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Free Alabama CDL Permit Practice Test: General Knowledge 2025

  • Perfect for first-time and renewal CDL/CLP applicants, and those adding endorsements
  • Based on 2025 AL commercial driver's license manual
  • Triple-checked for accuracy
  • Updated for July 2025

In the opening pages of the Alabama Commercial Driver Manual, the Chief Examiner from the Alabama Department of Public Safety encourages you to “study diligently” to pass your written exam and become a safe driver. These 50 multiple-choice questions will help you do just that, as they help you review necessary topics, including everything from emergency preparedness to right-of-way rules. Each question also has a hint and explanation, so you’ll be able to answer correctly even if you see the material on the real exam worded slightly differently. Practice often, and read the explanations closely until you feel confident with CDL exam concepts. Good luck at your exam and drive safely on the Alabama roadways, and across the country!

FAQs

How do you get yours?

To obtain a CDL in Alabama, you must first get a commercial learner’s permit (CLP) by passing the required knowledge tests. Hold the CLP for at least 14 days before taking the CDL skills test. Complete any required training and pass the skills test. Ensure you meet all age, medical, and legal requirements.

What is the associated cost?

The cost for a CDL in Alabama includes a $25 application fee for the CLP and a $20-$40 fee for the CDL license, depending on the class and endorsements. Additional fees may apply for skills testing and medical examination.

What are the requirements you need to know about?

CDL requirements in Alabama include being at least 18 years old (21 for interstate driving), holding a valid Alabama driver’s license, passing a medical examination, and successfully completing the knowledge and skills tests. Specific endorsements may require additional tests.

How long does the process take?

The time to get a CDL in Alabama varies depending on individual readiness and training program length. After obtaining a CLP, you must wait at least 14 days before taking the skills test. Training programs can last from a few weeks to several months.

What can get you disqualified from being eligible?

In Alabama, disqualifications from obtaining a CDL include major traffic violations like DUIs or reckless driving, certain criminal convictions, and medical conditions that impair safe driving abilities. Accumulating too many points on your driving record can also lead to disqualification.

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AL commercial driver's license
  • Perfect for first-time and renewal CDL/CLP applicants, and those adding endorsements
  • Triple-checked for accuracy

What you need to know

4.39 out of 5 • 214 votes
Available in EN and ES
Verified by Steven Litvintchouk, M.S., Chief Educational Researcher, Member of ACES. See our detailed commitment to accuracy and quality in our practice tests.
Ensuring the accuracy and quality of our program is paramount. Learn more about our rigorous standards in our Commitment to Accuracy article.

What to expect on the actual AL DMV exam

50

questions

40

correct answers to pass

80%

passing score

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List of questions (classic view)

  1. If you are traveling at 55 mph in a 30-foot vehicle, you should leave how many seconds of following distance?
  2. Always try to back toward the driver's side because
  3. The minimum tire tread depth for front tires is
  4. You should inspect wheel bearing seals for
  5. Your emergency kit does NOT need to include
  6. Total stopping distance equals
  7. Which of the following is NOT something you should check during a trip?
  8. For how long will you lose your CDL driving privileges if you are convicted of a second DUI offense in either a CMV or your private vehicle?
  9. According to the Alabama Commercial Driver License Manual, how many hours of sleep does the average person need per night?
  10. You don't want to be a distracted driver, so you
  11. Letting the air out of hot tires
  12. How can you determine if your vehicle is equipped with an antilock braking system (ABS)?
  13. What is the definition of a hazard?
  14. How often must you stop to check your cargo while on the road?
  15. How long does it take a typical tractor-trailer to clear a double railroad track?
  16. Which of the following is a key steering component?
  17. What is the best way to figure out how many seconds of following distance you have?
  18. While driving at night, which lights should you use as often as you can?
  19. To transport cargo safely, which of the following are you NOT responsible for?
  20. According to the Alabama Commercial Driver License Manual, how far ahead should you look while driving?
  21. Hazardous materials placards are
  22. When you start to drive down a steep downgrade, which of the following should influence your choice of speed?
  23. Where should you place your warning devices if you must stop on a one-way road or divided highway?
  24. How can you start moving without rolling backward?
  25. On wet roads, you should reduce your speed by
  26. Which is NOT one of the four basic skills that operating a commercial motor vehicle requires?
  27. If the engine is not overheated, is it completely safe to remove the radiator cap?
  28. Do empty trucks have the best braking?
  29. How many tiedowns are required for a 20-foot load?
  30. Which of the following statements about retarders is correct?
  31. An antilock braking system (ABS) will
  32. To help you stay alert and safe while driving, you should
  33. What will help a drunk sober up?
  34. Which of the following is most likely to cause a vehicle fire?
  35. What can you do at an accident scene to help avoid another accident?
  36. Starting the engine and inspecting the cab involves each of the following tasks EXCEPT
  37. What might happen if you swing wide to the left before you turn right?
  38. During your pre-trip test, when examining hoses with the instructor, you need to look for
  39. Which of the following should you do when confronted by an aggressive driver?
  40. In which of the following two situations should you downshift?
  41. It has just reached freezing. Which of the following areas may be slippery?
  42. Why is it important to use a helper when backing?
  43. You should put the starter switch key into your pocket while you perform the pre-trip inspection because
  44. If you double your speed, how much more distance will it take to brake to a stop?
  45. Before transporting a sealed load, you must check
  46. The most important hand signal that you and a helper should agree on is
  47. What is the gross vehicle weight (GVW)?
  48. On which of the following types of fires should you NOT use a B:C fire extinguisher?
  49. If you feel drowsy while driving, what should you do?
  50. Which of the following might get stuck at a raised railroad crossing?
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