Washington General Knowledge CDL Practice Test
Practice with real WA 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
Typically 60 minutes; varies by testing location
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
Retarders:
Browse Washington General Knowledge Questions
- 1. Retarders:
- 2. To prevent a load from shifting, there should be at least one tie down for every ____ feet of cargo.
- 3. The tread depth on front steering wheel tires should be:
- 4. Which of these statements about cold weather driving is true?
- 5. 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?
- 6. If a straight vehicle (not trailer or articulation) goes into front-wheel skid, it will:
- 7. How many hours may a CMV driver be on duty within a seven-day period?
- 8. 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?
- 9. Controlled braking:
- 10. Stab braking should not be used on vehicles with:
Study Tips for Washington
- 1Master the pre-trip inspection sequence thoroughly
- 2Study hours of service regulations and logbook requirements
- 3Practice weight and space management calculations
- 4Learn all vehicle systems and warning signs
- 5Review your state's commercial driver manual completely
Washington 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
Washington DOL
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
Be Ready for Your Washington General Knowledge Test
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