Montana CDL Manual 2026

How to use the Montana CDL Manual

The MVD draws its 33-question knowledge test from the Montana CDL Manual, and you need 82% to pass, which is 27 correct answers. Read the 174 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 Montana CDL Manual decides it, and every explanation we write points back into it.

What is inside the Montana CDL Manual

The Montana CDL Manual runs to 174 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 Montana knowledge test at a glance

Everything below comes from the MVD directly. It is what the Montana CDL Manual is preparing you for.

Questions

33

Passing score

82%

Correct answers needed

27 of 33

Time limit

Time limit not published

Test fee

$5

Minimum age

14.5

Can you take it online?

No, in person only

Verified against the MVD in 2026-07.