Delaware CDL General Knowledge Test (DE) 5

5 out of 5 (45 votes)
80% Passing score
50 Questions
10 Mistakes allowed
Are you ready to elevate your commercial driving skills in Delaware? Our fifth Delaware CDL General Knowledge Practice Test is meticulously designed to guide you towards success in 2026. With a comprehensive set of 50 questions, this test is your stepping stone to mastering the essential concepts needed for the CDL written test. Achieving a score of at least 40 correct answers is your goal here, mirroring the standards of the actual test. Our Delaware DMV CDL practice test stands out because it's crafted by expert driving instructors. These professionals bring years of experience and a track record of helping thousands secure their driver's licenses. They understand what it takes to excel and have translated this knowledge into every question. Their insights ensure that each DMV question is not just a test of knowledge, but a lesson in itself. The uniqueness of our Delaware CDL general knowledge practice test lies in its real-life driving scenarios. It goes beyond theoretical questions, challenging you to apply your knowledge in situations you'll encounter on the road. This approach bridges the gap between learning and practical application, making you a more prepared and confident driver. One significant advantage of our Delaware CDL practice test is the absence of time constraints. Unlike the real CDL exam, we allow you to take your time with each question. This relaxed environment is conducive to thorough learning and understanding, as you can ponder over questions and truly grasp the concepts behind them. Remember, the real CDL permit test will be timed, so use this opportunity to build a solid foundation. As you work through the test, each attempt will present the same set of questions. This consistency is key to reinforcing your knowledge and identifying areas that need more focus. You can retake our Delaware general knowledge CDL permit test as many times as you need, solidifying your understanding and boosting your confidence with each attempt.
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Sample Delaware CDL Test Questions - General Knowledge

Question 1

How should you measure your following distance in seconds?

  1. A Allow one second for every passenger vehicle between you and the lead vehicle
  2. B Begin counting when the vehicle ahead passes a fixed landmark
  3. C Estimate the distance only in feet
  4. D Count from the moment you apply the brakes

Correct answer: B – Begin counting when the vehicle ahead passes a fixed landmark

Watch the vehicle ahead pass a fixed landmark, then count the seconds until your vehicle reaches the same point. Compare that count with the recommended following-distance rule for your vehicle’s length and speed. If the interval is too short, increase the space and measure it again.

Source: Delaware Commercial Driver’s Manual — § 2.7.1, “Space Ahead”

Question 2

Before driving a commercial motor vehicle, the driver must:

  1. A Inspect it only if a week has passed since the last inspection
  2. B Wait until the end of the day to check its condition
  3. C Inspect it only when the previous trip involved a problem
  4. D Verify that required safety equipment is in good working order

Correct answer: D – Verify that required safety equipment is in good working order

Federal safety rules prohibit driving a commercial motor vehicle unless the driver is satisfied that specified equipment is in good working order. This includes brakes, steering, lights, tires, mirrors, coupling devices, wheels, and emergency equipment. The verification is required before driving, not merely once a day or after a known problem.

Source: 49 CFR § 392.7 — Equipment, Inspection and Use

Question 3

In Delaware, a posted SPEED LIMIT 65 sign establishes:

This sign instructs drivers to _____________.
  1. A A daytime-only speed of exactly 65 mph
  2. B A minimum speed of 65 mph
  3. C A maximum speed of 65 mph unless a different condition is displayed
  4. D A nighttime-only speed of exactly 65 mph

Correct answer: C – A maximum speed of 65 mph unless a different condition is displayed

A posted speed limit establishes the maximum lawful speed for that section of roadway. It does not require drivers to travel at that speed, and a lower speed may be necessary because of traffic, weather, curves, or other hazards. Unless the sign displays a special time or condition, the limit applies both day and night.

Source: 21 Del. C. § 4168 — General Speed Restrictions, 21 Del. C. § 4169 — Specific Speed Limits; Penalty

Question 4

At 55 mph, what following interval is recommended for a 30-foot commercial vehicle?

  1. A 3 seconds
  2. B 4 seconds
  3. C 5 seconds
  4. D 6 seconds

Correct answer: B – 4 seconds

A 30-foot vehicle needs three seconds under the one-second-per-10-feet guideline. Because 55 mph is above 40 mph, add one more second. The recommended interval is four seconds, with additional space needed when the road is slippery or other conditions increase stopping distance.

Source: Delaware Commercial Driver’s Manual — § 2.7.1, “Space Ahead”

Question 5

Which condition can make operating at the legal maximum weight unsafe?

  1. A Travel through mountainous terrain
  2. B Crossing every bridge
  3. C Loading beyond the legal limit
  4. D Carrying any placarded material

Correct answer: A – Travel through mountainous terrain

The Delaware CDL manual notes that legal maximum weights may still be unsafe in mountains or bad weather. A heavily loaded vehicle climbs more slowly, can gain excessive speed on downgrades, and requires more distance to stop. Drivers must consider the route and operating conditions instead of treating the legal limit as an assurance of safe handling.

Source: Delaware Commercial Driver’s Manual — § 3.2.2, “Legal Weight Limits”

Question 6

Routine backing of a school bus is encouraged whenever it saves time.

  1. A TRUE
  2. B FALSE

Correct answer: B – FALSE

Backing a school bus is strongly discouraged and should occur only when there is no other safe way to move it. The Delaware school-bus guidance also says never to back while students are outside the bus. When backing is unavoidable, follow the prescribed procedures, including using a lookout.

Source: Delaware Commercial Driver’s Manual — § 10.7.3, “Backing”

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