California General Knowledge CDL Practice Test
Practice with real CA General Knowledge exam questions and detailed explanations. Rated 4.8 stars by 1,000+ drivers.
Written by CDL holders and exam prep experts · Updated April 2026
Free Questions
10
Passing Score
80%
Time Limit
60 minutes
Prerequisites
Required foundation test for all CDL classes (A, B, C)
What is the General Knowledge Test?
The General Knowledge test is required for all CDL applicants. It covers basic commercial driving skills, vehicle inspection, safety procedures, and federal regulations. This is the foundation test that all CDL drivers must pass.
Required foundation test for all CDL applicants
Topic Breakdown
Vehicle Inspection
~12 questions
- Pre-trip inspection procedures
- In-cab inspection items
- Engine compartment checks
Basic Control Skills
~10 questions
- Backing and parking techniques
- Space management
- Speed and distance judgment
Safe Driving
~10 questions
- Following distance and speed management
- Night and weather driving
- Hazard awareness and response
Transporting Cargo
~8 questions
- Weight distribution and securing cargo
- Load limits and weight restrictions
- Cargo documentation
Vehicle Systems
~6 questions
- Engine systems and maintenance
- Electrical and lighting systems
- Suspension and steering systems
Regulations and Safety
~4 questions
- Hours of service regulations
- CDL requirements and restrictions
- Traffic laws and penalties
Free Practice Questions
10 questionsQuestion 1 of 10
You are driving a vehicle at 55 mph on dry pavement. About how much total stopping distance will you need to bring it to a stop?
Browse California General Knowledge Questions
- 1. You are driving a vehicle at 55 mph on dry pavement. About how much total stopping distance will you need to bring it to a stop?
- 2. The BAC (Blood Alcohol Concentration) for commercial drivers to be considered intoxicated when driving a commercial vehicle is:
- 3. To prevent a load from shifting, there should be at least one tie down for every ____ feet of cargo.
- 4. You are driving a 40-foot vehicle at 55 mph. The road is dry, and visibility is good.What is the least amount of space that you need to have in front of your vehicle?
- 5. A full stop is required at a railroad crossing when:
- 6. Stab braking should not be used on vehicles with:
- 7. When driving at night, you should:
- 8. You are driving on a straight, level highway at 50 mph. There are no vehicles in front of you. Suddenly a tire blew out of your vehicle, what should you do first?
- 9. If a straight vehicle (not trailer or articulation) goes into front-wheel skid, it will:
- 10. The bridge formula:
Study Tips for California
- 1Memorize stopping distances at different speeds - this appears on 80% of California CDL tests
- 2Master the 7-step pre-trip inspection sequence - you'll need to recite this verbatim
- 3Know weight limits: 80,000 lbs gross vehicle weight, 34,000 lbs per tandem axle
- 4Study hours of service rules thoroughly - 11 hours driving, 14 hours on duty, 10 hours off duty
- 5Focus on backing maneuvers: straight-line backing, offset backing, parallel parking
California CDL Information
Age Requirements
Intrastate: 18+ · Interstate: 21+
CDL Renewal
Every 5 years
ELDT Required
Yes — ELDT (Entry-Level Driver Training) from FMCSA-registered provider
California DMV
Official CDL Portal →Career Opportunities
Frequently Asked Questions
The General Knowledge test is required for all CDL applicants. It covers basic commercial driving skills, vehicle inspection, safety procedures, and federal regulations.
General Knowledge Study Resources
What Is a CDL Permit? The Complete CLP Guide
The 7 steps to get a CDL permit (CLP), test requirements, restrictions, and state-by-state costs.
How to Pass the CDL Test
Proven study strategies from drivers who passed on their first try.
CDL Test Questions
How many questions, time limits, and what to expect on test day.
Be Ready for Your California General Knowledge Test
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Real questions. Detailed explanations. Know your score before test day.