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  • Updated for December 2024
  • Based on 2024 DC commercial driver's license manual

Free District of Columbia CDL Permit Practice Test: General Knowledge 2024

Washington, D.C., with an area of just 68 square miles, has a gross domestic product (GDP) of $99 billion per year. That’s more than states 2,100 times its size. Such a large GDP would be completely impossible without commercial drivers to move goods and products in and out of the district -- which is where you come in. You will soon receive or renew your commercial driver license (CDL), and this practice quiz will help make that possible by giving you realistic practice for the CDL written exam. These 50 multiple-choice questions cover crucial information from the Washington, D.C. Commercial Driver License Manual, as well as federal and local laws. You’ll be tested on right-of-way rules, braking and shifting techniques, driving in special weather and road conditions, handling emergency situations, and more. Use the hint provided with each question, and read the explanations carefully to ensure that you’ll be able to answer future questions correctly. Come back and keep practicing until you feel comfortable with the information. Good luck on your CDL exams!

FAQs

How can you obtain yours?

To obtain a CDL license in the District of Columbia, first acquire a commercial learner’s permit (CLP) by passing the required knowledge tests. Hold the CLP for at least 14 days before taking the skills test. Then, complete CDL training (recommended) and pass the skills test. Ensure you meet all age and medical requirements.

What is the associated cost?

The cost for a CDL in the District of Columbia includes a $78 fee for the CDL, a $10 fee for the knowledge test, and a $10 fee for the CLP. Additional fees may apply for skills testing and medical examinations.

How many questions are on the official test?

The CDL permit test in the District of Columbia typically consists of 30 to 50 questions, depending on the class of CDL and endorsements. You need to score at least 80% to pass.

What is the minimum age required?

You must be at least 21 years old to obtain a CDL in the District of Columbia for interstate transportation or to transport hazardous materials. For intrastate transportation, the minimum age is 18.

Commercial Driver's License
  • Perfect for first-time and renewal CDL/CLP applicants, and those adding endorsements
  • Triple-checked for accuracy

What you need to know

Available in EN and ES
Verified by Steven Litvintchouk, M.S., Chief Educational Researcher, Member of ACES. See our detailed commitment to accuracy and quality in our practice tests.
Ensuring the accuracy and quality of our program is paramount. Learn more about our rigorous standards in our Commitment to Accuracy article.

What to expect on the actual DC DMV exam

50

questions

40

correct answers to pass

80%

passing score

List of questions (classic view)

  1. Which of the following must you present when applying for your District of Columbia CDL?
  2. What is the most important hand signal that you and a helper should agree on?
  3. In which of the following two conditions should you downshift?
  4. Starting the engine and inspecting the cab involves each of the following tasks, EXCEPT
  5. If you double your speed, how much more distance will it take to stop?
  6. What might happen if you swing wide to the left before you turn right?
  7. It has just reached freezing. Which of the following area(s) may be slippery?
  8. What is the gross vehicle weight (GVW)?
  9. Before transporting a sealed load, you must check
  10. Which of these is NOT part of the basic method of shifting up?
  11. Which of the following factors can influence the safe speed for going down a steep downgrade?
  12. For how long will you lose your CDL driving privileges if you are convicted of a second DUI offense?
  13. You don't want to be a distracted driver, so you
  14. What will help a drunk sober up?
  15. How many tiedowns are required for a 20-foot load?
  16. Hazardous materials placards are
  17. Why should you cover cargo?
  18. If the engine is not overheated, is it completely safe to remove the radiator cap?
  19. You should put the starter switch key into your pocket while you perform the pre-trip inspection because
  20. Tire fires are commonly caused by
  21. What is the best way to figure out how many seconds of following distance you have?
  22. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) will
  23. What is the definition of a hazard?
  24. If you are traveling at 55 mph in a 30-foot vehicle, you should leave ___ seconds of following distance.
  25. The minimum tire tread depth for front tires is
  26. Total stopping distance equals
  27. Which of the following statements about retarders are correct?
  28. To transport cargo safely, which of these are you NOT responsible for?
  29. While driving at night, which lights should you use as often as you can?
  30. Always try to back toward the driver's side because
  31. You should inspect wheel bearing seals for
  32. To help you stay alert and safe while driving, you should
  33. How can you start moving without rolling backward?
  34. How can you determine if your vehicle is equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS)?
  35. What can you do at an accident scene to help prevent another accident?
  36. While you are on the road, how often must you stop to check your cargo?
  37. Letting the air out of hot tires
  38. Which of the following should you NOT do if you experience a tire failure?
  39. During your pre-trip test, when examining hoses with the instructor, you need to look for
  40. If you are confronted by an aggressive driver, you should
  41. Which of the following should you NOT check during a trip?
  42. On wet roads, you should reduce your speed by
  43. Which of the following is a key steering component?
  44. When backing, it is important to use a helper
  45. How long does it take for a typical tractor-trailer to clear a double railroad track?
  46. On which of the following types of fires should you NOT use a B:C fire extinguisher?
  47. How many hours of sleep per night does the average person need to avoid accumulating sleep debt?
  48. Do empty trucks have the best braking?
  49. Where should you place your warning devices if you must stop on a one-way road or divided highway?
  50. Which is NOT one of the four basic skills that the safe operation of a commercial vehicle requires?
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