DMV

How Many Questions Are on the Florida CDL General Knowledge Test?

Florida's CDL general knowledge test is commonly cited as following the standard, federally influenced format used across most states: 50 multiple-choice questions, with at least 40 correct (80%) needed to pass. Confirm the current format with FLHSMV before your appointment.

The official test format

The general knowledge test is required for every Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) and CDL applicant in Florida, regardless of the specific class of vehicle you intend to drive.

Content is drawn from the Florida Commercial Driver Handbook and the federal standards published by the FMCSA, covering vehicle inspection, basic vehicle control, air brakes, cargo securement, and other core commercial driving topics.

Because FLHSMV testing procedures can be updated, confirm the current question count and format on the official FLHSMV website before your appointment.

Endorsement and vehicle-class tests are separate

If you intend to drive a vehicle requiring an endorsement (such as hazardous materials, passenger transport, tank vehicles, or doubles/triples), you'll need to pass a separate endorsement-specific knowledge test in addition to the general knowledge test.

Our free Florida CDL practice tests focus on the general knowledge test content common to nearly all CDL applicants: 17 topic areas across 100 original questions, largely reflecting federal FMCSA standards with some Florida-specific examples.

How our practice tests are structured

dmvwrittenexam.com splits its 100 Florida CDL general knowledge questions into four 25-question practice tests, so you can work through the full topic range in manageable sessions.

Every question includes a full explanation and a source reference, so you understand the reasoning behind each answer instead of just memorizing it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the CDL general knowledge test the same for every state?

Most states, including Florida, follow a similar federally influenced format, but the exact question count, format, and administration are set by each state's licensing agency and can differ. Confirm current details with FLHSMV.

Do I need to pass additional tests beyond the general knowledge test?

Yes, if you're pursuing a specific vehicle class or endorsement (like hazardous materials or passenger transport), you'll need to pass additional knowledge tests specific to that endorsement, plus a skills test.

Does the CDL test cover air brakes even if my vehicle doesn't have them?

Air brake questions are commonly included in the general knowledge test because air brakes are widely used across commercial vehicles. Restrictions may apply to your CDL if you test in a vehicle without air brakes; confirm current rules with FLHSMV.

Ready to put this into practice?

Start a free Florida cdl practice test

Last reviewed: 2026-07-06