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300+ Free Washington CDL General Knowledge Test Practice Questions

Pass your Washington Commercial Driver License General Knowledge Test exam on the first try — instant access, no signup required.

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If your brakes fail while driving downhill, what should you do FIRST?

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2026 Statistics

Key Facts: Washington CDL General Knowledge Test Exam

50

General Knowledge Questions

Washington DOL CDL Knowledge Test

40

Correct Answers Needed

Washington DOL CDL Knowledge Test

80%

Minimum Federal CDL Knowledge Passing Score

49 CFR 383.135

180 days

Washington Knowledge Score Validity

Washington DOL CDL Knowledge Test

14 days

Minimum CLP Holding Period Before Skills Test

Washington DOL Commercial Learner's Permit

Washington DOL identifies the CDL General Knowledge test as a 50-question exam with 40 correct answers required to pass, matching the federal 80% CDL knowledge-test pass rule. Applicants must pass required knowledge tests before CLP issuance, pay the $35 CDL knowledge-test fee and $40 CLP fee, hold an original or upgraded CLP for at least 14 days before skills testing, and satisfy ELDT and Washington training requirements when applicable.

Sample Washington CDL General Knowledge Test Practice Questions

Try these sample questions to test your Washington CDL General Knowledge Test 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 Washington CDL General Knowledge Test Exam

The Washington CDL General Knowledge test is required for Washington commercial learner permit and commercial driver license applicants. It is based on the Washington Commercial Driver Guide and federal FMCSA CDL standards in 49 CFR Part 383. Washington DOL lists the General Knowledge test for Classes A, B, and C as a 50-question test requiring 40 correct answers, and applicants must pass required knowledge tests before CLP issuance.

Assessment

50 multiple-choice General Knowledge questions administered by Washington DOL as part of the CLP/CDL knowledge testing process

Time Limit

No separate official time limit published by Washington DOL or FMCSA for the General Knowledge test

Passing Score

80% (40 correct out of 50)

Exam Fee

$35 CDL knowledge test; $40 Commercial Learner's Permit; $175 CDL skills test (Washington State Department of Licensing under FMCSA CDL standards)

Washington CDL General Knowledge Test Exam Content Outline

18%

Vehicle Inspection and Safety Systems

Pre-trip/post-trip inspections, vehicle defects, brakes, tires, lights, mirrors, steering, suspension, exhaust, emergency equipment, and reporting unsafe conditions.

22%

Basic Control, Speed, and Mountain Driving

Shifting, backing, turning, stopping distance, speed selection, curves, downgrades, brake fade, and runaway truck ramp decisions.

25%

Seeing, Communication, Space, and Adverse Conditions

Scanning, mirror checks, signaling, following distance, railroad crossings, night driving, fog, rain, snow, ice, hydroplaning, and crosswinds.

15%

Hazards, Emergencies, Skids, and Fatigue

Hazard recognition, evasive steering, skid recovery, blowouts, fires, crash-scene priorities, drowsy-driving warning signs, and fatigue prevention.

10%

Cargo Securement and Weight Distribution

Cargo inspection timing, tie-down principles, blocking and bracing, axle/GVW concepts, sealed containers, and load shift prevention.

10%

FMCSA and Washington CDL Basics

CDL classes, CLP process, medical qualification, ELDT, Washington DOL fees and CLP validity, drug/alcohol rules, and disqualification basics.

How to Pass the Washington CDL General Knowledge Test Exam

What You Need to Know

  • Passing score: 80% (40 correct out of 50)
  • Assessment: 50 multiple-choice General Knowledge questions administered by Washington DOL as part of the CLP/CDL knowledge testing process
  • Time limit: No separate official time limit published by Washington DOL or FMCSA for the General Knowledge test
  • Exam fee: $35 CDL knowledge test; $40 Commercial Learner's Permit; $175 CDL skills test

Keys to Passing

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

Washington CDL General Knowledge Test Study Tips from Top Performers

1Study the current Washington Commercial Driver Guide, especially Sections 1 through 3 for General Knowledge coverage.
2Memorize the Washington test target: 50 questions with 40 correct required to pass.
3Practice vehicle inspection defects until you can explain why each defect affects safe operation.
4For speed and space questions, think in seconds, stopping distance, and whether the vehicle can stop within visible distance.
5Do not skip cargo, fatigue, alcohol/drug, and Washington CLP/ELDT rules; they are part of the broader General Knowledge safety baseline.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Washington DOL lists the CDL General Knowledge test for Classes A, B, and C as 50 questions. The passing score is 40 correct answers.

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

Washington DOL requires 40 correct answers out of 50 for the CDL General Knowledge test. Federal CDL rules require at least 80% correct on each knowledge test.

How much does the Washington CDL General Knowledge test cost?

Washington DOL lists a $35 CDL knowledge-test fee. The Commercial Learner's Permit fee is $40, and the CDL skills test is listed at $175.

What do I need before Washington DOL issues a CLP?

You need a valid Washington driver license, Social Security number, proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency, required medical self-certification or medical examiner documentation, passing CDL knowledge test scores for the class and endorsements sought, and payment of the CLP fee.

How long must I hold a Washington CLP before the CDL skills test?

Washington DOL says applicants must wait 14 days after an original or upgraded CLP is issued before taking the CDL skills test.

Does Washington require ELDT for CDL applicants?

Yes for applicants covered by federal ELDT rules. Washington's skills-test page says applicants cannot take a skills test until an approved training provider has completed training and entered course completion, and until federal entry-level driver training requirements are met.