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California · CA
California CDL
Knowledge Test
Everything you need to pass the California CDL knowledge test. The same FMCSA-standardized questions used across all 50 states.
Total CDL fee
$75
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 California
California requires a CLP for at least 14 days before taking the CDL skills test
California CDL fees: ~$75 total (CLP + CDL application)
The knowledge test can be taken in multiple languages at California DMV offices
California has special requirements for driving in mountain passes and high-wind areas
CDL holders must comply with California Air Resources Board (CARB) truck emissions rules
California has over 200,000 active CDL holders — one of the largest markets in the US
Legal notice
This information is provided for educational purposes only. Requirements can change. Always verify with California DMV for the most current information.
How to Get Your CDL in California
The steps to earn a commercial driver's license in California, 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 California DMV.
- 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 California knowledge test at a California DMV Field Office and pay the ~$38 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 California DMV (or an approved third-party tester).
- 6
Get your California CDL
Pay the ~$37 CDL fee and you're licensed to drive commercially.
California CDL — Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a CDL cost in California?
California CDL fees come to about $75 total — roughly $38 for the commercial learner's permit (CLP) and $37 for the CDL itself, paid at California DMV. Testing and endorsement fees can add to this, so always confirm current amounts with California DMV.
What score do I need to pass the California CDL knowledge test?
You need 80% on each CDL knowledge section. California 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 California?
California 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 California 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 California?
At a California DMV Field 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 California?
Yes. Koydo's questions follow the FMCSA CDL standard that California tests on, plus state-rule practice — with no ads, and your first 15 questions a day are free.
Ready to get your CDL in California?
Start with 15 free questions. Premium adds state rules, parked-study audio, mock exam, and progress tracking.
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