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300+ Free Maryland CDL General Knowledge Practice Questions

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

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2026 Statistics

Key Facts: Maryland 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 / 49 CFR 383.133

20

General knowledge areas for CMV operators

49 CFR 383.111(a)

$50

Maryland commercial learner permit fee

Maryland MVA fee schedule

Maryland CDL applicants use Maryland MVA procedures and the Maryland CDL Manual for the General Knowledge test. Under FMCSA standards, the basic CDL knowledge test covers required CMV general-knowledge areas, has at least 30 items, and requires at least 80% correct to pass. Maryland MVA fee materials list a $50 commercial learner permit and $90 commercial driver license. Use separate preparation for air brakes, combination vehicles, hazmat, passenger, school bus, tanker, or doubles/triples when those tests apply.

Sample Maryland CDL General Knowledge Practice Questions

Try these sample questions to test your Maryland 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.
2What is the proper technique for shifting gears in a commercial motor vehicle with a manual transmission (double clutching)?
A.Press the clutch, shift to neutral, release the clutch, press the clutch again, shift to the next gear, release the clutch
B.Hold the clutch down while moving through each gear
C.Shift without using the clutch at any time
D.Press the clutch once and move the shifter directly to the next gear
Explanation: Double clutching is the standard technique for shifting non-synchronized transmissions found in many commercial vehicles. The process involves: (1) press the clutch and shift to neutral, (2) release the clutch briefly to allow engine RPMs to match the road speed, (3) press the clutch again and shift into the next gear, (4) release the clutch smoothly. This technique prevents grinding gears and premature transmission wear. Simply holding the clutch down through multiple gear positions is incorrect and can damage the transmission synchronizers (if present) or gears.
3How far ahead should you scan the road while driving a commercial vehicle at highway speeds?
A.5 to 8 seconds
B.8 to 10 seconds
C.12 to 15 seconds
D.20 to 25 seconds
Explanation: You should look 12 to 15 seconds ahead when driving at highway speeds. This gives you enough time to identify hazards and react. At highway speeds, 12 to 15 seconds translates to roughly a quarter mile ahead. Scanning this far allows you to plan lane changes, adjust speed, and avoid sudden maneuvers.
4According to FMCSA regulations, how soon after starting a trip must a driver inspect their cargo and securing devices?
A.Within the first 50 miles
B.Within the first 100 miles
C.Within the first 25 miles
D.Within the first 75 miles
Explanation: FMCSA requires drivers to inspect cargo and securing devices within the first 50 miles of a trip. After that, inspections must occur every 150 miles or every 3 hours of driving, whichever comes first.
5A Class A CDL allows the holder to operate:
A.Any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 lbs or more
B.Any combination vehicle with a GCWR of 26,001 lbs or more, provided the towed vehicle weighs more than 10,000 lbs
C.Only passenger buses with 16 or more passengers
D.Only vehicles carrying hazardous materials
Explanation: A Class A CDL allows the holder to operate any combination of vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of 26,001 lbs or more, provided the vehicle being towed has a GVWR of more than 10,000 lbs. This includes tractor-trailers and truck-trailer combinations.
6During 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.
7When driving a commercial motor vehicle with a manual transmission, what is progressive shifting?
A.Shifting through every gear in sequence regardless of speed
B.Shifting at lower RPMs as road speed increases to improve fuel economy and reduce engine wear
C.Skipping gears while shifting up
D.Shifting at the highest RPM in every gear for maximum power
Explanation: Progressive shifting is a technique where the driver shifts at progressively lower RPMs as road speed increases. In lower gears, you shift at higher RPMs to build momentum, but as you get into higher gears, you shift at lower RPMs. This technique is more fuel-efficient and reduces engine and drivetrain wear. It takes advantage of the fact that once the vehicle has built up momentum, less power is needed to accelerate through the higher gears. This is different from simply skipping gears, which can cause shifting difficulties.
8How often should you check your mirrors while driving a commercial vehicle?
A.Every 1 to 2 seconds
B.Every 5 to 8 seconds
C.Every 15 to 20 seconds
D.Only when changing lanes or turning
Explanation: You should check your mirrors every 5 to 8 seconds. Regular mirror checks help you stay aware of vehicles around you, track traffic patterns, and detect potential hazards approaching from behind or the sides. Waiting too long between checks can allow situations to develop that you are not aware of.
9After the initial cargo inspection, how often must a driver re-inspect their cargo securement during a trip?
A.Every 200 miles or 4 hours, whichever comes first
B.Every 150 miles or 3 hours, whichever comes first
C.Every 100 miles or 2 hours, whichever comes first
D.Only when stopping for fuel
Explanation: After the initial inspection within the first 50 miles, drivers must re-inspect cargo and securing devices every 150 miles or every 3 hours of driving, whichever comes first. This is a mandatory FMCSA requirement.
10A Class B CDL allows the holder to operate:
A.Any combination vehicle with a GCWR over 26,001 lbs
B.Any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 lbs or more, and towed vehicles not exceeding 10,000 lbs GVWR
C.Only motorcycles and small passenger vehicles
D.Only straight trucks under 10,000 lbs
Explanation: A Class B CDL allows the holder to operate any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 lbs or more, and any towed vehicle with a GVWR not exceeding 10,000 lbs. This includes straight trucks, large buses, and dump trucks.

About the Maryland CDL General Knowledge Exam

The Maryland CDL General Knowledge Test is the basic written knowledge exam for Maryland commercial learner permit and commercial driver license applicants. Maryland MVA administers CDL knowledge testing using the Maryland Commercial Driver License Manual and federal FMCSA standards. FMCSA requires each basic knowledge test to cover the general areas in 49 CFR 383.111, contain at least 30 items under 49 CFR 383.133, and require at least 80% correct under 49 CFR 383.135. The exam emphasizes safe operation of commercial motor vehicles: vehicle inspection, basic control, speed and space management, seeing and communication, night and adverse-weather driving, emergencies and skids, cargo securement, driver wellness and fatigue, alcohol and drug rules, and CDL licensing basics.

Assessment

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

Time Limit

Not published by Maryland MVA or FMCSA for the General Knowledge test

Passing Score

At least 80% correct on each CDL knowledge test

Exam Fee

$50 commercial learner permit; $90 commercial driver license; $20 corrected or duplicate license per Maryland MVA fee schedule (Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (Maryland MVA))

Maryland CDL General Knowledge Exam Content Outline

Core general-knowledge area

Vehicle Inspection

Pre-trip, en-route, and post-trip checks; safety-critical components; emergency equipment; tires, brakes, lights, mirrors, and cargo checks.

Core general-knowledge area

Basic Vehicle Control and Mountain Driving

Starting, accelerating, steering, backing, turning, off-tracking, shifting, braking, curves, downgrades, escape ramps, and controlling a large CMV.

Core general-knowledge area

Speed, Space, Seeing, and Communication

Following distance, stopping distance, overhead clearance, turns, merging gaps, railroad crossings, mirror use, signaling, and hazard perception.

Core general-knowledge area

Night, Weather, Hazards, Emergencies, and Skids

Night visibility, fog, rain, hydroplaning, snow, ice, blowouts, skids, fires, crash response, and fatigue prevention.

Core general-knowledge area

Cargo Securement and Weight

Blocking and bracing, tie-downs, working load limits, cargo inspection intervals, sealed loads, weight distribution, and axle/GVW limits.

Core general-knowledge area

FMCSA and Maryland CDL Basics

CDL classes, CLP/CDL application basics, medical certification, ELDT, drug and alcohol rules, disqualifications, Maryland MVA fees, and MVA procedures.

How to Pass the Maryland CDL General Knowledge Exam

What You Need to Know

  • Passing score: At least 80% correct on each CDL knowledge test
  • Assessment: Multiple-choice CDL knowledge test covering the basic general-knowledge areas required for commercial motor vehicle operators; air brakes, combination vehicles, and endorsements may require separate tests depending on the license sought.
  • Time limit: Not published by Maryland MVA or FMCSA for the General Knowledge test
  • Exam fee: $50 commercial learner permit; $90 commercial driver license; $20 corrected or duplicate license per Maryland MVA fee schedule

Keys to Passing

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

Maryland CDL General Knowledge Study Tips from Top Performers

1Read the Maryland Commercial Driver License Manual before drilling practice questions; Maryland testing is based on MVA manual content aligned with FMCSA standards.
2Master inspection language: know what to inspect, why defects matter, and what conditions make a vehicle unsafe.
3Practice speed and space decisions until following distance, stopping distance, clearance, and railroad-crossing rules are automatic.
4Keep General Knowledge separate from endorsements unless you also need those tests.
5Review missed questions by topic and return to the corresponding manual section instead of memorizing answer letters.
6Confirm current Maryland fees, branch procedures, documents, and medical-certification steps on Maryland MVA pages before visiting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who administers the Maryland CDL General Knowledge Test?

The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration administers CDL knowledge testing for Maryland CLP and CDL applicants. Maryland MVA publishes CDL licensing procedures and the Maryland Commercial Driver License Manual.

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

FMCSA requires each basic CDL knowledge test to contain at least 30 items. Maryland MVA does not publish a separate public General Knowledge item count on the CDL overview page, so use the federal minimum as the documented floor.

What score do I need to pass?

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

How much does Maryland CDL licensing cost?

Maryland MVA fee materials list $50 for a commercial learner permit, $90 for a commercial driver license, and $20 for a corrected or duplicate license. Verify current fees with Maryland MVA before visiting.

What should I study for Maryland CDL General Knowledge?

Study the Maryland CDL Manual and focus on vehicle inspection, basic control, shifting, speed and space, seeing and communication, adverse conditions, emergencies, cargo, fatigue, alcohol and drug rules, and CDL licensing requirements.

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

Yes, depending on the vehicle and license you want. The General Knowledge test is the foundation, but air brakes, combination vehicles, hazardous materials, passenger, school bus, tanker, and doubles/triples may require separate knowledge tests.