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300+ Free Montana CDL General Knowledge Practice Questions

Pass your Montana 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: Montana 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)

$37.60

Common adult intrastate CDL/CLL total without motorcycle endorsement

Montana MVD Licensing Fees

Montana CDL applicants should study the official Montana CDL Manual and Montana MVD CDL page first. Under FMCSA standards, the basic CDL knowledge test covers the 20 general areas in 49 CFR 383.111(a), has at least 30 multiple-choice items, and requires at least 80% correct to pass. Montana MVD lists CDL/CLL fees by interstate/intrastate status, age, REAL ID, and motorcycle endorsement; common adult non-motorcycle totals are $37.60 intrastate and $41.72 interstate. Montana MVD also checks CDL and CLP issuance applications through the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse.

Sample Montana CDL General Knowledge Practice Questions

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

The Montana CDL General Knowledge Test is the foundational written knowledge exam for Montana commercial learner permit and commercial driver license applicants. Montana MVD administers CDL knowledge testing using the official Montana Commercial Driver License Manual and federal FMCSA standards. FMCSA requires each basic CDL knowledge test to cover the 20 general areas in 49 CFR 383.111(a), contain at least 30 items, and require at least 80% correct to pass. Montana applicants should also account for state CDL/CLP procedures, medical certification, ELDT when applicable, and Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse checks.

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 Montana MVD or FMCSA for the General Knowledge test

Passing Score

At least 80% correct on each CDL knowledge test

Exam Fee

Montana MVD lists CDL/CLL credential fees by interstate/intrastate status, age, REAL ID, and motorcycle endorsement; common adult non-motorcycle totals are $37.60 intrastate and $41.72 interstate. (Montana Motor Vehicle Division, Department of Justice)

Montana 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, and controlling a large commercial motor vehicle.

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, escape ramps, 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, bridge formula, and axle/GVW limits.

Core general-knowledge area

FMCSA and Montana CDL Basics

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

How to Pass the Montana 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 Montana MVD or FMCSA for the General Knowledge test
  • Exam fee: Montana MVD lists CDL/CLL credential fees by interstate/intrastate status, age, REAL ID, and motorcycle endorsement; common adult non-motorcycle totals are $37.60 intrastate and $41.72 interstate.

Keys to Passing

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

Montana CDL General Knowledge Study Tips from Top Performers

1Read the Montana CDL Manual before drilling practice questions; Montana MVD testing follows state manual content aligned with FMCSA standards.
2Memorize inspection defects by safety consequence, not just by part name.
3Practice speed and space rules until following distance, stopping distance, grades, curves, and railroad crossings are automatic.
4Treat Montana winter and mountain driving as core General Knowledge risk areas: slow early, manage space, and inspect equipment carefully.
5Separate General Knowledge from endorsement-only content so you study extra sections only when your license class or endorsement requires them.
6Confirm current MVD fees, medical certification status, ELDT status, DACH/Clearinghouse status, and station procedures before testing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who administers the Montana CDL General Knowledge Test?

The Montana Motor Vehicle Division, part of the Montana Department of Justice, administers CDL and CLP licensing steps under federal FMCSA standards.

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

FMCSA requires each basic CDL knowledge test to contain at least 30 items. Montana MVD does not publish a separate public item count for the General Knowledge form on the CDL page.

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, including general and endorsement tests.

How much does Montana CDL testing cost?

Montana MVD publishes CDL/CLL credential fees by age, interstate or intrastate status, motorcycle endorsement status, and REAL ID status. Common adult non-motorcycle totals are $37.60 intrastate and $41.72 interstate, with higher REAL ID totals.

What should I study for Montana CDL General Knowledge?

Study the Montana CDL Manual general-knowledge sections on inspection, control, shifting, speed and space, seeing and communication, adverse conditions, emergencies, 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, but air brakes, combination vehicles, passenger, school bus, hazardous materials, tanker, and doubles/triples may require separate knowledge tests.