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300+ Free Georgia CDL General Knowledge Practice Questions

Pass your Georgia Commercial Driver License General Knowledge Test exam on the first try — instant access, no signup required.

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During a pre-trip inspection, the driver notices a coolant leak near the water pump. What should the driver do?

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2026 Statistics

Key Facts: Georgia CDL General Knowledge Exam

80%

Minimum passing score for CDL knowledge tests

FMCSA / 49 CFR 383.135

At least 30

Minimum basic knowledge-test items

FMCSA States CDL Knowledge & Skills Test

20

General knowledge areas for CMV operators

49 CFR 383.111(a)

$10

Georgia CDL permit/testing fee before written knowledge exams

Georgia DDS CDL Permit page

$35

Georgia Commercial Application (CAP) fee, valid for 4 attempts

Georgia DDS CDL Permit page

14 days

Georgia CLP holding period before applying for the full CDL skills test

Georgia DDS CDL License and FAQ pages

365 days

Georgia CLP validity for permits issued on or after July 1, 2021

Georgia DDS CDL License page

Georgia CDL applicants take required written knowledge exams through DDS before CLP issuance. Georgia lists a $10 permit/testing fee, a $35 Commercial Application fee valid for 4 attempts, a 14-day CLP holding period before the CDL skills test, and 365-day CLP validity for permits issued on or after July 1, 2021. FMCSA requires each basic CDL knowledge test to include at least 30 items and at least 80% correct to pass.

Sample Georgia CDL General Knowledge Practice Questions

Try these sample questions to test your Georgia 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: FMCSA and Georgia CDL Manual guidance 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: 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 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. 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: 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 Georgia CDL General Knowledge Exam

The Georgia CDL General Knowledge test is the foundational written knowledge exam for Georgia commercial learner permit and commercial driver license applicants. DDS administers required CDL written knowledge exams and publishes the Georgia Commercial Driver's Manual for preparation. FMCSA standards require each basic CDL knowledge test to cover the general areas in 49 CFR 383.111, contain at least 30 items, and require at least 80% correct to pass. Georgia applicants must also meet DDS identity, residency, driver-license, medical-certification, fee, CLP, and ELDT requirements that apply to the class or endorsement sought.

Assessment

Multiple-choice CDL written knowledge exam covering the basic general-knowledge areas required for commercial motor vehicle operators. Air brakes, combination vehicles, and endorsements may require separate knowledge tests depending on the license and vehicle sought.

Time Limit

No single published statewide time limit; Georgia DDS says all CDL written knowledge exams must begin at least 45 minutes before Customer Service Center closing

Passing Score

80%

Exam Fee

$10 permit/testing fee plus $35 Commercial Application (CAP) fee (Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS))

Georgia CDL General Knowledge Exam Content Outline

Core

Vehicle Inspection and Equipment

Pre-trip, en-route, and post-trip inspection duties; steering, suspension, tires, brakes, lights, mirrors, leaks, emergency equipment, and unsafe defects.

Core

Basic Control, Shifting, and Speed

Starting, steering, backing, turning, off-tracking, manual shifting, stopping distance, curves, downgrade control, brake fade, and escape ramps.

Core

Space, Seeing, and Communication

Scanning far ahead, mirror checks, signaling, right-of-way judgment, work zones, following distance, side space, crossing or entering traffic, and clearance.

Core

Night, Weather, and Mountain Driving

Headlight distance, speed reduction, fog, rain, hydroplaning, snow and ice, black ice, hot weather, crosswinds, steep grades, and runaway ramps.

Core

Hazards, Emergencies, Skids, and Railroad Crossings

Hazard perception, railroad-grade crossing safety, brake failure, evasive steering, fire response, tire blowouts, crash priorities, skid recovery, and fatigue warning signs.

Core

Cargo, Wellness, and CDL Rules

Cargo securement, blocking and bracing, weight distribution, sealed loads, driver wellness, fatigue, alcohol and drug rules, CDL classes, CLP rules, ELDT, and disqualifications.

How to Pass the Georgia CDL General Knowledge Exam

What You Need to Know

  • Passing score: 80%
  • Assessment: Multiple-choice CDL written knowledge exam covering the basic general-knowledge areas required for commercial motor vehicle operators. Air brakes, combination vehicles, and endorsements may require separate knowledge tests depending on the license and vehicle sought.
  • Time limit: No single published statewide time limit; Georgia DDS says all CDL written knowledge exams must begin at least 45 minutes before Customer Service Center closing
  • Exam fee: $10 permit/testing fee plus $35 Commercial Application (CAP) fee

Keys to Passing

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

Georgia CDL General Knowledge Study Tips from Top Performers

1Read the Georgia Commercial Driver's Manual before drilling practice questions; DDS points applicants to the manual for CDL test requirements.
2Prioritize inspection language and unsafe-defect decisions because inspection scenarios appear throughout general CMV safety content.
3Practice speed, space, and stopping-distance questions until following-distance and clearance decisions are automatic.
4Separate General Knowledge from endorsements so you do not substitute hazmat, passenger, school bus, tank, or doubles/triples material for the core test.
5Review Georgia logistics before visiting DDS: submit the License/ID/Permit Form, bring required documents, know the $10 permit/testing fee and $35 CAP fee, and arrive early enough to start written exams at least 45 minutes before closing.
6After passing knowledge exams, remember that Georgia requires CLP holders to wait 14 days before applying for the full CDL skills test.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who administers the Georgia CDL General Knowledge test?

The Georgia Department of Driver Services administers CDL written knowledge exams through DDS Customer Service Centers and publishes Georgia CDL manuals and commercial license instructions.

How many questions are on the Georgia CDL General Knowledge test?

Georgia DDS does not publish a separate public item count for the General Knowledge test on its CDL pages. FMCSA requires each basic CDL knowledge test to contain at least 30 items, so applicants should treat 30 as the federal minimum and verify current DDS procedures before testing.

What score do I need to pass?

FMCSA requires applicants to answer at least 80% of the questions correctly on each CDL knowledge test, including general and endorsement knowledge tests.

How much does Georgia CDL knowledge testing cost?

DDS lists a $10 permit fee paid before CDL written knowledge exams. If all required exams are passed, that $10 pays for the instructional permit; if any exam is failed, it is retained as a testing fee and must be paid again at the next attempt. DDS also lists a $35 Commercial Application fee valid for 4 test attempts.

What should I study for Georgia CDL General Knowledge?

Study the Georgia Commercial Driver's Manual and focus on vehicle inspection, basic control, shifting, speed and space management, seeing and communication, adverse conditions, mountain driving, emergencies, railroad crossings, cargo, fatigue, alcohol and drug rules, and CDL licensing basics.

Do I need separate tests for air brakes, combination vehicles, or endorsements?

Yes, depending on the vehicle and license you want. General Knowledge is the foundation; air brakes, combination vehicles, passenger, school bus, tank, doubles/triples, and hazardous materials requirements are tested separately when they apply.