Oregon CDL General Knowledge Test (OR) 5

4.9 out of 5 (76 votes)
80% Passing score
50 Questions
10 Mistakes allowed
Welcome to the fifth Oregon CDL General Knowledge Practice Test, a crucial resource for anyone aspiring to obtain their Commercial Driver's License in Oregon. Our CDL practice test is designed to mirror the real DMV test, ensuring that you gain the confidence and knowledge necessary to succeed. Our general knowledge test practice comprises 50 thoughtfully crafted DMV questions, each one targeted at essential aspects of commercial driving. You'll encounter scenarios and questions focusing on vital topics like pre-trip inspection, sharing the road responsibly, basic vehicle control, transporting cargo safely, and handling emergency situations. This is not just a DMV practice test; it's a comprehensive learning tool. To pass, you'll need to correctly answer at least 40 permit test questions, which aligns with the DMV's requirements. Unlike many other resources, our Oregon DMV practice test is entirely free. We believe in providing equal access to quality educational materials. You'll find that our CDL practice test offers an immersive learning experience, comparable to any paid version available. The format of the prep test is consistent with the actual DMV permit test, using a combination of multiple-choice and true/false questions. This format is particularly effective in helping you develop the skill of eliminating incorrect answers to pinpoint the correct one. Remember, the same set of DMV test questions will appear each time you take this CDL practice test, allowing you to focus on areas where you need improvement. It's a reliable way to measure your progress and readiness for the actual commercial permit test. We encourage you to take this CDL practice test as many times as needed to feel fully prepared. In summary, this Oregon DMV CDL practice test is a comprehensive, free tool designed to thoroughly prepare you for the CDL general knowledge test in 2026. It's an invaluable step in your path towards becoming a safe and knowledgeable commercial driver!
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Sample Oregon CDL Test Questions - General Knowledge

Question 1

When should manually drained air tanks be emptied?

  1. A. At the end of each day of driving
  2. B. Once each month
  3. C. Every six months
  4. D. Once each year

Correct answer: A. – At the end of each day of driving

Manually operated air-tank drains must be opened at the end of each day of driving. Draining removes accumulated water and compressor oil that can damage the system or freeze in cold weather. Tanks with automatic drain valves expel these materials automatically, although some also permit manual draining.

Source: Oregon Commercial Driver Manual — § 5.1.4, “Air Tank Drains”

Question 2

What should you do before driving if you are drowsy?

  1. A. Eat a meal
  2. B. Get some sleep
  3. C. Rely on coffee
  4. D. Exercise briefly

Correct answer: B. – Get some sleep

If you are drowsy, sleep before beginning the trip. Caffeine may temporarily increase awareness, but it eventually wears off and should not be relied upon to prevent fatigue. If sleepiness develops while driving, stop at a safe location and rest or take a nap before continuing.

Source: Oregon Commercial Driver Manual — § 2.11.2, “Driver Factors”; § 2.11.5, “Night Driving Procedures”

Question 3

Properly adjusted outside convex mirrors on a school bus should show:

  1. A. The full side of the bus up to the mirror mounts
  2. B. The front of the rear tires touching the ground
  3. C. At least one traffic lane on each side of the bus
  4. D. All of the above

Correct answer: D. – All of the above

Outside convex mirrors should show all three listed areas. These views help the driver monitor traffic, clearances, students, and the area near the rear tires. Because convex mirrors distort apparent size and distance, they must be properly adjusted and used with the bus’s other mirrors.

Source: Oregon Commercial Driver Manual — § 10.1.4, “Outside Left and Right Side Convex Mirrors”

Question 4

Which item is not among the general emergency-equipment categories required for a commercial power unit?

  1. A. A properly rated fire extinguisher
  2. B. Spare electrical fuses, unless the vehicle uses circuit breakers
  3. C. A first aid kit
  4. D. Approved warning devices for a stopped vehicle

Correct answer: C. – A first aid kit

The Oregon manual’s general equipment list includes a properly rated fire extinguisher, spare electrical fuses unless circuit breakers are used, and approved warning devices. A first aid kit is not one of those general categories. Federal equipment requirements specify extinguisher ratings and acceptable warning-device options.

Source: Oregon Commercial Driver Manual — § 2.1.3, “Emergency Equipment”, 49 CFR § 393.95 – Emergency equipment on all power units

Question 5

What is black ice?

  1. A. Soft tar heated by the sun
  2. B. An oil film on the pavement
  3. C. Compacted snow on the roadway
  4. D. A thin, clear layer of ice over the roadway

Correct answer: D. – A thin, clear layer of ice over the roadway

Black ice is a thin layer of ice that is clear enough for the pavement beneath it to remain visible. This can make the road appear wet rather than frozen. When temperatures are below freezing and the roadway looks wet, a driver should watch for black ice and reduced traction.

Source: Oregon Commercial Driver Manual — § 2.6.2, “Black Ice”

Question 6

When should high-beam headlights be used?

  1. A. Whenever their use is safe and legal
  2. B. To retaliate when an approaching driver fails to dim
  3. C. Only when following another vehicle closely
  4. D. As little as possible under all conditions

Correct answer: A. – Whenever their use is safe and legal

High beams should be used when they improve visibility without violating lighting rules or blinding others. In Oregon, a driver must avoid projecting glare toward an oncoming vehicle within 500 feet and must use low beams when following within 350 feet, except while overtaking or passing. Never respond to another driver’s bright lights by creating additional glare.

Source: Oregon Commercial Driver Manual — § 2.11.5, “Night Driving Procedures”, ORS 811.515(6) – When lights must be displayed; kind of light; number; direction; use on certain vehicles