Idaho (ID) CDL Practice Tests
Earning a Commercial Driver’s License in Idaho begins with passing the required written knowledge exams. This page includes Idaho CDL practice tests designed to help drivers prepare for key testing areas such as General Knowledge, Combination Vehicles, and Air Brakes.
These practice tests help Idaho CDL applicants become more familiar with the types of questions they may see on the official exam while reinforcing important safety and vehicle operation concepts. Reviewing practice questions ahead of time can help improve confidence, highlight areas that need more study, and support better performance on test day.
Drivers preparing for the Idaho (ID) Commercial Learner’s Permit can use these five practice questions to review essential CDL knowledge and build confidence before the written exam.
Question 1
What is the best way to determine your following distance?
Question 2
An anti-lock braking system (ABS) will:
Question 3
What is the minimum tire tread depth required for front tires?
Question 4
What is the purpose of an escape ramp?
Question 5
Why should a pre-trip inspection be done the same way every time?
Idaho CDL Practice Tests: General Knowledge, Combination Vehicle & Air Brakes
Drivers preparing for an Idaho Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) should complete three core CDL practice tests that mirror the written knowledge exams required by the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD). These practice tests reinforce topics covered in the official state CDL manual and help build confidence before the official knowledge exams.
- General Knowledge CDL Practice Test
- Combination Vehicle CDL Practice Test
- Air Brakes CDL Practice Test
Combine your practice test prep with a thorough review of the Idaho CDL manual to ensure you understand the concepts tested on the written exams.
Preparing for the Idaho CDL Exam
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets national commercial driver licensing standards, but CDL testing and licensing are administered by each state. In Idaho, the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) handles CDL licensing and testing requirements. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
The official Idaho CDL manual is available from ITD. This manual is the primary study reference for written exams:
The Idaho CDL manual applies to all commercial license classes:
- Class A CDL
- Class B CDL
- Class C CDL
Idaho CDL Eligibility Requirements
Age Requirements:
You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a CDL for intrastate (within Idaho) driving.
You must be at least 21 years old to operate interstate or to transport hazardous materials (HazMat). :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Valid Idaho Driver’s License
You must hold a current Idaho Class D (non-commercial) driver’s license before applying for a CDL or Commercial Learner Permit (CLP). :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Medical Certification
All Idaho CDL applicants must meet FMCSA medical certification standards, which require passing a DOT physical performed by a certified medical examiner listed on the FMCSA National Registry.
FMCSA Medical Certification Requirements
CDL Knowledge Tests and Endorsements
Idaho CDL applicants must pass written knowledge tests that cover general CDL information and any additional tests required for specific endorsements, such as air brakes or combination vehicles. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Common CDL endorsements include:
- Hazardous Materials (H)
- Tanker Vehicles (N)
- Passenger (P)
- School Bus (S)
- Double/Triple Trailers (T)
Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)
Entry-Level Driver Training is a federal requirement administered through the FMCSA. Those required to complete ELDT include first-time CDL applicants, applicants upgrading from Class B to Class A, and those seeking certain endorsements (e.g., HazMat, Passenger). ELDT consists of classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction provided by FMCSA-registered training providers.
FMCSA Training Provider Registry
Background Checks
Hazardous Materials (H) endorsements require a TSA background check and fingerprints in addition to state requirements. Applicants must also provide documentation verifying identity, Idaho residency, and lawful U.S. presence.
Idaho CDL Application Process
To obtain a CDL in Idaho, you must:
- Submit an application at an Idaho DMV or ITD service center.
- Pass required written knowledge exams to obtain a Commercial Learner Permit (CLP).
- Hold your CLP for at least 14 days before scheduling a skills test (per federal rules).
- Complete ELDT if required.
- Pass the CDL skills test (vehicle inspection, basic control skills, and road driving).
Idaho Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) official information
Idaho CDL Fees
CDL fees in Idaho are set by the Idaho Transportation Department and may vary based on license duration, endorsements, and testing. Local DMV offices may also collect additional administrative charges. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
- Commercial Learner Permit (CLP): ~$29 (requires Idaho license)
- First CDL License (4-year): ~$40
- CDL Renewal (4-year): ~$40 (8-year option available)*
- Written Knowledge Tests: ~$5 each (general, air brakes, combination, endorsement tests)
- Skills Test Fee: ~$10 paid to DMV + up to ~$190 paid to the skills tester
- Endorsement Addition: ~$15
- License Upgrade or Duplicate: ~$25–$30
*Idaho now allows an 8-year CDL option for eligible drivers, which may affect the renewal interval and fee. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Because CDL fees can change and may vary by testing location, applicants should verify current fees with their local Idaho DMV before applying.
This page was updated on: 1/20/2026