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  • Updated for December 2024
  • Based on 2024 KY commercial driver's license manual

Free Kentucky CDL Permit Practice Test: General Knowledge 2024

There are three classes of Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs). A Class A CDL allows you to operate combination vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the towed vehicle(s) has a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of more than 10,000 pounds. This class of CDL is generally for operating semi-trucks and tractor-trailers, including flatbed semi-trucks. A Class B CDL allows you to operate a single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more or a combination of vehicles where the towed vehicle has a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or less. This class of CDL is generally for large buses and straight trucks, including box trucks and most dump trucks. A Class C CDL is for other kinds of commercial vehicles that transport hazardous materials or at least 16 occupants (including the driver). This class of CDL is generally for small buses (including shuttle buses) or small trucks carrying hazardous materials.

No matter which class of CDL you want, you must meet a series of requirements. Notably, you must pass an official skills test, which includes basic vehicle maneuvers, a pre-trip inspection test, and a road test. To pass this test, you must practice commercial driving under supervision until you’re good enough to drive unsupervised. To be allowed to practice commercial driving, you’ll need a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP).

To obtain a CLP, you must meet certain requirements too, including passing the official General Knowledge test on the basic theory of commercial driving. The questions on this knowledge test are based on the official Kentucky Commercial Driver License Manual (Kentucky CDL Handbook 2024). However, if you’ve had trouble memorizing information contained in this manual, we can help.

This free Kentucky CDL permit practice test you’re about to take is based on the official CDL manual, just like the official knowledge test. It’s up to date as of December, 2024. There are 50 multiple-choice practice questions on such topics as basic maneuvers, emergency preparedness, and pre-trip inspections. If you get stuck on a question, use the available hint. If you still miss a question, read the explanation of the correct answer carefully so you’ll know what to answer the next time. You can also ask our automated assistant for even more help. With us, there’s no time limit; take all the time you need to learn and master the material covered by this practice test. You can even use the practice test as an open-book exam: Keep the official CDL manual open at the same time. You’ll learn more by looking up the correct answer to a puzzling question instead of just guessing the answer.

Commercial Driver's License
  • Perfect for first-time and renewal CDL/CLP applicants, and those adding endorsements
  • Triple-checked for accuracy

What you need to know

Available in EN and ES
Verified by Steven Litvintchouk, M.S., Chief Educational Researcher, Member of ACES. See our detailed commitment to accuracy and quality in our practice tests.
Ensuring the accuracy and quality of our program is paramount. Learn more about our rigorous standards in our Commitment to Accuracy article.

What to expect on the actual KY KSP exam

50

questions

40

correct answers to pass

80%

passing score

List of questions (classic view)

  1. What is a common cause of tire fires?
  2. How many tie-downs are required for a 20-foot load?
  3. Which of the following statements about retarders are correct?
  4. Why should you cover your cargo?
  5. If you feel drowsy while driving, what should you do?
  6. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) will
  7. The minimum tread depth for front tires is
  8. If the engine is not overheated, is it completely safe to remove the radiator cap?
  9. What is the gross vehicle weight (GVW)?
  10. During your pre-trip test, when examining hoses with the instructor, you need to look for
  11. In your emergency kit, you do not need to have
  12. If you are traveling at 55 mph in a 30-foot vehicle, you should leave how many seconds of following distance?
  13. What will help a drunk sober up?
  14. Hazardous materials placards are
  15. How long does it take a typical tractor-trailer to clear a double railroad track?
  16. To maintain alertness during the trip, drivers should
  17. You should inspect wheel bearing seals for
  18. Which of the following is NOT something you should check during a trip?
  19. Which is NOT one of the four skill areas that operating a commercial vehicle requires?
  20. How often must you stop to check your cargo while on the road?
  21. If you double your speed, how much distance will it take to stop?
  22. If you are confronted by an aggressive driver, you should
  23. What is the best way to figure out how many seconds of following distance you have?
  24. How can you start moving without rolling backward?
  25. Always try to back toward the driver's side because
  26. Total stopping distance equals
  27. Where should you place your warning devices if you must stop on a one-way road or divided highway?
  28. You should put the starter switch key into your pocket while you perform the pre-trip inspection because
  29. While you drive at night, which lights should you use as often as you can?
  30. Which of these is NOT part of the basic method for shifting up?
  31. What is the definition of a hazard?
  32. How far ahead should you look while driving?
  33. To help you stay alert and safe while driving, you should
  34. Before transporting a sealed load, you must check
  35. The most important hand signal you should agree on with a helper is
  36. Why is it important to use a helper when backing?
  37. Signs of distracted drivers include
  38. Which of the following is NOT true about an escape ramp?
  39. Which of the following can cause a vehicle fire?
  40. For how long will you lose your CDL driving privileges if you are convicted of a second DUI offense in either a CMV or your private vehicle?
  41. How can you determine if your vehicle is equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS)?
  42. Which of the following should you NOT do if you experience a tire failure?
  43. Starting the engine and inspecting the cab involves each of the following tasks, EXCEPT
  44. Which of the following are likely to get stuck at a raised railroad crossing?
  45. When you start down a long downgrade, which of the following should influence your choice of speed?
  46. On wet roads, you should reduce your speed by
  47. In Kentucky, which of the following drivers are exempt from needing a CDL?
  48. It has just reached freezing. Which of the following areas may be slippery?
  49. Do empty trucks have the best braking?
  50. In which of the following two situations should you downshift?
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