Delaware CDL Practice Test: General Knowledge (DE) 6

5 out of 5 (42 votes)
80% Passing score
50 Questions
10 Mistakes allowed
Welcome to your sixth CDL practice test, a pivotal step in your preparation for the Delaware CDL General Knowledge test in 2026. This particular test is an essential tool in assessing and enhancing your understanding of key concepts and requirements for commercial driving in Delaware. Crafted with 50 carefully selected questions, this Delaware CDL practice test mirrors the format and content of the actual DMV general knowledge test. All questions are derived from the official Delaware CDL driver's manual, ensuring that you are studying the most relevant and up-to-date information. This alignment with the state manual means that if a topic isn't covered in the manual, it won't appear in our Delaware CDL practice test or the real DMV written test. The format of the practice test - a mix of multiple-choice and true/false questions - is designed to replicate the real written permit test environment. This practice format is beneficial for familiarizing yourself with the question styles and practicing the skill of eliminating incorrect options to identify the correct answers. A crucial aspect of our Delaware CDL general knowledge practice test is its consistency and focus on foundational knowledge. Whether it's your first attempt or a subsequent one, the set of questions remains the same, allowing you to track your progress and focus on areas that need improvement. The DMV practice test covers a broad spectrum of topics, from vehicle equipment to emergency handling, accident procedures, and pre-trip inspections. It even includes a segment on hazardous materials, providing essential knowledge for every CDL applicant, regardless of their specific endorsement. Our Delaware general knowledge DMV practice test offers a no-pressure environment, an ideal setting for learning and retaining information. This relaxed atmosphere is a stark contrast to the high-pressure scenario of the actual CDL permit test, making it an excellent way for you to build confidence and knowledge without the added stress. As you work through these questions, remember that achieving a score of at least 40 out of 50 will indicate a strong readiness for the actual exam. Utilize this resource as often as needed to ensure your preparedness and confidence when you step into the DMV for the real Delaware CDL test in 2026.
FREE CDL Practice Test App
Pass your Delaware CDL General Knowledge test with the NextDoorDriving app. Real questions and answers—100% free and ad-free.
Download on the App Store

Sample Delaware CDL Test Questions - General Knowledge

Question 1

What is your primary tool for monitoring traffic beside and behind a commercial vehicle?

  1. A A helper
  2. B The mirrors
  3. C The turn signals
  4. D The horn

Correct answer: B – The mirrors

Regular mirror checks help you monitor vehicles beside and behind your commercial vehicle. Mirrors are especially important before and during lane changes, turns, merges, and close maneuvers. They also help you monitor tires and open cargo, although drivers must remember that mirrors cannot show every blind area.

Source: Delaware Commercial Driver’s Manual — § 2.4.2, “Seeing to the Sides and Rear”

Question 2

An unblocked, 7-foot article of cargo must be secured by at least how many tiedowns?

  1. A 1
  2. B 2
  3. C 3
  4. D 4

Correct answer: B – 2

Federal cargo-securement rules require at least two tiedowns for an unblocked article that is longer than 5 feet but no longer than 10 feet, regardless of its weight. Different minimums can apply when the article is shorter, longer, or blocked against forward movement. Tiedowns must also meet the applicable strength and attachment requirements.

Source: 49 CFR § 393.110(b)(2)(ii) — Additional Requirements for Determining the Minimum Number of Tiedowns

Question 3

Which three cargo responsibilities belong to the driver?

  1. A Measuring cargo dimensions, choosing its destination, and repairing damaged freight
  2. B Inspecting cargo, recognizing poor weight balance, and confirming securement
  3. C Opening sealed freight, securing cargo, and preparing shipping invoices
  4. D Inspecting sealed contents, balancing the load, and selecting the delivery route

Correct answer: B – Inspecting cargo, recognizing poor weight balance, and confirming securement

Drivers are responsible for inspecting accessible cargo, recognizing overloads or poor weight distribution, and knowing that the load is properly secured. The Delaware manual also requires drivers to ensure cargo does not block their view or access to emergency equipment. A sealed load’s interior may be inaccessible, but its weight limits and external container securement still require attention.

Source: Delaware Commercial Driver’s Manual — § 3.1, “Inspecting Cargo”, Delaware Commercial Driver’s Manual — § 3.3.5, “Sealed and Containerized Loads”, 49 CFR § 392.9 — Inspection of Cargo, Cargo Securement Devices and Systems

Question 4

When conditions permit, you should back a commercial vehicle toward the driver’s side.

  1. A TRUE
  2. B FALSE

Correct answer: A – TRUE

Driver-side backing provides a better view through the side window and mirrors than backing toward the passenger side. Before moving, inspect the intended path and clearance, then back slowly while checking both mirrors. Use a helper whenever possible and stop if you lose sight of that person.

Source: Delaware Commercial Driver’s Manual — § 2.2, “Basic Control of Your Vehicle”

Question 5

During Delaware’s exterior lights operation check, which group must be tested?

  1. A Fuel tank, engine belts, and tires
  2. B Brake hoses, suspension, and air lines
  3. C Turn signals, clearance lights, and headlights
  4. D Coupling devices, rims, and the cab floor

Correct answer: C – Turn signals, clearance lights, and headlights

The lights operation check includes low- and high-beam headlights, turn signals, four-way flashers, clearance or marker lights, taillights, and brake lights. Each applicable light must illuminate correctly when activated. Inspecting these systems confirms that the driver can see, be seen, and communicate intentions to other traffic.

Source: Delaware Commercial Driver’s Manual — § 11.4, “Lights Operations Check (All Vehicles)”

Question 6

What should be the principal method of controlling speed on a long downgrade?

  1. A Wait until speed rises 5 mph before selecting a gear
  2. B Use repeated emergency braking
  3. C Use the engine’s braking effect in a proper low gear
  4. D Apply only the trailer hand valve

Correct answer: C – Use the engine’s braking effect in a proper low gear

Select the proper low gear before beginning the downgrade and use the engine’s braking effect as the principal means of controlling speed. Service brakes should supplement engine braking when needed. Depending mainly on the service brakes can create excessive heat, causing brake fade or failure.

Source: Delaware Commercial Driver’s Manual — § 2.16.2, “Select the Right Gear before Starting Down the Grade”, Delaware Commercial Driver’s Manual — § 2.16.4, “Proper Braking Technique”