Maryland CDL Manual 2026

How to use the Maryland CDL Manual

The MVA draws its 25-question knowledge test from the Maryland CDL Manual, and you need 88% to pass, which is 22 correct answers. Read the 319 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 Maryland CDL Manual decides it, and every explanation we write points back into it.

What is inside the Maryland CDL Manual

The Maryland CDL Manual runs to 319 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 Maryland knowledge test at a glance

Everything below comes from the MVA directly. It is what the Maryland CDL Manual is preparing you for.

Questions

25

Passing score

88%

Correct answers needed

22 of 25

Time limit

20 minutes

Minimum age

15.75

Can you take it online?

No, in person only

Verified against the MVA in 2026-07.