How Many Questions Are on the CDL Test? (State-by-State 2026 Guide)
By Penn Mahana | Published 2026-08-05
The CDL General Knowledge test has 50 questions. You need 40 correct answers (80%) to pass. Most states give you 60 minutes to complete the test. Endorsement tests range from 20 to 30 questions each, with the same 80% passing threshold. If you're applying for multiple endorsements, you could face 100+ questions across all your tests.
CDL General Knowledge Test Breakdown
The General Knowledge test is the core exam every CDL applicant must pass. It covers the fundamentals of safe commercial vehicle operation as outlined in your state's CDL Manual.
| Detail | Specification |
|---|---|
| Total questions | 50 |
| Passing score | 80% (40 out of 50) |
| Time limit | 60 minutes (typical; varies by state) |
| Format | Multiple choice, computer-based |
| Question source | State CDL Manual (based on FMCSA Model Manual) |
Topics Covered
The General Knowledge test draws from three core sections of the CDL Manual:
- Driving Safely: Vehicle inspection, basic control, shifting gears, seeing and communicating, speed management, space management, hazard awareness, emergency maneuvers, skid control, and railroad crossings
- Transporting Cargo Safely: Cargo inspection, weight and balance, securing cargo, and special cargo types
- Air Brakes (if applicable): Air brake system components, inspection procedures, and safe operation
The questions are not evenly distributed — expect heavier emphasis on Driving Safely (roughly 60-70% of questions) with the remainder split between cargo handling and vehicle systems.
CDL Endorsement Test Question Counts
Each endorsement requires a separate knowledge test. Here's what you're facing for each:
| Endorsement | Questions | Passing Score | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hazmat (H) | 30 | 80% (24/30) | Requires TSA background check |
| Tanker (N) | 20 | 80% (16/20) | Liquid surge, weight distribution |
| Passenger (P) | 20 | 80% (16/20) | Loading, emergency exits, passenger safety |
| School Bus (S) | 25 | 80% (20/25) | Loading/unloading, student management |
| Doubles/Triples (T) | 20 | 80% (16/20) | Coupling, stability, converter dollies |
| Air Brakes | 25 | 80% (20/25) | Required to remove L restriction |
| Combination Vehicles | 20 | 80% (16/20) | Required for Class A |
If you're going for a full Class A with Hazmat and Tanker endorsements, you're looking at:
- General Knowledge: 50 questions
- Air Brakes: 25 questions
- Combination Vehicles: 20 questions
- Hazmat: 30 questions
- Tanker: 20 questions
- Total: 145 questions across 5 tests
CDL Test Questions by State
While the General Knowledge test is 50 questions in every state, some states have additional state-specific questions or slightly different passing requirements. Here's the full breakdown:
| State | General Knowledge | Passing Score | State-Specific Questions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Alaska | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Arizona | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Arkansas | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| California | 50 | 80% (40/50) | Yes | CA-specific rules on mountain driving, chain requirements, and intrastate regulations |
| Colorado | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Connecticut | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Delaware | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| District of Columbia | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Florida | 50 | 80% (40/50) | Yes | FL-specific agricultural vehicle rules and intrastate exemptions |
| Georgia | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Hawaii | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Idaho | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Illinois | 50 | 80% (40/50) | Yes | IL-specific weight restrictions, bridge laws, and seasonal load limits |
| Indiana | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Iowa | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Kansas | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Kentucky | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Louisiana | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Maine | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Maryland | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Massachusetts | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Michigan | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Minnesota | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Mississippi | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Missouri | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Montana | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Nebraska | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Nevada | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| New Hampshire | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| New Jersey | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| New Mexico | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| New York | 50 | 80% (40/50) | Yes | NY-specific Article 19-A rules for passenger transport, NYC-specific hazmat routes |
| North Carolina | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| North Dakota | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Ohio | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Oklahoma | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Oregon | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Pennsylvania | 50 | 80% (40/50) | Yes | PA-specific weight class definitions, seasonal restrictions, and bridge posting rules |
| Rhode Island | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| South Carolina | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| South Dakota | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Tennessee | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Texas | 50 | 80% (40/50) | Yes | TX-specific oilfield equipment rules, oversize load permits, and intrastate weight limits |
| Utah | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Vermont | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Virginia | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Washington | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| West Virginia | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Wisconsin | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No | |
| Wyoming | 50 | 80% (40/50) | No |
Note: While the General Knowledge test is standardized at 50 questions nationwide, endorsement test question counts may vary slightly by state. Always confirm with your local DMV.
How the CDL Test Is Scored
The CDL knowledge tests use a straightforward scoring system:
- Passing threshold: 80% correct on each individual test
- No averaging: You can't pass General Knowledge with a 90% to make up for a 70% on Air Brakes. Each test stands alone.
- Immediate results: Most states show your score immediately after you finish. You'll know whether you passed before you leave the testing terminal.
- Question weighting: All questions are weighted equally. There are no "bonus" questions or extra-credit items.
What Happens If You Fail?
Failing a CDL knowledge test isn't the end of the road, but it does cost time and money.
Retake policies by state (typical):
Note: Retake fees vary by state and are subject to change. The ranges below reflect typical costs as of 2026. Check your state DMV for current fees.
| State | Retake Waiting Period | Retake Fee (Typical Range) | Max Attempts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Most states | 1 day | $10–$25 per test | 3 before reapplication |
| California | 1 day | $10–$15 per retake | No stated limit |
| Texas | 1 day | $10–$15 per test | No stated limit |
| Florida | 1 day | $10–$15 per retake | No stated limit |
| New York | 1 day | $10–$15 per test | No stated limit |
| Illinois | 1 day | $10–$15 per test | No stated limit |
| Pennsylvania | 1 day | $10–$15 per test | No stated limit |
What to do if you fail:
- Review your score report — most states show which sections you missed
- Re-study those specific sections in the CDL Manual
- Take targeted practice tests on your weak areas
- Retake the test after the waiting period
- If you fail three times, you may need to reapply for your CLP
How to Prepare for the CDL Test
1. Read your state's CDL Manual.
Every test question comes from this document. Read it cover to cover at least once. The manual is free from your state DMV — get the latest version.
2. Take practice tests.
The single most effective way to prepare. Practice tests help you identify weak areas, get comfortable with the question format, and build confidence. Focus on the sections where you're scoring below 80%.
3. Study by section, not by question.
Don't just memorize answers — understand the concepts. The actual test may phrase questions differently than your practice tests.
4. Focus on numbers.
Speed limits, stopping distances, weight limits, inspection intervals — these make up a significant portion of the test and are easy to get wrong if you haven't memorized them.
5. Don't skip Air Brakes.
Even if you're not planning to drive air brake vehicles, removing the L restriction is worth the effort. It opens up more job opportunities.
Ready to start practicing? Our CDL practice tests cover every section of the General Knowledge test, with state-specific questions and detailed explanations for every answer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many questions can I miss and still pass?
You can miss up to 10 questions on the General Knowledge test (50 questions, 80% passing). For a 20-question endorsement test, you can miss up to 4. For a 30-question Hazmat test, you can miss up to 6.
Is the CDL test timed?
Most states allow 60 minutes for the General Knowledge test, which is more than enough if you're prepared. Endorsement tests typically have proportional time limits (20-30 minutes). If you need more time due to a disability, request an accommodation when scheduling.
Are the questions the same in every state?
The core questions are based on the FMCSA Model CDL Manual and are similar nationwide, but states may use different question pools, slightly different wording, or add state-specific questions. Always study your state's CDL Manual.
Can I take the CDL test online?
Most states require in-person testing at a DMV office or authorized third-party testing center. Some states offer online CDL knowledge testing through approved providers — check with your state DMV for availability.
What's the hardest CDL endorsement test?
Hazmat (30 questions) is generally considered the most challenging due to the volume of regulations, placarding rules, and security requirements. Air Brakes (25 questions) is also challenging for those unfamiliar with air brake systems.
Do I have to pass all endorsement tests at once?
No. You can take endorsement tests separately. Many drivers get their base CDL first, then add endorsements later as their career needs change. Each endorsement test is independent.
Ready to Ace Your CDL Test?
You know exactly how many questions you'll face and what it takes to pass. Now it's time to put in the work.
CDL Study Buddy has the practice tests, progress tracking, and state-specific content to get you from "where do I even start?" to "I passed." No gimmicks. No paywalls hiding the good stuff. Just the tools you need to walk into that DMV and walk out with your permit.
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Learn MoreWritten by Penn Mahana — Copywriter & Conversion Content Specialist
Brief by Stratton Mahana — Senior Content Strategist & SEO & Editorial Lead
2026-08-05