New Hampshire General Knowledge Test

About the New Hampshire General Knowledge Test

New Hampshire's roads aren't like anywhere else. You'll haul loads over the White Mountains on I-93, navigate tight turns on Route 16 through the Lakes Region, and deal with sudden fog banks near the coast. Logging trucks share two-lane highways with tourists in RVs. Winter weather can change from clear to blizzard in minutes. This practice test prepares you for all of it.

The NH DMV test follows the federal CDL standards but adds state-specific questions. You'll need to know about stopping for school buses (they don't require yellow lights here), weight limits on frost heave-prone roads, and how to secure loads for mountain descents. Our questions mirror those you'll see at the Concord or Manchester DMV offices.

We've built this test from the official NH CDL handbook. Every question targets a real skill you'll use on the job. Whether you're driving a dump truck for a construction company in Nashua or a delivery truck for a ski resort in North Conway, you'll face these concepts on your written exam.

What This Test Covers

• Air Brakes – essential for controlling heavy trucks on the steep grades of I-93 through Franconia Notch.
• Combination Vehicles – logging and gravel trucks in NH often pull trailers on narrow, winding roads.
• Hazardous Materials – fuel deliveries to remote ski areas and gas stations require proper placarding.
• Transporting Passengers – school buses and tour buses need extra care on NH's rural routes.
• Cargo Handling – unstable loads shift easily on the frost-heaved roads of the Lakes Region.
• Vehicle Inspection – NH has strict annual inspection rules; you'll be tested on your pre-trip skills.

Study Tips

Start with the NH CDL manual from the DMV's website. Don't skip the state supplement – it covers rules like the ban on studded tires after May 1st and the requirement to chain up on certain mountain passes. Focus on air brakes and combination vehicles; those sections have the most questions.

Take our practice test at least three times. After each attempt, review the explanations for questions you missed. Pay attention to numbers – air brake lag time, stopping distances, and GCWR limits. On test day, arrive early to the DMV. They don't require appointments for written tests at most locations, but call ahead to confirm hours. Bring your permit application, proof of residence, and $10 fee.

New Hampshire DMV Information

You can take the NH CDL general knowledge test at any full-service DMV office. Popular locations include Concord (23 Hazen Drive), Manchester (2480 Brown Avenue), and Dover (630 Central Avenue). Most offices accept walk-ins for written tests during business hours, but hours vary – check the DMV website before you go. You'll need two forms of ID, proof of NH residency, and a $10 permit fee (cash or check).

If you fail the test, you can retake it the same day at the same location, but you'll pay another $10 fee. NH doesn't offer the test in languages other than English. The test has 50 multiple-choice questions, and you need at least 40 correct (80%). You'll get a printed score sheet immediately. Pass? You'll receive your CDL learner's permit right there, valid for 90 days. Renewals cost $10 again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Resources

Other New Hampshire CDL Practice Tests

Test Details

• State: New Hampshire
• Test: General Knowledge Test
• Questions: 140
• Passing Score: 80%
• Time Limit: 60 minutes
• Cost: Free

Need ELDT Training?

If you're getting your first CDL, you need ELDT theory training before your skills test.