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Key Facts: MN CDL General Knowledge Exam
80%
Minimum CDL knowledge-test passing score
FMCSA
At least 30
Minimum items on each basic CDL knowledge test
FMCSA
18
Minimum age for Minnesota CLP applicants
Minnesota DVS
21
Minimum age to drive commercially outside Minnesota
Minnesota DVS
$26.75
Minnesota commercial learner permit fee
Minnesota DVS
$65
Minnesota Class A CDL license fee
Minnesota DVS
Minnesota CDL applicants must pass the required written knowledge test before moving through the CLP/CDL process. DVS lists CLP qualifications including a valid Minnesota driver's license, age 18 minimum, proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency, and proof of Minnesota residency; age 21 is required to drive commercially outside Minnesota. FMCSA requires basic CDL knowledge tests to cover the 20 general areas in 49 CFR 383.111(a), contain at least 30 items, and use an 80% passing standard. Minnesota DVS lists a $26.75 CLP fee and CDL license fees of $65 for Class A, $57 for Class B, and $50 for Class C.
Sample MN CDL General Knowledge Practice Questions
Try these sample questions to test your MN 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.
1Who must take the CDL general knowledge test in Minnesota?
2What minimum age does Minnesota list for a commercial learner permit applicant?
3What is required before getting a Minnesota CDL?
4Under FMCSA standards, what is the minimum passing score for CDL knowledge tests?
5Under FMCSA standards, each basic CDL knowledge test must contain at least how many questions?
6Which Minnesota source should you study for the required CLP written test?
7What should you do first when approaching your vehicle for a pre-trip inspection?
8Which item is checked in the engine compartment during a pre-trip inspection?
9What should you look for when inspecting tires?
10What is the minimum tread depth for front steering axle tires on a CMV?
About the MN CDL General Knowledge Exam
The Minnesota CDL General Knowledge test is the base written knowledge exam for Minnesota commercial learner permit and commercial driver license applicants. Minnesota DVS says the required written test covers the Minnesota commercial driver's manual. The general knowledge scope aligns with FMCSA CDL standards for safe operation regulations, vehicle control systems, basic control, shifting, backing, visual search, communication, speed and space management, adverse conditions, hazards, emergencies, skid recovery, cargo control, vehicle inspections, fatigue, alcohol and drug effects, and Minnesota CDL licensing requirements.
Assessment
FMCSA requires each basic CDL knowledge test to contain at least 30 items; Minnesota administers the required CDL written tests using information from the Minnesota commercial driver's manual.
Time Limit
Set by Minnesota DVS testing administration; no separate public time limit found in official sources
Passing Score
80% minimum on CDL knowledge tests under FMCSA standards
Exam Fee
Class A $65, Class B $57, Class C $50; commercial learner permit $26.75; endorsement examination fee $2.50; third and subsequent written retests after failing the first two are $10 (Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS))
MN CDL General Knowledge Exam Content Outline
Minnesota CDL Basics
Minnesota CDL classes, CLP requirements, age limits, proof of residency and lawful status, ELDT references, testing sequence, and fee schedule
Vehicle Inspection
Pre-trip, enroute, and post-trip inspections; brakes, tires, lights, steering, suspension, leaks, mirrors, emergency equipment, and defect reporting
Basic Control, Shifting, and Backing
Starting, stopping, backing, turning, off-tracking, shifting procedures, speed control, and maneuvering large vehicles
Seeing, Communication, Speed, and Space
Visual search, mirror use, signaling, communicating presence, stopping distance, following distance, traffic gaps, overhead clearance, and tailgaters
Adverse Conditions and Emergencies
Night driving, fog, rain, wind, ice, mountain grades, hazard perception, evasive steering, brake failure, blowouts, fires, skids, and crash procedures
Cargo, Driver Fitness, Alcohol, and Drugs
Cargo securement, weight distribution, driver responsibilities, fatigue, health, alcohol and drug effects, and general regulatory awareness
How to Pass the MN CDL General Knowledge Exam
What You Need to Know
- Passing score: 80% minimum on CDL knowledge tests under FMCSA standards
- Assessment: FMCSA requires each basic CDL knowledge test to contain at least 30 items; Minnesota administers the required CDL written tests using information from the Minnesota commercial driver's manual.
- Time limit: Set by Minnesota DVS testing administration; no separate public time limit found in official sources
- Exam fee: Class A $65, Class B $57, Class C $50; commercial learner permit $26.75; endorsement examination fee $2.50; third and subsequent written retests after failing the first two are $10
Keys to Passing
- Complete 500+ practice questions
- Score 80%+ consistently before scheduling
- Focus on highest-weighted sections
- Use our AI tutor for tough concepts
MN CDL General Knowledge Study Tips from Top Performers
Frequently Asked Questions
Who must take the Minnesota CDL General Knowledge test?
The Minnesota commercial driver's manual identifies the general knowledge test as the base test taken by CDL applicants. Depending on the vehicle and endorsements, applicants may also need tests such as air brakes, combination vehicles, passenger, school bus, tank, doubles/triples, or hazardous materials.
What score do I need to pass the Minnesota CDL General Knowledge test?
FMCSA requires applicants to correctly answer at least 80 percent of the questions on CDL knowledge tests. Minnesota's CDL testing program must meet those federal minimum standards.
How many questions are on the Minnesota CDL General Knowledge test?
FMCSA requires each basic CDL knowledge test to contain at least 30 items. Minnesota DVS administers the required CDL written tests; the official public Minnesota pages reviewed do not publish a separate Minnesota-specific General Knowledge item count.
How much does the Minnesota CDL process cost?
Minnesota DVS lists a commercial learner permit fee of $26.75, CDL license fees of $65 for Class A, $57 for Class B, and $50 for Class C, a $2.50 endorsement examination fee, and a $10 fee for the third and subsequent written test after failing the first two.
Can I get a Minnesota CLP if I am under 21?
Minnesota DVS lists the CLP minimum age as 18, but states that applicants must be at least 21 to drive commercially outside Minnesota.
What should I study for the Minnesota CDL General Knowledge test?
Study the Minnesota commercial driver's manual and use 49 CFR 383.111(a) as a topic checklist: safe operations, controls, inspections, basic control, shifting, backing, seeing, communication, speed, space, night and weather driving, hazards, emergencies, skids, cargo, mountain driving, fatigue, health, alcohol, and drugs.