Delaware General Knowledge Test

Did you know Delaware's I-495 corridor handles over 90,000 trucks daily? Our test includes real-world scenarios from that route.

140
Questions
80%
To Pass
60
Minutes

140 questions · 60 min time limit · 80% to pass

Opens in a practice window — choose your mode inside.

JM

Reviewed by Jack Mahana, CDL Instructor (13+ years)

Last verified: August 2026

All questions sourced from the official Delaware CDL handbook and FMCSA regulations.

About the Delaware General Knowledge Test

Delaware's roads aren't like anywhere else. You'll drive I-95 through Wilmington's tight curves, handle DE-1's beach traffic in summer, and navigate fog rolling off the Delaware Bay. This test covers what you actually need for our state.

We're a small state with big industry. You'll haul poultry from Sussex County, chemicals from the Wilmington area, and agricultural loads through the rural roads. Our General Knowledge Test focuses on vehicle inspection, air brakes, and safe driving—skills that matter here.

Delaware's weather brings unique challenges: coastal fog, nor'easters, and heavy rain. You need to know how to adjust your driving. Our practice questions mirror what the DMV asks.

Don't waste time on generic study materials. Use this test built for Delaware CDL applicants. It's free, it's targeted, and it'll help you pass.

Delaware may be small, but I-95 runs straight through it, connecting the Northeast corridor. The state is also home to the Port of Wilmington, which handles container and bulk cargo. Our general knowledge practice test mirrors the official Delaware DMV CDL written exam.

The I-95 corridor through Wilmington carries dense through-freight between Maryland and Pennsylvania, and the Delaware Memorial Bridge (I-295) connects Delaware to New Jersey with heavy commercial traffic. The exam tests space management, bridge awareness, and port-area driving.

Topics Covered

Vehicle Inspection – Delaware requires a full pre-trip. You'll face agricultural equipment on rural roads and need to spot defects.
Air Brakes – Hilly zones near Wilmington and the I-495 corridor demand proper braking technique. Questions cover adjustment, leaks, and emergency stops.
Safe Driving – Coastal fog and sudden storms test your judgment. Our questions reflect Delaware's variable weather.
Cargo Handling – Poultry trucks and chemical haulers have different weight and tie-down rules. Know them before deployment.
Traffic Laws – Delaware's unique speed zones (e.g., 65 mph on I-95 but 50 mph in construction areas) appear on the test.
Hours of Service – Logbooks matter for intrastate runs. Delaware's ag exemptions have specific rules you must understand.

Study Tips

Book your appointment at a Delaware DMV location early – slots fill up fast, especially in Dover and Wilmington. Bring your birth certificate, Social Security card, and proof of residency. Don't forget your medical certificate (DOT card).

Take our practice test at least three times. Focus on your wrong answers. Delaware's test draws from a pool of 100+ questions, but patterns repeat. You'll see similar wording to our practice test.

Use the Delaware CDL Handbook (free online). Read Chapter 2 (Vehicle Inspection) carefully – it's the longest section on the real exam. Then take our test to lock in the knowledge.

Delaware Specific Information

  • Delaware offers CDL knowledge testing at three DMV locations: Dover (central), Wilmington (New Castle County), and Georgetown (Sussex County). All locations require an appointment – walk-ins are rarely accepted. Schedule online at dmv.de.gov. The General Knowledge Test costs $30 (cash or card).

    You'll have 60 minutes to answer 50 questions. The test is computer-based. You'll get your score immediately after the last question. If you fail (score below 80%), you can retake after one business day. No limit on retakes, but each attempt costs $30.

    Bring a valid photo ID and your Social Security card. Non-U.S. citizens need proof of lawful presence. Delaware accepts foreign language interpreters at no extra cost – just request one when you book.

  • The Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles requires a knowledge test for all CDL classes; the general knowledge exam is the foundation for every commercial license.
  • The Port of Wilmington handles container and bulk cargo — drayage traffic is present on I-95 and US-13.
  • The Delaware Memorial Bridge (I-295) carries heavy commercial traffic between Delaware and New Jersey; height and lane restrictions apply.
  • I-95 through Wilmington is a high-density corridor requiring constant scanning and space management.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a CDL for a farm truck in Delaware?
It depends. If your truck's GVWR is over 26,001 lbs and you travel more than 150 air miles from the farm, you need a CDL. Delaware's agricultural exemption only applies for intrastate, on-farm use. Check the handbook for exact rules.
Can I take the Delaware General Knowledge Test in Spanish?
Yes. Delaware offers the test in Spanish, and you can request an interpreter for any other language. When you book your appointment, mention your language preference. There's no extra fee.
How long is the Delaware CDL General Knowledge Test?
You get 60 minutes for 50 multiple-choice questions. Most people finish in 30–40 minutes. You need 40 correct answers (80%) to pass. The computer shows you one question at a time – you can't go back.
Are walk-ins allowed at Delaware DMV for CDL knowledge tests?
No. Walk-ins are not accepted at any Delaware DMV location for CDL tests. You must schedule an appointment online at dmv.de.gov. Walk-ins are turned away, even if you drove two hours to get there.
What happens if I fail the Delaware CDL General Knowledge Test?
You can retake it the next business day. There's no limit on retakes, but you pay the $30 fee each time. Use the waiting day to study our practice test – it'll help you spot your weak areas.
JM

Reviewed by Jack Mahana, CDL Instructor (13+ years)

Last verified: August 2026 · FMCSA-compliant content