Texas CDL General Knowledge Practice Test (TX) 2

4.8 out of 5 (484 votes)
80% Passing score
20 Questions
4 Mistakes allowed
Welcome to the second stage of your journey towards acing the Texas CDL General Knowledge Test. As part of your comprehensive preparation, this CDL practice test is specifically designed to enhance your understanding of the key concepts essential for both Class A and Class B commercial driver's licenses, regardless of the endorsements you're aiming for. In this Texas CDL practice test, you're going to tackle 20 carefully selected multiple-choice questions. To pass, you need to correctly answer at least 16. These questions aren't just random; they are meticulously crafted to reflect the real DPS written test, providing a realistic and practical testing experience. This Texas permit practice test includes diverse topics, ranging from pre-trip vehicle inspection to mastering gear shifts, including downshifting, and navigating challenging driving situations like hills and steep downgrades. We've also included crucial aspects like effective communication with other drivers, speed control, and the ever-important drug and alcohol awareness. These topics are critical for every aspiring commercial driver and will prepare you for real-life scenarios on the road. What sets this Texas CDL practice test apart is its close resemblance to the actual written permit test, both in content and format. It's not just a tool for revision; it's a means to familiarize yourself with the types of questions and scenarios you'll encounter in the real CDL permit test. After completing the test, you'll receive a summary of your performance. This summary highlights the questions you missed and provides the correct answers, offering a valuable opportunity to learn and improve. It's important to note that while DMV practice tests are an excellent resource, they do not replace the traditional driver's education programs. In Texas, completing a state-certified Texas driver's education course is a prerequisite for obtaining a regular driver's license, and completion of a FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) course is mandatory for those seeking to obtain a CDL. However, using these DMV practice tests in conjunction with the certified courses can greatly benefit your preparation. They help in identifying and reinforcing areas that might not have been thoroughly covered in the driver's education course, ensuring a well-rounded preparation for the real DMV permit test. With this second Texas CDL practice test, you're not just practicing for an exam; you're building the foundation of a safe and responsible driving career. Dive into the drivers practice test, learn from the feedback, and step confidently towards achieving your Texas CDL in 2026!
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Sample Texas CDL Test Questions - General Knowledge

Question 1

Which cargoes require special attention because of their handling characteristics?

  1. A. Material carried in dry-bulk tanks
  2. B. Hanging meat
  3. C. Livestock
  4. D. All of these cargoes

Correct answer: D. – All of these cargoes

Each listed cargo presents a special handling concern. Dry-bulk tanks have a high center of gravity, and their contents can shift. Hanging meat is an unstable suspended load that requires caution on curves, while livestock can move or lean and shift the vehicle's center of gravity. Drivers should reduce speed and use particular care when turning or negotiating curves with these loads.

Source: Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers Handbook — §§ 3.4.1–3.4.3, “Dry Bulk,” “Hanging Meat,” and “Livestock”

Question 2

While operating in Texas, a vehicle carrying Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3 explosives may be placed under a lawful bailee's watch, with all required conditions met, on which listed property?

  1. A. The shipper's property
  2. B. The motor carrier's property
  3. C. The consignee's property
  4. D. Any of these listed properties

Correct answer: D. – Any of these listed properties

Each listed property can qualify. The lawful bailee must know the nature of the explosives and be instructed in the emergency procedures to follow. The vehicle must also remain within the bailee's unobstructed field of view unless it is in an approved safe haven. When an exception does not apply, the vehicle must be attended by its driver or a qualified motor-carrier representative.

Source: Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers Handbook — § 9.6.1, “Parking with Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3 Explosives”, 49 CFR § 397.5(a)–(d) – Attendance and Surveillance of Motor Vehicles

Question 3

Which vehicle configuration is especially likely to become hung up at a raised railroad-highway crossing?

  1. A. A commercial vehicle with a recently replaced tire
  2. B. A straight truck with hydraulic shock absorbers
  3. C. A low-slung unit or a single-axle tractor pulling a long trailer
  4. D. Any vehicle equipped with a manual transmission

Correct answer: C. – A low-slung unit or a single-axle tractor pulling a long trailer

Low-slung units can become lodged where a railroad crossing has a steep or raised approach. Examples include lowboys, car carriers, moving vans, and possum-belly livestock trailers. A single-axle tractor pulling a long trailer may also hang up, particularly when the landing gear is positioned for a tandem-axle tractor. Drivers must make sure the entire vehicle can clear the crossing before proceeding.

Source: Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers Handbook — § 2.15.6, “Special Situations”

Question 4

How far ahead should a commercial driver generally scan while driving?

  1. A. About one football field at every speed
  2. B. About two football fields at every speed
  3. C. Five to ten seconds ahead
  4. D. At least 12 to 15 seconds ahead

Correct answer: D. – At least 12 to 15 seconds ahead

A commercial driver should generally look at least 12 to 15 seconds ahead, based on the distance the vehicle will travel during that time. This is about one block at lower speeds and approximately one-quarter mile at highway speeds. Looking well ahead provides more time and space to adjust speed or position. The driver should continue shifting attention between distant conditions and nearby hazards.

Source: Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers Handbook — § 2.4.1, “Seeing Ahead—How Far Ahead to Look”

Question 5

How long must a driver signal before making a right or left turn?

  1. A. Continuously during at least the final 100 feet before the turn
  2. B. Only as the vehicle begins turning
  3. C. Immediately after entering the turn
  4. D. Only when another road user is close enough to be affected

Correct answer: A. – Continuously during at least the final 100 feet before the turn

Texas law requires a driver intending to turn right or left to signal continuously for at least the last 100 feet before the turn. Advance signaling communicates the intended movement while other road users still have time to recognize it. The signal should not be delayed until the turn begins. Commercial drivers should also avoid signaling too early when another roadway or entrance could make the signal misleading.

Source: Tex. Transp. Code § 545.104 – Signaling Turns; Use of Turn Signals, Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers Handbook — § 2.5.1, “Signal Your Intentions”

Question 6

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

  1. A. Flammable-liquid and electrical-equipment fires
  2. B. Wood, paper, and cloth fires only
  3. C. Combustible-metal fires only
  4. D. Every type of fire regardless of the fuel

Correct answer: A. – Flammable-liquid and electrical-equipment fires

A B:C extinguisher is designed for fires involving flammable liquids and electrical equipment. Common B:C extinguishing agents include dry chemicals and carbon dioxide. A B:C extinguisher is not intended for ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, or cloth unless it also carries an A rating. Drivers should identify the fire class and follow the instructions printed on the extinguisher.

Source: Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers Handbook — § 2.21.3, “Fire Fighting—Use the Right Fire Extinguisher”

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