Ohio CDL Manual 2026

How to use the Ohio CDL Manual

The BMV draws its 40-question knowledge test from the Ohio CDL Manual, and you need 75% to pass, which is 30 correct answers. Read the 153 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 Ohio CDL Manual decides it, and every explanation we write points back into it.

What is inside the Ohio CDL Manual

The Ohio CDL Manual runs to 153 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 Ohio knowledge test at a glance

Everything below comes from the BMV directly. It is what the Ohio CDL Manual is preparing you for.

Questions

40

Passing score

75%

Correct answers needed

30 of 40

Time limit

Time limit not published

Test fee

$23.5

Minimum age

15.5

Can you take it online?

Yes, with conditions

Verified against the BMV in 2026-07.