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NDNorth Dakota 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
North Dakota Department of Transportation
Official CDL page
dot.nd.gov ↗
Official CDL manual
dot.nd.gov ↗
Testing, fees and appointments
dot.nd.gov ↗
Knowledge-test language
Confirm with the agency

North Dakota offers CDL knowledge tests in English only; audio testing is available at several driver license offices.

Source collection date

Steps to your CDL (federal minimums)

  1. Choose your class (A, B or C) and endorsements.
  2. Get a DOT medical exam from a provider on the National Registry and a medical examiner's certificate.
  3. Pass the knowledge tests at the state agency to get your commercial learner's permit (CLP).
  4. 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).
  5. Complete entry-level driver training (ELDT) with a registered provider.
  6. Pass the skills test: pre-trip inspection, basic control and road test, in English.
  7. Get your CDL. You must be 21 to drive across state lines.

What is different in this state

Test languages

North Dakota offers CDL knowledge tests in English only; audio testing is available at several driver license offices.

Source: dot.nd.gov

Learner permit (CLP)

A road test cannot be scheduled until you have held a valid CLP for at least 14 days.

Source: dot.nd.gov

Fees

Knowledge test $5 per attempt (one attempt per day), CLP $15 ($20 non-domiciled), endorsements $3 each, road test $5.

Source: dot.nd.gov

Age

You must be 21 to drive across state lines; at 18-20 you can get an intrastate-only CDL. At 16 you may test for a CDL limited to custom harvesting.

Source: dot.nd.gov

Also important

North Dakota began switching to the modernized CDL skills test on December 1, 2025; road tests are by appointment and third-party testers are also used.

Source: dot.nd.gov

Where this state's manual differs

  • 5.1.11 The low air pressure warning must come on before tank pressure falls below 60 psi (the 2017 national text says 55 psi).
  • 5.3.3 In the air brake check, the warning signal should come on before pressure drops below 60 psi (national 2017 text: 55 psi).

State-only topics in the manual

  • North Dakota information: CDL requirements, farm and custom-harvester exemptions, and K (intrastate) restriction waivers.
  • North Dakota size and load limits.
  • Required identity and residence documents, office hours and testing appointments.

Source collection date:

The three permit tests

General Knowledge

Required for every CDL class.

Mock exam

Air Brakes

Needed to drive a vehicle with air brakes without an "L" restriction.

Mock exam

Combination Vehicles

Needed for Class A (tractor-trailers).

Mock exam
Study the core course

7CDL 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.