CDL: The Required Exam for Commercial Drivers in the U.S.
TThe Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) exam is a federal requirement for anyone who wants to legally operate commercial vehicles — including trucks, buses, and tankers — in the United States. Regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and administered by each state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), the exam ensures that drivers have the knowledge and skills to operate safely on public roads.
To obtain a CDL, drivers must pass a written knowledge test and a practical skills test.
- Format: Multiple-choice tests + practical driving test
- General Knowledge Test: Approximately 50 questions
- Endorsement Tests: Typically 20–30 questions each
- Passing Score: Usually 80%
- Eligibility: Valid driver’s license, minimum age 18 (21+ for interstate driving), DOT medical exam
- Based on: Official CDL manuals published by each state under FMCSA guidelines
- Test Location: Local DMV or authorized test centers
Successfully passing the CDL exam qualifies you to operate commercial vehicles across the U.S.