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  • Updated for December 2024
  • Based on 2024 TX commercial driver's license manual

Free Texas CDL Permit Practice Test: General Knowledge 2024

You want to obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP), right? And so, you’re studying to pass the official CDL General Knowledge test (a necessary step toward a CLP)? We can help! We’re sure you’ve been told to read the Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers Handbook (Texas CDL Handbook 2024). And you should. It’s got all the information covered by the official knowledge test. But you may have already gotten a sinking feeling that you may not be able to absorb and memorize it all without additional help. That’s why we’re here.

This free Texas CDL permit practice test is also based on the official handbook and is up to date as of December, 2024. Practicing with it will enable you to think about what you read in the manual, reinforcing it in your mind. The test contains 50 multiple-choice practice questions. To speed up your learning, our automated assistant can provide you with a hint and an explanation of the correct answer for each question. The practice questions on this test will assess your knowledge of such topics as cargo management, commercial driving regulations, emergency preparedness, and pre-trip inspections. Keep practicing your knowledge with as many of our practice tests as you can, as often as you can, until you feel confident that you’ve mastered the material and can ace the official General Knowledge test.

Your CLP will allow you to practice commercial driving under the supervision of a licensed CDL holder. Note that you may have to pass some other official knowledge tests to be able to operate certain types of vehicles. For example, the Combination Vehicles and Air Brakes knowledge tests are a virtual necessity for driving semi-trucks. (Don’t worry; we have practice tests on those subjects, too.)

Then it will be time to start practicing driving (under supervision) for the skills test for your CDL. The skills test consists of three parts: basic vehicle maneuvers (such as backing), a pre-trip inspection of the vehicle, and a road test. You must perform the skills test in a vehicle that’s consistent with the class of CDL you’re applying for and the types of vehicles you’ll be driving in your career.

Once you get your CDL and the endorsements you need for the vehicles you’re interested in driving, you can start driving the roads of Texas to earn money as a commercial driver. You’ll soon become familiar with the major commercial routes: Interstates 10, 35, and 45; U.S. Route 83; and State Highway 130. (SH-130 can provide an alternative route between San Antonio and Austin when I-35 is heavily congested.)

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TX 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

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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 TX DMV exam

50

questions

40

correct answers to pass

80%

passing score

List of questions (classic view)

  1. Which of the following statements about an escape ramp is FALSE?
  2. If you are traveling at 55 mph in a 30-foot vehicle, you should leave how many seconds of following distance?
  3. If you are stopped by the police and refuse to submit to a chemical test for drugs or alcohol,
  4. Which of these describes how you should use the brake pedal on a steep downhill grade?
  5. While driving at night, which lights should you use as often as you can?
  6. You should look at least 12–15 seconds ahead. In city driving, 12–15 seconds is
  7. If you drive at 55 mph rather than 65 mph, you can improve your fuel economy by as much as
  8. In Texas, the mud flaps on a truck or trailer must reach
  9. In Texas, which of the following must come to a complete stop at a rural railroad crossing?
  10. During your pre-trip inspection, you should do which of the following inside the cab?
  11. If you double your speed, how much more distance will it take to brake to a stop?
  12. If you are confronted by an aggressive driver, what should you do?
  13. After your first stop, how often must you stop to check if your cargo is secure?
  14. Streaks of rust on a lug nut are signs that
  15. When passing a motorcycle, keep in mind that
  16. In Texas, when driving on a downgrade, you must not
  17. Which of these is NOT part of the basic method for shifting up?
  18. After you start the engine, the oil pressure should rise to normal within
  19. If you are towing another vehicle, the tow connection must not be longer than
  20. If you are pulling a trailer and a fire breaks out inside it, what should you do?
  21. Where should you place your warning devices if you must stop on a one-way road or divided highway at night?
  22. If you are going through an underpass at which the road has been repaved recently,
  23. How can you determine if your vehicle is equipped with an antilock braking system (ABS)?
  24. You should inspect wheel bearing seals for
  25. While driving a vehicle with dual tires, you hear a noise that sounds like a tire blowout. However, your vehicle's handling seems unaffected. What should you do?
  26. To avoid overloading bridges, a bridge formula restricts the axle weight for axles that
  27. In Texas, if your load extends more than 4 feet beyond the rear of your vehicle, you must have
  28. If you are found to be driving a commercial motor vehicle with your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) above zero but below 0.04%,
  29. Why should you be especially alert for drivers who are tourists?
  30. In Texas, which of the following are you not allowed to transport in an open truck?
  31. How many different states’ commercial driver licenses (CDLs) can you hold simultaneously?
  32. What are two of the most common causes of tire fires?
  33. What is a particular risk associated with transporting hanging meat?
  34. If an accident victim is bleeding heavily and no qualified professional is available, what can you do to help?
  35. In Texas, if you must stop on the road or the shoulder of the road in the daytime, what kind of warning devices should you use?
  36. The minimum tire tread depth for front tires is
  37. You don't want to be a distracted driver, so you
  38. Why should you use a helper when you are backing?
  39. What will help a drunk sober up?
  40. How many reflective warning triangles should you carry with you for emergencies?
  41. If you must drive off the roadway onto the shoulder to avoid a head-on collision with another vehicle, what should you do?
  42. In which of the following situations should you NOT sound your horn?
  43. If dense fog reduces visibility to near zero, what should you do?
  44. In Texas, the maximum weight for a single or combination vehicle including its load is
  45. A fire extinguisher that is rated B:C is suitable for
  46. If the engine is not overheated, is it completely safe to remove the radiator cap?
  47. Objects that are viewed in a curved (convex) mirror may appear
  48. How many tie-downs are required for a 17-foot load?
  49. How can you start moving without rolling backward?
  50. Which of the following conditions must be met to be considered physically qualified to operate CMVs?

FAQs

How do you obtain a CDL in Texas?

To get a CDL in Texas, first obtain a commercial learner permit (CLP) by passing knowledge tests and a vision exam. Then, complete CDL training (if desired) and pass the skills test in a vehicle class you intend to drive. Ensure you meet all medical and age requirements.

What is the cost of a CDL?

The cost for a CDL in Texas includes various fees: $25 for the knowledge test, $61 for the CDL, and additional fees for endorsements. CDL training school costs vary by program.

How long does it take to become a CDL driver?

The time to become a CDL driver in Texas varies. After obtaining a CLP, you must hold it for 14 days before taking the skills test. The duration of CDL training programs varies, typically lasting several weeks to months.

Can you take the CDL test online?

No, in Texas, the CDL skills test must be taken in person. However, some knowledge tests may be available online through third-party providers or schools.

Is CDL school mandatory?

CDL school is not mandatory in Texas, but it's highly recommended for thorough training. Some employers may require completion of a CDL training program.

How long is a Texas CDL valid?

A Texas CDL is typically valid for 5 years. The expiration aligns with your birth date and may vary based on age and medical certification requirements.

How many tests are required for a CDL?

In Texas, obtaining a CDL requires passing multiple knowledge tests for the general CDL and any endorsements, plus a skills test that includes pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and a road test.

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