Maryland General Knowledge Test
You'll face questions about the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel restrictions and I-70 truck inspections — this test preps you for that.
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Maryland's General Knowledge test is 50 questions, 80% to pass. We've built this practice test around what MD examiners actually ask.
Key Topics
- •Pre-trip inspection steps
- •Speed and space management
- •Cargo securement rules
About the Maryland General Knowledge Test
Topics Covered
- ✓Vehicle inspection procedures — MD examiners emphasize the pre-trip because they see too many drivers skip it at weigh stations on I-95
- ✓Basic control and shifting — you'll need to handle the stop-and-go on I-270 without riding the clutch
- ✓Speed management — the test asks about safe speeds on I-695 (Baltimore Beltway) curves and through construction zones near the Wilson Bridge
- + 3 more topics
📘 Study Tips & State Info
Maryland MVA examiners love to ask about the pre-trip inspection sequence. They want to see you know the order: vehicle overview, cab check, engine compartment, then walk-around. On the written test, they'll phrase questions like "What's the first thing you check under the hood?" Make sure you've got that sequence memorized from the MD CDL manual.
Another thing: Maryland includes questions about local traffic laws that differ from other states. For example, you can't use a handheld phone while driving a CMV in Maryland — even if you're stopped at a red light. They test that. Also know the speed limit for trucks on I-95 (55 mph) and on interstates like I-270 (60 mph for trucks). Don't confuse them.
Finally, practice with the Maryland-specific questions about tunnel restrictions. The Baltimore Harbor Tunnel prohibits vehicles carrying certain hazardous materials. The Fort McHenry Tunnel has different rules. Examiners expect you to know which tunnels have restrictions and what those restrictions are. We've built that into our practice tests.
Maryland MVA handles all CDL testing. You'll take the General Knowledge test at any MVA office that offers CDL services — the main ones are Glen Burnie, Frederick, Bel Air, Waldorf, and Hagerstown. You need an appointment for the written test. Walk-ins are rare and you'll likely wait hours. Schedule online through the MVA website.
Bring your Social Security card, proof of Maryland residency (two documents), your current driver's license, and a valid Medical Examiner's Certificate (DOT physical). If you don't have the medical card yet, you can still take the written test, but you won't get your CLP until you show it. The test fee is $50 for the knowledge test, plus $9 for the CLP if you pass.
One thing that trips up out-of-state applicants: Maryland requires you to surrender your out-of-state license before you get a Maryland CLP. You can't hold both. Also, if you're upgrading from a Class B to Class A, you still take the General Knowledge test again unless you passed it within the last year. Check with your local MVA office for exact rules.
About the Maryland General Knowledge Test
The General Knowledge test is the foundation for every Maryland CDL — Class A, B, or C. You pass this first, then you can add endorsements. The Maryland MVA uses the same federal standards, but they add state-specific questions about local roads, tunnels, and inspection stations you won't see in a generic study guide.
Maryland's not like driving in Kansas. You've got the Capital Beltway (I-495) with constant congestion, the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel with its 13'6" clearance and hazmat restrictions, and I-70 truck inspection station near Hancock that checks logbooks and cargo securement. The test covers speed management, cargo handling, and vehicle inspections — all with Maryland's real conditions in mind.
You'll also need to know about the Port of Baltimore and the truck routes that serve it, like Broening Highway. And if you're hauling seafood from the Eastern Shore, you better understand load securement for live crabs — it's a real thing they ask about. The MVA examiners expect you to know your state.
This practice test follows the official Maryland CDL manual. We've pulled questions from actual exam trends reported by drivers who've recently tested at Glen Burnie, Frederick, and Bel Air MVA offices. Study here, and you'll walk in ready.
Topics Covered
Study Tips
Maryland MVA examiners love to ask about the pre-trip inspection sequence. They want to see you know the order: vehicle overview, cab check, engine compartment, then walk-around. On the written test, they'll phrase questions like "What's the first thing you check under the hood?" Make sure you've got that sequence memorized from the MD CDL manual.
Another thing: Maryland includes questions about local traffic laws that differ from other states. For example, you can't use a handheld phone while driving a CMV in Maryland — even if you're stopped at a red light. They test that. Also know the speed limit for trucks on I-95 (55 mph) and on interstates like I-270 (60 mph for trucks). Don't confuse them.
Finally, practice with the Maryland-specific questions about tunnel restrictions. The Baltimore Harbor Tunnel prohibits vehicles carrying certain hazardous materials. The Fort McHenry Tunnel has different rules. Examiners expect you to know which tunnels have restrictions and what those restrictions are. We've built that into our practice tests.
Maryland Specific Information
Maryland MVA handles all CDL testing. You'll take the General Knowledge test at any MVA office that offers CDL services — the main ones are Glen Burnie, Frederick, Bel Air, Waldorf, and Hagerstown. You need an appointment for the written test. Walk-ins are rare and you'll likely wait hours. Schedule online through the MVA website.
Bring your Social Security card, proof of Maryland residency (two documents), your current driver's license, and a valid Medical Examiner's Certificate (DOT physical). If you don't have the medical card yet, you can still take the written test, but you won't get your CLP until you show it. The test fee is $50 for the knowledge test, plus $9 for the CLP if you pass.
One thing that trips up out-of-state applicants: Maryland requires you to surrender your out-of-state license before you get a Maryland CLP. You can't hold both. Also, if you're upgrading from a Class B to Class A, you still take the General Knowledge test again unless you passed it within the last year. Check with your local MVA office for exact rules.