Michigan (MI) CDL Practice Tests

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

Drivers preparing for a Michigan Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) should focus on three core CDL practice tests. These tests align with the written knowledge exams administered by the Michigan Secretary of State (SOS).

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

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

Preparing for the Michigan 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 CDL testing and licensing.

In Michigan, CDL licensing and testing are handled by the Michigan Secretary of State (SOS). The SOS publishes the official CDL manual used for written and skills testing:

• Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual

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

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

Michigan CDL Eligibility Requirements

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

Valid Michigan Driver’s License

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

Medical Certification

All Michigan 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 Michigan 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, Michigan residency, and lawful U.S. presence.

Michigan CDL Application Process

CDL applications must be completed in person at a Michigan Secretary of State office.

Michigan CDL application and testing information

Michigan CDL Fees

CDL fees in Michigan are set by the Michigan Secretary of State and may vary based on license class, endorsements, and testing requirements.

• Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP): Fee required at time of application; amount may vary
• New or Renewed CDL (Class A, B, or C): Fees vary based on license type and duration
• Skills Test: Additional testing fees may apply depending on testing provider

Additional costs may apply for endorsement testing or background checks, such as fingerprinting for Hazardous Materials endorsements.

View the official Michigan Secretary of State fee schedule