Delaware CDL General Knowledge

No. The Delaware DMV states that all CDL knowledge tests are by walk-in only and can be completed at any Division facility. Appointments apply to the CDL skills test, which can only be scheduled once you have held your Commercial Learner Permit for a minimum of 14 days.

At a minimum, every applicant completes the General Knowledge test. Depending on the class of license or endorsements you are applying for, there may be additional testing. Plan your study around the class and endorsements you actually need rather than assuming General Knowledge alone is sufficient.

A $5.00 fee is required upon issuance of the CDL learner's permit. The permit is valid for one year, and it may not be issued or extended for a period exceeding one year from the issuance date of the original permit, so plan your skills test accordingly.

Most candidates underestimate the breadth of the manual. The General Knowledge test is not just road rules - it also covers inspection, basic control, cargo, and the disqualifying violations that can suspend your CDL. Reading the manual cover to cover beats memorizing practice questions alone.

Road tests are given every weekday except Wednesday. All CDL skills tests are by appointment only, and you can schedule by calling your local DMV office or through MyDMV Account Services by selecting "My Road Test." Bring your permit, accompanying driver's license, registration, and insurance card.

The permit is valid for one year. Delaware will not issue or extend a CDL learner's permit beyond one year from the issuance date of the original permit, so if you let it lapse you start over. Budget time for Entry Level Driver Training and skills test scheduling.

Yes. Major violations are disqualifying whether committed in a private passenger vehicle or a CMV. A first offense means a one-year disqualification, or three years if carrying hazardous materials. A second major violation results in lifetime disqualification, so the stakes extend well beyond work hours.

Two serious traffic violations in a CMV within any three-year period bring a 60-day disqualification. Three or more within that same three-year period bring 120 days. Serious violations include excessive speeding of 15 mph or more over the posted limit, reckless driving, and texting or handheld phone use.

You no longer have to visit or notify the DMV to submit your medical certification. Certified Medical Examiners electronically submit results through the FMCSA National Registry, and Delaware accepts only electronic submissions after June 23, 2025. Certificates issued before that date remain valid until expiration.

The Delaware Commercial Driver's manual is available at no cost at any Division facility. It covers CDL requirements, procedures, testing requirements, and the basic knowledge needed to obtain a CDL. Ask for it at the counter on your first visit so you can study before testing.