Iowa General Knowledge Practice Test
This is our Iowa General Knowledge Practice Quiz and Practice Test compiled of 50 questions each. Each question is worth two points for a total of 100 possible points. A passing score is 80%.
The General Knowledge Practice Quiz reveals the correct answer during each question to help you study for the actual General Knowledge test. The General Knowledge Practice Test doesn’t reveal the correct answers until the test is over.
The questions and answers are given in random order each time you retake the test. When you are finished testing, simply click on the “Get Results” button to see your test results. Clicking on the blue “List” button will reveal a list of all the questions you answered correctly and incorrectly. To take the test again, just refresh your browser window. It’s that easy.
Press the start button to begin your free General Knowledge Practice Quiz. Good luck!
General Knowledge CDL Practice Quiz
Question 1 |
A | because it is a requirement for all drivers. |
B | because law enforcement may inspect your vehicle on the road. |
C | to ensure safety for yourself, your passengers, and other drivers. |
D | to help ensure the vehicle will make it to your destination. |
Question 2 |
A | Shift the truck into neutral and coast down the hill to save gas. |
B | Use the same gear you would use to climb the hill. |
C | Use a higher gear than you would use to climb the hill. |
D | Use a lower gear than you would use to climb the hill. |
Question 3 |
A | the brake pedal feels firm when you apply pressure. |
B | you release pressure on the brake pedal and speed increases. |
C | there is a slight vibration when you press down on the brake pedal. |
D | you have to push harder and harder to get the same stopping power on a downgrade. |
Question 4 |
A | truck stops, gas stations |
B | vehicles, traffic signs |
C | law enforcement officers, detours |
D | tunnels, overpasses |
Question 5 |
A | rolled down windows |
B | sunglasses |
C | rear view cameras |
D | mirrors |
Question 6 |
A | loose fuel connections |
B | both loose fuel connections and under inflated tires |
C | under inflated tires |
D | eating spicy food in the truck cab |
Question 7 |
A | you want to have time to act before it turns into an emergency. |
B | you want to avoid doing something all of a sudden. |
C | it is a federal law. |
D | you want to have a plan to communicate the risk. |
Question 8 |
A | one |
B | two |
C | four |
D | three |
Question 9 |
A | Greater stopping distance. |
B | It depends on what mood you are in at the time. |
C | Shorter stopping distance. |
D | The same amount of stopping distance. |
Question 10 |
A | fishtailing. |
B | slidetracking. |
C | offtracking. |
D | sidetracking. |
Question 11 |
A | the lug nut is loose. |
B | the lug nut needs to be replaced. |
C | the lug nut is cheap. |
D | the wheel needs cleaning. |
Question 12 |
A | Load cargo weight evenly over all the axles. |
B | Load more cargo toward the front of the truck for a full load. |
C | Load more weight over the drive axle for better traction. |
D | Load cargo toward the rear of the truck for easier unloading. |
Question 13 |
A | under-inflated tires, dual tires that touch |
B | poor-quality retreads, under-inflated tires |
C | dual tires that touch, hot road surfaces |
D | over-heated brakes, under-inflated tires |
Question 14 |
A | Perception distance, response distance, and reaction distance. |
B | Perception distance, slowing distance, and braking distance. |
C | Perception distance, reaction distance, and braking distance. |
D | Observation distance, reaction distance, and slowing distance. |
Question 15 |
A | two inches |
B | one half inch |
C | three inches |
D | one inch |
Question 16 |
A | keep your high beams on at all times. |
B | make sure you are driving slow enough so you can stop within the range of your headlights in case of an emergency. |
C | drink coffee or other caffeine products to help keep you awake. |
D | roll down your window so that the fresh air will help keep you awake. |
Question 17 |
A | All of these are considered a hazard. |
B | A stopped transit bus. |
C | Pedestrians and bicyclists. |
D | Road construction zones. |
Question 18 |
A | placard numbers match the seal numbers. |
B | load is properly secured. |
C | seal is secure. |
D | seal is authentic. |
Question 19 |
A | there is ice and snow, to prevent skidding. |
B | testing the trailer brakes after hooking up to a trailer. |
C | you will be parked for a short time. |
D | it is absolutely necessary. |
Question 20 |
A | decreases when the service breaks are hot. |
B | is not affected by the condition of the service brakes. |
C | increases when the service brakes are hot. |
D | depends on the service brakes being in adjustment. |
Question 21 |
A | turn right and drive over the curb |
B | turn wide as you complete the turn |
C | turn wide before you start the turn |
D | start the turn, then back up to re-position |
Question 22 |
A | to combat terrorism. |
B | to warn others of hazardous materials. |
C | to avoid mixing hazmat with food. |
D | to make your vehicle look official. |
Question 23 |
A | turn up the radio. |
B | stop to sleep. |
C | slap yourself in the face three times. |
D | roll down the windows. |
Question 24 |
A | 2/32-inch in every major groove. |
B | 3/32-inch in every major groove. |
C | 5/32-inch in every major groove. |
D | 4/32-inch in every major groove. |
Question 25 |
A | Using hand signals. |
B | Using your CB radio or cell phone to inform others. |
C | Using turn signals, 4-way flashers, headlights, and the horn. |
D | Using a helper when backing up. |
Question 26 |
A | A minimum of four. |
B | A minimum of three. |
C | A minimum of two. |
D | A minimum of one. |
Question 27 |
A | the end of the kingpin is even with the top of the fifth wheel. |
B | the end of the kingpin is at waist level. |
C | it will be raised slightly when the tractor is backed under it. |
D | the kingpin is about 1¼ inches above the fifth wheel. |
Question 28 |
A | whenever you stop to refuel. |
B | before operating the vehicle. |
C | at least once a week. |
D | if any problems occurred the last the time the vehicle was operated. |
Question 29 |
A | exempt from weight limit restrictions. |
B | exempt from hazardous materials restrictions. |
C | generally used when freight is carried part way by rail or ship. |
D | exempt from height restrictions. |
Question 30 |
A | Oil on the tie rod. |
B | Play in the steering wheel of more than ten degrees (two inches on a 20-inch steering wheel). |
C | Too many vertical stacks. |
D | Play in the steering wheel of more than five degrees. |
Question 31 |
A | three or more. |
B | five or more. |
C | none of these. |
D | seven or more. |
Question 32 |
A | To watch for steering errors. |
B | To see the blind spots you can't see. |
C | To prevent others from distracting you. |
D | To direct traffic away from you. |
Question 33 |
A | Nothing, because the posted speed limit for the offramp is usually 10 miles per hour below the safe speed limit for the offramp. |
B | Turn on your four-way flashers as you approach the offramp. |
C | Slow to a safe speed before the curve. |
D | Downshift after you are in the curve. |
Question 34 |
A | Judgment and self-control are the first to be affected. |
B | All of these things happen. |
C | Muscle control and coordination are affected. |
D | The drinker's brain is increasingly affected. |
Question 35 |
A | keep the cargo as close to the ground as possible. |
B | keep two hands firmly planted on the steering wheel at all times. |
C | downshift into the turn. |
D | check to make sure that the brakes are properly balanced. |
Question 36 |
A | need less space ahead than full trucks |
B | have better traction when stopping than full trucks |
C | require greater stopping distance than full trucks |
D | have the same stopping distance as full trucks |
Question 37 |
A | you are driving on hilly, rural roads. |
B | you are driving on the freeway. |
C | the road is wet, icy, or snow covered. |
D | road conditions are excellent. |
Question 38 |
A | before starting down a hill and before entering a tunnel. |
B | before starting down a hill and before entering a curve. |
C | before starting down a hill and before going up a hill. |
D | before going up a hill and before entering a curve. |
Question 39 |
A | use windshield washer fluid as coolant. |
B | use only water in the cooling system. |
C | check the coolant level of a hot engine. |
D | safely remove the radiator cap and add coolant while the engine is hot. |
Question 40 |
A | the trailer is empty or lightly loaded. |
B | the trailer is out of brake adjustment. |
C | the trailer is being hauled at high speed. |
D | the trailer is fully loaded or very heavy. |
Question 41 |
A | poorly adjusted brakes. |
B | driving too slow for road conditions. |
C | driving too fast for road conditions. |
D | bad tires. |
Question 42 |
A | Gasoline fire. |
B | Grease fire. |
C | Electrical fire. |
D | None of these fires can be safely extinguished by water. |
Question 43 |
A | the load can catch fire easily. |
B | a dry bulk tank should only be filled halfway. |
C | the load can shift. |
D | the load should not get wet. |
Question 44 |
A | Keep your low beam lights on. |
B | Warn other drivers by using your left turn signal lights. |
C | Turn on your 4-way emergency flashers to warn other drivers. |
D | Put your warning devices out within 15 minutes. |
Question 45 |
A | One vehicle length for every 10,000 lb. of gross vehicle weight. |
B | The same amount of space you would at night. |
C | The same amount of space you would on a dry road. |
D | More space than is needed for ideal driving conditions. |
Question 46 |
A | Pump the brake pedal 5 times; push the pedal firmly 3 seconds; the pedal should not move. |
B | Push the brake pedal firmly 5 seconds; listen for leaks. |
C | Move forward slowly and push firmly on the brake pedal. |
D | Pump the brake pedal 3 times; push the pedal firmly 5 seconds; the pedal should not move. |
Question 47 |
A | Because some liquids expand more than others when they get warm. |
B | Because tank baffles are not always legal with outage. |
C | Because some of the heaviest liquids don’t need any. |
D | Because it's good to know that information. |
Question 48 |
A | both of these. |
B | neither of these. |
C | the weight of the liquid. |
D | the legal weight limits. |
Question 49 |
A | four times |
B | three times |
C | two times |
D | half |
Question 50 |
A | leaks |
B | rubbing |
C | burning |
D | rust |
← | List | → |
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 |
21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 |
26 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 30 |
31 | 32 | 33 | 34 | 35 |
36 | 37 | 38 | 39 | 40 |
41 | 42 | 43 | 44 | 45 |
46 | 47 | 48 | 49 | 50 |
End |
Remember, the General Knowledge Practice Test doesn’t reveal the correct answers until the test is over. The questions and answers are given in random order each time you retake the test. When you are finished testing, simply click on the “Get Results” button to see your test results. Clicking on the blue “List” button will reveal a list of all the questions you answered correctly and incorrectly. To take the test again, just refresh your browser window.
Press the start button to begin your free General Knowledge Practice Test. Good luck!
General Knowledge CDL Practice Test
Question 1 |
A | three inches |
B | one half inch |
C | one inch |
D | two inches |
Question 2 |
A | whenever you stop to refuel. |
B | if any problems occurred the last the time the vehicle was operated. |
C | before operating the vehicle. |
D | at least once a week. |
Question 3 |
A | turn right and drive over the curb |
B | turn wide before you start the turn |
C | turn wide as you complete the turn |
D | start the turn, then back up to re-position |
Question 4 |
A | sidetracking. |
B | fishtailing. |
C | offtracking. |
D | slidetracking. |
Question 5 |
A | have better traction when stopping than full trucks |
B | need less space ahead than full trucks |
C | require greater stopping distance than full trucks |
D | have the same stopping distance as full trucks |
Question 6 |
A | Load more weight over the drive axle for better traction. |
B | Load cargo weight evenly over all the axles. |
C | Load more cargo toward the front of the truck for a full load. |
D | Load cargo toward the rear of the truck for easier unloading. |
Question 7 |
A | slap yourself in the face three times. |
B | roll down the windows. |
C | turn up the radio. |
D | stop to sleep. |
Question 8 |
A | before starting down a hill and before going up a hill. |
B | before going up a hill and before entering a curve. |
C | before starting down a hill and before entering a curve. |
D | before starting down a hill and before entering a tunnel. |
Question 9 |
A | five or more. |
B | seven or more. |
C | three or more. |
D | none of these. |
Question 10 |
A | law enforcement officers, detours |
B | vehicles, traffic signs |
C | tunnels, overpasses |
D | truck stops, gas stations |
Question 11 |
A | half |
B | three times |
C | two times |
D | four times |
Question 12 |
A | 2/32-inch in every major groove. |
B | 5/32-inch in every major groove. |
C | 4/32-inch in every major groove. |
D | 3/32-inch in every major groove. |
Question 13 |
A | To prevent others from distracting you. |
B | To see the blind spots you can't see. |
C | To direct traffic away from you. |
D | To watch for steering errors. |
Question 14 |
A | Because some liquids expand more than others when they get warm. |
B | Because some of the heaviest liquids don’t need any. |
C | Because tank baffles are not always legal with outage. |
D | Because it's good to know that information. |
Question 15 |
A | downshift into the turn. |
B | check to make sure that the brakes are properly balanced. |
C | keep the cargo as close to the ground as possible. |
D | keep two hands firmly planted on the steering wheel at all times. |
Question 16 |
A | the legal weight limits. |
B | the weight of the liquid. |
C | neither of these. |
D | both of these. |
Question 17 |
A | Turn on your four-way flashers as you approach the offramp. |
B | Slow to a safe speed before the curve. |
C | Downshift after you are in the curve. |
D | Nothing, because the posted speed limit for the offramp is usually 10 miles per hour below the safe speed limit for the offramp. |
Question 18 |
A | One vehicle length for every 10,000 lb. of gross vehicle weight. |
B | More space than is needed for ideal driving conditions. |
C | The same amount of space you would at night. |
D | The same amount of space you would on a dry road. |
Question 19 |
A | Keep your low beam lights on. |
B | Turn on your 4-way emergency flashers to warn other drivers. |
C | Put your warning devices out within 15 minutes. |
D | Warn other drivers by using your left turn signal lights. |
Question 20 |
A | keep your high beams on at all times. |
B | drink coffee or other caffeine products to help keep you awake. |
C | make sure you are driving slow enough so you can stop within the range of your headlights in case of an emergency. |
D | roll down your window so that the fresh air will help keep you awake. |
Question 21 |
A | Use a lower gear than you would use to climb the hill. |
B | Use a higher gear than you would use to climb the hill. |
C | Use the same gear you would use to climb the hill. |
D | Shift the truck into neutral and coast down the hill to save gas. |
Question 22 |
A | Play in the steering wheel of more than ten degrees (two inches on a 20-inch steering wheel). |
B | Too many vertical stacks. |
C | Play in the steering wheel of more than five degrees. |
D | Oil on the tie rod. |
Question 23 |
A | the brake pedal feels firm when you apply pressure. |
B | you release pressure on the brake pedal and speed increases. |
C | there is a slight vibration when you press down on the brake pedal. |
D | you have to push harder and harder to get the same stopping power on a downgrade. |
Question 24 |
A | Muscle control and coordination are affected. |
B | All of these things happen. |
C | The drinker's brain is increasingly affected. |
D | Judgment and self-control are the first to be affected. |
Question 25 |
A | It depends on what mood you are in at the time. |
B | Greater stopping distance. |
C | The same amount of stopping distance. |
D | Shorter stopping distance. |
Question 26 |
A | the load can shift. |
B | a dry bulk tank should only be filled halfway. |
C | the load can catch fire easily. |
D | the load should not get wet. |
Question 27 |
A | seal is authentic. |
B | load is properly secured. |
C | seal is secure. |
D | placard numbers match the seal numbers. |
Question 28 |
A | exempt from weight limit restrictions. |
B | generally used when freight is carried part way by rail or ship. |
C | exempt from hazardous materials restrictions. |
D | exempt from height restrictions. |
Question 29 |
A | Using a helper when backing up. |
B | Using turn signals, 4-way flashers, headlights, and the horn. |
C | Using your CB radio or cell phone to inform others. |
D | Using hand signals. |
Question 30 |
A | poor-quality retreads, under-inflated tires |
B | over-heated brakes, under-inflated tires |
C | under-inflated tires, dual tires that touch |
D | dual tires that touch, hot road surfaces |
Question 31 |
A | there is ice and snow, to prevent skidding. |
B | you will be parked for a short time. |
C | testing the trailer brakes after hooking up to a trailer. |
D | it is absolutely necessary. |
Question 32 |
A | A minimum of two. |
B | A minimum of three. |
C | A minimum of four. |
D | A minimum of one. |
Question 33 |
A | overinflated tires |
B | both loose fuel connections and under inflated tires |
C | underinflated tires |
D | loose fuel connections |
Question 34 |
A | it is a federal law. |
B | you want to avoid doing something all of a sudden. |
C | you want to have time to act before it turns into an emergency. |
D | you want to have a plan to communicate the risk. |
Question 35 |
A | driving too fast for road conditions. |
B | driving too slow for road conditions. |
C | poorly adjusted brakes. |
D | bad tires. |
Question 36 |
A | Push the brake pedal firmly 5 seconds; listen for leaks. |
B | Pump the brake pedal 5 times; push the pedal firmly 3 seconds; the pedal should not move. |
C | Pump the brake pedal 3 times; push the pedal firmly 5 seconds; the pedal should not move. |
D | Move forward slowly and push firmly on the brake pedal. |
Question 37 |
A | burning |
B | rust |
C | rubbing |
D | leaks |
Question 38 |
A | Grease fire. |
B | Electrical fire. |
C | Gasoline fire. |
D | None of these fires can be safely extinguished by water. |
Question 39 |
A | because it is a requirement for all drivers. |
B | to ensure safety for yourself, your passengers, and other drivers. |
C | because law enforcement may inspect your vehicle on the road. |
D | to help ensure the vehicle will make it to your destination. |
Question 40 |
A | it will be raised slightly when the tractor is backed under it. |
B | the end of the kingpin is even with the top of the fifth wheel. |
C | the end of the kingpin is at waist level. |
D | the kingpin is about 1¼ inches above the fifth wheel. |
Question 41 |
A | check the coolant level of a hot engine. |
B | use windshield washer fluid as coolant. |
C | use only water in the cooling system. |
D | safely remove the radiator cap and add coolant while the engine is hot. |
Question 42 |
A | the trailer is fully loaded or very heavy. |
B | the trailer is being hauled at high speed. |
C | the trailer is out of brake adjustment. |
D | the trailer is empty or lightly loaded. |
Question 43 |
A | A stopped transit bus. |
B | All of these are considered a hazard. |
C | Road construction zones. |
D | Pedestrians and bicyclists. |
Question 44 |
A | four |
B | two |
C | three |
D | one |
Question 45 |
A | Perception distance, reaction distance, and braking distance. |
B | Perception distance, slowing distance, and braking distance. |
C | Perception distance, response distance, and reaction distance. |
D | Observation distance, reaction distance, and slowing distance. |
Question 46 |
A | to make your vehicle look official. |
B | to combat terrorism. |
C | to warn others of hazardous materials. |
D | to avoid mixing hazmat with food. |
Question 47 |
A | mirrors |
B | sunglasses |
C | rolled down windows |
D | rear view cameras |
Question 48 |
A | you are driving on hilly, rural roads. |
B | you are driving on the freeway. |
C | the road is wet, icy, or snow covered. |
D | road conditions are excellent. |
Question 49 |
A | the lug nut is loose. |
B | the lug nut needs to be replaced. |
C | the wheel needs cleaning. |
D | the lug nut is cheap. |
Question 50 |
A | decreases when the service breaks are hot. |
B | depends on the service brakes being in adjustment. |
C | increases when the service brakes are hot. |
D | is not affected by the condition of the service brakes. |
← | List | → |
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 |
21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 |
26 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 30 |
31 | 32 | 33 | 34 | 35 |
36 | 37 | 38 | 39 | 40 |
41 | 42 | 43 | 44 | 45 |
46 | 47 | 48 | 49 | 50 |
End |
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