CDL Test Guide & Requirements 2025
Your Complete Guide to CDL Testing Order and Requirements
Getting your Commercial Driver's License (CDL) requires passing multiple tests in a specific order. This guide will help you understand which tests you need and when to take them for your desired career path.
Required Tests for All CDL Applicants
1. General Knowledge Test (Required First)
Status: ✓ MANDATORY for all CDL applicants
Description: Covers basic commercial vehicle operation, safety, and regulations.
Passing Score: 80% (16 out of 20 questions)
Topics: Vehicle inspection, basic control, safe driving, cargo handling, Hours of Service
Optional Endorsements (Choose Based on Career Goals)
2. Air Brakes Test (Recommended)
Status: Optional but HIGHLY recommended
Why Important: Without this, you get an air brake restriction on your CDL
Vehicles Affected: Most tractor-trailers, buses, and large trucks use air brakes
Career Impact: Air brake restriction severely limits job opportunities
3. Passenger Endorsement (P)
Required For: City buses, tour buses, airport shuttles (16+ passengers)
Prerequisite: Must pass General Knowledge first
Special Note: REQUIRED before School Bus endorsement
Topics: Passenger safety, loading procedures, emergency evacuation, ADA requirements
4. School Bus Endorsement (S)
Required For: School bus drivers
Prerequisites: General Knowledge + Passenger (P) Endorsement
Additional Requirements: Skills test, background check, medical exam
Topics: Student management, loading/unloading, special safety procedures
Common Career Paths & Test Requirements
🚛 Truck Driver (OTR/Local)
- General Knowledge
- Air Brakes (recommended)
- Done! Start driving trucks
🚌 City/Tour Bus Driver
- General Knowledge
- Air Brakes (recommended)
- Passenger Endorsement
- Ready for passenger transport
🎒 School Bus Driver
- General Knowledge
- Air Brakes (recommended)
- Passenger Endorsement
- School Bus Endorsement
- Background check & skills test
Important Notes
- Test Order Matters: You must pass General Knowledge before any endorsement
- Passenger Required for School Bus: You cannot get School Bus (S) without Passenger (P) endorsement
- Air Brake Restriction: Skip the Air Brakes test and get restricted to non-air brake vehicles only
- State Variations: Some states may have additional requirements - check with your local DMV
- Practice First: Use our practice modes to prepare thoroughly before taking the official tests