NCDMV CDL Handbook

Commercial Driver’s License Manual – 2005 CDL Testing System

1.1 – Commercial Driver License Tests

1.1.1 – Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. The CDL knowledge tests include:

The general knowledge test , taken by all applicants.

The passenger transport test , taken by all bus driver applicants.

The air brakes test , which you must take if your vehicle has air brakes, including air over hydraulic brakes.

The combination vehicles test , which is required if you want to drive combination vehicles.

The hazardous materials test , required if you want to haul hazardous materials as defined in 49 CFR 383.5. In order to obtain this endorsement you are also required to pass a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) background check. A Driver seeking the Hazardous Materials (H) endorsement for the first time must successfully complete the entry-level driver training (theory only) prior to taking the State-administered knowledge test The tank vehicle test , required if you want to haul any liquid or gaseous materials in a tank or tanks having an individual rated capacity of more than 119 gallons and an aggregate rated capacity of 1,000 gallons or more that is either permanently or temporarily attached to the vehicle or chassis

The doubles/triples test , required if you want to pull double or triple trailers.

The School Bus test , required if you want to drive a school bus.

(NOTE: Administered by School Bus and Traffic Safety Section ONLY. Contact (919) 715-7000.)

Only one attempt at each knowledge test is allowed per day. If after three attempts, you have not passed the general knowledge test, another application fee will be required to allow three more attempts. Similaly, each three attempts thereafter require another application fee.

You do not need an appointment for knowledge tests.

NOTE: All test scores are valid 90 days from the test date in NCDMV computer files.

Section 1 - Introduction

Page 1-6

Version: July 2017