What are the three parts of the CDL skills test?

The vehicle inspection (pre-trip), basic control skills (like backing maneuvers), and the on-road driving test. You must pass all three.

Do I take the skills test at the DMV?

Yes, at the DMV or an approved third-party tester. You provide a representative vehicle for the class you are testing for.

What do I need before the skills test?

A commercial learner's permit held for at least 14 days, completed ELDT reported to the FMCSA, and a representative vehicle for your class.

What is the hardest part of the skills test?

For many, the backing maneuvers in the basic control portion and remembering the full pre-trip inspection. Practice is the key to both.

The CDL Skills Test Explained: Inspection, Control, and Road

The CDL skills test has three parts, a vehicle inspection, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test, and you must pass all three to earn your license. You take it at the DMV or an approved third-party tester after holding your commercial learner's permit for at least 14 days and completing your Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT). If you need ELDT, RoadCert offers FMCSA-registered online ELDT theory for Class A, Class B, Hazmat and Passenger, and we report your completion to the FMCSA for you.

Before the skills test

You need to have your commercial learner's permit (held at least 14 days), your ELDT completion reported to the FMCSA, and a representative vehicle for the class you are testing for (for example a combination vehicle for Class A). Bring your documents and make sure your vehicle is in safe, inspection-ready condition.

Part 1: The vehicle inspection (pre-trip)

You demonstrate a systematic pre-trip inspection, checking the engine compartment, cab, lights, tires and brakes, and, for combination vehicles, the coupling, plus the air-brake check. The examiner wants to see that you can identify components, know what you are looking for, and would catch a safety problem before driving. Learning the inspection in a fixed order is the best way to avoid missing items.

Part 2: Basic control skills

You perform maneuvers in a controlled area that show you can precisely position the vehicle: straight-line backing, offset backing, and often parallel or alley-dock backing. These test your ability to control a large vehicle at low speed using your mirrors and, where allowed, getting out to look. Backing is where many test-takers struggle, so it rewards heavy practice.

Part 3: The on-road driving test

You drive a set route in real traffic while the examiner evaluates your safe driving: proper lane use, turns, intersections, lane changes, merging, railroad crossings, speed and space management, and smooth shifting. They are checking that you can operate the vehicle safely and confidently in normal conditions.

How to pass all three

Practice the pre-trip in the same order every time until it is automatic.
Drill the backing maneuvers repeatedly; they are the most common stumbling block.
On the road, drive defensively, check mirrors often, and narrate nothing, just demonstrate steady, safe habits.
Get comfortable in the exact type of vehicle you will test in.

The bottom line

The CDL skills test is inspection, basic control, and road. Hold your permit 14 days, finish your ELDT, practice the pre-trip and backing until they are second nature, and drive the road portion calmly and safely. Pass all three and your CDL is issued.