Vermont General Knowledge Test

About the Vermont General Knowledge Test

Vermont's roads aren't like anywhere else. You'll face steep grades on I-89, tight curves on Route 7, and long stretches of two-lane highways through the Green Mountains. Mud season turns dirt roads into slick traps. Winter brings snow, ice, and black ice on bridges. You need more than textbook knowledge — you need local know-how.

Our practice test covers everything from vehicle inspection to safe driving techniques. We've pulled questions straight from the Vermont CDL manual. Every topic relates to what you'll actually see on the road: logging trucks on narrow lanes, maple syrup tankers on winding routes, and farm equipment on rural roads. You'll learn why pre-trip inspections matter when it's 10 degrees outside and you're driving a loaded dump truck over a mountain pass.

The General Knowledge Test is your first step toward getting a Vermont CDL. It covers air brakes, combination vehicles, and basic vehicle control. You need to know your stuff — Vermont is one of the most challenging states for truck drivers. Our practice test helps you pass the first time, saving you time and money.

Don't memorize answers. Understand the concepts. We explain why each answer is correct, so you build real skills for Vermont's unique driving environment.

What This Test Covers

• Vehicle inspection – critical for Vermont's harsh winters, you can't afford breakdowns on remote roads
• Basic control – essential for steep grades on Route 100 and tight turns in the Northeast Kingdom
• Air brakes – most heavy trucks in Vermont have them, and the exam tests your knowledge of winter air brake operation
• Combination vehicles – common on I-91 hauling dairy and lumber, requires precise backing and coupling
• Safe driving practices – includes speed management on icy roads and how to handle deer crossings
• Cargo handling – Vermont's logging and maple industries demand secure loads on bumpy dirt roads

Study Tips

Start with the Vermont CDL Manual. The DMV updates it every year, so use the latest online version. Focus on the General Knowledge section, but also read the air brake and combination vehicle chapters. You don't need to memorize every number — understand the rules.

Take our practice test at least three times. Space them out over a week. After each attempt, review the questions you missed. Watch the short video clips we link to for tricky concepts like braking on ice or coupling a trailer. Finally, schedule your exam at a Vermont DMV office. Walk-ins are okay in most locations, but call ahead to confirm they offer CDL written tests. Bring your permit, proof of residency, and the $30 fee.

Vermont DMV Information

Vermont DMV offices in Montpelier, Rutland, St. Johnsbury, and Burlington offer CDL written tests. You don't need an appointment, but it's smart to call before you go — hours vary. The fee for the General Knowledge Test is $30. You can pay with cash, check, or credit card. Bring your commercial learner's permit application if you haven't gotten it yet.

If you fail, you can retake the test the next business day. No waiting period. But you'll pay the $30 fee again. Don't rush — our practice test helps you pass the first time. For a complete list of DMV locations and hours, visit the Vermont DMV website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Resources

Other Vermont CDL Practice Tests

Test Details

• State: Vermont
• 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.