to take some additional knowledge tests or add an endorsement to your CDL. At a minimum, this may include: