Prepare for your CDL General Knowledge Test with our free online practice exams. Comprehensive, real exam-like questions to enhance your understanding and readiness for the actual test.
Written by Andrei Zakhareuski. With over 16 years of expertise, Andrei leads Driving-Tests.org, a top online resource for driver education. His leadership has established vital partnerships with over 2,600 libraries, educational bodies, and state agencies.
Dive into our free CDL General Knowledge practice exams. Tailored to mirror real test scenarios, these practice tests are your key to success. Whether you’re targeting a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) or just sharpening your knowledge, they’re crafted to boost your confidence and mastery.
The CDL General Knowledge Exam is a crucial component of the process to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). This test covers a broad range of topics necessary for safe and legal operation of a commercial vehicle.
Our practice tests go beyond the generic. They’re specially customized for each state, ensuring the most precise and relevant preparation for you. The CDL General Knowledge Exam, while based on federal guidelines, has state-specific twists – different speed limits, local road rules, and more. That’s where we step in.
What is tested on the CDL General Knowledge Exam?
This exam tests your understanding of commercial driving general knowledge, including driving safety, vehicle operation, and transportation regulations.
Key Topics Covered
Topics include vehicle inspection, basic control of your vehicle, communication, space management, hazards awareness, and emergency preparedness.
Exam Feature | Details |
---|---|
Number of Questions | Usually around 50 multiple-choice |
Passing Score | Typically 80% or higher |
Time Limit | Varies, but often around 90 minutes |
Key Topics | Vehicle inspection, basic control, communication, space management, hazard awareness, emergency procedures, air brakes (for vehicles equipped with them) |
Test Format | Computer-based in most states |
Retake Policy | Varies by state; generally involves a waiting period and possibly additional fees for retakes |
Prerequisite | Valid driver’s license; other requirements may vary by state |
Study CDL Manual
Begin with the state’s CDL manual, which covers all the necessary information for the general knowledge test. Download your state’s CDL manual here.
Take Practice Tests
Engage with realistic CDL practice tests available at Driving-Tests.org to familiarize yourself with the exam format and types of questions.
Understand the Concepts
Focus on understanding the concepts rather than just memorizing facts. Real-world application of these concepts is crucial.
Get a feel for the exam with these sample questions.
Question 1: Vehicle Inspection
What should you do during a trip to ensure your vehicle and its cargo are safe?
Question 2: Communicating with Other Road Users
Which of the following is NOT a way to communicate with other road users?
Question 3: Managing Space
What is the most important reason for managing space around your truck?
Question 4: Emergency Braking
When is emergency braking necessary?
Question 5: Load Securement
Why is securing your load important in commercial driving?
Question 6: Alcohol and Drug Rules
What is the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for commercial drivers?
Question 7: Hours of Service Regulations
What is the main purpose of the Hours of Service regulations for commercial drivers?
Question 8: Hazardous Materials
When transporting hazardous materials, what is the most important thing you should do?
Question 9: Air Brakes System
What should you do if the low air pressure warning comes on for the air brake system?
Question 10: Pre-Trip Inspection
What is a critical element to check during a pre-trip inspection?
How many questions are on the CDL General Knowledge exam?
The exam typically consists of 50 questions, and a passing score is usually 80% or higher.
How can I best prepare for the test?
Pro Tip: Use every resource at your disposal, especially practice tests, to get comfortable with the exam format and question types.
Passing the CDL General Knowledge Exam is your first step toward a successful career in commercial driving. Dedicate ample time to studying and understanding the material, and use practice tests to build confidence. Visit Driving-Tests.org for more resources and practice tests.
Our exclusive CDL Premium program offers comprehensive online training with an ELDT certificate, authentic exam questions, and a solid Pass Guarantee, starting at only $69. Ideal for first-time applicants, seasoned drivers, and those new to the U.S. road rules.
Prepare for your CDL General Knowledge Test with our free online practice exams. Comprehensive, real exam-like questions to enhance your understanding and readiness for the actual test.
Written by Andrei Zakhareuski. With over 16 years of expertise, Andrei leads Driving-Tests.org, a top online resource for driver education. His leadership has established vital partnerships with over 2,600 libraries, educational bodies, and state agencies.
Dive into our free CDL General Knowledge practice exams. Tailored to mirror real test scenarios, these practice tests are your key to success. Whether you’re targeting a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) or just sharpening your knowledge, they’re crafted to boost your confidence and mastery.
The CDL General Knowledge Exam is a crucial component of the process to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). This test covers a broad range of topics necessary for safe and legal operation of a commercial vehicle.
Our practice tests go beyond the generic. They’re specially customized for each state, ensuring the most precise and relevant preparation for you. The CDL General Knowledge Exam, while based on federal guidelines, has state-specific twists – different speed limits, local road rules, and more. That’s where we step in.
What is tested on the CDL General Knowledge Exam?
This exam tests your understanding of commercial driving general knowledge, including driving safety, vehicle operation, and transportation regulations.
Key Topics Covered
Topics include vehicle inspection, basic control of your vehicle, communication, space management, hazards awareness, and emergency preparedness.
Exam Feature | Details |
---|---|
Number of Questions | Usually around 50 multiple-choice |
Passing Score | Typically 80% or higher |
Time Limit | Varies, but often around 90 minutes |
Key Topics | Vehicle inspection, basic control, communication, space management, hazard awareness, emergency procedures, air brakes (for vehicles equipped with them) |
Test Format | Computer-based in most states |
Retake Policy | Varies by state; generally involves a waiting period and possibly additional fees for retakes |
Prerequisite | Valid driver’s license; other requirements may vary by state |
Study CDL Manual
Begin with the state’s CDL manual, which covers all the necessary information for the general knowledge test. Download your state’s CDL manual here.
Take Practice Tests
Engage with realistic CDL practice tests available at Driving-Tests.org to familiarize yourself with the exam format and types of questions.
Understand the Concepts
Focus on understanding the concepts rather than just memorizing facts. Real-world application of these concepts is crucial.
Get a feel for the exam with these sample questions.
Question 1: Vehicle Inspection
What should you do during a trip to ensure your vehicle and its cargo are safe?
Question 2: Communicating with Other Road Users
Which of the following is NOT a way to communicate with other road users?
Question 3: Managing Space
What is the most important reason for managing space around your truck?
Question 4: Emergency Braking
When is emergency braking necessary?
Question 5: Load Securement
Why is securing your load important in commercial driving?
Question 6: Alcohol and Drug Rules
What is the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for commercial drivers?
Question 7: Hours of Service Regulations
What is the main purpose of the Hours of Service regulations for commercial drivers?
Question 8: Hazardous Materials
When transporting hazardous materials, what is the most important thing you should do?
Question 9: Air Brakes System
What should you do if the low air pressure warning comes on for the air brake system?
Question 10: Pre-Trip Inspection
What is a critical element to check during a pre-trip inspection?
How many questions are on the CDL General Knowledge exam?
The exam typically consists of 50 questions, and a passing score is usually 80% or higher.
How can I best prepare for the test?
Pro Tip: Use every resource at your disposal, especially practice tests, to get comfortable with the exam format and question types.
Passing the CDL General Knowledge Exam is your first step toward a successful career in commercial driving. Dedicate ample time to studying and understanding the material, and use practice tests to build confidence. Visit Driving-Tests.org for more resources and practice tests.
Our exclusive CDL Premium program offers comprehensive online training with an ELDT certificate, authentic exam questions, and a solid Pass Guarantee, starting at only $69. Ideal for first-time applicants, seasoned drivers, and those new to the U.S. road rules.