GAGeorgia CDL permit test guide
The core course follows the national manual text most states use. When your state manual gives a different number, it wins.
- Licensing agency
- Georgia Department of Driver Services
- Official CDL page
- dds.georgia.gov ↗
- Official CDL manual
- dds.georgia.gov ↗
- Testing, fees and appointments
- dds.georgia.gov ↗
- Knowledge-test language
- Confirm with the agency
Georgia requires all CDL applicants to read and understand English; no other test language is listed.
- Source collection date
Steps to your CDL (federal minimums)
- Choose your class (A, B or C) and endorsements.
- Get a DOT medical exam from a provider on the National Registry and a medical examiner's certificate.
- Pass the knowledge tests at the state agency to get your commercial learner's permit (CLP).
- Hold the CLP at least 14 days and practice with a qualified CDL holder. A CLP is valid for up to one year (some states less).
- Complete entry-level driver training (ELDT) with a registered provider.
- Pass the skills test: pre-trip inspection, basic control and road test, in English.
- Get your CDL. You must be 21 to drive across state lines.
What is different in this state
- Learner permit (CLP)
A Georgia CLP issued on or after July 1, 2021 is valid for 365 days, and you must hold it 14 days before applying for the full CDL.
- Fees
The Commercial Application (CAP) costs $35 and covers 4 test attempts (or 360 days); a $10 permit fee is paid before the knowledge exams.
- Age
You can apply at 18, but drivers aged 18 to 20 get a Georgia-only (intrastate) restriction that can be removed at 21.
- Test languages
Georgia requires all CDL applicants to read and understand English; no other test language is listed.
- Also important
Skills tests can be taken through DDS-approved third-party testers.
Where this state's manual differs
- 5.2 In the dual air brake section, Georgia's guide says the low-air warning must come on before pressure drops below 60 psi (national text: 55 psi), though other sections still say 55 psi.
State-only topics in the manual
- ELDT explanation page at the front of the guide.
- Two skills-test study guides: the older traditional pre-trip test and the newer modernized vehicle inspection test.
Source collection date:
The three permit tests
General Knowledge
Required for every CDL class.
Mock examAir Brakes
Needed to drive a vehicle with air brakes without an "L" restriction.
Mock examCombination Vehicles
Needed for Class A (tractor-trailers).
Mock exam7CDL is an independent study aid. It is not a government website, not affiliated with any state agency, FMCSA or AAMVA, and not an ELDT provider. Always check your state's official CDL manual and agency.