- Updated for October 2024
- Based on 2024 PA commercial driver's license manual
Free Pennsylvania CDL General Knowledge Test 2024 | PA
To become a commercial driver in Pennsylvania you will have to pass a practical driving test, but you will also be required to take a general knowledge test with a minimum pass rate of 80%. This test will assess your knowledge of regulations, driving technique, hazard perception and more. If you want to pass first time, you’re going to need to practice. The 50 questions below are all drawn from the latest Pennsylvania State manual, and there are hints for each question with a full explanation of each answer following. Good luck and safe driving.
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FAQs
How do you obtain a CDL in Pennsylvania?
To get a CDL in Pennsylvania, begin by obtaining a commercial learner’s permit (CLP) after passing the required knowledge tests. Hold the CLP for at least 14 days, then complete CDL training (optional but recommended) and pass the skills test. Make sure to meet all medical and legal requirements.
What is the cost of getting a CDL?
The cost for a CDL in Pennsylvania includes a $35 fee for the knowledge test, a $30 permit fee, and a $91.50 fee for the CDL skills test. Additional costs for CDL training programs vary by school.
How long does CDL training last?
CDL training duration in Pennsylvania varies by program. It typically ranges from a few weeks to several months, depending on whether the training is full-time or part-time and the specific requirements of the CDL class being pursued.
What disqualifies you from getting a CDL?
In Pennsylvania, disqualifications from obtaining a CDL include serious traffic violations, certain criminal convictions, especially related to motor vehicles, and alcohol or controlled substance violations while operating a motor vehicle.
How long is the CDL test?
The Pennsylvania CDL skills test duration varies based on the individual’s performance. It includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills test, and an on-road driving test.
Is CDL school required in Pennsylvania?
CDL school is not mandatory in Pennsylvania, but it is highly recommended for adequate training and preparation for the CDL skills test. Employers may also prefer or require CDL training program completion.
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List of questions (classic view)
- What's the best way to take a curve?
- To transport cargo safely, which of the following are you NOT responsible for?
- Which of the following is NOT a key steering system component?
- If you must stop on a road or the shoulder of a road, you must set out your warning devices within
- For what time should you schedule your trip?
- During your pre-trip inspection, you should do which of the following inside the cab?
- The minimum tire tread depth for front tires is
- Which is NOT one of the four basic skills that operating a commercial motor vehicle requires?
- Total stopping distance equals
- How many tie-downs are required for a 20-foot load?
- Why should you use a helper when you are backing?
- What is the Gross Combination Weight (GCW)?
- Which of the following types of fires should you NOT attempt to extinguish with water?
- Do empty trucks have shorter stopping distances than loaded trucks?
- If you are convicted of knowingly using a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) to transport illegal drugs, you will be disqualified from commercial driving for
- You should put the starter switch key into your pocket while you perform the pre-trip inspection because
- In Pennsylvania, the maximum height of a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) is
- In the dark, what is the maximum distance that you can see with high beams?
- If the engine is not overheated, is it completely safe to remove the radiator cap?
- During your pre-trip test, when examining hoses with the instructor, you need to look for
- How often must you stop to check your cargo while on the road?
- The most important hand signal that you and a helper should agree on is
- When parking your vehicle, you should look for a parking space
- Be especially cautious about crossing a double railroad track because
- When you proceed through an underpass, your vertical clearance may be affected by
- What is the axle weight?
- Why should you complete a post-trip inspection report?
- What's the maximum amount of play that your steering wheel should have?
- What can you do at an accident scene to help avoid another accident?
- How far ahead should you look while driving?
- Which of these is NOT part of the basic method for shifting up?
- Which of the following is most likely to cause a tire fire?
- If ________ or more of the leaves in any leaf spring are broken or missing, the vehicle will be put out of service.
- The heaviest items in your load should be placed
- If you spot a hazard ahead, what should you do first?
- It has just reached freezing. Which of the following areas may be slippery?
- If your brakes get wet, they may
- If you are confronted by an aggressive driver, what should you do?
- What's the definition of a hazard?
- When you start to drive down a steep downgrade, which of the following should influence your choice of speed?
- You should inspect wheel bearing seals for
- Which of the following wheel or rim problems can be hazardous?
- While driving a vehicle with dual tires, you hear a noise that sounds like a tire blowout. However, your vehicle's handling seems unaffected. What should you do?
- If you are being tailgated, you should do all of the following EXCEPT
- Which of the following statements about retarders are correct?
- An antilock braking system (ABS) will
- When you're driving at 55 mph under good driving conditions, your total stopping distance will be
- What will help a drunk sober up?
- Your emergency kit does NOT need to include
- You don't want to be a distracted driver, so you
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