Texas General Knowledge CDL Prep Test (TX) 4

4.9 out of 5 (312 votes)
80% Passing score
20 Questions
4 Mistakes allowed
Howdy and thanks for stopping by our Texas General Knowledge CDL Prep Test. This is where you'll find your fourth CDL practice test, designed to give you a realistic taste of what the actual CDL written permit test feels like. It's a great tool for those looking to get a commercial driver's license in Texas. Our Texas CDL prep test contains 20 permit test questions and answers, covering essential topics you need to know. To pass, you'll need to correctly answer at least 16 questions. This format helps you gauge your knowledge and readiness for the real deal. Remember, these are the same questions you'll see every time you retake this CDL practice test, providing you with a consistent benchmark for your progress. Now, while these practice tests are a fantastic way to supplement your learning, they're not a replacement for a state-certified Texas drivers education course. In Texas, completing such a course is often required to get your regular driver's license, and completion of an Entry-level Driver Training course is required for obtaining a commercial driver's license. So, think of our permit practice tests as a trusty sidekick, helping you to reinforce what you've learned in your driver's ed course. They're particularly handy for brushing up on any areas you might've missed or need a bit more work on. One of the things that sets our Texas CDL prep test apart is how we integrate real-life scenarios. This approach helps you not just learn the rules but understand how to apply them when you're out on the road. Plus, we make sure our permit practice tests stay fresh and relevant. The DMV questions you'll find on this test are up-to-date for 2026, ensuring you're preparing with the latest information. So, dive in and test your knowledge! This Texas CDL prep practice test is an essential step in making sure you're ready to ace the Texas CDL permit test in 2026! Good luck, and remember, practice makes perfect!
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Sample Texas CDL Test Questions - General Knowledge

Question 1

When should a driver downshift for a curve?

  1. A Before entering the curve
  2. B After reaching the middle of the curve
  3. C While exiting the curve
  4. D Immediately after the curve is completed

Correct answer: A – Before entering the curve

Slow to a safe speed and select the proper lower gear before entering the curve. Being in the correct gear allows the driver to apply some power through the curve, helping the vehicle remain stable while turning. Attempting to downshift after entering the curve can divide the driver's attention and upset the vehicle's balance. Speed and gear selection should be completed before the turn begins.

Source: Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers Handbook — § 2.3.1, “Manual Transmissions—Before Entering a Curve”

Question 2

How should you control your speed while driving a commercial vehicle at night?

  1. A Depend on caffeine if you become drowsy
  2. B Increase speed to reduce nighttime exposure
  3. C Rely on fresh air from an open window to remain alert
  4. D Drive slowly enough to stop within the distance illuminated by your headlights

Correct answer: D – Drive slowly enough to stop within the distance illuminated by your headlights

At night, adjust speed so the vehicle can stop within the distance illuminated by its headlights. Low beams generally provide much less sight distance than daylight, and dirty or poorly adjusted headlights can reduce it further. If stopping distance extends beyond the visible area, a hazard may be detected too late. Caffeine or fresh air is not a safe substitute for stopping and sleeping when drowsy.

Source: Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers Handbook — §§ 2.11.2, 2.11.4–2.11.5, “Driver Factors,” “Vehicle Factors,” and “Night Driving Procedures”

Question 3

If an emergency forces your CMV off the roadway, avoid braking if possible until your speed falls to about:

  1. A 10 mph
  2. B 20 mph
  3. C 25 mph
  4. D 30 mph

Correct answer: B – 20 mph

The Texas handbook advises avoiding the brakes, if possible, until the vehicle slows to about 20 mph after leaving the roadway. At that point, brake very gently because a loose shoulder provides less traction than pavement. Keeping one set of wheels on the pavement, when possible, also helps maintain control.

Source: Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers Handbook — § 2.17.1, “Steering to Avoid a Crash”

Question 4

Which factors should guide your choice of a safe speed on a long, steep downgrade?

  1. A Perception distance, following distance, and vehicle width
  2. B Reaction time, vehicle length, and posted route number
  3. C Vehicle and cargo weight, grade length and steepness, road conditions, and weather
  4. D Stopping distance, mirror size, and engine horsepower

Correct answer: C – Vehicle and cargo weight, grade length and steepness, road conditions, and weather

Gravity causes a vehicle to gain speed on a downgrade. Select and maintain a speed suitable for the total weight of the vehicle and cargo, the grade’s length and steepness, road conditions, and weather. Posted speed limits and maximum-safe-speed signs must also be observed, and engine braking should be the principal means of controlling speed.

Source: Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers Handbook — § 2.6.6, “Speed on Downgrades”

Question 5

Which practices should you use when backing a commercial vehicle?

  1. A Back toward the driver’s side when possible
  2. B Use a helper when one is available
  3. C Inspect the intended path and clearances before moving
  4. D All of the above

Correct answer: D – All of the above

Before backing, walk around the vehicle and check the intended path, including side and overhead clearance. Back slowly and toward the driver’s side when possible because that provides a better view through the side window. Use a helper when available, agree on signals beforehand, and keep the helper where you can see them.

Source: Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers Handbook — § 2.2.2, “Backing Safely”

Question 6

During a vehicle inspection, which statement about the steering and exhaust systems is correct?

  1. A More than 10 degrees of steering-wheel play can make the vehicle difficult to steer
  2. B An exhaust leak is acceptable when it is behind the cab
  3. C A small power-steering-fluid leak is normal
  4. D Opening a window makes it safe to drive with an exhaust leak

Correct answer: A – More than 10 degrees of steering-wheel play can make the vehicle difficult to steer

Steering-wheel play exceeding 10 degrees—about two inches at the rim of a 20-inch steering wheel—can make steering difficult. Power-steering hoses, pumps, and fluid levels should be checked for leaks. Exhaust-system leaks are also defects because a damaged system can allow poisonous fumes into the cab or sleeper berth.

Source: Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers Handbook — § 2.1.3, “What to Look For”

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