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Free District of Columbia CDL Permit Practice Test: General Knowledge 2025

Average pass rate for CDL tests in District of Columbia: 55%.
Average pass rate for this test: 58%.
Moderate
Score distribution:
90-100=>12%
80-89=>22%
70-79=>24%
60-69=>14%
<60%=>29%
Avg. first-try score: 88%

Washington, D.C., with an area of just 68 square miles, has a gross domestic product (GDP) of $99 billion per year. That’s more than states 2,100 times its size. Such a large GDP would be completely impossible without commercial drivers to move goods and products in and out of the district – which is where you come in. You will soon receive or renew your commercial driver license (CDL), and this practice quiz will help make that possible by giving you realistic practice for the CDL written exam. These 50 multiple-choice questions cover crucial information from the Washington, D.C. Commercial Driver License Manual, as well as federal and local laws. You’ll be tested on right-of-way rules, braking and shifting techniques, driving in special weather and road conditions, handling emergency situations, and more. Use the hint provided with each question, and read the explanations carefully to ensure that you’ll be able to answer future questions correctly. Come back and keep practicing until you feel comfortable with the information. Good luck on your CDL exams!

FAQs

How can you obtain yours?

To obtain a CDL license in the District of Columbia, first acquire a commercial learner’s permit (CLP) by passing the required knowledge tests. Hold the CLP for at least 14 days before taking the skills test. Then, complete CDL training (recommended) and pass the skills test. Ensure you meet all age and medical requirements.

Free District of Columbia CDL Permit Practice Test: General Knowledge 2025
DC commercial driver's license
Based on the official DC CDL HandbookHandbook‑based (2025) + exam‑taker feedback

Reviewed for legal and handbook accuracy

Steven Litvintchouk

M.S., Chief Educational Researcher (ACES member)

Last verified for accuracy on

Test design and learning experience oversight

Andrei Zakhareuski

Co-founder & CEO, Driving-Tests.org

Questions are created and maintained by the Driving-Tests.org content team following our multi-layer editorial process and updated whenever the District of Columbia DMV changes its handbook or website information. Official sources we check: 

About the District of Columbia CDL

What is the associated cost?

The cost for a CDL in the District of Columbia includes a $78 fee for the CDL, a $10 fee for the knowledge test, and a $10 fee for the CLP. Additional fees may apply for skills testing and medical examinations.

How many questions are on the official test?

The CDL permit test in the District of Columbia typically consists of 30 to 50 questions, depending on the class of CDL and endorsements. You need to score at least 80% to pass.

What is the minimum age required?

You must be at least 21 years old to obtain a CDL in the District of Columbia for interstate transportation or to transport hazardous materials. For intrastate transportation, the minimum age is 18.

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