NH CDL General Knowledge study guide
NH CDL General Knowledge · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
The New Hampshire Commercial Driver's License General Knowledge test is the core written requirement for anyone seeking a CDL in the state, whether Class A, Class B, or the passenger and school bus endorsements. It is aimed at drivers preparing to operate tractor-trailers, straight trucks, dump trucks, buses, and other commercial vehicles on public roads. The NH CDL General Knowledge study guide has 11 sections and about 3,267 words.
01Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control
This domain tests whether you can confirm a commercial motor vehicle is safe before moving it and control it smoothly once you do. Expect questions on inspection order, critical components, and the start-to-stop sequence.
303 words, about 2 min02Shifting, Backing, and Turning
This domain tests smooth gear control, safe reversing, and turns that keep a long vehicle out of trouble. The exam looks for judgment about space, visibility, and off-tracking, not just memorized gear patterns.
305 words, about 2 min03Seeing Hazards and Space Management
This domain tests how far ahead you scan, how you identify hazards, and how much space you keep around the vehicle. The exam favors drivers who create an escape route instead of reacting late.
326 words, about 2 min04Speed Management and Stopping Distance
This domain tests whether you understand how speed, weight, road condition, and reaction time combine to lengthen stopping distance. It also tests choosing a safe speed before curves, ramps, and downgrades.
283 words, about 1 min05Skid Control, Emergency Maneuvers, and Accident Procedures
This domain tests recovery from loss of traction, response to vehicle failures, and the correct sequence after a crash. The exam rewards calm, controlled actions rather than sudden overcorrection.
288 words, about 1 min06Cargo Loading, Securement, and Weight Distribution
This domain tests whether cargo is legal, balanced, and secured so it cannot shift or fall. The exam connects axle limits, tiedown strength, and cargo placement.
299 words, about 1 min07Vehicle Systems, Brakes, and Pre-Trip Inspection Knowledge
This domain tests air and hydraulic brake operation, ABS, tires, suspension, electrical, and exhaust systems, plus the inspection tests that prove they work. Numbers matter here.
303 words, about 2 min08Alcohol, Drugs, and Driver Fitness
This domain tests the rules that apply to a CDL holder, including alcohol limits, drug prohibitions, medical certification, and fitness for duty. The exam distinguishes CMV rules from ordinary motor vehicle rules.
282 words, about 1 min09Railroad Crossings and Hazardous Conditions
This domain tests deliberate crossing procedures and driving in fog, smoke, rain, snow, ice, and high wind. The exam looks for space awareness and patience at crossings and reduced speed in bad visibility.
302 words, about 2 min10Hours of Service and Fatigue Management
This domain tests the federal hours-of-service limits that apply to many CMV drivers, plus the judgment to recognize and manage fatigue. The exam focuses on the 11-hour, 14-hour, and 60/70-hour rules.
286 words, about 1 min11Sharing the Road and Traffic Laws
This domain tests how a large vehicle interacts with motorcycles, bicycles, pedestrians, school buses, emergency vehicles, and work zones. The exam emphasizes blind spots, stopping distance, and giving others room.
290 words, about 1 min