CDL Practice Tests — California
Free practice tests for the California CDL exam, written from the California Department of Motor Vehicles handbook and federal standards.
Official handbook: California Department of Motor VehiclesChoose a practice test
General Knowledge
50-question practice · 50-question mock exam · 80% to pass
CaliforniaAir Brakes
25-question practice · 25-question mock exam · 80% to pass
CaliforniaCombination Vehicles
20-question practice · 20-question mock exam · 80% to pass
CaliforniaHazardous Materials
30-question practice · 30-question mock exam · 80% to pass
CaliforniaTanker
20-question practice · 20-question mock exam · 80% to pass
CaliforniaDoubles and Triples
20-question practice · 20-question mock exam · 80% to pass
CaliforniaPassenger Transport
20-question practice · 20-question mock exam · 80% to pass
CaliforniaSchool Bus
20-question practice · 20-question mock exam · 80% to pass
Step-by-stepCalifornia CDL Licensing Guide
How to get licensed in California, step by step.
About the California CDL exam
The California CDL exam is administered by the California Department of Motor Vehicles. Like every state, California adopts the federal standards as a baseline and adds state-specific requirements, fees, and procedures.
- Exam / licence fee: approximately $69.
- Skills testing: California DMV CDL drive test appointments.
- California requires a separate California-specific HazMat written exam in addition to the federal HazMat knowledge test.
To get started, read the official California handbook (linked above), practice with the tests on this page until you consistently score above 80%, and then schedule your exam with the California Department of Motor Vehicles.
What's in the California exam: Practice tests for the Commercial Driver's License written exam. Questions reflect the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Commercial Driver's License Manual that all states adopt as the basis for their CDL exams.
Recommended study materials
CDL Study Guide (Trivium)
Complete prep for all CDL written tests: general knowledge, air brakes, combination vehicles, hazmat, and all endorsements. Includes full-length practice tests.
Check Price → Study guideCDL Practice Tests & Flashcards (Accepted Inc.)
600+ practice questions covering every FMCSA knowledge area, plus 400 flashcards for endorsement prep.
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Arco's classic CDL prep with in-depth FMCSA manual coverage, endorsement chapters, and scored practice exams.
Check Price →As an Amazon Associate, CJ Affiliate, and AWIN publisher we earn from qualifying purchases. Links above are affiliate links. Full disclosure →
Practice test FAQs
How do I get a CDL license in California?
In general you must meet the eligibility requirements, complete any required education or training, and pass the required knowledge test (and, where applicable, a skills test) administered through the California Department of Motor Vehicles. The exact steps, fees, and documents are set by California and are covered in the guide above.
Is the CDL exam different in California?
The core knowledge tested is similar across states, but California sets its own specific rules, procedures, passing requirements, and any state-law content. That is why it is important to study materials specific to California, which our CDL practice tests are written to reflect.
Are these California practice tests free?
Yes. All of our California CDL practice questions are completely free, with no sign-up or payment required, and every question includes a full explanation. You can start practicing immediately on desktop or mobile.
How should I prepare for the CDL exam in California?
Study the official CDL materials from the California Department of Motor Vehicles, focus on the most heavily tested topics, and take practice tests until you consistently score above the passing threshold. You can start with the California CDL practice tests for this state.
Where can I learn more about the CDL exam format and scoring?
Our CDL exam guide explains the test format, scoring, what is covered, and study strategies that apply in every state, including California.