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Free Ohio CDL Permit Practice Test: General Knowledge 2025

Part of mandatory Entry-Level Driver Training Course Based on 2025 OH commercial driver's license manualAvailable in EN, ES
50questions
10mistakes allowed
80%passing score

Have you been reading the official Ohio Commercial Driver License Manual (Ohio CDL Handbook 2025) because you need to pass the official General Knowledge test on commercial driving? Concerned that you still may not pass the test without some additional help? No problem! You’ve certainly come to the right place. You’re not the only one in this situation by any means. That’s why so many other aspiring commercial drivers have decided to supplement their reading of the manual with other study tools, such as the ones we offer.

This free Ohio CDL permit practice test is based on the official manual, just like the official General Knowledge test. The practice test is up to date as of January, 2025. Practicing with it will make all the material covered by the test questions easier to remember. To make your learning easier, each of the 50 practice questions comes with a helpful hint and an explanation of the correct answer. The practice questions on this test will assess your knowledge of such topics as basic vehicle maneuvers, cargo management, following distance, stopping distance, and vehicle components. Stuck on a puzzling question? Our automated assistant can give you a hint. Still got the question wrong? The assistant can give you an explanation of the correct answer.

Besides passing the General Knowledge test, you must meet some other requirements at this stage, such as completing a medical examination and receiving your Medical Examiner’s Certificate proving that you completed it. Once you obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP), you can start practicing for the skills test. Passing the skills test is a necessary step toward obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). The skills test consists of three parts: basic vehicle maneuvers (such as backing), a pre-trip inspection of the vehicle, and a road test.

Once you hold a CDL, you can profit from all the commercial driving opportunities Ohio has to offer. Ohio is the third-largest manufacturing state (behind California and Texas), with over 12,000 manufacturers, creating a demand for truck drivers to carry their products. Ohio also employs truck drivers to transport products from its large agricultural sector. As befits Ohio’s role as a major Midwest commerce hub, it is served by such important truck routes as Interstate 70 (which runs from Utah through Columbus and on to Maryland), Interstate 71 (which starts in Kentucky and connects Columbus, Cincinnati, and Cleveland), and Interstate 75 (which runs from northern Michigan through Toledo, Dayton, and Cincinnati and on to Florida).

This test is great whether you’re applying for your CDL for the first time or renewing. Of course, passing this practice test is only a first step. The real goal is to become a safe and proficient commercial driver on Ohio’s roads. Go through the exam at your pace, learning from every question, and then get ready to take your place among the ranks of Ohio’s professional drivers.
Good luck, and drive safe out there!

4.24 out of 5 • 34 votes.

Perfect for

  • First-time OH CDL and CLP applicants
  • CDL holders adding endorsements
  • OH CDL renewal applicants
OH commercial driver's license

What to expect on the actual exam

How many questions50
How many correct answers to pass40
Passing score80%
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FAQs

How do you obtain a CDL in Ohio?

To get a CDL in Ohio, first obtain a commercial learner's permit (CLP) by passing the required knowledge tests. Hold the CLP for at least 14 days, then complete CDL training (if desired) and pass the skills test. Ensure you meet all age and medical requirements.

What is the cost of getting a CDL?

The cost for a CDL in Ohio includes a $27 fee for the knowledge test, $50 for the skills test, and a $42.25 fee for the CDL itself. Additional fees apply for endorsements and CDL training programs.

How long does CDL training last?

CDL training duration in Ohio varies by program. Full-time courses can last several weeks, while part-time courses may extend over several months, depending on the school and the specific program.

What disqualifies you from getting a CDL?

In Ohio, disqualifications from obtaining a CDL include having multiple licenses, certain criminal convictions, especially involving a motor vehicle, drug or alcohol related offenses, and major traffic violations like reckless driving or leaving the scene of an accident.

What are the 3 tests for the CDL permit?

The three tests for the Ohio CDL permit include the General Knowledge test, Air Brakes test (if applicable), and the Combination Vehicle test (for Class A CDL). Specific endorsements require additional tests.

List of questions (classic view)

  1. Which of the following is NOT something you should check during a trip?
  2. Which of the following is a key steering component?
  3. Always try to back toward the driver's side because
  4. The most important hand signal that you and a helper should agree on is
  5. Which of the following statements about retarders are correct?
  6. It has just reached freezing. Which of the following areas may be slippery?
  7. You should put the starter switch key into your pocket while you perform the pre-trip inspection because
  8. You should inspect wheel bearing seals for
  9. Total stopping distance equals
  10. If you double your speed, how much more distance will it take to brake to a stop?
  11. Do empty trucks have the best braking?
  12. If you are traveling at 55 mph in a 30-foot vehicle, you should leave how many seconds of following distance?
  13. What might happen if you swing wide to the left before you turn right?
  14. What is the definition of a hazard?
  15. What is the best way to figure out how many seconds of following distance you have?
  16. You don't want to be a distracted driver, so you
  17. If you are confronted by an aggressive driver, what should you do?
  18. Letting the air out of hot tires
  19. If you feel drowsy while driving, what should you do?
  20. If the engine is not overheated, is it completely safe to remove the radiator cap?
  21. While driving at night, which lights should you use as often as you can?
  22. Where should you place your warning devices if you must stop on a one-way road or divided highway?
  23. Why is it important to use a helper when backing?
  24. How can you start moving without rolling backward?
  25. Which is NOT one of the four basic skills that operating a commercial motor vehicle requires?
  26. In which of the following two situations should you downshift?
  27. Signs of distracted drivers include
  28. How long does it take a typical tractor-trailer to clear a double railroad track?
  29. Which of the following CMVs are most likely to get stuck at a raised railroad crossing?
  30. When you start to drive down a steep downgrade, which of the following should influence your choice of speed?
  31. Which of the following should you NOT do if you experience a tire failure?
  32. How can you determine if your vehicle is equipped with an antilock braking system (ABS)?
  33. Which of these is NOT part of the basic method for shifting up?
  34. An antilock braking system (ABS) will
  35. Which of the following statements about an escape ramp is FALSE?
  36. What is a common cause of tire fires?
  37. What can you do at an accident scene to help avoid another accident?
  38. Which of the following is most likely to cause a vehicle fire?
  39. On which of the following types of fires should you NOT use a B:C fire extinguisher?
  40. Hazardous materials placards are
  41. What will help a drunk sober up?
  42. To maintain alertness on your trips, you should
  43. How many tie-downs are required for a 20-foot load?
  44. Why should you cover your cargo?
  45. Before transporting a sealed load, you must check
  46. To transport cargo safely, which of the following are you NOT responsible for?
  47. Your emergency kit does NOT need to include
  48. The minimum tire tread depth for front tires is
  49. How far ahead should you look while driving?
  50. How often must you stop to check your cargo while on the road?

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