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Original questions based on the latest VermontVT CDL Handbook Expert-reviewed by S. Litvintchouk, M.S. (MIT), Chief Educational Researcher

Free Vermont CDL Permit Practice Test: General Knowledge 2026

Avg. pass rate on our VT tests: 62%.
Average pass rate for this test: 56%.
Moderate
Score distribution:
90-100=>7%
80-89=>27%
70-79=>34%
60-69=>26%
<60%=>6%
Avg. first-try score: 72%
Perfect for:
First-time and renewal CDL/CLP applicants

In Vermont as in the rest of the country, there are three main classes of Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). Each class is primarily for operating certain types of commercial motor vehicles. A Class A CDL is primarily for operating semi-trucks or tractor-trailers, including flatbed trucks. A Class B CDL is typically for operating large buses and straight trucks, including most dump trucks. A Class C CDL is for operating other types of vehicles, usually smaller ones. It can be used to operate smaller buses (such as shuttle buses or shuttle vans) or small trucks carrying hazardous materials.

To obtain any class of CDL, you must meet a series of requirements. One of the most important requirements is to pass an official skills test, which has three parts: basic vehicle maneuvers, a pre-trip inspection test, and a road test. You must pass all three parts. To be sure of passing this test, you must practice operating commercial vehicles under supervision until you can operate them safely even unsupervised. And to practice commercial driving, you’ll need a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP).

To obtain a CLP, you must meet certain requirements too, including passing the official General Knowledge test on the basic theory of commercial driving. The questions on this test are based on the official Vermont Commercial Driver’s License Manual (Vermont CDL Handbook 2026). But it’s not that easy to pass the test just by reading the manual a few times. It helps to reinforce your new knowledge by practicing how to answer questions about it.

Our free Vermont CDL permit practice test, one of several we offer, is based on the official CDL manual, just like the official knowledge test. It’s up to date as of May, 2026. There are 20 multiple-choice practice questions on such topics as cargo management, emergency preparedness, and following distance. Our automated assistant can provide you a hint if you get stuck on a question. If you still miss the question, it will provide you an explanation of the correct answer. Read that explanation carefully so you’ll know how to answer next time. Take all the time you need to learn the material covered by the practice test. There’s no rush because there’s no time limit. You can even keep the CDL manual open while you take the practice test and look up the answer to a question that puzzles you.

Want more practice? Try our other CDL General Knowledge practice tests too.

Free Vermont CDL Permit Practice Test: General Knowledge 2026
VT commercial driver's license
Last verified:
30 tests completed today statewide

Vermont CDL General Knowledge test: quick facts

What to review before the CLP knowledge test and CDL endorsement practice

Questions
50 questions
Passing score
40 correct (80%)
Typical time
No set time limit
Focus first
Weight Distribution and Lane Changes & Merging
These are the hardest recent topics for Vermont CDL General Knowledge learners.
Best next step
Review Weight Distribution, then choose the next CDL test for your license path.

Where Vermont learners struggle most

Based on recent Driving-Tests.org answers for this test family.

66.2% miss
Weight Distribution
Cargo & Towing - 340 recent answers

Review axle weights, load balance, center of gravity, and how weight affects braking, steering, and rollover risk.

53.9% miss
Lane Changes & Merging
Vehicle Operation - 330 recent answers

Review mirror checks, signal timing, blind spots, gap selection, and why large vehicles need more merge space.

45.6% miss
Emergencies & Breakdowns
Safety & Hazards - 988 recent answers

Review emergency stops, warning devices, brake failure, tire failure, and safe roadside procedures.

43.1% miss
Engine & Drivetrain
Vehicle Systems & Inspection - 666 recent answers

Review engine controls, shifting, gauges, retarders, and warning signs that need attention before or during a trip.

Vermont CDL requirements to know

CLP and General Knowledge requirements before skills testing and endorsements

General Knowledge comes first

Start with General Knowledge for your VT CLP. Add Combination Vehicles, Air Brakes, or endorsement tests only when they match the license class and endorsements you need.

CLP is separate from skills testing

Passing the written test does not give you a CDL. After your CLP is issued, federal rules require you to hold it for at least 14 days before the CDL skills test.

Medical certification matters early

Pick the right medical self-certification category early. If you drive non-excepted interstate, keep your DOT medical certification current with the state licensing agency.

ELDT may be required before testing

ELDT may be required before Class A or B skills testing, first-time Passenger or School Bus endorsements, or the HazMat knowledge test. Your training provider submits completion through FMCSA's Training Provider Registry.

Recommended CDL study path

Use General Knowledge as the base, then move into the CDL tests that match your license class and endorsements.

1
Pass General Knowledge first
This is the base CLP knowledge area before endorsement-specific study.
2
Add required CDL areas
Most Class A/B paths also need Air Brakes, Combination Vehicles, or other focused tests.
3
Practice only relevant endorsements
HazMat, Tanker, Passenger, School Bus, and other endorsements matter only when they match your goal.

Reviewed for legal and handbook accuracy

Steven Litvintchouk

M.S. (MIT, Columbia), Chief Educational Researcher. ACES member (Society for Editing). Verifies all 50 state tests against official handbooks weekly.

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 Vermont DMV changes its handbook or website information. Official sources we check: 

Real users who passed the exam first try

Verified student reviews • Shared with permission

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