Permits & training

CDL permit test

CDLP editorial · 7 min read
Published Oct 27, 2026 · Updated Oct 28, 2026

What should I study for the CDL permit test?

The commercial learner’s permit comes from your state, not from this site. Federal rules still shape the path: knowledge tests need at least 80 percent, you generally hold the permit 14 days before the skills test, and entry-level training is not required before the permit application. Use the general-knowledge practice set first, then air brakes or combination vehicles when your vehicle needs them. Iowa and Pennsylvania publish different question counts, so those numbers are examples, not a national exam.

Use a CDL permit practice test for the right topic

A commercial learner’s permit is issued by your state after its knowledge tests. “CDL permit practice test” on this site means the federal-source sets below, not a copy of a state exam and not a score the DMV accepts.

General knowledge practice — start here for a first permit.
Air brakes practice — use it when the vehicle has air brakes, so you are not surprised by a restriction.
Combination vehicles practice — use it on a Class A path.
All six practice sets — hazmat, tanker, and pre-trip are separate from the first permit’s core tests.

The longer study plan, including what to bring to the appointment, is in CDL permit: requirements, tests and a study plan.

Federal rules that sit next to the state test

FMCSA describes the permit as authorization to practice with a qualified CDL holder, not permission to drive alone. You must hold the permit for at least 14 days before the skills test. Each knowledge test needs at least 80 percent correct. States still control the official format, fees, and appointment.

Sources: FMCSA, how to get a CDL, updated December 8, 2025; 49 CFR 383.25; 49 CFR 383.135.

FMCSA also says there is no federal requirement to finish entry-level theory training before you apply for the permit. For a first Class A or Class B CDL, the applicable entry-level training has to be complete before the skills test when the rule applies. Read ELDT training before you buy a course that claims to be the permit test.

State examples, not a national question count

There is not a separate permit-test page for every state, because a national question count would be wrong. These published examples are the ones this site can cite:

Iowa DOT publishes a 50-question general-knowledge test and separate component tests.
PennDOT lists 70 questions for its Class A knowledge test and 50 for Class B or C.
Texas DPS publishes its own application steps. Do not use that list in another state.
Virginia DMV describes the commercial learner’s permit process for Virginia.

For every other state, open FMCSA’s state CDL resources and follow that agency’s current manual. Manual text is not copied here.

School directories while you wait on the permit

Training locations are not the licensing agency. These links open the school directory for that state. Confirm the class, the test vehicle, and whether the school expects you to arrive with a permit.

Questions drivers ask

Is the CDL permit test the same in every state?

No. States write and give the knowledge tests. Iowa publishes a 50-question general-knowledge test with separate component tests. Pennsylvania lists 70 questions for its Class A knowledge test and 50 for Class B or C. Use your own state’s current table.

Which practice test should I take first?

Start with general knowledge for a first commercial learner’s permit. Add air brakes when the vehicle uses them, and combination vehicles when you are applying for Class A. Hazmat, tanker, and pre-trip sets are separate topics, not a substitute for the permit’s required tests.

Does a practice score count toward the permit?

No. These questions explain federal rules. They are not the state exam, and a score here does not predict the official result. The federal knowledge-test mark is at least 80 percent.

Do I need ELDT before the permit test?

FMCSA says there is no federal requirement to finish entry-level theory training before you apply for a commercial learner’s permit. For a covered first CDL, the applicable training has to be complete before the skills test. Your state can add steps.

Why is there one permit-test page instead of one per state?

The official test is written by the state, and this site does not copy state manuals or invent a question count for a state that has not published one here. Iowa and Pennsylvania are examples. Everyone else should use the FMCSA state-resources link and that state’s current manual.

Practice the topic, then check the state manual.

Start with general knowledge if this is your first commercial permit.

Start general knowledge practice

Sources and scope

Sources checked Oct 28, 2026. Federal baselines and named state examples are distinguished in the article. Your licensing agency and written program terms govern your case.

Prepared by CDLP editorial from the sources above. No independent instructor, legal or financial review is claimed.

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