Free New Jersey CDL Practice Tests 2025

• Test Format: Computer-based at New Jersey MVC offices
• General Knowledge Test: 50 questions, need 80% to pass
• Permit Validity: 180 days (renewable)
• Waiting Period: 14 days before skills test
• Languages: English only
• Fees: $125 for initial CDL license
• Endorsement Fees: $10 for most endorsements (Hazmat, Tank, etc.)
• Retesting: Wait until next business day to retest

The New Jersey CDL knowledge test is a test of your knowledge of commercial driving regulations. You must pass this test to get a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) which is required before you can take the skills test for a full CDL. The test covers vehicle operation, safety regulations, traffic laws and safe operating procedures. It's taken electronically at MVC offices throughout New Jersey. Questions cover federal regulations and New Jersey specific rules so you have the knowledge to operate commercial vehicles in New Jersey and across state lines if applicable.

You need to take the test if you're:

• Getting your first CLP
• Adding a new endorsement
• 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

All applicants must take the general knowledge test plus additional tests for specific endorsements like Passenger (P), School Bus (S), Tank Vehicles (N), Hazmat (H), or Doubles/Triples (T). Each endorsement has its own test for that specific vehicle or cargo type.

The test ensures commercial drivers have the knowledge to operate commercial vehicles safely. It verifies knowledge of regulations, safety practices, technical knowledge and emergency procedures. This helps maintain safety standards and reduces accident risks on public roads. Commercial vehicles can cause significant damage in accidents because of their size and weight so proper knowledge and training is essential before operating these vehicles. The knowledge test is the first step in making sure you're ready for the responsibility of commercial driving.

The test follows Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration standards with New Jersey specific regulations. This ensures national consistency in commercial driver qualifications while addressing state specific requirements. Topics covered are general driving skills, air brake operations, combination vehicles and specific endorsements. This means your New Jersey CDL will be recognized throughout the United States and you can operate commercial vehicles across state lines (as long as you meet age and other requirements for interstate commerce).

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

The questions are multiple choice with 4 possible answers for each question. The tests are designed to thoroughly test your knowledge of safety procedures, regulations and technical knowledge of commercial vehicles.

Sample question: When inspecting your engine compartment, you should check for:

• Leaking antifreeze only
• Oil and fuel leaks only
• Worn belts and hoses only
• All fluid leaks, worn belts and damaged hoses

Answer: D. All fluid leaks, worn belts and damaged hoses

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
• Hazmat Endorsement: 24/30
• Tank Vehicles Endorsement: 16/20
• Doubles/Triples Endorsement: 16/20

Each test is scored separately and you must pass each one individually. If you fail one test but pass others you'll only need to retest the failed test.

English only. 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 New Jersey.

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. This includes:

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

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

No time limit but most applicants complete the general knowledge test in 60-90 minutes. Most endorsement tests take 30-45 minutes each. Plan accordingly if taking multiple tests in one visit. The MVC provides sufficient time to complete the tests without rushing. If you have documented learning disabilities or other special needs, accommodations may be available with proper documentation.

• General Knowledge – Basic CDL exam taken by all applicants.
• Air Brakes – Required for vehicles with air braking systems.
• Combination Vehicles – Needed to operate tractor-trailer setups.
• Passenger (P) Endorsement – For any vehicle carrying passengers.
• School Bus (S) Endorsement – To drive school buses legally.
• Doubles/Triples (T) Endorsement – For towing multiple trailers.
• Tank Vehicles (N) Endorsement – For transporting materials in tanks.
• Hazardous Materials (H) Endorsement – Needed for hazmat loads.

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 driving you plan to do.

Sample question: What do you do when driving a tanker and you need to stop suddenly?

• Slam on the brakes
• Pump the brakes
• Apply controlled braking or stab braking
• Turn the steering wheel sharply in the opposite direction

Answer: C. Apply controlled braking or stab braking

General Knowledge: Vehicle inspection procedures, basic control, shifting gears, space management, night driving, 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 requirements, dealing with disruptive passengers and railroad crossing requirements 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.

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

• Study all relevant sections for your license class and endorsements
• Take our free practice tests to familiarize yourself with question formats
• Create a study schedule over several weeks rather than cramming
• Make flashcards for difficult concepts and technical terms
• Focus extra time on challenging topics (air brakes, hazmat)
• Review the pre-trip inspection procedures thoroughly
• Pay attention to New Jersey specific regulations and requirements
• Study vehicle systems and components until you understand how they function
• Familiarize yourself with all required documentation and procedures
• Review the official New Jersey CDL Manual

The key to success is consistent study over time rather than last minute cramming. Many applicants underestimate the technical knowledge required especially for specialized endorsements.

Yes! Our free New Jersey CDL practice tests will help you:

• Identify knowledge gaps in your understanding
• Practice multiple times
• Test in the actual test environment and format
• Track your progress
• Get explanations for correct and incorrect answers
• Get familiar with the types of questions on the actual test

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

• 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
• Eat a good meal before testing
• Read questions completely before answering
• Look for keywords like "always," "never," or "except" that can change the question
• Choose safety answers when unsure
• Review all answers before submitting if allowed
• Stay calm and focused

Sample question: What should you do when road conditions are slippery?

• Drive at the posted speed
• Increase your following distance
• Follow other vehicles closely
• Brake hard to slow down

Answer: B. Increase your following distance

Our practice tests cover the same topics and format as the actual test, but questions are different. Questions are written in the same style, difficulty and content as the actual New Jersey CDL knowledge test. Our practice tests help you get familiar with:

• Question formats and wording
• Content coverage and depth
• Time management
• Critical thinking

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

At New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) agencies that offer commercial licensing services. Not all MVC agencies provide CDL testing, so check the MVC website or call ahead to confirm. Testing locations have special equipment and staff for CDL testing. Major testing locations are in Newark, Trenton, Camden, Paterson and other cities throughout New Jersey.

Yes, appointments are required. Schedule through:

• NJMVC website
• 609-292-6500

Scheduling an appointment ensures you'll be tested at your preferred time and location. Walk-ins are not accepted for CDL testing.

No. All CDL knowledge tests must be taken in person at authorized MVC agencies to ensure security, identity verification and test integrity. This is a federal requirement that applies to all states, not just New Jersey. In-person testing prevents cheating and ensures the person receiving the CDL is the one who demonstrated the knowledge.

Required documents:

• New Jersey driver's license
• Social Security card/number
• Proof of citizenship/legal residency (birth certificate, passport, permanent resident card, etc.)
• Proof of New Jersey residency (two documents showing your New Jersey address)
• Current DOT Medical Certificate (Form MCSA-5876)
• Completed CDL application
• Payment for applicable fees

For Hazardous Materials: Additional identification documents for security threat assessment

Other:

• Reading glasses if needed
• Appointment confirmation
• Knowledge of your medical history for medical certification

All documents must be original or certified copies. Photocopies are not accepted. If you're unsure about document requirements, contact the MVC before your appointment or visit the New Jersey MVC document requirements page.

Arrive 15-20 minutes early to allow time for:

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

If you arrive late, you may have to reschedule. First-time applicants should arrive 30 minutes early to allow time for paperwork processing. Traffic and parking at MVC agencies can be unpredictable, so plan accordingly.

You'll receive a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) valid for 180 days with these conditions:

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

Specific endorsements you passed tests for will be included on your CLP.

Practice driving commercial vehicles while supervised before taking your skills test. This practice time is crucial to develop the skills needed to pass the behind-the-wheel test. Your CLP allows you to:

• Drive on public roads with a qualified CDL holder supervising
• Practice all required skills test maneuvers
• Become familiar with the commercial vehicle you'll use for testing
• Learn proper shifting, backing, and maneuvering techniques
• Develop confidence in commercial vehicle operation

You cannot transport passengers (other than authorized trainers) or hazardous materials with a CLP.

Scores are valid for 180 days, same as your CLP. If your CLP expires before you take the skills test, you'll need to retest all knowledge tests. Your CLP can be renewed for an additional 180 days, but after that you'll need to retest. This ensures your knowledge is current when you get your full CDL.

If you fail:

• Wait until the next business day to retest
• Only retest 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 particular topics

There's no limit to how many times you can retest, but repeated failures may mean you need more preparation.

Sample question: If you fail the Hazmat knowledge test, what must you do?

• Wait 30 days before retaking the test
• Retake both the General Knowledge and Hazmat tests
• Wait until the next business day to retake only the Hazmat test
• Complete additional training before retesting

Answer: C. Wait until the next business day to retake only the Hazmat test

After holding your CLP for at least 14 days:

• Visit the NJMVC website or call 609-292-6500
• Make sure your CLP is valid and medical certificate is current
• Arrange for a test vehicle that matches your CDL class
• Pay the skills test fee
• Choose a date and time from available slots

Skills tests are conducted at designated MVC agencies. The skills test consists of a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control and on-road driving demonstration. Make sure you're prepared for all three parts before scheduling.