Indiana CDL General Knowledge Test (IN) 5

4.9 out of 5 (95 votes)
80% Passing score
50 Questions
10 Mistakes allowed
As Hoosiers, we know the value of being thorough and prepared, especially when it comes to earning our Commercial Driver's License (CDL) in 2026. That's why our Indiana CDL General Knowledge Practice Test is the perfect tool for those aspiring to navigate the roads safely and professionally. This is your fifth CDL practice test, a crucial step in your preparation. With a set of 50 permit test questions, this test demands a minimum of 40 correct answers for a pass. The beauty of this CDL practice test lies in its consistency; the same questions will greet you every time, ensuring you can hone in on areas where you need improvement. Our Indiana CDL practice tests stand out due to their customizability. You can tailor your study sessions to focus on areas that challenge you the most. Whether it's pre-trip inspections, vehicle control, cargo transport, or emergency protocols, you can choose to concentrate on specific topics. This targeted approach helps in reinforcing your knowledge where it matters most. Accessibility is at the heart of our BMV practice tests. They are readily available online and can be accessed via various platforms including mobile, desktop, and apps. This flexibility allows you to practice whenever and wherever you find it convenient, ensuring that your learning process fits seamlessly into your daily life. At the core of our Indiana CDL general knowledge practice test is a focus on essential driving knowledge. The questions are carefully crafted to cover key aspects of safe driving and CDL requirements. They provide a comprehensive overview of what you need to know to not only pass your CDL general knowledge test in 2026 but to be a responsible and skilled driver on Indiana roads. Embrace this opportunity to build your confidence and knowledge. With our Indiana CDL General Knowledge Practice Test, you are setting yourself up for success in 2026, both in your test and on the road!
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Sample Indiana CDL Test Questions - General Knowledge

Question 1

Before making a permitted right turn at a red signal, what must you do first?

  1. A Slow to walking speed
  2. B Sound the horn
  3. C Move into the intersection to check traffic
  4. D Come to a complete stop

Correct answer: D – Come to a complete stop

In Indiana, a permitted right turn on red requires a complete stop first. Before turning, check for a sign prohibiting the turn and yield to vehicles and pedestrians in or approaching the turn's path. Use the proper lane and proceed only when the movement can be completed safely.

Source: Indiana Driver’s Manual — Ch. 6, “Turning through a Solid Red Light”, IC 9-21-3-7 – Traffic-Control Signal Legend

Question 2

Which statement about alcohol and driving is correct?

  1. A Experienced drinkers are not impaired
  2. B Drinks containing equal amounts of alcohol can have similar effects, regardless of beverage type
  3. C Coffee removes alcohol from the bloodstream
  4. D Drinking quickly reduces alcohol's effect

Correct answer: B – Drinks containing equal amounts of alcohol can have similar effects, regardless of beverage type

Alcohol affects every driver. Equivalent amounts of alcohol can impair driving whether they come from beer, wine, or distilled liquor. The liver processes alcohol at a limited rate, and drinking faster causes more alcohol to accumulate in the body. Only time—not coffee, fresh air, or a cold shower—sobers a person.

Source: Commercial Driver’s License Manual — § 2.22.1, “Alcohol and Driving”

Question 3

Which two measurements can tell you when to shift gears?

  1. A Engine sound and coolant temperature
  2. B Engine speed and road speed
  3. C Time in the current gear and clutch movement
  4. D Clutch pressure and falling air pressure

Correct answer: B – Engine speed and road speed

You can determine when to shift by monitoring engine speed in revolutions per minute or by using road speed. Learn the vehicle's recommended operating rpm range and the suitable speed range for each gear. The tachometer and speedometer provide the necessary information.

Source: Commercial Driver’s License Manual — § 2.3.1, “Knowing When to Shift Up”

Question 4

Which activity is not one of the three CDL skills-test segments?

  1. A Materials-handling evaluation
  2. B Vehicle inspection
  3. C Basic vehicle control
  4. D On-road driving

Correct answer: A – Materials-handling evaluation

The CDL skills test has three segments: vehicle inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. Applicants must take them in that order and pass each segment before continuing. Indiana does not include a materials-handling evaluation as part of the CDL skills test.

Source: Commercial Driver’s License Manual — § 1.1.2, “Skills Tests”, Indiana Specific Commercial Driver’s License Applicant Information — “CDL Skills Test”

Question 5

A STOP sign with an ALL WAY plaque identifies what type of intersection?

This sign tells the driver they are entering __________.
  1. A An intersection with no traffic controls
  2. B An intersection where only cross traffic stops
  3. C A school crossing without stop requirements
  4. D An intersection where traffic from every approach must stop

Correct answer: D – An intersection where traffic from every approach must stop

The ALL WAY plaque beneath a STOP sign indicates that traffic from every approach must stop. At an Indiana all-way stop, the first vehicle to stop normally proceeds first. When vehicles arrive together, the driver on the left yields to the driver on the right.

Source: Indiana Driver’s Manual — Ch. 6, “Supplemental Plaques”, Indiana Driver’s Manual — Ch. 7, “All-Way Stops”

Question 6

Which hazardous-material classes may not be carried as overhanging or tailgate loads?

  1. A Class 1 explosives
  2. B Class 4 flammable solids
  3. C Class 5 oxidizers
  4. D All of the above

Correct answer: D – All of the above

Class 1 explosives, Class 4 flammable solids, and Class 5 oxidizers may not be transported as overhanging or tailgate loads. These materials must be placed in an appropriate closed cargo space as required for the material and packaging involved. The cargo must also be secured against movement during normal transportation.

Source: Commercial Driver’s License Manual — § 9.3.4, “Use Closed Cargo Space”, 49 CFR § 177.835 – Class 1 (Explosive) Materials, 49 CFR § 177.838 – Class 4 and Class 5 Materials

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