Free Pennsylvania CDL Practice Tests 2025

• Test Format: Computer-based at Pennsylvania Driver License Centers
• General Knowledge Test: 50 questions, need 80% to pass
• Permit Validity: 1 year (12 months)
• Waiting Period: 14 days before skills test
• Languages: English only
• Fees: CDL Knowledge Test: $10 per test
• Endorsement Fees: Varies based on class and endorsement
• Retesting: Wait one day before retesting

The Pennsylvania CDL knowledge test evaluates your understanding of commercial motor vehicle regulations and safety practices. The test covers federal regulations and Pennsylvania-specific rules to ensure you're prepared to operate commercial vehicles safely. Passing this test is the first step to getting a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP), which you need before taking the skills test for a full CDL. You'll take this computer-based test at Driver License Centers throughout Pennsylvania.

You'll need to take the knowledge test if you're:

• Getting your first CLP
• Adding a new endorsement to your existing license
• Upgrading your CDL class (from B to A, for example)
• Reinstating an expired CDL
• 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).

The knowledge test ensures you have proper training to operate commercial motor vehicles safely on public roads. This is crucial since commercial vehicles can cause significant damage in accidents due to their size and weight. The test verifies your knowledge of regulations, safety procedures, technical information, and emergency protocols. Passing this test is the first step in demonstrating you're ready for commercial driving and helps maintain safety standards while reducing accident risks.

Pennsylvania's CDL test follows Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration standards while incorporating state-specific regulations. This creates consistency in commercial driver qualifications nationwide while addressing Pennsylvania requirements. The test covers general operating skills, air brake systems, combination vehicles, and specific endorsements. Your Pennsylvania CDL will be recognized throughout the United States, allowing you to operate commercial motor vehicles across state lines (provided you meet age and other requirements for interstate commerce).

The Pennsylvania CDL testing system includes different tests with varying numbers of questions:

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

All tests use multiple-choice format with 4 possible answers for each question.

Sample question: When performing a pre-trip inspection of the steering system, you should check for:

• Steering wheel play of more than 5 inches at a 20-inch steering wheel
• Missing bolts, bent parts, or any signs of power steering fluid leaks
• Steering wheel lash of exactly 2 inches
• Loose floor-mounted gear shift lever

Answer: B. Missing bolts, bent parts, or any signs of power steering fluid leaks

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

• 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 section.

The Pennsylvania CDL knowledge test is only offered in English. Federal regulations require commercial drivers to read and speak English sufficiently to understand traffic signs, communicate with officials, complete required records, and understand shipping documents. This ensures all commercial drivers can safely navigate roadways and effectively communicate with law enforcement and emergency services. There are no exceptions to this language requirement for CDL testing in Pennsylvania.

No. You cannot use any reference materials or electronic devices during your CDL test. PennDOT monitors the testing area, and using prohibited materials will result in immediate test failure. All personal items must be stored in a designated area during testing, including:

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

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

The Pennsylvania CDL knowledge test has no time limit, allowing you to work at your own pace. Most applicants complete the general knowledge test in 60-90 minutes and endorsement tests in 30-45 minutes each. Plan accordingly if you're taking multiple tests in one visit. If you have documented learning disabilities or other special needs, accommodations may be available with proper documentation.

Pennsylvania offers several CDL knowledge tests based on the type of commercial motor vehicle you'll be operating:

• General Knowledge – All CDL classes start with this test.
• Air Brakes – For driving vehicles with an air brake system.
• Combination Vehicles – Required for Class A combination vehicles.
• Passenger (P) – Endorsement for drivers of buses and large vans.
• School Bus (S) – Endorsement for drivers of student buses.
• Doubles/Triples (T) – Endorsement to haul multiple trailers.
• Tank Vehicles (N) – Endorsement for liquid and gas tanks.
• Hazardous Materials (H) – Endorsement to haul hazardous cargo.

You only need to take the tests for the type of commercial operation you'll be doing.

Sample question: In a combination vehicle, what happens if the trailer supply valve leaks down during operation?

• The trailer's emergency brakes will come on automatically
• The dash warning light will illuminate but the vehicle can continue safely
• The trailer brakes will gradually lose effectiveness but won't engage
• The tractor protection valve will compensate for the leak automatically

Answer: A. The trailer's emergency brakes will come on automatically

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 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, operating rules, emergency response procedures, and security awareness.

To prepare effectively for your Pennsylvania CDL knowledge test:

• Study all relevant sections of the Pennsylvania CDL manual for your license class and endorsements
• Pay special attention to Pennsylvania-specific regulations
• Take our free practice tests to identify knowledge gaps and focus your study time
• Study over several weeks rather than cramming
• Create flashcards for difficult concepts and technical terms
• Focus extra time on challenging topics like air brakes and hazardous materials
• Review pre-trip inspection procedures thoroughly

The key to success is consistent study over time rather than last-minute cramming.

Yes, our free Pennsylvania CDL practice tests are available online to help you prepare. These practice tests will:

• Help you identify knowledge gaps
• Build confidence through repeated practice
• Simulate the actual test environment and format
• Allow you to track your progress
• Provide explanations for both correct and incorrect answers
• Cover all CDL test categories

Using practice tests has been shown to significantly increase first-time pass rates by familiarizing you with the types of questions you'll see on the actual test.

To maximize your chances of passing:

• Start preparing 2-3 weeks before your test date
• Focus on understanding concepts rather than memorizing answers
• Use our practice tests to identify and strengthen weak areas
• Get plenty of rest the night before the test
• Eat a good meal beforehand to stay focused
• Read questions completely before answering
• Watch for keywords like "always," "never," or "except" that can change the meaning
• Choose safety-oriented answers when unsure
• Review all answers before submitting (if allowed)

Sample question: When hauling a load, what do you do when going down a grade?

• Shift to neutral and use the service brakes as needed
• Use the same gear you would use to climb the hill
• Downshift after you start the descent and get some speed
• Use only the engine brake or retarder the entire way down

Answer: B. Use the same gear you would use to climb the hill

Our practice tests are similar in format and content to the actual Pennsylvania CDL test, though the specific questions will be different. They mirror the style, difficulty level, and content areas of the test, helping you get accustomed to:

• Question formats and wording styles
• Content coverage and depth
• Time management during testing

Focus on understanding concepts rather than memorizing specific answers, as the actual test draws from a large question bank and each test is unique.

You'll take your CDL knowledge test at a Pennsylvania Driver License Center that offers commercial licensing services. Not all centers offer CDL testing, so check the PennDOT website or call ahead to confirm. Major testing locations are in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, Erie, and other cities throughout Pennsylvania.

Appointments are highly recommended for CDL knowledge tests in Pennsylvania. You can schedule your appointment through the PennDOT website or by calling 717-412-5300. Some locations may accept walk-ins, but wait times can be long, and you may not be able to test that day if the center reaches capacity. Having an appointment ensures you'll be tested at your preferred time and location.

No, you cannot take your CDL knowledge test online in Pennsylvania. All CDL knowledge tests must be taken in person at a Driver License Center to ensure security, identity verification, and test integrity. This in-person requirement is a federal regulation that applies to all states. You must plan to visit a physical location to take your test.

When appearing for your Pennsylvania CDL knowledge test, bring:

• Valid Pennsylvania driver's license
• Social Security card/number
• Proof of citizenship/legal residency (birth certificate, passport, or permanent resident card)
• Proof of Pennsylvania residency (two documents showing your Pennsylvania address)
• Current DOT Medical Certificate (Form MCSA-5876)
• Completed CDL application (DL-31CD)
• Self-certification form (DL-11CD)
• Payment for applicable fees

For Hazardous Materials endorsements, additional identification documents for security threat assessment will be required. All documents must be original or certified copies—photocopies are not accepted.

Plan to arrive 15-20 minutes early for your CDL knowledge test to allow time for document verification, application processing, fee payment, and to get settled before the test begins. If you're a first-time applicant, consider arriving 30 minutes early to allow time for paperwork processing. Traffic and parking at Driver License Centers can be unpredictable, so plan accordingly.

If you pass your Pennsylvania CDL knowledge test, you'll receive a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) valid for 12 months. This permit allows you to practice operating commercial motor vehicles under specific conditions:

• Must wait at least 14 days before taking the skills test
• Can only operate with a qualified CDL holder in the passenger seat
• No passengers except supervisors, trainees, or examiners
• Cannot transport hazardous materials
• Other restrictions may apply based on vehicle type and endorsements

Any endorsements you passed tests for will be listed on your CLP.

With your Commercial Learner's Permit, you can practice operating commercial motor vehicles while supervised by a qualified CDL holder. This practice period is crucial for developing the skills needed to pass the subsequent behind-the-wheel skills test. Your practice sessions must always be supervised, and you must follow all restrictions on your permit. Use this time to become comfortable with the vehicle you'll use for the skills test.

Your Pennsylvania CDL knowledge test scores are valid for 12 months, which matches the validity period of your Commercial Learner's Permit. If your CLP expires before you take the skills test, you'll have to retake all knowledge tests. There are no extensions on score validity, so plan to take the skills test within the 12-month window to avoid retesting.

If you don't pass your Pennsylvania CDL knowledge test on the first try:

• You'll have to wait one day before retesting
• You only need to retake the sections you failed, not all tests
• Use practice tests to focus on your weak areas
• Review incorrect answers to understand why they were wrong
• Pennsylvania allows three attempts to pass each knowledge test
• If you fail three times, you must reapply for a CDL learner's permit

If you're struggling with certain topics, consider using different study methods.

Sample question: If you are transporting hazardous materials, where must you keep the shipping papers?

• In a zippered compartment inside your duffle bag
• Within reach while you're driving with your seatbelt on
• In the passenger side door compartment
• Only in the vehicle's glove compartment

Answer: B. Within reach while you're driving with your seatbelt on

After holding your Commercial Learner's Permit for at least 14 days, you can schedule your skills test through the PennDOT website or by calling 717-412-5300. Before scheduling:

• Verify your CLP is valid
• Make sure your medical certificate is current
• Arrange for a test vehicle that matches your CDL class
• Be prepared to pay the skills test fee

Skills tests are conducted at Driver License Centers or through third-party examiners authorized by PennDOT. The skills test consists of three parts: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road operating demonstration.

IMPORTANT: If you need a School Bus "S" endorsement or a Hazardous Materials "H" endorsement, additional requirements apply. For the "S" endorsement, you must complete specialized school bus training. For the "H" endorsement, you must pass a background check through the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).