59+ CDL Test Questions to Ace Your Exam

At Cota Systems, we're firm believers in the old saying, "Together, we can conquer anything that comes our way." We know that passing the commercial driver's license test and gaining a CDL is the most vital step for anyone aiming to pursue a career driving commercial vehicles. To become a professional truck driver, you'll need to pass 2 CDL tests, a knowledge test and a skill test.

When it's crunch time, this blog is here to guide you through some of the most common questions you could see on the exam. Within this post, you'll find 59+ questions and answers that could pop up on your knowledge side of the CDL exam. Along the way, we'll even provide you with strategies that can amp-up your confidence level so you can perform better on the test. Let's break down the areas you need to focus on together:

Summary

In order to pass the CDL test, you need to study, study, study! Within this post, you'll find that we've included a free CDL practice test to help you be well on your way to acing the written portion of the exam! Here's some of the CDL practice questions/types we've included throughout this post:

• 20 General Knowledge Test Questions
• 10 Air Brakes Endorsement Test Questions
• 10 Hazardous Materials (HazMat) Endorsement Test Questions
• 10 Tank Vehicle Endorsement Test Questions
• 10 Double/Triple Trailer Endorsement Test Questions

Our goal here is to help you study some of the most common questions you might encounter on the written portion as well as an overview of the test structure and some strategies to amp-up your confidence and boost your testing performance. Just be sure to grab a CDL manual from your state, create a structured study plan, and take as many mock tests as you can between now and the big day! You got this!

Download Your Practice Test

So, before we go right into the specifics, we've got a valuable resource for you: a practice test with an answer key. Download our CDL test questions and answers guide to test your knowledge. Think of this as your first step towards acing your CDL exam.

20 General Knowledge Test Questions

This first section of CDL test questions goes over the general knowledge test questions. It covers your understanding of vehicle inspection, safety practices, road signs & signals. These are important to equip you in being prepared to handle many scenarios you could encounter on the roadways.

1. What is the primary purpose of the pre-trip inspection?

A. State law requires vehicle inspections.
B. Safety is the most important reason to inspect your vehicle.
‍C. To make sure your lights are working properly.
D. To check for over inflated tires.

2. Aggressive driving is..

A. Operating in a selfish, bold, or pushy manner, without regard for the rights or safety of others.
‍B. Acceptable during rush hour in a metropolitan area.
C. Operating in a cautious and courteous manner.
D. All of the above.

3. The following statements about an engine overheating are TRUE EXCEPT...

A. Antifreeze is only used in colder temperatures.
‍B. If you can touch the radiator cap with your bare hand, it is probably cool enough to open.
C. It is not possible to safely drive without radiator fluid.
D. Never leave the engine running if it is overheating.

4. What is the best thing to do if you are tired?

A. Drink plenty of coffee to stay awake.
B. Take pills to keep you alert.
C. Plan your trips for the middle of the night to avoid traffic.
D. Get enough sleep.

5. You are starting your vehicle in motion from a stop. As you apply power to the drive wheels, they start to spin. You should:

A. Take your foot off the accelerator and apply the brakes.
B. Press harder on the accelerator.
C. Take your foot off the accelerator.
‍D. Try a lower gear.

6. You are driving on a two lane road. An oncoming driver drifts into your lane and is headed straight for you. Which of these is generally the best action?

A. Steer to the right.
‍B. Steer onto the left shoulder.
C. Hard braking.
D. Steer into the oncoming lane.

7. Which of these statements about cargo loading is true?

A. State laws dictate legal weight limits.
‍B. Slight overloading of a vehicle can make its brakes work better.
C. If the shipper loads cargo, the driver is not responsible for overloading.
D. The legal maximum weight allowed by a state can be considered safe for all driving conditions.

8. How do you test hydraulic brakes for leaks?

A. Measure the free play on the pedal with a ruler.
B. With the vehicle stopped, pump the pedal three times, apply firm pressure for 5 seconds, then hold and see if the pedal moves.
‍C. Step on the brake pedal and the accelerator at the same time and see if the vehicle moves.
D. Move the vehicle slowly and see if it stops when the brake is applied.

9. Which of these statements about double clutching and shifting is true?

A. If you miss a gear while up-shifting, you must bring the vehicle to a stop.
B. Double clutching should only be used with a heavy load.
C. You can use the tachometer to tell you when to shift.
‍D. Double clutching should not be used when the road is slippery.

10. The key principle in balancing cargo weight is to keep the load:

A. On the side away from most traffic.
B. Balanced in the cargo area.
‍C. To the front.
D. To the rear.

11. You are checking your tires for a pre-trip inspection. Which of these statements is true?

A. Tires of mismatched sizes should not be used on the same vehicle.
‍B. Radial and bias-ply tires can be used together on the same vehicle.
C. Dual tires should be touching each other.
D. 2/32 inch tread depth is safe for the front tires.

12. The first step to take if your vehicle catches fire while driving is:

A. Head for the nearest service station.
B. Get the vehicle off the road and stop in an open area.
‍C. Park in the shade of a building.
D. Immediately open the door and jump out.

13. While driving, where should you be looking?

A. Look to the right side of the roadway.
B. Look back and forth and near and far.
C. Stare straight ahead at all times.
D. Look straight ahead and glance in your mirrors every 45 to 60 seconds.

14. You are driving a 40 foot vehicle at 45 MPH. Driving conditions are ideal (dry pavement, good visibility). What is the least amount of space that you should keep in front of your vehicle to be safe?

A. 2 seconds.
B. 3 seconds.
C. 4 seconds.
D. 5 seconds.

15. Which of these statements about cold weather driving is true?

A. In snow storms, wiper blades should be adjusted so that they do not make direct contact with the windshield.
B. Exhaust system leaks are less dangerous in cold weather.
C. There is no need to worry about engine overheating when the weather is very cold.
D. Windshield washer antifreeze should be added to the washer reservoir.

16. Which is NOT part of the pre-trip inspection...

A. Check engine oil level.
B. Check horn(s).
C. Check air seat adjustments.
‍D. Check seat belt fastener.

17. You are testing the stopping action of service brakes on a hydraulic system. Which of these can mean there is a problem?

A. The brake pedal goes to the floor.
B. Stopping action is delayed.
C. The vehicle pulls to one side when the brake pedal is pressed.
D. All of the above.

18. On wet roads, you should reduce your speed:

A. By one-third.
‍B. By one-half.
C. And get off the road as soon as possible.
D. None of the above.

19. A vehicle is loaded with very little weight on the drive axle. What may result?

A. Damage to drive axle tires.
B. A need to disconnect the steering axle brakes.
C. Better handling.
D. Poor traction.

20. How much space should you maintain in front of you at highway speeds?

A. Seven seconds for a 60 foot vehicle.
‍B. Five seconds for a 60 foot vehicle.
C. Ten seconds for a 60 foot vehicle.
D. Three seconds for a 60 foot vehicle.

10 Air Brakes Endorsement Test Questions

These 10 CDL test questions are important for drivers of trucks with air brakes. These questions focus on your knowledge of:

Air brake components: The parts of an air brake system such as the compressor, governor, and safety valve.
‍Mechanism & maintenance: How the system operates and how to maintain it.
‍Usage & inspection: Knowledge of correct usage of air brakes and how to check for air leaks.

Be sure to really get to know this material to ensure that you can operate air brake-equipped vehicles safely and efficiently.

21. In a vehicle equipped with air brakes, which of the following activates the stop light switch when you brake?

A. Air pressure.
‍B. Hydraulic pressure.
C. Spring pressure.
D. Mechanical force.

22. A dual air brake system...

A. Has two air brake systems and one set of controls.
‍B. Takes less time to build air pressure.
C. Has one set of air tanks and hoses.
D. Must have two warning alarms.

23. In a vehicle equipped with air brakes, where is the safety valve located?

A. On the dashboard.
B. In the first tank to which the air compressor pumps air.
‍C. Under the brake pedal.
D. In the second tank to which the air compressor pumps air.

24. An emergency brake...

A. Is required on commercial vehicles.
B. Must be held on by mechanical force.
C. Could be activated by the loss of air pressure.
D. All of the above.

25. What determines how effective the spring emergency brakes or the parking brakes are?

A. It depends on the adjustment of the service brakes.
‍B. It depends on the competence of the brake service technicians.
C. It has nothing to do with the condition of the service brakes.
D. Braking power increases when the brakes are hot.

26. To test the low pressure warning signal, you should do all BUT the following...

A. Shut the engine off.
B. Turn the electrical power on.
C. Ask a friend to listen for the signal.
‍D. Step on and off the brake pedal to reduce air pressure.

27. Why should you NOT fan the brakes when you're driving on a long downgrade?

A. Air usage is less when fanning.
B. The brake linings do not get hot when fanning.
C. It won't allow the brakes to cool.
‍D. None of the above are valid reasons.

28. With dual air systems, the air pressure should build...

A. From 85 to 100 psi in 45 seconds.
‍B. From 70 to 100 psi in 60 seconds.
C. From 85 to 150 psi in 45 seconds.
D. From 70 to 150 psi in 60 seconds.

29. In a vehicle equipped with air brakes, what does the service line do?

A. It carries air from the foot brake or the trailer hand brake.
‍B. It supplies air to the foot brake and the trailer hand brake.
C. It carries fuel at a fueling station.
D. It supplies air to the trailer air tanks.

30. To check the air compressor governor, "cut in" and "cut out" pressures...

A. Run the engine at a fast idle.
B. Step on and off the brake to reduce tank pressure.
C. Monitor the air pressure gauge.
D. All of the above.

10 Hazardous Materials (HazMat) Endorsement Test Questions

This next set of possible CDL test questions is to help you assess your understanding of handling hazardous materials. The questions can include things like:

Placard Requirements: Regulations for placarding vehicles carrying hazardous materials.
‍Emergency Response Procedures: Steps to take in case of an incident that involves hazardous materials.
‍Personal Protective Equipment: Correct way to use PPE that protects you and others.

The questions in this section are to help you prepare and study up on any questions pertaining to hazardous materials. It's also essential to really learn all you can through the hazardous materials section of the CDL manual as well as use specialized HazMat study guides.

31. Special requirements for hazardous materials shipping papers include...

A. Color coding the hazardous materials bills.
B. Requiring drivers to keep papers either tabbed or on top of other papers.
‍C. Requiring shippers to keep the bills in a separate envelope.
D. None of the above.

32. If the hazardous materials are classified as *FORBIDDEN* you should...

A. Take special caution in transporting the material.
B. Remove the placards from the trailer.
C. Refuse the load.
‍D. Place the materials in the front of the trailer.

33. Which of the following statements about “Radioactive” labels is true?

A. Yellow III indicates the highest level of radioactivity.
‍B. Yellow II indicates the highest level of radioactivity.
C. White I indicates the highest level of radioactivity.
D. Black III indicates the highest level of radioactivity.

34. On the Hazardous Materials Table, column 1 shows…

A. How to ship an item.
B. to what shipping mode the information on that line applies.
‍C. how much of the material can be put in a vehicle without placarding.
D. what materials can be loaded together.

35. When transporting both hazardous and non hazardous materials, your bills must…

A. Describe the hazardous materials first.
B. Have the hazardous materials highlighted.
C. Identify the materials by the letter X or RQ in the HM column.
D. Any one of the above.

36. You must carry a gas mask with you when transporting...

A. Flammable materials.
B. Chlorine.
‍C. Poison.
D. Liquid Gas.

37. You must notify ____ of any spills exceeding the RQ.

A. Customer.
B. State patrol.
C. DOT and EPA.
‍D. Federal Highway Administration.

38. A placarded vehicle must have at least ___ placards?

A. Two.
B. Three.
C. Four.
‍D. Six.

39. There are three lists that drivers, shippers and carriers use to find out if a material is regulated as hazardous. Which one of these choices is not one of those three lists?

A. List of hazardous substances and reportable quantities.
B. The List of Marine Pollutants.
C. EPA dangerous materials list.
‍D. Hazardous materials table.

40. Do not smoke within __ feet of a placarded cargo tank used for Class 3 (flammable liquids) or Division 2.1 (gasses).

A. 25 ft.
‍B. 50 ft.
C. 75 ft.
D. 100 ft.

10 Tank Vehicle Endorsement Test Questions

For those aspiring to drive tank vehicles, you'll need a specific endorsement. It's necessary for drivers to transport liquids or gasses in bulk. The CDL test questions will cover things like:

Controlling Liquid Surge: How moving liquid affects a tank and how to control it.
‍Use of Baffles: Understanding that baffles help control the movement of liquid within the tank.
‍Inspection of Leaks: Tanks must be inspected for leaks before, during, and after each trip.

Driving a tank and transporting liquids or gasses in bulk is going to require the utmost attention to detail and a complete understanding of the principles that ensure safety and compliance with regulations.

41. A tank vehicle is defined as a vehicle which transports...

A. Liquid.
B. Liquified gas.
C. Bulk fertilizer.
D. Both A and B above.

42. The best way to take a curve with a tanker is to slow to a safe speed before entering the curve, then ____ as you go through it.

A. Downshift twice.
B. Accelerate slightly.
‍C. Brake lightly.
D. All of the above.

43. The driver should pay particular attention to the _________ on smaller tanks.

A. Higher center of gravity.
B. Weight distribution.
‍C. Level of fluid.
D. All of the above.

44. When you unload the smaller tanks of a tank with bulkheads, be careful to check the:

A. Air to fuel ratio.
B. Distribution of weight.
‍C. Water content.
D. Alcohol content.

45. Outage means:

A. How fast the tanks drain.
B. Liquid weight.
C. Allowance for expansion of liquid.
‍D. Liquid movement.

46. Retest markings...

A. must be stamped on the tank itself.
B. give the date of the last retest.
C. show what type of test or inspection was performed.
‍D. all of the above.

47. Hauling liquids in tank vehicles requires special care for two reasons. One reason is:

A. Extreme weight.
B. Uneven expansion.
C. Liquid movement.
‍D. Winds.

48. When a bulk tank vehicle is stopping at an intersection which has a slippery surface...

A. The truck could slide into oncoming traffic.
B. The liquid movement could push the truck into the intersection.
‍C. The liquid could leak onto the roadway.
D. The truck could slide sideways due to rocking.

49. Separations, (between compartments inside tanks that have openings or holes in them) are called:

A. Bulkheads.
B. Barriers.
C. Baffles.
‍D. Walls.

50. What does liquid surge do to the handling of a tanker?

A. Surge can move the truck in the direction the liquid waves move.
‍B. Surge raises the wind drag of the truck.
C. Surge lets you turn corners tighter.
D. None of the above.

10 Double/Triple Trailer Endorsement Test Questions

In order to operate trucks with double or triple trailers, you'll need advanced skills and knowledge. This is because they are much longer and more difficult to handle on the roads. This endorsement will have CDL test questions that evaluate your ability to:

Prevent Rollovers: Know the techniques to maintain stability.
‍Increased Stopping Distance: Know how to adjust stopping distance when towing multiple trailers.
‍Making Wider Turns: Understand how to turn safely with a longer vehicle.
‍Managing Trailer Sway: Know how to control and prevent trailer sway, especially in adverse weather conditions.

By mastering these areas in our study guide, you'll be on your way to handling the additional challenges posed by double or triple trailers.

51. When should you check your mirrors while making a lane change?

A. After signaling the change.
B. Right after starting the lane change.
C. After completing the lane change.
D. All of the above.

52. You should check the height of the trailer before connecting a converter dolly to a second or third trailer. The trailer height is right when:

A. The trailer will be raised slightly when the converter dolly is backed under it.
‍B. The kingpin rests on the fifth wheel.
C. The center of the kingpin lines up with the locking jaws.
D. All of the above.

53. Which of these is not a good thing to do when driving on slippery roads?

A. Use the engine brake or speed retarder.
‍B. Use a light touch on the accelerator and brake pedals.
C. Keep other traffic out of you side space.
D. None of the above.

54. Which of these statements about quick steering movements and doubles / triples is true?

A. Counter-steering is easier with doubles/triples than with most other vehicles.
B. You should put on the brakes at the same time you perform quick steering movements.
C. Doubles / triples are no problem with a quick steering move.
D. Doubles / triples flip over from quick steering moves more easily than many other vehicles.

55. How can you be sure you supplied air to a second trailer?

A. Go to the rear of the second trailer and open the emergency line shut off.
‍B. Watch each trailer's air gauge for a drop of 30 psi.
C. Apply the hand valve at 10 mph. You should stop in the same distance as a truck with one trailer at 5 mph.
D. Get out and listen for air flowing through the lines

56. You are driving a 100 foot truck with double trailers at 30 mph. The road is dry. Visibility is good. You should keep at least ____ seconds of space ahead of you:

A. 9
B. 10
‍C. 11
D. 12

57. You are driving a set of doubles. A set of trailer wheels goes into a skid. Which of these is most likely to occur?

A. The rig will continue to move in a straight line no matter how much the steering wheel is turned.
B. You will have a trailer jackknife.
‍C. The rig will stay in a straight line but slide sideways.
D. None of the above.

58. The best way to keep brakes from overheating while going down a steep grade is to:

A. Use stab braking.
B. Use only the trailer brakes.
C. Use counter-steering practices.
D. Go 5 m.p.h. below your safe speed.

59. Which of these statements about handling doubles and triples is true?

A. The rear trailer of a 100 foot triple is less likely to turn over than a single semi trailer due to the crack the whip effect.
B. A triple bottom rig can stop quicker that a 5 axle tractor semi trailer due to off tracking.
C. A sudden movement with the steering wheel can result in a tipped over rear trailer.
‍D. None of the above.

60. Before you can supply air to the air tanks of a second trailer you need to:

A. Open the shut off valves at the rear of the first trailer, and close the shut off valves at the rear of the second trailer.
‍B. Close the shut off valves at the rear of both trailers.
C. Open the shut off valves at the rear of both trailers.
D. None of the above.

How to Study for the CDL Test

We get it. At times, studying for the CDL test can seem pretty intimidating, but with the right mindset, you can tackle it! Here's what to do:

Get the CDL Manual: Grab a copy of the CDL manual from your state. This is your primary study resource.
‍Create a Study Plan: Break down your study sessions into manageable chunks of time, so you can cover all sections.
‍Identify Weak Points: With your CDL practice questions, be sure to note any mistakes you make, that way, you know just where you need to study and focus on more.

Even if you're pressed for time, these tips can make the process of studying go much smoother and ensure you're well-prepared.

Understand the Test Structure

Understanding the structure of the CDL knowledge portion of the test can help relieve stress. Additionally, studying with CDL practice questions will help you better understand the test layout and allow you to better manage your time for the exam.

The general knowledge section includes around 50 questions, which takes approximately 30 minutes to complete. This section covers basic commercial driving knowledge. The endorsement sections are for things such as air brakes, combination vehicles, and HazMat. They may have around 20-30 questions each. In order to pass the CDL test, you need to score a minimum of 80%, though this can vary by state.

Take As Many Mock Tests As You Can

Before you take the actual CDL exam, be sure to take as many mock tests as you can. This is one of the best ways to get ready for the test. It's going to get you comfortable with the test format as well as the limits on time. Here are some awesome resources for practicing online:

1. Download the Cota Systems CDL Practice Test: Retake the test daily until you get all the answers right.
2. Crist CDL: This site provides completely free, state-specific practice tests that are based on the 2024 DMV CDL state manuals and provides you with instant feedback with aims to help you increase your retention of the topics covered.
3. Driving-Tests.org: This site offers state-specific free practice tests and immediate feedback. However, they also offer a premium version to help you get prepared for the upcoming CDL exam.

By using resources like these along with our study guide, you're bound to boost your confidence and readiness for the exam.

Use Mnemonics and Acronyms

Mnemonics and acronyms are other great tools to include in your CDL study guide. They're awesome when needing to remember complex information. Here are some examples:

• For key areas to inspect during a Pre-Trip Inspection: B.A.C.K.S.
  • Brakes
  • ‍Air systems
  • ‍Coupling devices
  • ‍Knobs and switches
  • ‍Safety equipment
• Essential Air Brake System Components: C.A.B.L.E.
  • Compressor
  • ‍Air tanks
  • ‍Brake chambers
  • ‍Lines and hoses
  • ‍Emergency brakes
• Air Brake Check Sequence: L.A.B.
  • Leakage rate test
  • ‍Applied pressure test
  • ‍Brake system check
• Steps for Safe Driving Practices: S.I.P.D.E. (the process of defensive driving to avoid accidents)
  • Scan
  • ‍Identify
  • ‍Predict
  • ‍Decide
  • ‍Execute

For the CDL written test portion, these memory aids make the learning process much easier by transforming difficult concepts into easy-to-recall phrases.

Bonus Tips for First-Time Test Takers

Preparing for your CDL test can be nerve-wracking. But don't sweat it. Along with your CDL study guide, here's some bonus tips for the first-timers:

Plan ahead: Be sure to arrive early and complete any necessary paperwork. Think of this as your first step to a smooth test day (so you'll have plenty of time to settle in).
‍Stay hydrated: Dehydration can make it harder to focus. This might seem basic, but it's super important.
‍Read the questions twice: Take your time and be sure you understand the question before answering. It's easy to misread or overlook key details when you're nervous.
‍Skip and return: If you're unsure, skip it, and return to it later so you don't waste valuable time. In some cases, other questions might refresh your memory and give you a hint to the answer you weren't so sure about.

How the CDL Test Works

Before studying, there's some things you need to know. To take the CDL exam you must:

• Be 18 years or older.
• Have a valid driver’s license in the state you’re applying in.
• Pass a medical exam: Ensures you're physically fit to drive commercially.
• Submit your fingerprints: Typically for a background check.
• Pay all the fees: The fees that come with the test and the license.
• Pass the skills test at the DMV: Both the CDL written test and practical exams.

Commercial Driver’s Licenses are classified into three main categories:

1. Class A: Required to operate any combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the towed vehicle is heavier than 10,000 pounds.
Examples: tractor-trailer, livestock carrier, flatbed truck, tanker truck.
‍

2. Class B: Required to operate a single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, or any such vehicle towing another vehicle weighing up to 10,000 pounds.
Examples: large box truck for delivery, dump truck, passenger bus, cement mixer.

‍
3. Class C: Required for operating vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or hazardous materials as specified in the HazMat regulations.

Examples: school bus, Hazmat vehicle, passenger van.

Getting a CDL in any class involves both written and practical exams that are crafted to really test your knowledge and skills as they relate to driving commercial vehicles.

Written Knowledge Tests

The CDL general knowledge test is the first hurdle you must cross. These assess your understanding of the rules and regulations governing commercial driving. This portion of the CDL exam is typically taken at a DMV or an authorized testing center.

General Knowledge Test
This is the main test that all CDL applicants must take. This written portion covers basic commercial driving information such as vehicle inspections, safe driving practices, and regulations. This test is going to ensure you have a solid foundation of knowledge that's needed for all types of commercial driving.

Endorsement Tests
‍The endorsement tests you take will be dependent on the type of vehicle you plan on driving. These can include:

Air Brakes (L): If your vehicle has air brakes, you must pass the air brakes endorsement test to remove the air brakes restriction from your CDL.
‍Combination Vehicles (T): Required for operating combination vehicles, such as tractor-trailers.
‍Hazardous Materials (X): Needed for transporting hazardous materials. This endorsement requires a thorough background check and additional testing.
‍Tanker Vehicles (N): Required for operating vehicles that transport liquid or gaseous materials in bulk.
‍Passenger (P): Required for operating vehicles designed to carry 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
‍School Bus (S): Required for operating school buses.

Skills Tests

Once you pass the written knowledge CDL exam, you'll need to demonstrate your driving skills with the CDL driving test. This skill test is conducted in three parts:

1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will need to inspect your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you are checking and why. This shows your knowledge of the vehicle and ensures you can address any issues before hitting the road.‍
2. Basic Vehicle Control: This test evaluates your ability to control the vehicle through various maneuvers such as straight backing, offset backing, and parallel parking. This shows that you can handle the vehicle in different scenarios and tight spaces.‍
3. On-Road Driving Test: You will drive on public roads, following the examiner’s directions to demonstrate your ability to handle real-world driving situations. This is your chance to show that you can drive safely and confidently in various conditions.

It's important to understand these steps and know what to expect so you can readily approach the CDL tests with total confidence. You got this!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do I get the answers to these test questions?

Simply click the banner below to the Google Sheet version of the test > Click "Make a Copy" to save to your Google Drive > Select your answers then click to Tab #2 for the answers to all questions!

How Many Times Can I Take the CDL Exam?

This will vary by state, but most states will allow you to retake the CDL tests if you don't pass the first time after a mandatory waiting period. If you fail your test 3 times, you'll need to get another learner's permit and retake the knowledge tests and the driving test.

Will I Find the Practice Questions on the Actual Exam?

The exact questions on the CDL written test won't be the same as those on the practice tests. However, the practice questions are designed in a way that mirrors the format and the content of the real test, significantly improving your chances of passing.

Which CDL Is Easiest to Obtain?

The Class C CDL is considered the easiest to obtain. It requires less CDL knowledge tests and is less complex when compared to combination vehicles in Class A and B.

Can You Skip Questions on the CDL Test?

For the CDL written test, you have the option to skip a question. In fact, this could save you on time. Just be sure to review all the skipped, unanswered questions before submitting your CDL exam.

What Type of CDL Makes the Most Money?

When it comes to CDL knowledge tests and choosing among which CDL class works for you, the Class A CDL generally offers higher paying job opportunities. These include long-haul trucking and transporting hazardous materials, which of course, require proper endorsements.

Other Resources

At Cota Systems, we love to see future truckers thrive in their professional driving careers. That's why we're happy to provide more information and resources to help you along the way:

Best Trucking Companies to Work For
How to Start a Hot Shot Trucking Business
Semi-Truck Leasing Guide
How Much Do Truck Drivers Make
Essential Truck Driver Accessories for Comfort and Efficiency
A Day in the Life of a Trucker
Box Trucks Buyers Guide
Box Truck Loads

Your Takeaway

At Cota Systems, we believe that you can do anything that comes your way, and that there comes a time in your life where you're ready to make the impossible possible. We can tell you that the key to passing CDL knowledge tests is all in how well you prepare. In fact, it was Sun Tzi who once said, "To... not prepare is the greatest of crimes; to be prepared beforehand for any contingency is the greatest of virtues."

Passing the CDL test marks a significant milestone in your career as a commercial driver. Whether you choose a Class A, B, or C CDL, keep in mind that each class comes with its own unique set of benefits and prospective jobs. Remember, you can take as many practice tests as you wish in order to amp-up your confidence and readiness for the CDL exams.

No matter where the open road takes you, once you pass the CDL knowledge tests and CDL exam, Cota Systems is here to make trucking life a breeze for the long-haul.

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