MA CDL General Knowledge study guide
MA CDL General Knowledge · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
The Massachusetts Commercial Driver's License General Knowledge test is the core written knowledge exam that Class A and Class B applicants must pass before they can be issued a CDL learner's permit and begin behind-the-wheel training. It is written for people who intend to drive tractor-trailers, straight trucks, dump trucks, buses, or other heavy vehicles for pay, and for current drivers adding a classification. The MA CDL General Knowledge study guide has 10 sections and about 2,594 words.
01Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control
Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control tests whether you can inspect a commercial vehicle before driving and control it at low speed. The exam emphasizes critical defects, the walk-around, and smooth starting, stopping, and steering.
287 words, about 1 min02Shifting, Backing, and Turning
Shifting, Backing, and Turning tests gear selection, clutch use, backing safety, and the path a long vehicle follows in a turn. These skills matter most at low speed and in tight spaces.
300 words, about 2 min03Seeing and Communicating
Seeing and Communicating tests visual search, mirror use, blind-spot awareness, following distance, and signals. The goal is to see hazards early and make your intentions clear.
248 words, about 1 min04Speed and Space Management
Speed and Space Management tests speed selection, stopping distance, space cushions, and safe following. The exam looks for judgment, not just knowledge of posted limits.
264 words, about 1 min05Skid Control, Braking, and Emergencies
Skid Control, Braking, and Emergencies tests how you recover from skids, brake a heavy vehicle without locking wheels, and respond to blowouts, fires, and brake failure. If wheels lock, release enough brake pressure to let them roll and regain steering.
286 words, about 1 min06Cargo, Hazard Awareness, and Railroad Crossings
Cargo, Hazard Awareness, and Railroad Crossings tests load securement, weight distribution, hazardous-material awareness, and crossing procedure. Cargo must be secured with tiedowns, straps, or chains; check the load before departure and during the trip.
236 words, about 1 min07Alcohol, Drugs, and Driver Fitness
Alcohol, Drugs, and Driver Fitness tests the CMV alcohol limit, disqualification rules, drug and medication issues, and medical fitness requirements. The CMV alcohol limit is 0.04 BAC; the non-commercial 0.08 limit does not apply to CMV operation.
217 words, about 1 min08Vehicle Systems and Pre-Trip Inspection
Vehicle Systems and Pre-Trip Inspection tests your knowledge of the engine, cooling, electrical, brake, air, tire, and coupling systems and the checks that prove they are safe. Check engine oil, coolant, belts, hoses, battery, and leaks.
251 words, about 1 min09Hours of Service, Whistleblower, and Penalties
Hours of Service, Whistleblower, and Penalties tests driving and on-duty limits, break rules, recordkeeping, retaliation protection, and consequences for violations. Property-carrying CMVs: 11-hour driving limit, 14-hour on-duty window, and a 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving.
227 words, about 1 min10Massachusetts CDL Requirements and Restrictions
Massachusetts CDL Requirements and Restrictions tests who may hold a CDL, which class and endorsements are needed, and what restrictions appear on the license. You must be a Massachusetts resident with a valid Massachusetts driver’s license, pass the knowledge tests, hold a CDL permit, and pass the skills test.
278 words, about 1 min