Study for your CDL permit test with answers explained.

Free practice tests with every answer explained. Pick a test and start. No sign-up needed.

Start with General Knowledge

Which tests do you need?

Before you can get your CDL learner's permit, you pass written knowledge tests. Which ones depend on the vehicle you'll drive. Endorsements add a test for special kinds of driving, like hauling hazmat or carrying passengers. Every test takes 80% to pass. See our study guides for test preparation tips, or read which CDL rules are already set for 2027.

TestWho takes itTypical length
General KnowledgeEveryone getting a CDLAbout 50 questions
Air BrakesAnyone driving a vehicle with air brakesAbout 25 questions
Combination VehiclesClass A (tractor-trailer) driversAbout 20 questions
Endorsements
HazMatHDrivers hauling hazardous materials that need placardsVaries by state
Tank VehiclesNDrivers hauling liquids or gases in a tankAbout 20 questions
Doubles/TriplesTClass A drivers pulling double or triple trailersAbout 20 questions
PassengerPDrivers of buses and other passenger vehiclesAbout 20 questions
School BusSSchool bus drivers (along with Passenger)About 20 questions

Question counts vary by state. Check your state's CDL manual. See which of the eight free tests you need.

After the permit, the skills test starts with a vehicle inspection. Read the pre-trip inspection guide.

Find CDL practice tests by state for state-specific manuals and resources. Looking for CDL training? Check if your school is FMCSA-registered or browse CDL schools by state.

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Get the full course in the CDL Prep Hero app.

Lessons with animated diagrams and read-aloud, mock exams, and a progress score to help plan what to study next. Free to start on iPhone and Android.

  • Animated lesson: inspect and recheck cargo, with a diagram of a driver checking a load
  • Practice test question about overpass clearance, with the selected answer highlighted
  • Read-aloud lesson on bus operating limits, with an illustration of a bus at a fuel pump
  • Setup screen for choosing the state that will issue your CDL

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