West Virginia CDL Practice Test 2026

To obtain a Commercial Driver's License in West Virginia, you must first pass the CDL general knowledge written test administered by the DMV. The general knowledge exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions covering vehicle inspection, basic control, safe driving, transporting cargo, and federal regulations. A score of 80% or higher (40 correct) is required to pass.

CDL Classes and Endorsements

West Virginia issues three CDL classes. Class A covers combination vehicles over 26,001 lbs GVWR when the towed unit exceeds 10,000 lbs - this is what you need for tractor-trailers and most heavy hauling. Class B covers single vehicles over 26,001 lbs such as straight trucks, large buses, and dump trucks. Class C covers vehicles designed for 16+ passengers or those carrying hazardous materials that don't meet Class A or B criteria.

Beyond the general knowledge test, you may need additional written tests for endorsements: Hazardous Materials (H), Tanker (N), Passenger (P), School Bus (S), Doubles/Triples (T), or the combined HazMat-Tanker (X). Each endorsement requires its own written exam, and HazMat also requires a TSA background check.

Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)

Since February 2022, federal law requires Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) through an FMCSA-registered training provider before you can take the CDL skills test for a Class A or B CDL. ELDT is also required before adding Hazardous Materials, Passenger, or School Bus endorsements. This applies in West Virginia and every other state.

Where to Take the Test

The CDL knowledge test is taken at West Virginia DMV regional offices or online from home via KnowToDrive (knowtodrivecom).. Appointments are required - Appointments required for in-person knowledge testing at DMV regional offices. Results are delivered immediately - results displayed on screen at dmv or online. knowtodrive lets you skip the dmv line to pick up credentials after passing.

Preparing for Your CDL Test

The CDL test draws from the West Virginia CDL Manual and the federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. Key topics include pre-trip vehicle inspection procedures, air brake systems, coupling and uncoupling, cargo securement, hours-of-service rules, hazard perception, and accident procedures. West Virginia-specific regulations on weight limits, required permits, and designated truck routes may also appear.

Taking practice tests before your appointment is one of the most effective ways to prepare. Focus on understanding road signs and the concepts behind each question rather than memorizing answers - the real test may phrase questions differently than what you studied.

Retake Policy

You must wait 7 days after failing either the knowledge or road skills test before testing again, and the same 7-day wait applies after failing any portion of the CDL knowledge exam. Each non-commercial test attempt costs $7.50. Attempts are capped by the fee you paid with your application: 2 written-test attempts, plus 1 road skills attempt if you are under 18, or 3 within 90 days of your instruction permit if you are 18 or older. A CDL applicant may test 3 times per $32.50 fee paid, then must pay again.