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About the North Dakota Tanker Vehicles Test

North Dakota's oil fields produce over a million barrels a day. That means tanker trucks run nonstop on highways like US-85 and ND-23. You'll haul crude, propane, or water through freezing winters and gusty plains. This page helps you pass the written test so you can hit the road safely.

Tanker driving here is different. You face sudden snow squalls on open stretches near Williston. Your liquid load can shift hard on curves around the Missouri River. We cover surge control, emergency braking, and how to handle partial loads. These skills keep you upright when ice hides in a turn.

Our 20-question practice test mirrors the actual North Dakota DMV exam. You get instant feedback on each answer. We explain why you're right or wrong. Study the handbook first, then take this test to see where you stand. Pass with 80% or better—just like the real thing.

One North Dakota trick: always check your vent cap after fueling. Cold snaps can freeze moisture inside the vent, causing a vacuum or pressure build-up. That's unique to our extreme temps. We'll test you on that detail too.

What This Test Covers

  • Liquid surge and how it affects your rig on ND’s rolling hills—know it to prevent rollovers south of Bismarck.
  • Braking techniques for iced-over ramps on I-94—crucial when you’re hauling crude near Dickinson.
  • Safe loading and unloading at well sites off gravel roads—you’ll do this daily in the Bakken.
  • Emergency procedures for a tank leak on bridges like the Four Bears Bridge—seconds matter.
  • Retarders and their use in wet conditions—snow melt on US-2 can make roads slick.
  • North Dakota’s specific endorsement test rules—including walk-around inspection for tankers.

Study Tips

Start with the North Dakota CDL Handbook, pages covering Tanker endorsements. Focus on the surge diagram—they ask about it on every test. Then take our practice test to find your weak spots. Don’t skip the questions about emergency venting; they’re common in ND because of temperature swings.

Schedule your written test at a North Dakota Driver’s License site. You’ll need to bring your current CDL permit and pay a $5 endorsement fee. If you fail, you can retake it the same day at most locations. We’ve had students pass on their first try after using this test three times.

North Dakota DMV Information

North Dakota’s DMV has testing sites in Bismarck, Fargo, Grand Forks, Minot, Dickinson, and Williston. You don’t need an appointment for the written tanker test—just walk in during business hours. But call ahead to confirm the computer tester works. Hours vary by site. The fee is $5 per endorsement written test.

After you pass, you take a skills test in a tanker vehicle. You can use your own tanker or rent one from a training school. Make sure it has a valid inspection sticker. The skills test costs $60 at state-run sites. Some third-party testers charge more—shop around. You’ll also need a medical certificate if you’re hauling hazardous materials.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. You need a tanker endorsement (N) on your CDL. You'll take a written knowledge test and a skills test in a tanker vehicle.

Any Driver's License site in ND—Bismarck, Fargo, Grand Forks, Minot, Dickinson, or Williston. No appointment needed for written tests, but check hours online first.

Yes, as long as it's a tanker vehicle with a valid inspection. You'll need to show proof of insurance too. Make sure it has a proper vent system for ND winter temps.

20 multiple-choice questions. You need at least 16 correct to pass (80%). You get about 25 minutes.

You can retake it the same day at most sites. There's no limit on attempts, but you pay the $5 fee each time. We suggest studying our practice test until you score 90% before retrying.

Test Details

  • State: North Dakota
  • Test: Tanker Vehicles Test
  • Questions: 70
  • Passing Score: 80%
  • Time Limit: 25 minutes
  • Cost: Free

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Quick Topics

  • Surge control on icy roads
  • Braking with partial loads
  • Vent and valve checks in extreme cold