Virginia CDL Practice Test (VA) 2026

4.7 out of 5 (135 votes)
80% Passing score
20 Questions
4 Mistakes allowed
As an aspiring driver preparing for your Commercial Driver's License (CDL), this first Virginia DMV practice test is your essential starting point. With 20 thoughtfully curated multiple-choice permit test questions, this test mimics the actual DMV test you'll face in 2026. To pass, you need to answer at least 16 questions correctly. The content is comprehensive, covering a range of topics crucial for all CDL applicants, whether you're aiming for a Class A or Class B license. Our Virginia CDL practice test isn't just about rote learning; it's designed to be a helpful study companion. Each DMV question comes with real permit test answers and study aids to assist you if you find yourself stuck on a challenging question. You'll encounter Virginia CDL permit test questions on a wide variety of subjects, including pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic vehicle control, shifting gears, handling hills and steep downgrades, effective communication with other drivers, speed control, and drug and alcohol awareness. Accessibility is key to our approach. Our Virginia DMV CDL practice test is readily available online and can be accessed via mobile, desktop, and mobile apps, making it convenient for you to study anytime, anywhere. For visual learners, we incorporate visual aids such as images of road signs and traffic scenarios to enhance understanding and retention of information. We take pride in ensuring our Virginia CDL DMV practice test is up-to-date. Our content is regularly reviewed and updated to reflect the latest driving laws and regulations for 2026. This means you can trust that you're studying the most current information available, which is crucial for your success in the actual Virginia DMV CDL test. The Virginia CDL practice test you are about to take will present the same set of DMV questions no matter how many times you attempt it, giving you a consistent practice experience. By familiarizing yourself with these sample 2026 written test questions and answers, you can build the confidence and knowledge needed to ace the general knowledge test required for all driver's license classes in Virginia. Updated for 2026, our Virginia CDL practice test is your reliable tool for CDL preparation!
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Sample Virginia CDL Test Questions - General Knowledge

Question 1

Which choice can help reduce stress while driving?

  1. A. Drink several cups of coffee
  2. B. Eat a heavy meal before leaving
  3. C. Choose calm music and keep your full attention on driving
  4. D. Make personal phone calls during the trip

Correct answer: C. – Choose calm music and keep your full attention on driving

The Virginia CDL manual recommends reducing stress by listening to calm music and giving the drive your full attention. Eating, making phone calls, and other distractions interfere with attentive driving. Heavy foods should also be avoided because they can contribute to fatigue. Plan for delays and remain focused rather than allowing schedule pressure to increase stress.

Source: Virginia Commercial Driver’s License Manual — Section 2, § 2.10.2, “Don’t Be an Aggressive Driver”

Question 2

To fight an engine-compartment fire, you should raise the hood fully before using the extinguisher.

  1. A. True
  2. B. False

Correct answer: B. – False

Turn off the engine as soon as possible and avoid opening the hood. Opening it can expose the fire to additional oxygen and allow the flames to spread. Direct the extinguishing agent through the radiator, hood louvers, or from underneath the vehicle. When possible, remain at a safe distance and aim toward the fire’s source.

Source: Virginia Commercial Driver’s License Manual — Section 2, § 2.21.3, “Fire Fighting”

Question 3

What can happen when a towing vehicle’s rear drive wheels lock during braking?

  1. A. The trailer can push the towing vehicle sideways
  2. B. The locked wheels gain more traction than rolling wheels
  3. C. The risk of jackknifing is eliminated
  4. D. Only the front wheels slide sideways

Correct answer: A. – The trailer can push the towing vehicle sideways

A rear drive-wheel braking skid occurs when the drive wheels lock. Locked wheels generally have less traction than rolling wheels, allowing the rear of the power unit to slide sideways. When a trailer is attached, it can continue moving forward and push the towing vehicle sideways. This can quickly produce a jackknife.

Source: Virginia Commercial Driver’s License Manual — Section 2, § 2.19, “Skid Control and Recovery”

Question 4

Which items belong in a commercial vehicle’s pre-trip inspection?

  1. A. Cargo securement
  2. B. Operation and cleanliness of the vehicle’s lights
  3. C. Both cargo securement and the lights
  4. D. Neither item

Correct answer: C. – Both cargo securement and the lights

The Virginia CDL inspection procedure includes both cargo securement and vehicle lights. Cargo should be properly blocked, braced, tied, or chained as appropriate. Lights must operate correctly, and their lenses and reflectors should be clean and undamaged. These checks help identify conditions that could make the vehicle unsafe before it enters traffic.

Source: Virginia Commercial Driver’s License Manual — Section 2, § 2.1.5, “Seven-step Inspection Method”

Question 5

Which statement about tire pressure in hot weather is correct?

  1. A. Air should routinely be released as tires become warm
  2. B. Tire pressure may be skipped during the pre-trip inspection
  3. C. Tire air pressure rises as temperature increases
  4. D. All of the above

Correct answer: C. – Tire air pressure rises as temperature increases

Tire air pressure increases as temperature rises. Do not release air merely because a warm tire shows higher pressure, since the tire may become underinflated after cooling. Tire mounting and pressure should be checked during the normal vehicle inspection. In very hot weather, inspect tires about every two hours or every 100 miles.

Source: Virginia Commercial Driver’s License Manual — Section 2, § 2.14.1, “Vehicle Checks”

Question 6

Some nonprescription cold medicines can cause drowsiness or otherwise impair safe driving.

  1. A. True
  2. B. False

Correct answer: A. – True

The Virginia CDL manual warns that prescription and over-the-counter medicines, including some cold remedies, may cause drowsiness or otherwise affect safe driving. Drivers should read warning labels and follow medical instructions concerning side effects. A medicine that reduces alertness should not be combined with driving. Drugs cannot safely replace the rest needed to overcome fatigue.

Source: Virginia Commercial Driver’s License Manual — Section 2, § 2.22.2, “Other Drugs”

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