Massachusetts (MA) CDL Practice Tests

Use these five CDL practice test questions as a study tool when preparing for the Massachusetts (MA) Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) and CDL knowledge exam.

Massachusetts CDL Practice Tests: General Knowledge, Combination Vehicle & Air Brakes

Drivers preparing for a Massachusetts Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) should focus on three core CDL practice tests. These tests align with the written knowledge exams administered by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV).

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

Using CDL practice tests alongside the official Massachusetts CDL manual can help reinforce key concepts and improve readiness for the state knowledge exams.

Preparing for the Massachusetts CDL Exam

Commercial driver licensing standards are established at the federal level by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Each state is responsible for administering its own CDL testing and licensing process.

In Massachusetts, CDL licensing and testing are managed by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV). The RMV publishes the official CDL manual used for all written and skills testing:

• Massachusetts Commercial Driver’s License Manual (PDF)

The Massachusetts CDL manual applies to all commercial license classes, including:

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

Massachusetts CDL Eligibility Requirements

Age Requirements:
You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a CDL for intrastate (Massachusetts-only) driving.
You must be at least 21 years old to operate interstate or transport hazardous materials.

Valid Massachusetts Driver’s License

You must hold a valid Massachusetts non-commercial driver’s license before applying for a CDL.

Medical Certification

All Massachusetts CDL applicants must pass a DOT physical examination conducted by a certified medical examiner listed on the National Registry.

FMCSA medical certification requirements

CDL Knowledge Tests and Endorsements

Applicants must pass written knowledge tests covering general CDL topics, air brakes (if applicable), and any endorsements required for their intended type of driving.

Common CDL endorsements include:

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

Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)

Federal Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements apply to many Massachusetts CDL applicants. ELDT includes classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training completed through an FMCSA-registered provider.

ELDT is required for:

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

FMCSA Training Provider Registry

Background Checks and Documentation

Certain endorsements, including Hazardous Materials, require a federal background check. Applicants must also provide documentation verifying identity, Massachusetts residency, and lawful U.S. presence.

Massachusetts CDL Application Process

CDL applications must be completed in person at a Massachusetts RMV Service Center.

Apply for a Massachusetts Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

Massachusetts CDL application and testing information

Massachusetts CDL Fees

CDL fees in Massachusetts are set by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles and may vary based on license class, endorsements, and vehicle weight.

• Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP): $30
• CDL License (Class A, B, or C): Fees vary based on license type and endorsements
• Skills Test: Additional testing fees may apply depending on testing location

Because Massachusetts CDL fees can vary based on endorsements and vehicle class, applicants should always confirm current fees directly with the RMV.

View the official Massachusetts RMV fee schedule