North Dakota CDL Practice Test (ND) 2026

4.7 out of 5 (70 votes)
80% Passing score
20 Questions
4 Mistakes allowed
Preparing for your CDL written test in 2026? Start here with our first North Dakota CDL practice test! Our comprehensive DMV practice test includes 20 sample written test questions, mirroring the real DMV test, ensuring you're thoroughly prepared. To pass, you'll need to correctly answer at least 16 questions, but don't worry, we've got you covered with multiple choice questions, real permit test answers, and study aids. Whether you're aiming for a Class A or Class B driver's license, or planning to add endorsements, our North Dakota CDL practice test is the perfect first step. It's designed to test your general knowledge, a mandatory part of every CDL journey. The DMV questions are carefully selected to cover a wide array of essential topics like pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic vehicle control, gear shifting techniques, handling hills and steep downgrades, effective communication with other road users, speed control, and drug and alcohol awareness. Our ND CDL practice test is a faithful replication of the actual DMV permit test, both in format and content. This similarity is crucial in helping you get accustomed to the real North Dakota permit test scenario. We believe that quality preparation shouldn't come at a high cost. That's why our North Dakota DMV CDL practice test is completely free, offering as many features and learning opportunities as any paid version. What's more, our ND CDL test practice is consistent - the same set of permit test questions will appear each time, allowing you to really focus on areas where you need more practice. As you navigate through the permit practice test, you'll find yourself gaining not just the knowledge but also the confidence to ace your DMV written test in 2026! Get ready to steer your way to success with our North Dakota CDL Practice Test!
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Sample North Dakota CDL Test Questions - General Knowledge

Question 1

A fire extinguisher rated B:C is intended for which types of fires?

  1. A. Burning liquids and energized electrical equipment
  2. B. Cooking oils and animal fats
  3. C. Wood, paper, and cloth
  4. D. Combustible metals only

Correct answer: A. – Burning liquids and energized electrical equipment

The North Dakota CDL manual states that a B:C extinguisher is suitable for burning liquids and electrical equipment fires. Class B covers materials such as gasoline, oil, and grease, while Class C involves energized electrical equipment. An A:B:C extinguisher also covers ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, and cloth.

Source: North Dakota Commercial Driver License Manual (2025–2027) — § 2.21.3, “Fire Fighting”

Question 2

Which pair is identified as common causes of commercial-vehicle tire fires?

  1. A. High speed and frequent lane changes
  2. B. Overinflation and sharp turns
  3. C. Vehicle weight and rough pavement
  4. D. Underinflated tires and touching dual tires

Correct answer: D. – Underinflated tires and touching dual tires

Underinflated tires flex excessively and can build dangerous heat while the vehicle is moving. Dual tires that touch can rub together and generate additional heat. The CDL manual lists both underinflation and touching duals as causes of tire fires, making proper inflation and spacing important inspection points.

Source: North Dakota Commercial Driver License Manual (2025–2027) — § 2.21.1, “Causes of Fire”

Question 3

What should you do if a hydraulic brake system loses pressure?

  1. A. Shift to a lower gear
  2. B. Pump the brake pedal
  3. C. Control the parking brake while searching for an escape route
  4. D. Use all of these actions as conditions require

Correct answer: D. – Use all of these actions as conditions require

A lower gear can help reduce speed, and pumping the brake pedal may generate enough hydraulic pressure for limited braking. Because the parking or emergency brake is separate from the hydraulic system, it may also be used with carefully controlled pressure. While slowing, look for an open field, side road, upgrade, or escape ramp.

Source: North Dakota Commercial Driver License Manual (2025–2027) — § 2.17.3, “Brake Failure”

Question 4

Which statement describes a safe practice when backing a commercial vehicle?

  1. A. If a trailer drifts, turn the top of the wheel away from the drift
  2. B. Avoid backing whenever a forward exit is available
  3. C. Position a helper where the driver cannot see the helper
  4. D. Backing is generally safer than moving forward

Correct answer: B. – Avoid backing whenever a forward exit is available

Because a driver cannot see everything behind a commercial vehicle, backing should be avoided whenever possible. When parking, select a position that allows you to pull forward when leaving. If backing is necessary, inspect the path, back slowly, use both mirrors, and use a visible helper when available.

Source: North Dakota Commercial Driver License Manual (2025–2027) — § 2.2.4, “Backing Safely”

Question 5

On a below-freezing North Dakota roadway, what is black ice?

  1. A. A thin, clear ice layer through which the pavement remains visible
  2. B. A ridge of partly melted ice beside the roadway
  3. C. Dark snow packed along the shoulder
  4. D. Ice that does not reduce tire traction

Correct answer: A. – A thin, clear ice layer through which the pavement remains visible

Black ice is a thin, clear layer that allows the pavement underneath to remain visible. It often makes the road appear wet rather than frozen. When the temperature is below freezing and the pavement looks wet, treat the surface as potentially icy and reduce speed accordingly.

Source: North Dakota Commercial Driver License Manual (2025–2027) — § 2.6.2, “Matching Speed to the Road Surface”

Question 6

What term describes the different paths followed by the front and rear wheels of a long vehicle during a turn?

  1. A. Jackknifing
  2. B. Sidetracking
  3. C. Offtracking
  4. D. Fishtailing

Correct answer: C. – Offtracking

Offtracking occurs when a vehicle's rear wheels follow a different path from its front wheels while turning. Longer vehicles offtrack more, and the trailer's rear wheels may offtrack more than the tractor's rear wheels. Drivers must allow enough turning space while keeping the vehicle's rear from striking curbs, pedestrians, or other vehicles.

Source: North Dakota Commercial Driver License Manual (2025–2027) — § 6.1.6, “Turn Wide”