CDL Class A Practice Test 2026 — Free Permit Prep
A Class A CDL (federally, “Group A — combination vehicle”) covers any combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, where the vehicle(s) being towed have a GVWR over 10,000 pounds. That is the tractor-trailer class: if the trailer alone is rated above 10,000 pounds and the combination hits 26,001, you need a Class A.
50 questions · 80%
Every CDL applicant must pass the general knowledge test before a commercial learner’s permit can be issued — it covers the 20 knowledge areas all commercial drivers are tested on.
49 CFR 383.71(a)(2), 383.111
20 questions · 80%
Not optional for Class A: an applicant who fails the combination vehicles portion of the knowledge test must not be issued a Group A permit or CDL.
49 CFR 383.135(a)(3)
25 questions · 80%
If you fail the air brake knowledge component (or test in a vehicle without air brakes), your license is restricted from operating vehicles with air brakes — which rules out virtually every tractor-trailer.
49 CFR 383.95(a), 383.135(a)(2)
80%
Passing score (every test)
18 / 21
Min. age — in-state / interstate
14
Days holding permit before road test
50
General Knowledge questions
The 80% passing score is a federal standard (FMCSA, 49 CFR 383.135). Question counts follow the AAMVA model used by most states and can vary by state. Always confirm current details with your state's official CDL handbook.
CDL General Knowledge Practice Test
What a Class A CDL lets you drive
A driver who has passed the Class A knowledge and skills tests may also operate Class B and Class C vehicles, provided they hold the endorsements those vehicles require (for example, passenger or hazmat).
49 CFR 383.91(c)(1)
Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) is required first
If you got (or will get) your commercial learner’s permit on or after February 7, 2022, federal rules require you to complete Entry-Level Driver Training from a provider listed in FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry before you can take the CDL skills test for a first Class A or Class B license. Drivers issued their CDL before that date are not required to complete ELDT for that license.
FMCSA Training Provider Registry49 CFR 380.603
CDL Class A — frequently asked questions
Is the combination vehicles test required for a Class A CDL?
Yes. Federal rule is explicit: a driver applicant who fails the combination vehicle portion of the knowledge test must not be issued a Group A (Class A) learner’s permit or CDL. Plan on three knowledge tests for a typical tractor-trailer Class A: general knowledge, combination vehicles, and air brakes.
49 CFR 383.135(a)(3)
What score do I need to pass?
At least 80% on each knowledge test — a federal standard, the same in every state. Question counts below follow the AAMVA model most states use, but your state can deviate, so confirm counts in its official CDL handbook.
49 CFR 383.135(a)(1)
Can I drive a Class B truck with a Class A license?
Yes — a Class A holder may operate Class B and Class C vehicles, as long as they have any endorsements the specific vehicle requires (such as P for passenger vehicles or H for placarded hazmat).
49 CFR 383.91(c)(1)
How long do I have to hold the permit before the road test?
Federal rule requires holding a commercial learner’s permit at least 14 days before taking the skills (road) test. You must pass the general knowledge test to get the permit in the first place.
49 CFR 383.25(e), 383.71(a)(2)
Practice the Class A test by state
Official sources
- 49 CFR 383.91 — Commercial motor vehicle groups
- 49 CFR 383.135 — Passing knowledge and skills tests
- 49 CFR 383.95 — Restrictions
- FMCSA — Entry-Level Driver Training (Training Provider Registry)
Federal rules verified against the eCFR on 2026-09-02.