PassMyDMV

California CDL Practice Test

Updated: 2026-06-27

Free practice questions for the California commercial driver license written exams — general knowledge, air brakes, combination vehicles, and every endorsement.

Getting a California CDL means passing federal and state knowledge tests at a California DMV Automated Knowledge Testing Equipment (AKTE) terminal, then completing a three-part CDL skills test. PassMyDMV's CDL question bank covers every knowledge exam you'll face — General Knowledge (50 questions, 80% passing), Air Brakes (25 questions), Combination Vehicles (20), Passenger Transport (20), School Bus (20), Hazmat (30), and Tanker Vehicles (20). Every question cites the page in the official California CDL manual where the rule is explained, so you can study smarter.

About this section of the California test

California's commercial driver license program requires applicants to pass the general knowledge test plus additional tests for specific endorsements as needed. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test and pass tests for any endorsements they're seeking. Available endorsements include Hazmat (H), Passenger (P), School Bus (S), Tank Vehicles (N), Doubles/Triples (T), Air Brakes, and Combination Vehicles. Each endorsement test focuses on specialized knowledge needed to safely operate that type of vehicle. All knowledge tests required by the California DMV must be taken using the Automated Knowledge Testing equipment (AKTE).

2026 California CDL update

California CDL requirements for 2026 are aligned with the latest FMCSA federal standards. Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from an FMCSA-registered provider is mandatory for all first-time Class A or B CDL applicants and for Passenger and School Bus endorsement seekers. Your training provider submits completion to the FMCSA Training Provider Registry before you can schedule your CDL skills test. The Commercial Learner Permit (CLP) must be held for at least 14 days before the skills test. All California CDL knowledge tests are taken in person on AKTE terminals at a DMV office — online testing is not available for CDL. Air brakes knowledge is required for most Class A/B vehicles; skipping that exam results in a permanent air brakes restriction on your license.

Nearby CDL practice tests: NV CDL practice test • AZ CDL practice test • OR CDL practice test

Start practicing

Open the California practice test — pick car, motorcycle, or CDL, then drill quick quizzes or full simulated exams. No account needed to try it. Or create a free account for 25 free practice questions.

Read the source manual

Browse the official California driver manual — every practice question deep-links to the page that explains the rule.

Frequently asked questions

How many questions are on the California CDL general knowledge test?
The California CDL General Knowledge test has 50 multiple-choice questions. You must answer at least 40 correctly (80%) to pass and receive your Commercial Learner Permit (CLP). All CDL knowledge tests and endorsement tests in California use the same 80% passing standard.
What CDL endorsements are available in California?
California CDL holders can add endorsements for Hazardous Materials (H, 30 questions), Tanker Vehicles (N, 20 questions), Double/Triple Trailers (T, 20 questions), Passenger Transport (P, 20 questions), School Bus (S, 20 questions), Air Brakes (25 questions), and Combination Vehicles (20 questions). All endorsement tests require 80% to pass. Hazmat applicants must also pass a TSA security threat assessment.
Do I need to hold a CLP before the CDL skills test in California?
Yes. You must hold a valid Commercial Learner Permit (CLP) for at least 14 days before taking the CDL skills test. The CLP is issued after you pass the required knowledge tests at a California DMV office using AKTE equipment. During the CLP period you must practice only while a qualified CDL holder is seated beside you.
What is the minimum age for a California CDL?
You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a California CDL for intrastate (within California) commercial driving. You must be at least 21 to operate in interstate commerce, transport hazardous materials, or drive a bus that crosses state lines.
What is ELDT and do I need it for a California CDL?
Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) is federally required theory and behind-the-wheel training from an FMCSA-registered provider. It is mandatory for first-time Class A or B CDL applicants and for anyone adding a Passenger (P) or School Bus (S) endorsement. Your provider submits completion to the FMCSA Training Provider Registry before you can take the CDL skills test.
Where do I take the California CDL knowledge test?
All California CDL knowledge tests are administered in person at California DMV offices using Automated Knowledge Testing Equipment (AKTE). Online testing is not available for CDL exams. You must schedule an appointment at a DMV office that has AKTE terminals and bring your application and required documents.

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