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Texas CDL General Knowledge Practice Test

General Knowledge is the second Texas CDL knowledge test, right after Texas Commercial Rules. The Texas handbook says it is taken by all applicants, whatever class of CDL they want.

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What it covers

The handbook's study chart (Figure 1.2) lists Sections 1, 2 and 3 for every class: the introduction to CDL testing, Driving Safely and Transporting Cargo Safely. Driving Safely is the biggest: vehicle inspection, basic control, shifting, seeing, communicating, speed and space management, hazards, night and winter driving, emergencies and skid control. Cargo covers inspecting, weighing, securing and balancing loads.

How it is scored

Multiple choice and matching questions. You need 80% or higher to pass. Since June 1, 2026, the test is given in English only. If you fail, your application stays active for 90 days or three failed attempts, whichever comes first.

Common mistakes

Mixing up following-distance and stopping-distance rules, skipping the cargo section because it seems obvious, and not learning the inspection steps in order. These are habits, not facts, so they need repeated practice.

How passMarker helps

The General Knowledge practice set follows the handbook topics, with an explanation and handbook reference for each answer. Use the free diagnostic to find your weakest topic first.

Original sample practice questions

Study examples from the learner-approved practice bank. These are not live exam questions. Open each answer to see the explanation and source reference.

1. Before beginning a delivery route, a driver sees fresh fuel dripping beneath the engine area during the walk-around. What is the safest response?

  1. Investigate the leak as part of the inspection before operating the vehicle
  2. Add engine oil because all under-vehicle leaks indicate low oil
  3. Drive to the first stop and check again after unloading
  4. Ignore the leak if the engine starts normally
Show answer and explanation

Answer A. The inspection method calls for looking under the vehicle for fresh leaks, including fuel. A defect found before travel may prevent a breakdown or crash.

Source: DL-7C (revised March 2026), Section 2, PDF pp. 28–34

2. During a modernized vehicle-inspection practice, a driver needs to step out of the cab to continue the walk-around. What should the driver do before exiting?

  1. Set the parking brake(s) and place the vehicle in neutral
  2. Turn on the high beams and release the parking brakes
  3. Leave the vehicle in drive so it cannot roll backward
  4. Apply the service brake with one foot while climbing down
Show answer and explanation

Answer A. Before exiting the vehicle during the inspection, the vehicle should be in neutral and the parking brake(s) should be set.

Source: DL-7C (revised March 2026), Section 11 — modernized vehicle inspection, PDF pp. 147–150

3. A driver begins a trip with a loaded cargo van. When should the driver first stop to inspect the cargo and its securing devices again?

  1. At the end of the driver’s shift
  2. After 3 hours of driving only
  3. Only if the vehicle begins to handle poorly
  4. Within the first 50 miles of the trip
Show answer and explanation

Answer D. The cargo and its securing devices must be inspected again within the first 50 miles after starting a trip.

Source: DL-7C (revised March 2026), Section 3, PDF pp. 72–74

4. During a trip, a driver stops for a break. Which group of items should be checked as critical items at that stop?

  1. Only cargo weight tickets and route maps
  2. Windshield washer fluid and seat adjustment
  3. Only the engine oil level and coolant level
  4. Tires, wheels and rims; brakes; lights and reflectors
Show answer and explanation

Answer D. At stops during a trip, the manual identifies tires, wheels, rims, brakes, and lights and reflectors among the critical items to check.

Source: DL-7C (revised March 2026), Section 2, PDF pp. 28–34

5. A driver is getting into a truck cab to begin an inspection. Which method best follows the modernized inspection guidance for entering the vehicle?

  1. Step onto the fuel tank before using the cab steps
  2. Climb in while holding only the steering wheel
  3. Enter sideways so the driver can watch traffic
  4. Face the vehicle and maintain three points of contact
Show answer and explanation

Answer D. For entering or exiting a non-bus vehicle, the guidance calls for facing the vehicle and maintaining three points of contact.

Source: DL-7C (revised March 2026), Section 11 — modernized vehicle inspection, PDF pp. 147–150

Frequently asked questions

Who takes the Texas CDL General Knowledge test?

All CDL applicants, Class A, B and C.

Which handbook sections should I study?

Sections 1, 2 and 3, according to the handbook's Figure 1.2.

What is the passing score?

80% or higher.

Can I take it in Spanish?

No. Since June 1, 2026, Texas gives CDL knowledge tests in English only.

Official sources

Source information reviewed November 11, 2026. Policies can change; confirm requirements with the licensing agency before booking.

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