NC CDL Practice Tests

• Knowledge Testing Locations: All full-service driver license offices
• Skills Testing Sites: 19 locations throughout North Carolina
• Knowledge Test Fee: $43.25 per 3 attempts
• CDL License Fee: $21.50 per year (5 year term)
• Endorsement Fee: $4.25 per year per endorsement
• Required Age: 21 for unrestricted CDL; 18-20 for intrastate only (with restrictions)
• Medical Certificate: Required for most commercial drivers

The North Carolina CDL knowledge examination tests your knowledge of commercial operating regulations. You must pass it to get a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) which is your ticket to the skills test for a full CDL. This test covers vehicle operation, safety standards, traffic laws and safe operating procedures.

The test is given electronically at DMV offices throughout North Carolina. Questions cover both federal regulations and North Carolina specific rules so you have the knowledge to operate a commercial motor vehicle in North Carolina and across state lines if applicable.

You need to take the CDL knowledge test if you:

• Are applying for your first Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP)
• Adding a new endorsement to your existing CDL
• Upgrading your CDL class (from Class B to Class A for example)
• Reinstating an expired CDL (over one year)
• Transferring a CDL from another state with new endorsements

Everyone must take the general knowledge test. Additionally, depending on the endorsements you want, you may need to take additional tests for specific operations like Passenger (P), School Bus (S), Tank Vehicles (N), Hazardous Materials (H) or Doubles/Triples (T).

The CDL knowledge test ensures commercial operators know the regulations and have the knowledge to operate commercial motor vehicles safely. It verifies your knowledge of standards, safety practices, technical knowledge and emergency procedures.

This helps to maintain safety protocols and reduce accident risks on public roads. Commercial motor vehicles can cause significant damage in accidents due to their size and weight so proper knowledge and training is essential before operating these vehicles.

The North Carolina CDL test follows Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration protocols while incorporating state specific regulations. This ensures national consistency in commercial driver qualifications while addressing state specific requirements.

Topics covered include general operating skills, air brake operations, combination vehicles and specific endorsements. Your North Carolina CDL will be recognized throughout the United States and you can operate commercial motor vehicles across state lines (as long as you meet age and other requirements for interstate commerce).

Number of questions varies depending on which test(s) you're taking:

• General Knowledge: 50 questions
• Air Brakes: 25 questions
• Combination Vehicles: 20 questions
• Passenger Endorsement: 20 questions
• School Bus Endorsement: 20 questions
• Hazardous Materials Endorsement: 30 questions
• Tank Vehicles Endorsement: 20 questions
• Doubles/Triples Endorsement: 20 questions

The questions are multiple choice with various possible answers for each question. The tests thoroughly evaluate your knowledge of safety procedures, regulations and technical knowledge of commercial motor vehicles.

Sample question: When checking your vehicle's oil level you should:

• Check while the engine is running
• Check when the engine is off
• Have the oil changed regardless of level
• Only check after driving at least 50 miles

Answer: B. Check when the engine is off

You must answer 80% of questions correctly on each test:

• General Knowledge: 40/50
• Air Brakes: 20/25
• Combination Vehicles: 16/20
• Passenger Endorsement: 16/20
• School Bus Endorsement: 16/20
• Hazardous Materials Endorsement: 24/30
• Tank Vehicles Endorsement: 16/20
• Doubles/Triples Endorsement: 16/20

Each test is scored separately and you only need to retake the test you failed.

The test is only in English. Federal regulations require commercial drivers to read and speak English sufficiently to understand traffic signs, communicate with officials, complete records and understand shipping documents.

This ensures all commercial drivers can safely navigate roadways, communicate with law enforcement and emergency services and properly handle documentation. There are no exceptions to this language requirement for CDL testing in North Carolina.

No. You cannot use notes, electronic devices, reference materials or calculators during the test. Testing areas are monitored and using prohibited materials will result in test failure.

All personal items must be stored in a designated area during testing. Prohibited items include:

• Cell phones and electronic devices
• Notes or cheat sheets
• Commercial Driver License manuals
• Reference materials of any kind
• Calculators (unless authorized for certain questions)

Using prohibited materials during testing will result in immediate disqualification and may affect your ability to test again in the future.

There is no time limit for the test in North Carolina. Most applicants complete the general knowledge test in 60-90 minutes and endorsement tests in 30-45 minutes. Plan accordingly if you're taking multiple tests in one visit.

The DMV gives you sufficient time to complete the tests without rushing. If you have a documented learning disability or other special needs, accommodations may be available with proper documentation.

North Carolina offers the following CDL tests:

• General Knowledge – The main exam all CDL drivers must pass.
• Air Brakes – Required if your vehicle uses air brakes.
• Combination Vehicles – For driving Class A tractor-trailers.
• Passenger (P) Endorsement – For carrying passengers in buses or vans.
• School Bus (S) Endorsement – Needed to legally operate a school bus.
• Doubles/Triples (T) Endorsement – For pulling more than one trailer.
• Tank Vehicles (N) Endorsement – For hauling substances in a tank.
• Hazardous Materials (H) Endorsement – Required to transport hazardous goods.

Each test covers specific knowledge for that class of vehicle or type of operation. You only need to take the tests relevant to the type of commercial operating you plan to do.

Sample question: In a combination vehicle, what happens when the trailer wheels lock up during braking?

• The trailer will automatically straighten out
• The trailer will tend to swing around or jackknife
• The tractor will immediately lose steering capability
• The air pressure will increase in the brake chambers

Answer: B. The trailer will tend to swing around or jackknife

General Knowledge: Vehicle inspection procedures, basic control, shifting gears, space management, night operating, adverse weather conditions, emergency procedures, cargo handling, accident procedures, fires, fatigue awareness, and basic hazardous materials regulations.

Air Brakes: System components and function, dual air brake systems, inspecting air brakes, proper use in various conditions, emergency stops, brake system failures, and brake lag/fade.

Combination Vehicles: Coupling and uncoupling procedures, inspection points, handling characteristics, rollover prevention, jackknife avoidance, turning techniques, and backing procedures for combination vehicles.

Passenger (P): Passenger loading and unloading procedures, proper use of emergency exits, passenger communication, accessibility prerequisites, dealing with disruptive passengers, and railroad crossing prerequisites for passenger vehicles.

School Bus (S): Student loading and unloading procedures, emergency evacuation protocols, operating around schools, railroad crossing procedures, student management, danger zones around the bus, and special equipment.

Doubles/Triples (T): Coupling and uncoupling multiple trailers, handling characteristics during various maneuvers, inspection procedures, identifying and correcting handling problems, and operating in adverse conditions.

Tank Vehicle (N): Liquid surge and weight distribution effects on handling, baffled versus non-baffled tanks, loading/unloading procedures, and special braking for partially full tanks.

Hazardous Materials (H): Classification and identification of hazardous materials, proper documentation, loading/unloading procedures, operating rules, emergency response procedures, and security awareness.

To study for your CDL knowledge test:

• Read all relevant sections of the North Carolina CDL Manual for your license class and endorsements
• Take our free practice tests at to find your weak areas
• Study over several weeks rather than cramming
• Make flashcards for tough concepts and technical terms
• Spend more time on tough topics (air brakes, hazardous materials)
• Review pre-trip inspection procedures thoroughly
• Pay attention to North Carolina specific regulations and requirements
• Study vehicle systems and components until you understand how they work
• Familiarize yourself with all required documentation and procedures

Success comes from studying over time rather than last minute cramming. Many applicants underestimate the technical knowledge required especially for endorsements.

Yes! Our free practice tests are available and will help you:

• Identify knowledge gaps in your understanding
• Build confidence through repeated practice
• Simulate the actual test environment and format
• Track your progress as you improve
• Understand explanations for both correct and incorrect answers
• Get familiar with the types of questions on the actual test

Practice tests cover all CDL test categories and are updated regularly to reflect current testing standards. Using practice tests has been shown to increase first time pass rates.

To maximize your chances:

• Start studying 2-3 weeks before your test date
• Understand concepts not just memorize answers
• Take our practice tests to focus on weak areas
• Get plenty of rest the night before the test
• Eat a good meal before testing to stay focused
• Read questions completely before answering
• Look for keywords like "always," "never," or "except" that can change a question's meaning
• Choose safety oriented answers when unsure
• Review all answers before submitting if the testing system allows
• Stay calm and focused during the test

Sample question: When driving in work zones you should:

• Maintain the same speed as regular traffic
• Slow down and use your four way flashers at all times
• Reduce your speed and watch for workers and equipment
• Increase your speed to get through the zone quickly

Answer: C. Reduce your speed and watch for workers and equipment

Our practice tests cover the same topics and format as the actual test, just different questions. Practice tests help you get familiar with:

• Question formats and wording styles
• Content coverage and depth
• Time management during testing
• Critical thinking skills needed for test success

Focus on understanding concepts not just memorizing answers as the actual test draws from a large question bank and each test is unique.

Knowledge tests are available at all full-service driver license offices throughout North Carolina. To find your nearest location, visit the North Carolina DMV website or call (919) 715-7000.

No, you don't need an appointment for knowledge tests. They are walk-in only at full-service driver license offices.

However, it's recommended to get there early in the day so you have enough time to complete the test before office closes. Morning hours are less busy than afternoon hours.

No. All CDL knowledge tests must be taken in person at authorized DMV offices to ensure security, identity verification and test integrity.

This is a federal requirement that applies to all states, not just North Carolina. In-person testing prevents cheating and ensures the person receiving the CDL is the one who showed the knowledge. There are no exceptions to this rule.

Required documents:

• Valid North Carolina driver's license
• Social Security card/number
• Proof of citizenship/legal residency (birth certificate, passport, permanent resident card, etc.)
• Proof of North Carolina residency (two documents showing your North Carolina address)
• Current DOT Medical Certificate (Form MCSA-5876)
• Completed CDL application
• Payment for applicable fees (cash, check or credit card)
• For Hazardous Materials: Additional identification documents for security threat assessment

All documents must be original or certified copies. Photocopies are not accepted. If you're unsure about document requirements, contact the North Carolina DMV before your test.

Arrive 15-20 minutes early to allow time for:

• Document verification
• Application processing
• Fee payment
• Getting settled before the test

First-time applicants should arrive 30 minutes early to allow time for paperwork processing. Traffic and parking at DMV offices can be unpredictable, so plan accordingly. If you arrive too late in the day, you may be turned away if there's not enough time to complete your test.

If you pass the test(s), you'll receive a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) valid for 12 months with the following conditions:

• Must wait 14 days before taking skills test
• Can only drive a vehicle with a qualified CDL holder in the passenger seat
• No passengers except supervisors, trainees or examiners
• No hazmat
• Other restrictions based on vehicle type/endorsements

Endorsements you passed will be listed on your CLP. Your CLP is your first step to getting a full CDL.

With your CLP you can practice driving commercial vehicles while supervised by a CDL holder before taking your skills test. This practice time is crucial to develop the skills needed to pass the behind the wheel test.

Remember you must have your CLP for at least 14 days before you can take the skills test and you must always be accompanied by a CDL holder when driving a commercial vehicle.

CDL knowledge test scores are valid for 90 days in the NCDMV computer files from the test date. If your CLP expires before you complete the skills test you will need to retake all knowledge tests.

There are no extensions on score validity so plan to complete your skills test within the 90 day window or you will have to retake the knowledge tests.

If you fail:

• Only one attempt at each test per day
• After three attempts if you haven't passed you will have to pay another application fee for three more attempts
• You only have to retake the sections you failed
• Use our practice tests to focus on weak areas
• Review incorrect answers to understand why they were wrong
• Consider studying with different methods if you're struggling with certain topics

When studying after a failed test focus on the areas where you struggled and consider using different study methods to understand difficult topics.

Sample Question: How many times can you take the CDL knowledge test in North Carolina before you have to pay the fee again?

• Two attempts total
• Three attempts per application fee
• Unlimited retakes for 90 days
• You only get one try

Answer: B. Three attempts per application fee

After having your CLP for at least 14 days:

• Skills tests are by appointment only
• Call one of the 19 skills test sites listed on the NCDMV website
• Make sure your CLP is valid and medical certificate is current
• Arrange for a test vehicle that matches your CDL class
• Choose a date and time from available slots

As of February 7, 2022 new CDL applicants must first complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from a provider listed on FMCSA's Training Provider Registry before taking the skills test. The skills test consists of a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control and on-road operating demonstration. Make sure you are prepared for all three parts before scheduling.