300+ Free VT CDL General Knowledge Practice Questions

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Question 1

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After the initial cargo inspection, how often must a driver re-inspect their cargo securement during a trip?

Only when stopping for fuel

Every 150 miles or 3 hours, whichever comes first

Every 100 miles or 2 hours, whichever comes first

Every 200 miles or 4 hours, whichever comes first

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2026 Statistics

Key Facts: VT CDL General Knowledge Exam

80%

Minimum Passing Score

49 CFR 383.135

$39

Vermont Knowledge Test Fee

Vermont DMV CDL Fees

$18

Vermont CLP Fee

Vermont DMV CDL Fees

1 year

Vermont CLP Validity

Vermont DMV Commercial Learner Permit

14 days

Minimum CLP Holding Period

Vermont DMV Commercial Learner Permit / FMCSA CDL steps

20 areas

FMCSA General Knowledge Areas

49 CFR 383.111

Vermont CLP applicants must hold a valid Vermont Operator License, pass the required CDL knowledge tests, and pay Vermont DMV fees. The Vermont CLP is valid for 1 year, cannot be renewed, and must be held for at least 14 days before a CDL can be obtained. FMCSA requires CDL knowledge tests to verify the areas in 49 CFR 383.111 and requires at least 80% correct to pass.

Sample VT CDL General Knowledge Practice Questions

Try these sample questions to test your VT 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.

3Which 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.

4During 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.

5What 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.

6What is the minimum tread depth required for tires on drive and trailer axle positions?

A.4/32 of an inch

B.2/32 of an inch

C.6/32 of an inch

D.1/32 of an inch

Explanation: Tires on drive axles and trailer axles must have a minimum tread depth of 2/32 of an inch in every major tread groove. This is less than the 4/32-inch requirement for steer axle tires because drive and trailer tires, while important for traction and braking, are not as critical for directional control as steer tires. However, insufficient tread on any axle reduces traction, increases stopping distance, and raises the risk of hydroplaning on wet roads.

7During a tire inspection, you notice a bulge on the sidewall of one of the steer tires. What should you do?

A.Continue driving but avoid high speeds

B.Have the tire replaced before driving the vehicle

C.Rotate the tire to a non-steer position

D.Reduce air pressure to alleviate the bulge

Explanation: A sidewall bulge indicates internal structural damage to the tire, meaning the reinforcing plies inside the tire have broken. This is extremely dangerous because the tire can blow out without warning. The tire must be replaced before the vehicle is driven. This is especially critical on steer tires, where a blowout can cause the driver to lose directional control. Reducing air pressure will not fix the problem, and rotating the tire to another position still leaves a dangerously damaged tire on the vehicle.

8How should you adjust your mirrors on a commercial motor vehicle?

A.So you can see only the road behind you

B.So you can see just a small portion of the trailer body along with the road behind and to the sides

C.So you can see only the trailer doors

D.Mirrors only need adjustment when pulling a new trailer

Explanation: Mirrors should be adjusted so that you can see the edge of the trailer body (a small sliver) along the inside edge of the mirror, with the rest of the mirror showing the road behind and to the sides. This gives you a reference point for judging the position of other vehicles relative to your vehicle. Both flat (plane) mirrors and convex mirrors should be properly adjusted. Mirrors should be checked and readjusted anytime you hook up to a different trailer or if they are bumped out of adjustment.

9When 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.

10During 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.

About the VT CDL General Knowledge Exam

The Vermont CDL General Knowledge test is part of the Commercial Learner Permit process for applicants seeking a commercial driver license in Vermont. Vermont requires a valid Vermont Operator License and passing knowledge tests for the requested CDL class before issuing a CLP. FMCSA sets the federal knowledge areas and the 80% passing threshold, while Vermont DMV administers the licensing process.

Questions

30 scored questions

Time Limit

Vermont DMV-administered knowledge testing; time limit varies by testing setup

Passing Score

80%

Exam Fee

$39 knowledge test plus $18 CLP (Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles)

VT CDL General Knowledge Exam Content Outline

20%

Vehicle Inspection and Equipment

Pre-trip inspection, safety equipment, tires, brakes, steering, suspension, lights, mirrors, and defect response.

17%

Basic Control and Mountain Driving

Starting, stopping, backing, turning, shifting, speed control, long downgrades, brake fade, and escape-ramp decisions.

28%

Safe Driving and Emergencies

Seeing, signaling, following distance, railroad crossings, night/weather operation, skids, fires, brake failure, drowsiness, and hazard recognition.

15%

Cargo and Weight Management

Cargo securement, blocking and bracing, working load limits, weight distribution, sealed loads, and required rechecks.

20%

Vermont and FMCSA CDL Compliance

Vermont CLP eligibility and validity, FMCSA state licensing standards, HOS basics, alcohol/drug rules, ELDT, air brakes, and hazmat recognition.

How to Pass the VT CDL General Knowledge Exam

What You Need to Know

Passing score: 80%
Exam length: 30 questions
Time limit: Vermont DMV-administered knowledge testing; time limit varies by testing setup
Exam fee: $39 knowledge test plus $18 CLP

Keys to Passing

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

VT CDL General Knowledge Study Tips from Top Performers

1Use the Vermont CDL manual as the primary study document and map each missed practice question back to the relevant manual section.

2Memorize inspection thresholds that often appear in General Knowledge questions, including tire tread depth, emergency equipment, leaks, and unsafe brake defects.

3Practice speed and space problems until stopping distance, following distance, curves, downgrades, and visibility limits feel automatic.

4Treat mountain driving and railroad crossings as high-risk scenarios: slow early, use the correct gear, and know when stopping is required.

5Review cargo securement timing: inspect within the first 50 miles and then every 150 miles or 3 hours, whichever comes first.

6Know Vermont CLP logistics: valid operator license, class knowledge tests, $39 knowledge test, $18 CLP, 1-year CLP validity, and 14-day CLP holding period before CDL issuance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who administers the Vermont CDL General Knowledge test?

The Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles administers CDL knowledge testing. FMCSA sets minimum CDL testing standards, but states issue CLPs and CDLs.

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

Federal rule 49 CFR 383.135 requires a driver applicant to correctly answer at least 80% of the questions on each CDL knowledge test.

How much does the Vermont CLP knowledge step cost?

Vermont DMV lists a $39 knowledge test fee and an $18 Commercial Learner Permit fee. Additional license, skills-test, endorsement, enhanced-license, or training costs may apply.

How long is a Vermont Commercial Learner Permit valid?

Vermont DMV states the CLP is valid for 1 year from the date of issue and cannot be renewed. To obtain another CLP, the applicant must retake the knowledge tests.

Do I need ELDT before taking the Vermont CDL knowledge test?

FMCSA states there is no federal requirement to complete entry-level driver theory training before applying for a CLP. ELDT is required before applicable first-time Class A/Class B skills tests and certain endorsement tests.

300+ Free VT CDL General Knowledge Practice Questions

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