New Hampshire CDL General Knowledge Practice Test (NH) 2

5 out of 5 (63 votes)
80% Passing score
20 Questions
4 Mistakes allowed
As a proud New Hampshirite looking to ace the CDL General Knowledge Test in 2026, you've found the right place! Our second CDL practice test is a crucial step in your preparation. Here, you're presented with a comprehensive set of 20 NH general knowledge test questions, mirroring the real DMV permit test. To pass, you'll need to correctly answer at least 16 questions. But don't worry, our DMV practice test is designed to build your confidence and knowledge, regardless of whether you're aiming for a Class A or Class B driver's license, with or without additional endorsements. Our NH CDL general knowledge practice test stands out because it's crafted by professional driving instructors with decades of experience in helping thousands of drivers secure their licenses. Their expertise ensures that each question is not only relevant but also reflects the real-world scenarios you'll face on the road. We cover a wide array of topics, from pre-trip vehicle inspections to managing hills and communicating effectively with other road users. This diversity ensures you're well-rounded in your knowledge and are ready to face the CDL general knowledge test at the DMV! Understanding that driving laws differ from state to state, and so our NH CDL general knowledge practice test is uniquely tailored to New Hampshire's specific rules and road signs. This local focus gives you an edge in knowing exactly what to expect during your actual test. Flexibility is key in learning, so we've designed customizable practice sessions. You can focus on areas you find challenging, retake DMV practice tests to improve your scores, and engage in practice sessions whenever it suits you best. This flexibility ensures that your preparation aligns with your personal learning style and schedule. With our New Hampshire CDL general knowledge test practice, you're not just preparing for a DMV permit test in 2026; you're gearing up for real-life driving experiences. Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge and confidence to not only pass your CDL test but to be a safe and responsible driver on New Hampshire's roads!
FREE CDL Practice Test App
Pass your New Hampshire CDL General Knowledge test with the NextDoorDriving app. Real questions and answers—100% free and ad-free.
Download on the App Store

Sample New Hampshire CDL Test Questions - General Knowledge

Question 1

A heavy vehicle is approaching a downhill off-ramp that curves. What should the driver do?

  1. A Enter at the posted ramp speed regardless of the load
  2. B Reduce to a safe speed before reaching the curve
  3. C Wait until inside the curve to downshift
  4. D Shift to a higher gear before entering the ramp

Correct answer: B – Reduce to a safe speed before reaching the curve

The New Hampshire CDL manual cautions that a posted ramp speed may be suitable for an automobile but unsafe for a large or heavily loaded vehicle. A downgrade also makes reducing speed more difficult. Slow sufficiently before entering the curved portion rather than depending on heavy braking while turning.

Source: New Hampshire Commercial Driver’s License Manual — § 2.8.3, “Drivers Who Are Hazards—Off Ramps/On Ramps”

Question 2

What does a parking sign displaying the International Symbol of Accessibility designate?

This sign indicates ___________.
  1. A A space reserved for persons with disabilities
  2. B An area where all parking is prohibited
  3. C A space available to any vehicle
  4. D A general short-term parking area

Correct answer: A – A space reserved for persons with disabilities

The International Symbol of Accessibility on an Accessible Parking sign identifies a parking space reserved for persons with disabilities. It does not authorize unrestricted public parking or simply indicate a short-term space. Any additional restriction displayed on an accompanying plaque must also be observed.

Source: Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, 11th ed. — § 2B.53, “Parking, Standing, and Stopping Signs (R7 and R8 Series)”

Question 3

What does an ALL-WAY plaque mounted below a STOP sign indicate?

This sign tells the driver they are entering __________.
  1. A Only traffic on your approach must stop
  2. B Cross traffic may proceed without stopping
  3. C You are entering a school zone
  4. D Every approach to the intersection is controlled by a STOP sign

Correct answer: D – Every approach to the intersection is controlled by a STOP sign

An ALL-WAY plaque is used where every approach to an intersection is controlled by a STOP sign. Each approaching driver must obey the STOP sign before entering. The plaque distinguishes an all-way stop from an intersection where only certain approaches are required to stop.

Source: Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, 11th ed. — § 2B.04, “STOP Sign (R1-1) and ALL-WAY Plaque (R1-3P)”

Question 4

Before backing with a helper, which hand signal is most important for both people to establish?

  1. A Pull forward
  2. B Turn right
  3. C Continue backing
  4. D Stop

Correct answer: D – Stop

The New Hampshire CDL manual directs the driver and helper to agree on understandable hand signals before backing begins. The most important is a clear stop signal because the helper may see a hazard hidden from the driver. The helper should remain near the rear where the driver can see them.

Source: New Hampshire Commercial Driver’s License Manual — § 2.2.4, “Backing Safely—Use a Helper”

Question 5

In ideal conditions, what minimum following interval should a 40-foot vehicle maintain while traveling at 45 mph?

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

Correct answer: D – 5 seconds

The New Hampshire CDL manual recommends at least one second of following distance for every 10 feet of vehicle length at speeds below 40 mph. A 40-foot vehicle starts with four seconds. Because 45 mph is over 40 mph, one additional second is needed, producing a five-second interval under ideal conditions.

Source: New Hampshire Commercial Driver’s License Manual — § 2.7.1, “Space Ahead”

Question 6

What is the primary safety purpose of a pre-trip vehicle inspection?

  1. A To determine whether more freight can be added
  2. B To verify that the vehicle is safe to operate
  3. C To add inspection time to the driver’s record of duty status
  4. D To guarantee that the vehicle will not receive a roadside inspection

Correct answer: B – To verify that the vehicle is safe to operate

The New Hampshire CDL manual identifies safety as the most important reason to inspect a vehicle. A pre-trip inspection can uncover defects before they contribute to a breakdown or crash. Federal regulation requires a driver to be satisfied that the vehicle is in safe operating condition before driving and to review the last inspection report when required.

Source: New Hampshire Commercial Driver’s License Manual — § 2.1.1, “Why Inspect”, 49 CFR § 396.13(a)–(c) — Driver inspection