VAVirginia 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
- Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
- Official CDL page
- dmv.virginia.gov ↗
- Official CDL manual
- dmv.virginia.gov ↗
- Testing, fees and appointments
- dmv.virginia.gov ↗
- Knowledge-test language
- Confirm with the agency
Virginia offers CDL knowledge exams on computer in several languages, except the HAZMAT exam, which is English only and cannot be taken with a translator.
- 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
- Test languages
Virginia offers CDL knowledge exams on computer in several languages, except the HAZMAT exam, which is English only and cannot be taken with a translator.
- Knowledge tests
You need at least 80% on the general knowledge exam, may test only once per business day, and passing results stay valid for 1 year.
- Learner permit (CLP)
A Virginia CLP is valid for 1 year and cannot be renewed (you must reapply). You must hold it at least 14 days before getting a CDL.
- Fees
A standard CDL with no endorsements costs $64 and lasts 8 years; the hazmat background check fee is $83 ($41 with a TWIC).
- Age
You must be at least 18 for an intrastate CDL and 21 for an interstate CDL.
State-only topics in the manual
- Virginia Supplement (DMV 60V): who needs a CDL, farm exemptions, citizenship/residency documents, age rules and CLP rules.
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.