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States

RIRhode Island 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
Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles
Official CDL page
dmv.ri.gov ↗
Official CDL manual
dmv.ri.gov ↗
Testing, fees and appointments
dmv.ri.gov ↗
Knowledge-test language
Confirm with the agency

We have not confirmed this state's current language policy from an official source. Ask the agency before you book.

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

Learner permit (CLP)

A Rhode Island CLP is valid for at most 1 year and cannot be renewed; after it expires you must retake all knowledge exams and pay the fees again.

Source: dmv.ri.gov

Knowledge tests

Knowledge exams are taken only at the Cranston DMV by appointment; if you fail one, you must wait 7 days to retake it.

Source: dmv.ri.gov

Age

At 18 you can get a CDL for in-state driving only; you must be 21 for interstate driving.

Source: dmv.ri.gov

Also important

You must have been a licensed driver for at least 2 years, and all CDL services are done only at the Cranston DMV by appointment.

Source: dmv.ri.gov

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.