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Exam Review

Key Facts: ND CDL General Knowledge Exam

80%

Federal CDL Knowledge-Test Passing Score

49 CFR §383.135

$5

NDDOT CDL Knowledge Test Fee Per Attempt

NDDOT Commercial Driver License page

1/day

NDDOT Knowledge-Test Attempt Limit

NDDOT Commercial Driver License page

$15

North Dakota Commercial Learner Permit Fee

NDDOT Commercial Driver License page

14 days

Minimum CLP Holding Period Before Road Test Scheduling

NDDOT How to Apply for a CDL page

Use the NDDOT CDL manual for North Dakota-specific CDL prep and focus on FMCSA General Knowledge areas: inspection, safe control, speed/space, communication, adverse conditions, emergencies, cargo, fatigue, and alcohol/drug rules. NDDOT lists a $5 knowledge-test fee per attempt, one attempt per day, a $15 CLP fee, and a 14-day CLP holding period before the road test. Federal CDL rules require at least 80% correct on each knowledge test.

Sample ND CDL General Knowledge Practice Questions

Try these sample questions to review concepts for the ND CDL General Knowledge exam. Each question includes a detailed explanation. Start the interactive quiz above for the full 310+ 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 ND CDL General Knowledge Exam

The North Dakota CDL General Knowledge Test is the core written knowledge exam for commercial learner permit and CDL applicants in North Dakota. NDDOT directs applicants to the 2025-2027 Commercial Driver License Manual and states that all CDL applicants must pass required knowledge tests before purchasing a Commercial Learner Permit. General Knowledge preparation should cover CDL basics, safe CMV operation, inspections, basic control, shifting, backing, space and speed management, night and adverse-weather driving, hazards, emergencies, cargo, fatigue, and alcohol/drug effects. NDDOT lists a $5 knowledge-test fee per attempt with one attempt allowed per day, a $15 CLP fee ($20 for non-domiciled), $3 endorsements, and a $5 road test. NDDOT also states that the CLP must be held at least 14 days before a road test can be scheduled. Federal rules require at least 80% correct on each CDL knowledge test.

Exam sponsor: North Dakota Department of Transportation Driver License Division. The requirements and fees below concern the certification or admission exam, separate from our free practice resources.

Assessment

Multiple-choice CDL knowledge test; General Knowledge is required for all CDL applicants, with separate tests for air brakes, combination vehicles, and endorsements when applicable.

Time Limit

No universal NDDOT time limit published for the General Knowledge test

Passing Score

80% on each CDL knowledge test under 49 CFR §383.135

Exam / Certification Fees

$5 knowledge test per attempt; $15 CLP ($20 non-domiciled); $3 endorsements; $5 road test

Exam sponsor website

Fees, eligibility, and exam policies can change. Confirm them with the exam sponsor before applying or paying.

Our practice resources: topics covered

We aim to reflect publicly available exam outlines and topic information in our study resources. Coverage, format, and difficulty may differ from the actual exam, and we cannot guarantee that every detail is accurate or current. Confirm exam requirements, fees, and policies with the official exam sponsor.

Core section

Vehicle Inspection and Safety Systems

Approach inspection, engine compartment, cab checks, brakes, tires, lights, mirrors, emergency equipment, suspension, steering, leaks, and defect reporting.

Core section

Basic Vehicle Control

Starting, stopping, shifting, backing, turns, off-tracking, curves, speed before ramps, overhead clearance, and vehicle control under load.

Core section

Seeing, Communication, Speed, and Space

Looking 12-15 seconds ahead, checking mirrors, signaling, managing following distance, protecting side space, and choosing gaps with CMV acceleration limits.

Core section

Night, Weather, Mountains, and Emergencies

Low/high-beam limits, fog, black ice, packed snow, crosswinds, hydroplaning, brake failure, blowouts, fires, crash procedures, and drowsy driving.

Core section

Cargo and Weight Management

Cargo securement checks, tie-downs, load binders, blocking and bracing, weight distribution, axle/GVWR/GCWR limits, and shifted-load responses.

Licensing section

North Dakota CDL and FMCSA Rules

NDDOT application steps, CLP fees, one-attempt-per-day knowledge testing, CLP holding period, medical requirements, ELDT, FMCSA required knowledge areas, and the 80% pass standard.

Preparing for the ND CDL General Knowledge Exam

What You Need to Know

  • Passing score: 80% on each CDL knowledge test under 49 CFR §383.135
  • Assessment: Multiple-choice CDL knowledge test; General Knowledge is required for all CDL applicants, with separate tests for air brakes, combination vehicles, and endorsements when applicable.
  • Time limit: No universal NDDOT time limit published for the General Knowledge test
  • Exam / certification fees: $5 knowledge test per attempt; $15 CLP ($20 non-domiciled); $3 endorsements; $5 road test Official sources

Using Our Practice Resources

  • Work through all 310 available questions
  • Review every answer and explanation
  • Track weak areas and revisit them
  • Use our AI tutor for tough concepts

ND CDL General Knowledge: Suggested Study Strategy

1Start with the NDDOT 2025-2027 Commercial Driver License Manual and focus on Sections 1, 2, and 3 for General Knowledge and cargo topics.
2Memorize North Dakota logistics that can affect test planning: $5 knowledge-test attempts, one attempt per day, $15 CLP, and a 14-day CLP holding period before the road test.
3Give extra attention to winter driving, black ice, fog, high winds, long downgrades, and emergency planning because those conditions matter in North Dakota CMV operation.
4Practice inspection questions until you can explain why each defect affects safe operation.
5Keep endorsement-only material separate unless it overlaps with general safe-driving principles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who has to take the North Dakota CDL General Knowledge test?

The NDDOT driver license page states that all CDL applicants must take the General Knowledge test. Additional tests depend on the class of vehicle, air brakes, combination vehicles, and endorsements.

What score do I need to pass the North Dakota CDL General Knowledge test?

Federal CDL standards in 49 CFR §383.135 require a driver applicant to correctly answer at least 80% of the questions on each CDL knowledge test. North Dakota administers CDL testing under those FMCSA standards.

How much does the North Dakota CDL knowledge test cost?

NDDOT lists the CDL Knowledge Test fee as $5 per attempt, with one attempt allowed per day. NDDOT also lists a $15 Commercial Learner Permit fee, $20 for non-domiciled CLP, $3 endorsements, and a $5 road test.

How long must I hold a North Dakota CLP before the road test?

NDDOT states that a CDL road test cannot be scheduled without a valid CLP that was earned at least 14 days prior.

What topics are on the North Dakota CDL General Knowledge test?

Study the NDDOT CDL manual and the FMCSA general knowledge areas: safe operations rules, inspections, control systems, basic control, shifting, backing, visual search, communication, speed and space management, night and extreme-condition driving, hazards, emergencies, skid recovery, cargo securement, mountain driving, fatigue, and alcohol/drug effects.

Does North Dakota require ELDT?

Yes. NDDOT states that before being eligible to complete a CDL road test, applicants are required to complete federally required Entry-Level Driver Training when that federal requirement applies.

Is this practice test for endorsements?

No. This page focuses on General Knowledge. Air brakes, combination vehicles, passenger, school bus, tanker, doubles/triples, and hazardous materials have separate knowledge requirements when applicable.