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300+ Free Kentucky CDL General Knowledge Practice Questions

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

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When inspecting slack adjusters on an S-cam brake system, the pushrod stroke at the brake chamber should not exceed what general limit?

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2026 Statistics

Key Facts: Kentucky CDL General Knowledge Exam

50

Kentucky General Knowledge questions

Kentucky CDL Manual

80%

Passing score for each CDL knowledge test

Kentucky CDL Manual / 49 CFR 383.135

24 hours

Wait after failed Kentucky knowledge test

Kentucky CDL Manual

6 months

Kentucky CDL instruction permit validity

Kentucky CDL Manual

14 days

Permit holding period before skills test

Kentucky CDL Manual

$11

Standard Kentucky commercial permit price

KYTC Pricing for Typical CDLs

Kentucky CDL applicants take a 50-question General Knowledge test administered by Kentucky State Police, with 80% required to pass. KYTC requires CDL paperwork to be processed before testing, including a valid Medical Certificate, Self-Certification, and Commercial application. The Kentucky CDL instruction permit is valid for six months, must be held 14 days before skills testing, and failed knowledge tests require a 24-hour wait before retesting. Use the official Kentucky CDL manual together with FMCSA Part 383 standards for preparation.

Sample Kentucky CDL General Knowledge Practice Questions

Try these sample questions to test your Kentucky 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: 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 Kentucky CDL General Knowledge Exam

The Kentucky CDL General Knowledge Test is the core written knowledge exam for Kentucky commercial learner permit and commercial driver license applicants. The Kentucky CDL manual states that KSP gives the test at regional testing locations and that the General Knowledge test consists of 50 questions covering vehicle operations under all kinds of conditions, cargo handling, and vehicle inspection. FMCSA requires basic CDL knowledge tests to cover the 20 general areas in 49 CFR 383.111(a), include at least 30 items, and require at least 80% correct to pass. Kentucky applicants should also understand KYTC paperwork requirements, ELDT rules when applicable, permit validity, retesting, fees, CDL classes, restrictions, and alcohol/drug disqualification rules.

Assessment

Kentucky State Police-administered multiple-choice CDL knowledge test. The Kentucky General Knowledge test contains 50 questions on vehicle operation under all conditions, cargo handling, and vehicle inspection; additional class, air-brake, and endorsement tests are separate when required.

Time Limit

Not published by KYTC or FMCSA for the Kentucky General Knowledge test

Passing Score

80% correct

Exam Fee

$11 standard commercial permit plus $24 application fee; CDL costs vary by class, endorsements, attempts, and REAL ID choice (Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) / Kentucky State Police (KSP))

Kentucky CDL General Knowledge Exam Content Outline

Core general-knowledge area

Vehicle Inspection

Pre-trip and post-trip inspection, emergency equipment, tires, steering, suspension, brakes, mirrors, lights, and unsafe defects.

Core general-knowledge area

Basic Control, Shifting, Speed, and Space

Backing, turning, off-tracking, shifting, stopping distance, following distance, lane position, curves, grades, and mountain driving.

Core general-knowledge area

Seeing, Communication, and Hazard Perception

Visual search, mirror use, signaling, blind spots, railroad crossings, work zones, aggressive drivers, and distracted-driving hazards.

Core general-knowledge area

Adverse Conditions, Emergencies, and Skids

Night driving, fog, rain, hydroplaning, winter and hot-weather operation, brake failure, blowouts, ABS, skids, crashes, fires, and warning devices.

Core general-knowledge area

Cargo Securement and Weight

Cargo distribution, tie-downs, blocking and bracing, working load limits, sealed loads, weight limits, and cargo inspection intervals.

Core general-knowledge area

Driver Wellness, Alcohol/Drug Rules, and Kentucky CDL Basics

Fatigue, medical fitness, impairment rules, CDL classes and restrictions, ELDT, Kentucky paperwork, fees, retesting, and FMCSA/state roles.

How to Pass the Kentucky CDL General Knowledge Exam

What You Need to Know

  • Passing score: 80% correct
  • Assessment: Kentucky State Police-administered multiple-choice CDL knowledge test. The Kentucky General Knowledge test contains 50 questions on vehicle operation under all conditions, cargo handling, and vehicle inspection; additional class, air-brake, and endorsement tests are separate when required.
  • Time limit: Not published by KYTC or FMCSA for the Kentucky General Knowledge test
  • Exam fee: $11 standard commercial permit plus $24 application fee; CDL costs vary by class, endorsements, attempts, and REAL ID choice

Keys to Passing

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

Kentucky CDL General Knowledge Study Tips from Top Performers

1Start with the official Kentucky CDL manual; FMCSA says drivers should use their state manual for knowledge and skills test preparation.
2Memorize Kentucky logistics: 50 General Knowledge questions, 80% passing score, 24-hour retest wait after failure, and required paperwork before testing.
3Separate General Knowledge from add-on tests: air brakes, combination vehicles, and endorsements require separate study when they apply.
4Drill vehicle inspection and cargo securement because Kentucky names vehicle inspection and cargo handling in the General Knowledge test scope.
5Practice hazard scenarios rather than memorizing isolated facts: speed, space, weather, grades, crossings, fatigue, and emergencies often overlap.
6Verify current fees, paperwork, and KSP appointment procedures on KYTC and Kentucky State Police pages before test day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who administers the Kentucky CDL General Knowledge Test?

The Kentucky CDL manual states that the Kentucky State Police gives CDL knowledge tests at regional testing locations. KYTC administers CDL licensing materials, paperwork, and fee information.

How many questions are on the Kentucky CDL General Knowledge Test?

The current Kentucky CDL manual states that the General Knowledge test consists of 50 questions covering vehicle operations under all kinds of conditions, cargo handling, and vehicle inspection.

What score do I need to pass?

Kentucky requires 80 percent of questions to be answered correctly on each CDL knowledge test. FMCSA also requires at least 80 percent correct on CDL knowledge tests.

How much does the Kentucky CDL process cost?

KYTC typical pricing lists an $11 standard commercial permit, $24 application fee, $3 wants-and-warrants check at issuance, prorated original CDL add-on fees, and separate fees depending on endorsements, REAL ID choice, skills attempts, and credential path.

What happens if I fail the Kentucky General Knowledge test?

Kentucky’s CDL manual says an applicant who fails must wait 24 hours before retesting. It also states applicants may take the General Knowledge test indefinitely without paying retest fees while permit rules apply.

Do I need separate tests beyond General Knowledge?

Yes, depending on the vehicle and credential. Kentucky lists separate tests for combination vehicles, air brakes, doubles/triples, tankers, passenger transport, hazardous materials, and school bus endorsements.