Alabama CDL Practice Tests

Use these five practice questions to help you get ready for the Alabama CDL permit exam.

Question 1

General Knowledge, Combination Vehicle & Air Brakes CDL Practice Tests

There are three essential CDL practice tests drivers should use when preparing to earn their Alabama Commercial Driver’s License (CDL):

• General Knowledge CDL Practice Test
• Combination Vehicle CDL Practice Test
• Air Brakes CDL Practice Test

Preparing for the Alabama CDL (Manuals & Practice Tests)

CDL requirements in Alabama follow federal guidelines set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Testing and licensing are administered by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA).

Drivers preparing for the Alabama CDL exam should review the official state CDL manual:

• Alabama Commercial Driver License Manual (ALEA)

This manual covers all commercial license types, including:

• Class A CDL
• Class B CDL
• Class C CDL

Alabama CDL Eligibility Requirements

Age Requirements:
You must be at least 18 years old to drive commercially within Alabama (intrastate).
You must be at least 21 years old to operate a commercial vehicle across state lines (interstate).

Driver’s License

You must hold a valid Alabama Class D driver’s license before applying for a CDL.

Medical Certification

All CDL applicants must:

• Pass a DOT physical exam
• Be examined by an FMCSA-certified medical examiner
• Submit a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC)

This certification confirms that you are physically qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle.

Knowledge Tests

You must pass written knowledge tests covering:

• General CDL knowledge
• Air brakes (if applicable)
• Combination vehicles (Class A)
• Any required endorsements

Common endorsements include:

• Hazardous Materials (H)
• Tank Vehicles (N)
• Passenger (P)
• School Bus (S)

Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) Requirements

As of February 7, 2022, the FMCSA requires Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) for:

• First-time CDL applicants
• Drivers upgrading from Class B to Class A
• Drivers adding a Hazardous Materials (H) endorsement
• Drivers adding a Passenger (P) endorsement
• Drivers adding a School Bus (S) endorsement

ELDT includes both classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training from a provider listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry.

Training Programs (Recommended)

While CDL training is not required by the state, enrolling in a professional CDL training program can significantly improve your chances of passing the written and skills tests.

Roehl Transport offers paid CDL training programs designed to help qualified drivers earn their CDL and begin a career in trucking with hands-on experience and structured instruction.

Background Check

A criminal background check may be required, particularly for drivers applying for a Hazardous Materials (H) endorsement.

Proof of Identity & Residency

You must provide documentation verifying:

• Identity
• Alabama residency
• U.S. citizenship or lawful presence

Application Process

Apply in person through the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency:

Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) – CDL Information

Complete the required application forms and submit all supporting documentation.

CDL Fees in Alabama

• Commercial Learner Permit (CLP): $25
• CDL License (Class A, B, or C): $75
• CDL Renewal: $75
• Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME): Additional TSA fee required
• Endorsement Add-ons: Vary by type
• Knowledge Tests: Included with application