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Alabama · AL
Alabama CDL
Knowledge Test
Everything you need to pass the Alabama CDL knowledge test. The same FMCSA-standardized questions used across all 50 states.
Total CDL fee
$72
CLP wait
14 days
Min age
18+
To pass
80%
CDL Test Sections
The CDL knowledge test is administered by section. Passing score for all sections is 80%.
✓
General KnowledgeREQUIRED
50 questions · Pass with 40+
A
Air Brakes
25 questions · Pass with 20+
C
Combination Vehicles
20 questions · Pass with 16+
H
Hazardous Materials (HazMat)
30 questions · Pass with 24+
D
Doubles & Triples
20 questions · Pass with 16+
T
Tanker Vehicles
20 questions · Pass with 16+
P
Passenger Transport
20 questions · Pass with 16+
S
School Bus
20 questions · Pass with 16+
What to Know About CDL in Alabama
Alabama CDL fees: approximately $72 total (CLP $36 + CDL $36)
All CDL knowledge tests are computerized at ALEA Driver License offices
Alabama has a strong agricultural trucking sector — farm exemptions apply within 150 miles
CDL holders must hold their CLP for at least 14 days before the skills test
Alabama CDL holders must maintain a current DOT medical certificate on file with ALEA
Alabama uses the same FMCSA-standardized written test as all 50 states
Legal notice
This information is provided for educational purposes only. Requirements can change. Always verify with Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) for the most current information.
How to Get Your CDL in Alabama
The steps to earn a commercial driver's license in Alabama, from your DOT medical card to your CDL.
- 1
Get your DOT medical card
Visit a certified medical examiner, pass the DOT physical, and keep the certificate on file with Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA).
- 2
Study and pass the knowledge test
Cover General Knowledge plus any endorsements you need (Air Brakes, Combination, HazMat). Practice every section on Koydo until you're scoring 80%+.
- 3
Get your CLP
Pass the Alabama knowledge test at a Alabama ALEA Driver License Office and pay the ~$36 permit fee to receive your commercial learner's permit.
- 4
Hold your CLP for 14 days
Federal rules require a minimum 14-day wait while you practice driving with a licensed CDL holder.
- 5
Pass the skills test
Schedule the pre-trip inspection, basic control, and road test with Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) (or an approved third-party tester).
- 6
Get your Alabama CDL
Pay the ~$36 CDL fee and you're licensed to drive commercially.
Alabama CDL — Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a CDL cost in Alabama?
Alabama CDL fees come to about $72 total — roughly $36 for the commercial learner's permit (CLP) and $36 for the CDL itself, paid at Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA). Testing and endorsement fees can add to this, so always confirm current amounts with Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA).
What score do I need to pass the Alabama CDL knowledge test?
You need 80% on each CDL knowledge section. Alabama uses the same FMCSA-standardized question pool as every other state, so General Knowledge, Air Brakes, Combination Vehicles, and the endorsement tests are federally consistent.
How old do I have to be to get a CDL in Alabama?
Alabama issues a CDL at 18 for driving within the state (intrastate) and 21 for driving across state lines (interstate) or hauling hazardous materials.
How long must I hold a CLP before the Alabama skills test?
At least 14 days. You pass the knowledge test first to earn your CLP, hold it for 14 days while practicing with a licensed CDL holder, then take the behind-the-wheel skills test.
Where do I take the CDL written test in Alabama?
At a Alabama ALEA Driver License Office. The knowledge test is computerized. Practice every section on Koydo before you go so you walk in ready.
Is the Koydo CDL practice test accurate for Alabama?
Yes. Koydo's questions follow the FMCSA CDL standard that Alabama tests on, plus state-rule practice — with no ads, and your first 15 questions a day are free.
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