CDL General Knowledge Practice Test
The foundation of every CDL. Practice all 100 questions covering FMCSA regulations, vehicle inspection, cargo, and safe driving. You need 80% to pass.
What Is the CDL General Knowledge Test?
The CDL General Knowledge test is required for every applicant pursuing a Commercial Driver's License, regardless of the class (A, B, or C) or any endorsements. It tests your understanding of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations that govern commercial vehicle operation in the United States.
The test consists of 100 questions drawn from eight major knowledge areas: driving safely, transporting cargo, transporting passengers, pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic vehicle controls, shifting and backing, combination vehicles, and hazardous materials basics. You must answer at least 80 questions correctly (80%) to pass.
Unlike some endorsement tests, the General Knowledge exam has no strict time limit in most states, so read each question carefully. This is the single most important CDL exam — everything else builds on this foundation.
What the Test Covers
Vehicle Inspection
25%Pre-trip and en-route inspection procedures, identifying defects, and what to check before driving.
Shifting & Backing
20%Proper shifting techniques, backing maneuvers, and handling different transmission types.
Cargo Handling
15%Securing loads, weight limits, cargo documentation, and preventing cargo shifts.
Driving Safety
20%Safe driving practices, speed management, space management, and adverse conditions.
Combination Vehicles
10%Basics of tractor-trailer operation, coupling, and combination vehicle characteristics.
Pre-trip Procedures
10%Starting engine checks, brake tests, and documentation requirements before any trip.
How to Pass the CDL General Knowledge Test
Read the FMCSA CDL Handbook
Your state's CDL handbook is based on the FMCSA Commercial Driver's License Standards. Read it from cover to cover — don't skip the sections that seem obvious. The test pulls questions from every section.
Focus on Vehicle Inspection
The pre-trip inspection section is one of the highest-weighted areas. Memorize the inspection sequence: engine compartment, cab check, external inspection, signal lights, brakes, and trailer coupling.
Practice with Realistic Questions
The FMCSA structures questions around specific regulations. Practice tests that mirror the real exam format help you recognize the phrasing of correct answers and avoid trick questions.
Review Hours of Service Rules
Hours of Service (HOS) is frequently tested. Know the 11-hour driving limit, 14-hour on-duty window, 30-minute rest break requirement, and the 60/70-hour rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many questions are on the CDL General Knowledge test?
The CDL General Knowledge test has 100 questions. You need to answer at least 80 correctly (80%) to pass.
How long do you have to take the CDL General Knowledge test?
Most states do not impose a strict time limit on the CDL General Knowledge test. You are typically given as much time as you need to complete the 100 questions.
Is the CDL General Knowledge test the same in every state?
The CDL General Knowledge test is based on FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) regulations, so the content is largely the same across all states. Some states may add state-specific questions, but the core material is standardized.
What score do you need to pass the CDL General Knowledge test?
You need a score of at least 80% to pass, which means answering 80 out of 100 questions correctly.
Can you retake the CDL General Knowledge test if you fail?
Yes. Retake policies vary by state, but most states allow you to retake the test the same day or the following business day. Some states require a waiting period after multiple failures. Check your state's DMV website for specific rules.
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