The Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) consists of both a written knowledge test and a skills test. An applicant must pass both to receive a CDL. All questions are multiple choice with four possibly answers. The test is available year round, excluding national holidays. Make sure you call to schedule the skills portion of your test as this will be subject to the availability of an approved examiner. There knowledge tests cover the following areas:

• General Knowledge – 1 test  – approx. 60 minutes
• Specific Endorsements – 5 different tests  – approx. 20-30 minutes each
• Air Brakes – 1 test – approx. 25 minutes

The tests you take depend on what type of commercial vehicle you will be driving. Each test is scored separately and most drivers only take 3 or 4. All of these tests must be taken in the state you reside. Different states have slightly different regulations, make sure you check your state’s CDL manual for specifics. The skills test is performed for an examiner and is in three mandatory parts. 

• Pre-trip Vehicle Inspection – tests your ability to determine if vehicle is safe to drive
• Basic Control Skills – tests your ability to park, turn and back up
• Road Test – tests your ability to safely drive the vehicle on the road

Make sure you are prepared for your Commercial Drivers License (CDL). McRee Learning Center can help.