CDL Practice Test 2026 - Free CDL Tests by State
CDL Practice Test
Pass your Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) exams with free timed practice tests for every CDL section and endorsement.
Free CDL General Knowledge practice test
CDL knowledge tests are built from the federal CDL standards, so General Knowledge, Air Brakes, Combination Vehicles and Hazmat cover the same material in every state. Start here, then check your state's licensing agency for fees and appointments.
CDL knowledge tests
| Test | Who needs it |
|---|---|
| General Knowledge | All CDL applicants |
| Air Brakes | Vehicles with air brakes |
| Combination Vehicles | Class A |
| Hazardous Materials (H) | Hazmat endorsement |
| Tanker (N) | Liquid or gas tanks |
| Passenger (P) / School Bus (S) | Bus drivers |
| Doubles/Triples (T) | Multiple trailers |
Steps to get your CDL
- Get a DOT medical card.
- Pass the knowledge tests to get your CLP.
- Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) with a registered provider.
- Hold your CLP for at least 14 days.
- Pass the skills test (pre-trip, basic control, road test).
CDL practice test by state
CDL classes
| Class | What it covers (federal definition) | Typical vehicles |
|---|---|---|
| Class A | Any combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 lbs or more, when the towed vehicle(s) weigh more than 10,000 lbs | Tractor-trailers, truck and trailer combinations |
| Class B | A single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 lbs or more, or such a vehicle towing a vehicle of 10,000 lbs or less | Straight trucks, large buses, dump trucks |
| Class C | Vehicles that are not Class A or B but carry 16 or more people (including the driver) or placarded hazardous materials | Passenger vans, small hazmat vehicles |
Federal CDL requirements
- Age: 21 to drive a commercial vehicle across state lines (most states allow intrastate-only CDLs from 18).
- Medical: a valid DOT medical examiner's certificate for most interstate drivers.
- Knowledge tests: you need at least 80% on each test (49 CFR 383.135) to get a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP).
- CLP: hold it at least 14 days before the skills test; a CLP is valid for up to one year.
- Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT): required since February 7, 2022 for a first Class A or B CDL, an upgrade from B to A, and a first H, P or S endorsement, from a provider on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry.
- Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse: since November 18, 2024, state licensing agencies must check the FMCSA Clearinghouse before issuing, renewing, upgrading or transferring a CLP or CDL.
- Skills test: vehicle inspection, basic control skills and an on-road test. Testing in a vehicle without air brakes or with an automatic transmission adds a restriction to your CDL.
Federal rules: 49 CFR Part 383 (CDL standards), Part 380 (ELDT) and Part 382 (Clearinghouse), as published by the FMCSA. Checked October 2026. States add their own fees, forms and appointment rules.
Frequently asked questions
How old do you have to be to get a CDL?
18 for intrastate driving and 21 for interstate driving or hazmat.
How many questions are on the CDL General Knowledge test?
Most states use 50 questions and require 80% to pass.
PracticePermit.us is an independent study resource and is not affiliated with any state DMV or government agency.