California CDL Manual 2026

How to use the California CDL Manual

The DMV draws its 46-question knowledge test from the California CDL Manual, and you need 83% to pass, which is 38 correct answers. Read the 208 pages once for coverage, then answer practice questions to find the rules that did not stick. Practice tells you what you do not know yet; the CDL Manual is where the rule is actually stated, in the words the state chose.

It is also the only source that settles an argument. When a practice answer and your instinct disagree, the California CDL Manual decides it, and every explanation we write points back into it.

What is inside the California CDL Manual

The California CDL Manual runs to 208 pages. These are the areas it covers that the knowledge test can ask about.

• Vehicle inspection and the pre-trip procedure
• Basic control of a heavy vehicle, including turning and backing
• Shifting, speed management and space management
• Seeing hazards and emergency maneuvers
• Air brakes, if your vehicle has them
• Combination vehicles, coupling and uncoupling
• Cargo loading, weight distribution and securement
• Hazardous materials rules and placarding
• Passenger transport and school bus requirements
• Hours of service, logbooks and driver qualification
• Disqualifications, serious traffic violations and testing

The California knowledge test at a glance

Everything below comes from the DMV directly. It is what the California CDL Manual is preparing you for.

Questions

46

Passing score

83%

Correct answers needed

38 of 46

Time limit

Time limit not published

Test fee

$38

Minimum age

15.5

Can you take it online?

Yes, with conditions

Verified against the DMV in 2026-07.