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300+ Free MI CDL General Knowledge Practice Questions

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2026 Statistics

Key Facts: MI CDL General Knowledge Exam

80%

Minimum Michigan CDL knowledge-test passing score

Michigan SOS Applying for a CDL; 49 CFR 383.135

50

Michigan Group B/C base written-test questions

Michigan SOS Applying for a CDL

70 + 20

Michigan Group A General Knowledge plus Combination Vehicle questions

Michigan SOS Applying for a CDL

$25

First-time standard Michigan CDL fee

Michigan License and ID costs and fees

1 day

Michigan CDL knowledge-test retake wait after a failed attempt

Michigan SOS Applying for a CDL

Michigan CDL applicants must pass required written knowledge tests before a CLP can be issued. Michigan SOS requires a minimum 80% score, administers CDL knowledge tests at computer testing stations, lists Group A as 70 General Knowledge questions plus 20 Combination Vehicle questions, and lists Group B/C tests as 50 questions each. Applicants must use the Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual, provide required identity/legal-presence/Social Security documentation, satisfy driver-record and vision requirements, and complete applicable ELDT before covered skills or hazmat tests.

Sample MI CDL General Knowledge Practice Questions

Try these sample questions to test your MI 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 MI CDL General Knowledge Exam

The Michigan CDL General Knowledge test is the base written knowledge exam for Michigan commercial learner permit and commercial driver license applicants. Michigan SOS administers CDL knowledge tests at computer testing stations and requires at least 80 percent to pass each test. Group A applicants must pass General Knowledge and Combination Vehicle knowledge tests; Group B and Group C applicants take the General Knowledge base test. The Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual and FMCSA Part 383 standards cover safe operation regulations, vehicle control systems, basic control, shifting, backing, visual search, communication, speed and space management, adverse conditions, hazards, emergencies, skid control, cargo control, vehicle inspections, fatigue, alcohol and drug effects, and Michigan CDL application requirements.

Assessment

Michigan SOS lists Group B and Group C base CDL written tests as 50 questions each. Group A applicants take a 70-question General Knowledge test plus a 20-question Combination Vehicle test. Additional knowledge tests apply for air brakes and endorsements.

Time Limit

Computer-based written testing at a Michigan Secretary of State office; no separate public time limit found in official Michigan SOS sources

Passing Score

80% minimum on each CDL knowledge test

Exam Fee

$25 first-time standard CDL; $5 each group designation/endorsement; $9 corrected standard license after skills test; third-party skills-test fees vary (Michigan Department of State, Secretary of State (SOS))

MI CDL General Knowledge Exam Content Outline

Michigan SOS CDL application and FAQ pages

Michigan CDL Basics

Required documents, CDL groups, knowledge-test counts, 80% passing score, CLP, ELDT, retest wait, fees, and skills-test provider rules.

49 CFR 383.111(a)(17)

Vehicle Inspection

Pre-trip, en-route, and post-trip checks for brakes, tires, lights, steering, suspension, mirrors, leaks, cargo, and emergency equipment.

49 CFR 383.111(a)(4)-(6)

Basic Control, Shifting, and Backing

Starting, stopping, turning, off-tracking, backing, shifting, clutch use, speed before curves and ramps, braking, grades, and overhead clearance.

49 CFR 383.111(a)(7)-(10)

Seeing, Communication, Speed, and Space

Looking ahead, mirror use, blind spots, signals, horn use, stopping distance, following distance, lane space, side space, and traffic gaps.

49 CFR 383.111(a)(11)-(15), (19)-(20)

Adverse Conditions and Emergencies

Night driving, fog, rain, snow, ice, heat, hydroplaning, mountain grades, brake fade, escape ramps, blowouts, fire response, skid recovery, crashes, and fatigue.

49 CFR 383.111(a)(1), (16), (18)

Cargo, Alcohol, Drugs, and Regulations

Cargo securement, weight distribution, sealed loads, tie-downs, blocking and bracing, alcohol and controlled-substance rules, major offenses, and general hazmat awareness.

How to Pass the MI CDL General Knowledge Exam

What You Need to Know

  • Passing score: 80% minimum on each CDL knowledge test
  • Assessment: Michigan SOS lists Group B and Group C base CDL written tests as 50 questions each. Group A applicants take a 70-question General Knowledge test plus a 20-question Combination Vehicle test. Additional knowledge tests apply for air brakes and endorsements.
  • Time limit: Computer-based written testing at a Michigan Secretary of State office; no separate public time limit found in official Michigan SOS sources
  • Exam fee: $25 first-time standard CDL; $5 each group designation/endorsement; $9 corrected standard license after skills test; third-party skills-test fees vary

Keys to Passing

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

MI CDL General Knowledge Study Tips from Top Performers

1Use the Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual as the primary study guide; Michigan SOS explicitly directs CDL applicants to it.
2Memorize the Michigan and FMCSA pass rule: at least 80 percent correct on each CDL knowledge test.
3For Group A, do not stop with General Knowledge; Michigan also requires the Combination Vehicle written test.
4Practice inspection questions by explaining the safety risk behind each defect, especially brakes, tires, steering, suspension, leaks, lights, and emergency equipment.
5Separate endorsement material from General Knowledge so you do not over-study passenger, school bus, tank, doubles/triples, or hazmat details unless you need those tests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who must take the Michigan CDL General Knowledge test?

Michigan SOS requires CDL applicants to take knowledge tests based on the CDL group and cargo. Group A applicants must pass General Knowledge and Combination Vehicle tests. Group B and Group C applicants must pass the General Knowledge base test. Air brakes and endorsements require additional tests when applicable.

What score do I need to pass a Michigan CDL knowledge test?

Michigan SOS requires a minimum score of 80 percent on each CDL knowledge test. FMCSA also requires at least 80 percent correct on CDL knowledge tests under 49 CFR 383.135.

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

Michigan SOS lists CDL Group A as 70 questions plus a 20-question Combination Vehicle test. CDL Group B and Group C are listed as 50 questions on each base test. Endorsements and air brakes have separate question counts.

How much does a Michigan CDL cost?

Michigan SOS lists a first-time standard commercial driver license at $25, standard CDL renewal at $25, standard replace/correct at $18, and $5 for each standard CDL group designation or endorsement. After a skills test, SOS says applicants pay the group endorsement fee and correct the standard license for $9.

Can I retake a failed Michigan CDL knowledge test right away?

No. Michigan SOS says that if you do not pass a knowledge test on your first attempt, you must wait one day to retake it, and there is a one-day wait for subsequent retests in that category.

Where are Michigan CDL written tests taken?

Michigan SOS says all CDL knowledge tests are administered in written form at a computer testing station. CDL skills tests are administered by public and private Driver Testing Businesses approved by the state.

Is this practice bank for endorsements?

No. It focuses on General Knowledge. Some general CDL material includes basic hazardous-materials awareness or passenger/cargo safety context, but endorsement-specific tests such as Hazmat, Passenger, School Bus, Tank, and Doubles/Triples require separate study.