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300+ Free AK CDL General Knowledge Practice Questions

Pass your Alaska CDL General Knowledge Test exam on the first try — instant access, no signup required.

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If fog becomes so thick that you cannot see the road ahead, what should you do?

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2026 Statistics

Key Facts: AK CDL General Knowledge Exam

80%

Federal CDL Knowledge-Test Passing Score

49 CFR §383.135

$15

Commercial Instruction Permit Fee

Alaska DMV License Fees

$100 / $120

Standard CDL / REAL ID CDL Fee

Alaska DMV License Fees

$25

Commercial Road Test Fee

Alaska DMV License Fees

All applicants

General Knowledge Test Applies To

Alaska CDL Manual

20 areas

Federal General Knowledge Areas

49 CFR §383.111

Study the Alaska Commercial Driver License Manual sections covering General Knowledge, especially inspection, safe control, speed/space, communication, adverse conditions, emergencies, cargo, fatigue, and alcohol/drug rules. Alaska DMV charges $15 for a commercial instruction permit, $100 for a standard CDL or $120 for a REAL ID CDL, and $25 for a commercial road test. Under 49 CFR §383.135, each CDL knowledge test requires at least 80% correct to pass.

Sample AK CDL General Knowledge Practice Questions

Try these sample questions to test your AK CDL General Knowledge exam readiness. Each question includes a detailed explanation. Start the interactive quiz above for the full 300+ question experience with AI tutoring.

1What is the first step in the seven-step pre-trip inspection method?
A.Approach the vehicle and check its general condition
B.Check under the hood
C.Start the engine and inspect inside the cab
D.Walk around and inspect the entire vehicle
Explanation: The first step of the seven-step pre-trip inspection is to approach the vehicle and look at its general condition. This includes checking for damage, whether the vehicle is leaning to one side, and looking under the vehicle for fresh leaks of oil, coolant, grease, or fuel. This initial overview can immediately reveal serious problems before you invest time in a detailed inspection.
2During a pre-trip inspection, what should you check in the engine compartment?
A.Only the oil level
B.Oil level, coolant level, power steering fluid, belts, and hoses
C.Only the coolant level and belts
D.Only items visible without opening any caps
Explanation: A thorough engine compartment inspection includes checking the oil level, coolant level in the radiator, power steering fluid, condition of belts and hoses for wear or cracks, and looking for leaks. You should also check the alternator, water pump, air compressor, and any other belt-driven components. Checking only one or two items could mean missing a critical problem that leads to a breakdown or safety hazard on the road.
3When performing a pre-trip inspection, the driver should ensure that the steering wheel free play (lash) does not exceed what limit?
A.5 degrees in either direction
B.10 degrees in either direction (approximately 2 inches on a 20-inch wheel)
C.15 degrees in either direction
D.20 degrees in either direction
Explanation: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require that steering wheel free play (lash) not exceed 10 degrees in either direction, which translates to roughly 2 inches of movement on a 20-inch diameter steering wheel before the front wheels begin to turn. Excessive free play indicates worn steering components and can make precise steering difficult, especially in emergency maneuvers. A vehicle with excessive steering lash would be placed out of service.
4During the cab check portion of a pre-trip inspection, you should test the parking brake by:
A.Driving forward slowly and applying the parking brake
B.Putting the vehicle in gear with the parking brake set and gently pressing the accelerator to see if the vehicle holds
C.Visually checking that the parking brake handle is in the correct position
D.Checking the parking brake cable under the vehicle
Explanation: To properly test the parking brake, set the parking brake, put the vehicle in a low gear, and gently press the accelerator to see if the brake holds the vehicle in place. This functional test confirms the parking brake can actually prevent the vehicle from moving, which is essential for safety when parked on grades. A visual check alone is insufficient because it does not verify that the brake mechanism is actually functioning properly.
5Which emergency equipment is required to be on a commercial motor vehicle?
A.Fire extinguisher, spare fuses, and three red reflective triangles
B.First aid kit, fire extinguisher, and flares only
C.Fire extinguisher and road flares only
D.Spare tire, jack, and reflective vest
Explanation: Arizona CDL Manual and federal regulations require every commercial motor vehicle to carry a properly charged and rated fire extinguisher (minimum 5 B:C rating, or two 4 B:C extinguishers), spare electrical fuses (unless the vehicle has circuit breakers), and three red reflective warning triangles (or equivalent). These items are checked during inspections and roadside enforcement stops. A vehicle missing any of these required items can be cited for a violation.
6A post-trip inspection report is important because:
A.It is only required for vehicles carrying hazardous materials
B.It alerts the carrier to vehicle defects that may need repair before the vehicle is driven again
C.It replaces the need for the next driver to do a pre-trip inspection
D.It is optional but recommended by the FMCSA
Explanation: The post-trip inspection report (also called a DVIR, or Driver Vehicle Inspection Report) is required by Arizona CDL Manual and FMCSA regulations (49 CFR 396.11). Its purpose is to document any defects or deficiencies discovered at the end of the trip so the carrier can arrange repairs before the vehicle is dispatched again. The next driver must review the previous post-trip report and verify that any noted defects have been repaired or certified as not needing repair. It does not replace the next driver's pre-trip inspection obligation.
7During a pre-trip inspection, the driver notices a coolant leak near the water pump. What should the driver do?
A.Note it on the report and drive carefully to the next service stop
B.Add more coolant and continue the trip
C.Do not drive the vehicle until the leak is repaired
D.Drive only short distances and monitor the temperature gauge
Explanation: A coolant leak is a serious defect that can lead to engine overheating and catastrophic engine failure. The vehicle should not be driven until the leak is repaired. Driving with a coolant leak risks engine damage, potential fire (if coolant contacts hot exhaust components), and could result in a roadside breakdown in an unsafe location. Arizona CDL Manual and FMCSA regulations require that defects affecting safe operation be corrected before the vehicle is driven.
8Which of the following is an out-of-service condition that would prevent a vehicle from being driven?
A.A small crack in the windshield that does not obstruct the driver's view
B.A missing mud flap on a rear wheel
C.Brake lining thickness below the minimum allowed by regulations
D.A broken antenna on the CB radio
Explanation: Brake lining worn below the minimum thickness specified in FMCSA out-of-service criteria is a critical safety defect. The North American Standard Out-of-Service Criteria lists specific thresholds: brake lining must not be less than 1/4 inch thick at the thinnest point for air-braked vehicles. When brake linings are too thin, braking effectiveness is severely compromised, and the vehicle must be placed out of service until repairs are made. A small windshield crack not in the driver's view, a missing mud flap, or a broken CB antenna are defects but not typically out-of-service conditions.
9During the pre-trip inspection, which of the following should a driver check regarding the exhaust system?
A.Only that the muffler is present
B.That the exhaust system is secure, not leaking, and not in contact with fuel lines, wiring, or air lines
C.Only that exhaust fumes are not entering the cab
D.That the catalytic converter is functioning properly by checking emissions color
Explanation: When inspecting the exhaust system, the driver should verify that all components are properly mounted and secured, there are no leaks (which could allow poisonous carbon monoxide to enter the cab), and the exhaust system is not in contact with fuel supply lines, wiring, or air brake lines. Heat from the exhaust can damage these components, potentially causing fuel leaks, electrical fires, or brake failures. A complete exhaust system inspection goes beyond just checking for the presence of a muffler.
10What is the minimum tread depth required for steer axle tires on a commercial motor vehicle?
A.2/32 of an inch
B.4/32 of an inch
C.6/32 of an inch
D.1/32 of an inch
Explanation: Arizona CDL Manual and federal regulations require steer axle tires to have a minimum tread depth of 4/32 of an inch (approximately 3.2 mm) in every major groove. Steer tires have a higher minimum than other axle positions (which require only 2/32 of an inch) because the steer tires are critical for directional control of the vehicle. Tires below this minimum are considered unsafe and will result in a violation or out-of-service order during an inspection.

About the AK CDL General Knowledge Exam

The Alaska CDL General Knowledge Test is the core written knowledge exam for commercial learner permit and CDL applicants in Alaska. Alaska uses the Commercial Driver License Manual, which identifies General Knowledge as a test taken by all applicants and covers CDL licensing, safe CMV operation, inspection, shifting, backing, space and speed management, night and adverse-weather driving, hazards, emergencies, cargo, and railroad crossing safety. Federal CDL rules in 49 CFR Part 383 require CMV operators to know 20 general areas, including safe operations regulations, vehicle control systems, basic control, shifting, backing, visual search, communication, speed and space management, night operation, extreme conditions, hazard perception, emergency maneuvers, skid recovery, cargo securement, inspections, mountain driving, fatigue, and alcohol/drug effects. Alaska DMV publishes commercial licensing logistics separately: a commercial instruction permit is $15, a standard CDL is $100, a REAL ID CDL is $120, and a commercial road test is $25. Federal rules require at least 80% correct on each CDL knowledge test.

Assessment

Multiple-choice CDL knowledge test; General Knowledge is required for all CDL applicants, with separate tests for air brakes, combination vehicles, and endorsements when applicable.

Time Limit

No universal Alaska DMV time limit published for the General Knowledge test

Passing Score

80% on each CDL knowledge test under 49 CFR §383.135

Exam Fee

$15 commercial instruction permit; $100 standard CDL or $120 REAL ID CDL; $25 commercial vehicle road test (Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles)

AK CDL General Knowledge Exam Content Outline

Core section

Vehicle Inspection and Safety Systems

Approach inspection, engine compartment, cab checks, brakes, tires, lights, mirrors, emergency equipment, suspension, steering, leaks, and defect reporting.

Core section

Basic Vehicle Control

Starting, stopping, shifting, backing, turns, off-tracking, curves, speed before ramps, overhead clearance, and vehicle control under load.

Core section

Seeing, Communication, Speed, and Space

Looking 12-15 seconds ahead, checking mirrors, signaling, managing following distance, protecting side space, and choosing gaps with CMV acceleration limits.

Core section

Night, Weather, Mountains, and Emergencies

Low/high-beam limits, fog, black ice, packed snow, crosswinds, hydroplaning, brake failure, blowouts, fires, crash procedures, and drowsy driving.

Core section

Cargo and Weight Management

Cargo securement checks, tie-downs, load binders, blocking and bracing, weight distribution, axle/GVWR/GCWR limits, and shifted-load responses.

Licensing section

Alaska CDL and FMCSA Rules

Alaska CDL classes and restrictions, CLP/CDL fees, medical self-certification, FMCSA required knowledge areas, 80% passing score, alcohol/drug rules, and railroad-crossing violations.

How to Pass the AK CDL General Knowledge Exam

What You Need to Know

  • Passing score: 80% on each CDL knowledge test under 49 CFR §383.135
  • Assessment: Multiple-choice CDL knowledge test; General Knowledge is required for all CDL applicants, with separate tests for air brakes, combination vehicles, and endorsements when applicable.
  • Time limit: No universal Alaska DMV time limit published for the General Knowledge test
  • Exam fee: $15 commercial instruction permit; $100 standard CDL or $120 REAL ID CDL; $25 commercial vehicle road test

Keys to Passing

  • Complete 500+ practice questions
  • Score 80%+ consistently before scheduling
  • Focus on highest-weighted sections
  • Use our AI tutor for tough concepts

AK CDL General Knowledge Study Tips from Top Performers

1Read Alaska CDL Manual Sections 1, 2, and 3 first; those are the backbone for General Knowledge and cargo topics.
2Memorize the federal pass rule: at least 80% correct on each CDL knowledge test.
3Give extra time to Alaska-relevant conditions such as ice, snow, fog, darkness, mountain grades, and remote-road emergency planning.
4Practice inspection questions until you can explain why each defect matters, not just identify the correct part name.
5Keep endorsement material separate unless it overlaps with general safe-driving principles; hazmat, passenger, school bus, tanker, and doubles/triples each have their own tests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who has to take the Alaska CDL General Knowledge test?

The Alaska Commercial Driver License Manual lists the General Knowledge test as a CDL knowledge test taken by all applicants. Additional tests depend on the class of vehicle, air brakes, and endorsements such as passenger, school bus, tanker, doubles/triples, or hazardous materials.

What score do I need to pass the Alaska CDL General Knowledge test?

Federal CDL standards in 49 CFR §383.135 require a driver applicant to correctly answer at least 80% of the questions on each CDL knowledge test. Alaska administers CDL testing under those FMCSA standards.

How much does the Alaska CDL permit or license cost?

Alaska DMV lists a $15 fee for a commercial or non-commercial instruction permit. A standard Commercial Driver License is $100, a REAL ID CDL is $120, and the commercial vehicle road test fee is $25.

What topics are on the Alaska CDL General Knowledge test?

The General Knowledge test covers safe operations rules, inspections, vehicle controls, basic control, shifting, backing, visual search, communication, speed and space management, night and extreme-condition driving, hazards, emergencies, skid recovery, cargo securement, mountain driving, fatigue, and alcohol/drug effects.

Which Alaska CDL class should I study for?

Alaska DMV defines Class A for combination vehicles with GCWR of 26,001 pounds or more when the towed unit is over 10,000 pounds, Class B for heavy straight vehicles with GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, and Class C for certain smaller passenger or placarded hazardous-materials vehicles.

Does Alaska require medical self-certification for CDL drivers?

Yes. Alaska DMV requires CDL self-certification of the type of commercial driving, including interstate or intrastate and excepted or non-excepted operation. Non-excepted categories require a medical examiner certificate.

Is this practice test for endorsements?

No. This page focuses on General Knowledge. Alaska endorsement tests such as hazardous materials, tanker, passenger, school bus, and doubles/triples have separate knowledge requirements and should be studied separately.