Rhode Island (RI) CDL Practice Tests

Rhode Island (RI) CDL permit applicants can work through these five practice questions to review core exam concepts and prepare for the Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) knowledge test.

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

Drivers preparing for an Rhode Island Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) should focus on three core CDL practice tests. These align with the written knowledge exams required in Rhode Island and support the material covered in the official Rhode Island CDL manual.

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

For best results, combine CDL practice tests with the Rhode Island Commercial Driver License Manual and focus on the sections that match your intended license class and endorsements.

Preparing for the Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island, CDL information and testing requirements are published by the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The official CDL manual used for written and skills testing is:

• Rhode Island Commercial Driver License Manual (PDF)

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

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

Rhode Island CDL Eligibility Requirements

Age Requirements:
You must be at least 18 years old to operate a commercial motor vehicle within Rhode Island (intrastate).
You must be at least 21 years old to operate interstate or transport hazardous materials.

Valid Rhode Island Driver’s License

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

Medical Certification

All Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island 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, Rhode Island residency, and lawful U.S. presence.

Rhode Island CDL Application Process

CDL applicants in Rhode Island must complete knowledge testing, obtain a Commercial Learner Permit (CLP), complete any required Entry-Level Driver Training, and pass the CDL skills test before license issuance. Commercial transactions are handled only at the Cranston DMV CDL Office, by appointment.

Rhode Island DMV CDL application and testing steps

Rhode Island CDL Fees

Rhode Island CDL fees are published by the Rhode Island DMV and include a $3.50 technology surcharge. Fees vary based on license duration and testing requirements.

• New CLP (Commercial Learner’s Permit): $73.50
• CLP Update/Duplicate: $23.50
• Knowledge Test: $23.50 ($10.00 for each additional test taken the same visit)
• CDL License Renewal (5-year): $103.50
• CDL License Renewal, age 70 and older (2-year): $49.50

Additional Rhode Island CDL Fees:

• Duplicate License: $23.50
• Update License: $23.50
• Transfer License (out of state): $59.50
• Add Motorcycle Endorsement: $38.50

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

View the official Rhode Island DMV fee schedule