Back to Program Home
– / –
 
 
 
 
 
Ask DMV Genie AI
new
    Close
    IA commercial driver's license

    Free Iowa CDL Permit Practice Test: General Knowledge 2025

    • Perfect for first-time and renewal CDL/CLP applicants, and those adding endorsements
    • Based on 2025 IA commercial driver's license manual
    • Triple-checked for accuracy
    • Updated for March 2025
    Trustpilot

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

    No matter which class of CDL you plan to get, you must meet a series of requirements. For one, you must pass an official skills test, which includes basic vehicle maneuvers, a pre-trip inspection, and a road test. To be sure of passing the skills test, you must practice commercial driving under supervision until you’re proficient. And to be allowed to practice commercial driving, you must hold a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP).

    To obtain a CLP, you must also meet certain requirements, including passing the official General Knowledge test on the basic theory of commercial driving. The questions on this test are based on the official Iowa National CDL Manual (Iowa CDL Handbook 2025). You should read the manual a couple of times to learn as much as you can from it. But if you’ve found it tough to learn enough information from the manual, you probably need some more help.

    This free Iowa CDL permit practice test is based on the official CDL manual, just like the official knowledge test. It’s up to date as of March, 2025. There are 50 multiple-choice practice questions on such topics as basic maneuvers, cargo management, emergency preparedness, and pre-trip inspections. Our automated assistant can give you a hint if you get stuck or an explanation of the correct answer if you still miss the question. There’s no time limit; take all the time you need to learn and master the material covered by this practice test.

    Be sure to try our other CDL General Knowledge practice tests too.

    FAQs

    How can you get yours?

    To obtain a CDL license in Iowa, first get a commercial learner’s permit (CLP) by passing the required knowledge tests. Hold the CLP for at least 14 days before taking the skills test. Complete CDL training (recommended) and pass the skills test. Ensure you meet all medical and legal requirements.

    What is the associated cost?

    The cost for a CDL in Iowa includes a $12 fee for the CLP and a $16 fee for the CDL license. Additional costs may apply for skills testing and CDL training programs.

    How long does training last?

    CDL training duration in Iowa varies by program. Full-time training typically ranges from a few weeks to several months, depending on the school and the specific program.

    What can disqualify you from being eligible?

    In Iowa, disqualifications from obtaining a CDL include serious traffic violations such as DUIs, reckless driving, criminal convictions involving motor vehicles, and failing the medical examination required for CDL holders.

    How long does the test take?

    The Iowa CDL permit test duration varies based on the applicant’s preparedness and test-taking pace. The general knowledge test, which is part of the permit test, typically consists of 50 questions.

    4.27 out of 5 • 126 votes.
    Available in EN and ES
    Ensuring the accuracy and quality of our program is paramount. Learn more about our rigorous standards in our Commitment to Accuracy article.
    Verified by Steven Litvintchouk,
    Chief Educational Researcher, Member of ACES.
    Pass the first time,
    guaranteed with Premium

    All 650 exam-like questions
    specific to your state

    Interactive learning with
    AI personal tutor

    Unique 360° Virtual Road
    Simulations

    Get your money back if you
    don’t pass

    What to expect on the actual IA DOT exam

    50

    questions

    40

    correct answers to pass

    80%

    passing score

    Are you in another state?
    Unlock full access with Premium

    Free Iowa CDL Permit Practice Test: General Knowledge

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

    No matter which class of CDL you plan to get, you must meet a series of requirements. For one, you must pass an official skills test, which includes basic vehicle maneuvers, a pre-trip inspection, and a road test. To be sure of passing the skills test, you must practice commercial driving under supervision until you’re proficient. And to be allowed to practice commercial driving, you must hold a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP).

    To obtain a CLP, you must also meet certain requirements, including passing the official General Knowledge test on the basic theory of commercial driving. The questions on this test are based on the official Iowa National CDL Manual (Iowa CDL Handbook 2025). You should read the manual a couple of times to learn as much as you can from it. But if you’ve found it tough to learn enough information from the manual, you probably need some more help.

    This free Iowa CDL permit practice test is based on the official CDL manual, just like the official knowledge test. It’s up to date as of March, 2025. There are 50 multiple-choice practice questions on such topics as basic maneuvers, cargo management, emergency preparedness, and pre-trip inspections. Our automated assistant can give you a hint if you get stuck or an explanation of the correct answer if you still miss the question. There’s no time limit; take all the time you need to learn and master the material covered by this practice test.

    Be sure to try our other CDL General Knowledge practice tests too.

    FAQs

    How can you get yours?

    To obtain a CDL license in Iowa, first get a commercial learner’s permit (CLP) by passing the required knowledge tests. Hold the CLP for at least 14 days before taking the skills test. Complete CDL training (recommended) and pass the skills test. Ensure you meet all medical and legal requirements.

    What is the associated cost?

    The cost for a CDL in Iowa includes a $12 fee for the CLP and a $16 fee for the CDL license. Additional costs may apply for skills testing and CDL training programs.

    How long does training last?

    CDL training duration in Iowa varies by program. Full-time training typically ranges from a few weeks to several months, depending on the school and the specific program.

    What can disqualify you from being eligible?

    In Iowa, disqualifications from obtaining a CDL include serious traffic violations such as DUIs, reckless driving, criminal convictions involving motor vehicles, and failing the medical examination required for CDL holders.

    How long does the test take?

    The Iowa CDL permit test duration varies based on the applicant’s preparedness and test-taking pace. The general knowledge test, which is part of the permit test, typically consists of 50 questions.

    Show Test description
    Back to Program Home Back to results
    Restart
    Test progress
    Test settings
    Challenge Bank™0Questions
    IA CDL handbook
    Report a mistake
    Pass the first time, guaranteed

    Leave feedback

    Test Progress

    • 0 Incorrect (10 allowed to pass)
    • 0 Correct
    1
    2
    3
    4
    5
    6
    7
    8
    9
    10
    11
    12
    13
    14
    15
    16
    17
    18
    19
    20
    21
    22
    23
    24
    25
    26
    27
    28
    29
    30
    31
    32
    33
    34
    35
    36
    37
    38
    39
    40
    41
    42
    43
    44
    45
    46
    47
    48
    49
    50
    You test results are ready

    Pass Your CDL Exams the First Time – Guaranteed

    You’re moments from your results. Before viewing them, see how you can get your ELDT certificate and pass — at a fraction of what schools charge.

    • 1,500 Real Exam‐Like Questions Covers every endorsement plus a Pass Guarantee.
    • FMCSA‐Approved ELDT Official certification, instant completion reporting.
    • 99.06% Pass Rate vs. 49% Avg Trusted by over 1.15 million drivers to succeed first time.
    Learn More & Guarantee My Pass
    Opens in a new tab — your results are saved.