CDL Skills Test Day: What to Expect
Last updated · By David Nelson
The Class A skills test has three parts done in order: the vehicle inspection (pre-trip), basic control skills (backing), and the on-road driving test. You usually must pass each part to move to the next.
Show up early, bring your permit and paperwork, and treat the pre-trip like a script you have already run fifty times.
What to bring
- Your CDL learner's permit and ID
- Your medical card if your state requires it
- The test vehicle's registration and insurance
- Any school or ELDT completion paperwork
- Water, and a jacket for the yard
Part 1: Vehicle inspection
The examiner may ask you to do the whole pre-trip or only some sections. The in-cab air brake check is almost always included. Talk the whole time.
Part 2: Basic control skills
Your state picks one or more backing exercises: straight line, offset, alley dock, or a parallel park. Go slow, use your free pull-ups and G.O.A.L. when you need them.
Part 3: Road test
You drive a set route with turns, intersections, a railroad crossing, highway merging and lane changes. Check mirrors often, signal early, and keep a safe following distance.
Calm on test day
- Sleep well and eat before the test.
- Do one full practice run of the pre-trip that morning.
- If you make a mistake, say so and correct it. Examiners prefer honest corrections.
- Ask the examiner to repeat any instruction you did not hear.
Frequently asked questions
What order is the CDL skills test in?
Vehicle inspection first, then basic control skills (backing), then the road test.
If I fail one part, do I fail the whole test?
In most states, failing a part ends that test day and you retest at least the part you failed. Rules and fees vary by state.
Can I use my own truck for the skills test?
Yes, if it is the right class for the license and is properly registered and insured. Most students test in their school's truck.
How long does the whole skills test take?
Plan for two to three hours, including the pre-trip, backing and road test.
Ready to practice this?