How to Pass a CDL Test

Commercial drivers take special tests for licensing.

Drivers need special licensing to drive commercial vehicles that are heavier than common passenger cars, vans and pickup trucks. Each state issues a commercial driver's license, or CDL, to applicants who pass a test. Commercial drivers are responsible for the safety of multiple passengers inside commercial buses and vans. Some commercial vehicles have air brakes, and some transport hazardous materials. A CDL test examines a driver's knowledge of vehicle systems and practices for operating commercial vehicles safely.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Check the state licensing requirements for the types of commercial vehicles you plan to drive. Commercial licenses for various vehicles come in different classes. The tests are different for each commercial license class. Make a list of the endorsements necessary to drive the commercial vehicles you will take out on the road. Each state has additional tests for air brakes and hazardous material transport.

2. Attend a driving school to learn about complicated vehicles such as tractor-trailer rigs. Study the material on combination vehicles, air brakes and other endorsements necessary for a commercial driver's license to operate such vehicles.

3. Study the commercial driver's license hand book published by your state until you have a clear understanding of the material. Driver's handbooks cover all material used for test questions. The test questions are often worded differently than the handbook information to ensure that the driver truly understands the material.

4. Follow a study guide for the CDL test in your state if necessary to gain an understanding of the information. Many states publish a study guide that organizes the test information for easy memorization. Check for such a guide through the online resources from your state department of motor vehicles website.

5. Practice driving the type of commercial vehicle you seek licensing to operate. Use your commercial drivers permit to operate such vehicles with a licensed commercial driver in the cab. Discuss all aspects of driving situations that arise with the license holder.

6. Take a practice test for the written portion of the CDL test. The drivers handbook from many states includes a practice test. Use the practice test to check your understanding of the material you've studied. Schedule a driving test with the local DMV and take the online driver's knowledge test once you feel prepared.

References

• California: Commercial Driver Handbook
• Illinois: CDL Written and Road Test

Resources

• Test Guide: State DMV CDL Manuals