Texas CDL General Knowledge Test (TX) 5

4.9 out of 5 (212 votes)
80% Passing score
50 Questions
10 Mistakes allowed
Howdy, Texans! If you're gearing up for your CDL (Commercial Driver's License) test, you've hit the right spot. Our fifth Texas CDL General Knowledge Practice Test is tailor-made to boost your preparation, ensuring you're road-ready for the big day in 2026. This CDL practice test is a fantastic tool, especially if you're complementing it with a driver's education or an ELDT course. Remember, while our permit practice test is a great aid, it can't replace the mandatory driver's ed required in Texas. It's like having an extra set of tools in your toolbox - the more you have, the better you're prepared. Our Texas CDL general knowledge practice test comprises 50 permit test questions, mirroring the format and style of the actual DMV test in 2026. You'll need to nail at least 40 questions to pass, just like in the real deal. What's great is that you'll face the same set of questions each time you take this permit practice test. This consistent repetition is key to mastering the material. Think of it as drilling the essentials until they become second nature. Best part? This Texas CDL practice test won't cost you a dime. It's completely free, yet packed with the same features and learning opportunities as those pricey ones out there. We believe in accessibility and want to ensure every aspiring commercial driver in Texas has the tools they need without breaking the bank. We've also added visual learning aids to help you grasp concepts better. Whether it's understanding road signs or visualizing traffic scenarios, these visuals are a big help, especially if you're a visual learner. They make complex information easier to digest and remember. So, whether you're brushing up before the CDL permit test or just starting out, this Texas DPS general knowledge practice test is your reliable companion for 2026. It's designed to give you a real taste of what to expect, reinforcing what you've learned and highlighting areas where you might need a bit more focus. Grab this chance to hone your skills and confidence. Let's ace that CDL written test together, Texas-style!
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Sample Texas CDL Test Questions - General Knowledge

Question 1

An 8-foot article is not blocked against forward movement. What is the minimum number of tiedowns required?

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

Correct answer: B – 2

Federal cargo-securement rules require at least two tiedowns for an unblocked article that is longer than five feet but no longer than ten feet, regardless of its weight. Different minimums apply to articles five feet or shorter and to articles longer than ten feet. Blocking or immobilizing the cargo against forward movement can also affect the calculation.

Source: 49 CFR § 393.110(b)(2)(ii) — Additional requirements for determining the minimum number of tiedowns

Question 2

Approximately how far ahead can properly adjusted low-beam headlights illuminate?

  1. A 250 feet
  2. B 200 feet
  3. C 150 feet
  4. D 350 feet

Correct answer: A – 250 feet

The Texas handbook states that low beams let a driver see approximately 250 feet ahead, while high beams provide about 350 to 500 feet of visibility. Your speed must allow you to stop within the distance illuminated by your headlights. Dirty or improperly adjusted headlights can reduce that useful sight distance.

Source: Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers Handbook — § 2.11.4, “Vehicle Factors”

Question 3

What should a CMV driver do while approaching and traveling through a Texas roadway work zone?

  1. A Reduce speed only when a worker is standing beside the lane
  2. B Observe posted limits and reduce speed further when conditions require
  3. C Stop before entering and continue only in the lowest gear
  4. D Increase speed to minimize time spent in the work zone

Correct answer: B – Observe posted limits and reduce speed further when conditions require

Observe posted speed limits when approaching and traveling through a work zone. Watch the speedometer because speed can gradually increase during a long construction area. Reduce speed further for adverse weather or roadway conditions and whenever workers are close to the roadway.

Source: Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers Handbook — § 2.6.7, “Roadway Work Zones”

Question 4

In Texas, what does a ROAD WORK AHEAD warning sign indicate?

This sign warns drivers to _____________.
  1. A A flagger requires every vehicle to stop
  2. B The roadway is closed and drivers must turn around
  3. C Road construction or maintenance activity is ahead
  4. D A mandatory detour begins immediately

Correct answer: C – Road construction or maintenance activity is ahead

The ROAD WORK AHEAD sign warns that roadway construction or maintenance activity is ahead. It prepares drivers for temporary traffic-control conditions that may require additional attention and speed adjustments. Separate signs communicate specific conditions such as a detour, road closure, lane closure, or flagger station.

Source: 2025 Texas Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices — § 6H.03, “ROAD (STREET) WORK Sign (CW20-1)”

Question 5

Which braking systems make up an air-brake system?

  1. A The service-brake system
  2. B The parking-brake system
  3. C The emergency-brake system
  4. D All of the above

Correct answer: D – All of the above

Air brakes consist of service, parking, and emergency braking systems. The service system applies and releases the brakes during normal use of the brake pedal. The parking system holds the vehicle when its parking-brake control is used, while the emergency system uses components of the other systems to stop the vehicle following a brake-system failure.

Source: Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers Handbook — § 5, “Air Brakes”

Question 6

Before beginning a steep downgrade in a modern truck, which gear-selection practice is correct?

  1. A Wait until the truck is descending before selecting a lower gear
  2. B Select a low gear before descending; it may need to be lower than the climbing gear
  3. C Shift into neutral and control speed entirely with the brakes
  4. D Use the highest gear that allows the vehicle to coast freely

Correct answer: B – Select a low gear before descending; it may need to be lower than the climbing gear

Shift into the proper low gear before starting down the grade. The Texas handbook explains that modern trucks may require a lower descending gear than the gear needed to climb the same hill because they can climb efficiently while having less friction and air resistance to hold them back downhill. Know the correct gear for the particular vehicle.

Source: Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers Handbook — § 2.16.2, “Select the Right Gear before Starting Down the Grade”

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