Washington Class A CDL Practice Test (WA) 8

5 out of 5 (40 votes)
80% Passing score
50 Questions
10 Mistakes allowed
Welcome to your eighth Washington class A CDL practice test. This is your essential tool to thoroughly prepare for the Class A commercial driver's license (CDL) test. With 50 carefully curated CDL test questions, this DOL practice test targets aspiring Class A CDL holders, challenging you to achieve a passing score of at least 40 correct answers. Our Washington CDL practice test is meticulously designed by professional driving instructors who bring decades of experience to the table. These experts have crafted questions that cover a broad spectrum of subjects crucial for real-world driving scenarios. You'll encounter sample permit test questions on pre-trip vehicle inspections, where you'll need to ensure that every aspect of your vehicle is road-ready. Basic vehicle control and shifting gears are also key components, including scenarios on downshifting and handling steep gradients. Communication with other drivers, speed control, and awareness of drug and alcohol regulations are integral parts of this Washington state DMV practice test. Each sample DOL question has been reviewed to ensure it provides a comprehensive and realistic preparation experience. Visual aids, such as images of road signs and traffic situations, support your learning process, especially if you are a visual learner. Unlike so-called 'DMV test cheat sheets' that claim to have all the answers, our Washington CDL practice tests are designed to be a reliable and legal study tool. These cheat sheets often carry risks and questionable legality, whereas our DMV practice tests have a proven track record of success. We believe in preparing you thoroughly and legally for your CDL permit test, ensuring you are well-equipped to handle the real test in 2026. The same set of sample Washington permit test questions will appear each time you take this class A CDL practice test, providing consistency and allowing you to track your progress effectively. With our trusted practice tests, you'll be well on your way to securing your Washington Class A CDL in 2026 with confidence!
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Sample Washington CDL Test Questions - General Knowledge

Question 1

When should a driver select a lower range in an automatic transmission for a steep descent?

  1. A Before beginning the downgrade
  2. B After speed has increased on the downgrade
  3. C Only while traveling through a curve
  4. D After reaching the bottom of the grade

Correct answer: A – Before beginning the downgrade

Select the proper low range before starting down the grade. A lower range limits upshifting and increases the transmission’s engine-braking effect. Waiting until speed builds may make the lower range unavailable, and forcing an automatic transmission into a lower gear at high speed can damage it or cause the loss of engine braking.

Source: Washington State Commercial Driver Guide — § 2.3.3, “Automatic Transmissions”, Washington State Commercial Driver Guide — § 2.16.2, “Select the Right Gear Before Starting Down the Grade”

Question 2

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

  1. A Flammable liquids and electrical equipment
  2. B Food products such as meat and cheese
  3. C Wood, paper, and cloth only
  4. D Combustible metals and burning tires only

Correct answer: A – Flammable liquids and electrical equipment

A B:C extinguisher is designed for burning liquids and electrical equipment fires. Class B includes materials such as gasoline, oil, and grease. Class C involves energized electrical equipment and requires a nonconductive extinguishing agent. Burning wood, paper, or cloth is classified as a Class A fire.

Source: Washington State Commercial Driver Guide — § 2.21.3, “Use the Right Fire Extinguisher”

Question 3

An unblocked article of cargo is 8 feet long. 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 article longer than 5 feet but no more than 10 feet when it is not blocked or positioned to prevent forward movement. An 8-foot article falls within that category. Longer articles may require additional tiedowns, while properly blocked cargo is subject to a different calculation.

Source: Washington State Commercial Driver Guide — § 3.3.2, “Cargo Tie-down”, 49 CFR § 393.110(a)–(c) – Additional Requirements for Determining the Minimum Number of Tiedowns

Question 4

What should you do if an over-the-counter cold medicine may cause drowsiness?

  1. A Take half the normal dose before driving
  2. B Do not use it before or while driving if it could impair you
  3. C Use it only when driving during daylight
  4. D Use it whenever a dispatcher approves

Correct answer: B – Do not use it before or while driving if it could impair you

Cold medicines, antihistamines, and other over-the-counter drugs may cause drowsiness or otherwise reduce safe driving ability. Read medication warnings and avoid any drug that can impair you before operating a CMV. A dispatcher cannot determine that a drug is safe for you. When in doubt, consult a physician or pharmacist before driving.

Source: Washington State Commercial Driver Guide — § 2.22.2, “Other Drugs”

Question 5

Which two air lines connect the vehicles in a combination?

  1. A Service and emergency
  2. B Service and foundation-brake
  3. C Parking and emergency
  4. D Pressure and return

Correct answer: A – Service and emergency

Combination vehicles have a service line and an emergency line. The service line, also called the control or signal line, carries pressure controlled by the foot brake or trailer hand valve. The emergency line, also called the supply line, fills the trailer air tanks and controls the trailer emergency brakes if supply pressure is lost.

Source: Washington State Commercial Driver Guide — § 6.2.4, “Trailer Air-lines”

Question 6

A Washington CDL holder is convicted of speeding while driving a personal vehicle. When must the driver notify the current employer?

  1. A Within 24 hours
  2. B Within 3 days
  3. C Within 30 days
  4. D Only if the violation occurred in a CMV

Correct answer: C – Within 30 days

Federal CDL rules require written notification to the driver’s current employer within 30 days after a conviction for a state or local motor-vehicle traffic-control violation. The requirement applies regardless of whether the violation occurred in a CMV or a personal vehicle. Parking violations are excluded from this employer-notification requirement.

Source: Washington State Commercial Driver Guide — § 1.8, “Other Safety Rules”, 49 CFR § 383.31(a)–(b) – Notification of Convictions for Driver Violations

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