How Many Questions Are on the New Mexico CDL General Knowledge Test?
50 questions. That count is fixed by 49 CFR Part 383, the same across every state — New Mexico's MVD administers the federal format rather than writing its own.
A choice of license length most states don't offer
The federal government owns the question count and 80% threshold. New Mexico's own twist: once you pass, the CDL license itself comes in two lengths — $18 for a 4-year license or $34 for an 8-year one.
Depending on the class and endorsements pursued, additional tests — like Air Brakes or Combination Vehicles — may also apply on top of the General Knowledge test.
You have to start with a regular license
New Mexico requires holding a valid regular (Class D) driver's license before applying for a commercial learner's permit — there's no path to a CDL that skips this step.
The CLP itself is commonly listed at $10, and holds for at least 14 days while you complete entry-level driver training (ELDT) before the skills test.
How our practice tests are structured
Our practice tests break results down by topic immediately, so a weak spot doesn't stay hidden inside an otherwise decent overall score.
Each question includes an explanation and a source reference, so you learn why an answer is correct instead of just memorizing a letter.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many questions are on New Mexico's CDL General Knowledge test?
50 questions, the federally standard length used nationwide, not a New Mexico-specific number.
What does the New Mexico CDL license itself cost?
$18 for a 4-year license or $34 for an 8-year license, once you pass the skills test.
Do I need a regular license before applying for a CDL?
Yes — a valid regular (Class D) New Mexico driver's license is required before applying for a commercial learner's permit.
Ready to put this into practice?
Start a free New Mexico cdl practice testLast reviewed: 2026-07-23