How to Pass CDL Permit Test the First Time

Are you considering getting your Class A CDL and find yourself wondering how to pass CDL permit tests the first time? It’s no question that facing the permit test for the first time can be a daunting task, especially the first time. But with the help of Truck Driver Institute, you can learn how to not just pass, but ace the permit test before moving on to Driving Skills Test and eventually, your Commercial Driver’s License.

How to Pass CDL Permit Test On Your First Try

1.Know What to Expect

If you want to know how to pass the CDL permit test on your first try, first you have to know exactly what you’re up against. This is a three-part, multiple choice test consisting of 100 questions. While each state has its own unique test, in general you’ll be quizzed on a variety of basic knowledge covering 20 different areas related to commercial driving. 

A great way to know what to expect is to take practice tests before going into the exam. It’s easy to psych yourself out if you have never seen a test like this before, so practicing with free tests will help you better understand and prepare for the real thing. 

2.Know How You Take Tests

Since you can choose to take them individually or all at once, make sure you know when and how you take tests best to set yourself up for success. Make sure to get at least eight hours of sleep the night before and that morning, eat a healthy, high-protein breakfast. 

Since it’s a multiple choice test, make sure to read the answer carefully, think of the answer in your head, and then find it in the choices. The tests aren’t timed, so you can skip any questions you don’t know and come back to them at the end. You must answer at least 86% of the questions correctly, so taking your time and double checking your work can make all the difference.

3.Get Prepared

Truck Driver Institute has been offering one of the leading CDL training programs for nearly half a century. Our three week course provides support from day one – in fact you’ll be ready to pass the CDL permit test by the end of the first week of our three week program. 

In that first week, we go over everything on the individual state test, from reading maps and making log books to weight scales and air brakes. After you pass the CDL permit test, you’ll move on to hands-on driving practice both at our private driving range and eventually, on the highway. 

You are required to have your permit for two weeks before getting your CDL license, and we’ll be there to help all the way through. 

4.Study Hard and Ask Questions

Everyone in the industry has been in your shoes – studying hard, getting all the right documents together, searching ‘how to pass CDL permit test’ for tips, all to prepare for that big first step in a new career – so don’t be afraid to ask the professionals for their support as you come up with questions. One of the reasons our intensive three-week program works is because our experienced instructors were previously drivers. They’re full of practical, on-the-job knowledge, and any of them can answer all your questions about the CDL permit test and beyond.

5.Have a Plan For After

After you ace your CDL permit test, you’ll start working towards your Commercial Driver’s License and then a job in the industry.  There are three types of CDL license: Class A, Class B, and Class C. Thinking about exactly what kind of driver you want to be will help you decide what license to pursue.

Class A is the most versatile of the options, as it allows you to drive a truck capable of towing a trailer with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 10,000 pounds and over. You must pass a Class A CDL license test to drive a standard 18 wheeler. Class A is also the only license that allows you to drive over state lines with large cargo.

Class B CDLs are restricted to the state it’s issued in, which makes it ideal for professional drivers that prefer a regional career. A Class B CDL allows you to drive a vehicle that carries under 10,000 pounds GVWR. This includes all kinds of busses, delivery trucks, dump trucks, tour buses, and more.

Last but certainly not least, Class C allows you to drive vehicles with less than 26,001 pounds, to tow other vehicles that weigh less than 10,000 pounds, and vehicles that transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver). This license is most popular with those that have a very particular need for a CDL, as it’s the least versatile option available. 

We at the TDI are passionate about helping our students from the moment you sign up to beyond graduation, from passing the initial CDL permit test to considering what kind of license is right for you. We have an over 86% success rate with job placement, having helped hundreds maximize their earnings—and you could be next.

Pass Your CDL Permit Test And Start a New Career

Passing the CDL permit test might seem daunting at first, but with the support of TDI, this can be the first step to the rest of your career. Truck driving is a growing industry; in fact, the American Trucking Association suspects that they’ll have to hire 1.1 million new drivers in the next decade. There are many benefits to being a truck driver, including getting to travel for work and job security. No matter your background or experience, TDI can help you. In just the past year, we’ve helped individuals with bad credit, criminal records, no diplomas, and more get stable jobs in the industry.

Find which one of our schools is closest to you or sign up to learn more about our comprehensive, three week program that will help you pass your CDL permit test and more!