Tennessee CDL General Knowledge Practice Test (TN) 2

5 out of 5 (30 votes)
80% Passing score
20 Questions
4 Mistakes allowed
Dive into our Tennessee CDL General Knowledge Practice Test, the second of its kind on our site, designed to set you up for success in your commercial driving endeavors. With 20 well-curated CDL test questions and answers, this DMV practice test challenges you and ensures you're well-prepared for the real deal. Achieving a score of 16 or higher signifies your readiness to advance. Each sample permit test question, from pre-trip inspections to communication on the road, reflects real-world scenarios, giving you a comprehensive grasp of what it takes to navigate the roads safely and effectively. Unlike the actual CDL test, there's no clock ticking here. Take your time to thoroughly understand each DMV question, delving deep into the study aids provided when you hit a tough spot. This approach not only boosts your confidence but also enriches your learning, allowing you to absorb the information at your own pace. Our Tennessee CDL practice test is a mirror of the general knowledge segment required for all CDL classes, ensuring its relevance regardless of the specific license class or endorsements you're aiming for. Updated for 2026, the content is fresh, aligning with the latest standards and regulations, making it a trustworthy resource for aspiring commercial drivers across Tennessee. Whether it's mastering gear shifts or understanding the nuances of road communication, this TN DMV practice test covers it all, equipping you with the knowledge to tackle the challenges of commercial driving in 2026 head-on!
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Sample Tennessee CDL Test Questions - General Knowledge

Question 1

Which statement about containerized freight is correct?

  1. A. It is exempt from hazardous-material requirements
  2. B. It is not subject to vehicle weight limits
  3. C. It is commonly used when part of the trip is made by rail or ship
  4. D. It does not need to be secured to the vehicle

Correct answer: C. – It is commonly used when part of the trip is made by rail or ship

Containerized loads are commonly used when freight travels part of the way by rail or ship, with truck transportation at the beginning or end of the trip. Containers must still be properly secured, whether by built-in locking devices or other suitable securement. Sealed containers also remain subject to gross and axle weight limits.

Source: Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual — § 3.3.5, “Sealed and Containerized Loads”

Question 2

A 40-foot commercial vehicle is traveling at 50 mph. What following interval should the driver maintain under good conditions?

  1. A. 3 seconds
  2. B. 4 seconds
  3. C. 7 seconds
  4. D. At least 5 seconds

Correct answer: D. – At least 5 seconds

The Tennessee CDL manual recommends at least one second for every 10 feet of vehicle length at speeds below 40 mph. At higher speeds, one additional second should be added. A 40-foot vehicle requires four seconds based on length, plus one more second at 50 mph, for a minimum five-second interval.

Source: Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual — § 2.7.1, “Space Ahead”

Question 3

If your CMV becomes disabled on the shoulder of a divided highway, what must you do?

  1. A. Activate the hazard flashers and set out the required warning devices within 10 minutes
  2. B. Wait until another motorist stops before marking the vehicle
  3. C. Set out warning devices only after roadside assistance arrives
  4. D. Turn off all vehicle lights immediately

Correct answer: A. – Activate the hazard flashers and set out the required warning devices within 10 minutes

Federal rules require immediate use of the vehicle’s hazard warning flashers after a CMV stops on a highway shoulder for a reason other than a necessary traffic stop. The required warning devices must be placed as soon as possible and no later than 10 minutes afterward. On a divided highway, the manual directs placement toward approaching traffic at 10, 100, and 200 feet.

Source: Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual — § 2.5.2, “Communicating Your Presence”, 49 CFR § 392.22(a), (b)(1) – Emergency signals; stopped commercial motor vehicles

Question 4

A vehicle contains Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3 explosives. If all attendance-exception conditions are met, at which listed property may a lawful bailee watch it?

  1. A. The shipper’s property
  2. B. The motor carrier’s property
  3. C. The consignee’s property
  4. D. Any of these properties

Correct answer: D. – Any of these properties

Federal hazardous-material rules generally require a vehicle containing Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3 explosives to be attended by the driver or a qualified carrier representative. An exception can apply on the shipper’s, carrier’s, or consignee’s property when the lawful bailee understands the cargo and emergency procedures. The vehicle must also remain within the bailee’s unobstructed view unless it is in an approved safe haven.

Source: Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual — § 9.6.1, “Parking with Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3 Explosives”, 49 CFR § 397.5(a)–(d) – Attendance and surveillance of motor vehicles

Question 5

What is a hazardous-materials placard?

  1. A. A shipping document kept inside the cab
  2. B. A label placed only on an individual package
  3. C. A sign warning that the vehicle is oversized
  4. D. A diamond-shaped sign displayed outside to communicate the cargo’s hazard

Correct answer: D. – A diamond-shaped sign displayed outside to communicate the cargo’s hazard

A placard is displayed on the outside of a transport vehicle or bulk package to warn others about hazardous materials. It communicates the applicable hazard class or division through its design, color, symbol, and number. Federal standards generally require a square-on-point placard measuring at least 250 millimeters on each side.

Source: Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual — § 2.23.3, “Lists of Regulated Products”, 49 CFR § 172.519(b)–(c) – General specifications for placards

Question 6

When does a roadway often become especially slippery?

  1. A. Immediately after rain begins following a dry period
  2. B. Only during a heavy downpour
  3. C. After steady rain has washed the pavement for several hours
  4. D. Only when standing water is visible

Correct answer: A. – Immediately after rain begins following a dry period

The Tennessee CDL manual warns that pavement can be particularly slippery just after rain begins. Water initially mixes with oil left on the road by vehicles, creating a slick surface. If the rain continues, it can wash much of that oil away, although the roadway may remain hazardous from water and reduced traction.

Source: Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License Manual — § 2.6.2, “Matching Speed to the Road Surface”

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