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CDL General Knowledge practice test
Every CDL applicant takes this test first. Answer a quick 20 or the full set, see why each answer is right, and review what you missed.
What this test covers
Safe driving habits, pre-trip inspection, controlling your vehicle, managing space and speed, seeing hazards, night, fog and winter driving, skids, railroad crossings, emergencies, cargo, and licence and drug and alcohol rules.
Study tips
- Read your state CDL manual. Our questions teach the ideas, but your state publishes the rules you are tested on.
- Take the quick test first, then the full set.
- Read every explanation, including for questions you got right.
- Do not memorise answers. The order and wording on the real test will differ.
More free CDL practice
Common questions
What is on the CDL general knowledge test?
It covers the basics every commercial driver needs: vehicle inspection, safe driving, space and speed management, night and bad-weather driving, skids and emergencies, railroad crossings, cargo, and licence rules. Your state's CDL manual lists the exact topics.
What score do I need to pass?
Federal rules require at least 80 percent on each CDL knowledge test. Your state may publish its own question count and details, so check your state's CDL manual.
Are these the real test questions?
No. These are original practice questions written to teach the same ideas. They are not copied from any state test, and your real test wording will differ.
How should I study?
Read your state's CDL manual first, then use practice tests to find weak spots. Retake the quick test until you consistently score above 80 percent, and re-read the explanation for every miss.