Online CDL Permit Practice Tests
state Kentucky
Ace Your Kentucky CDL Exam: Free Practice Tests
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Our free online CDL practice tests cover all the essential topics, including General Knowledge, Air Brakes, and Combination Vehicles. Practice at your own pace, anytime, anywhere, to build your confidence and ensure you’re fully prepared for your CDL exam.
General Knowledge Test
Air Brakes
Test
Combination Vehicle Test
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a CDL in Kentucky
Step 1: Determine Your CDL Class and Endorsements
To operate commercial vehicles in Kentucky, it’s essential to identify the appropriate Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) class and any necessary endorsements based on the type of vehicle you intend to drive and the cargo you plan to transport. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) provides official guidelines to assist you in making these determinations.
CDL Classes in Kentucky:
Class A CDL: Required for operating a combination of vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the towed vehicle has a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 10,001 pounds or more. This typically includes vehicles like tractor-trailers.
Class B CDL: Pertains to single vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, or any such vehicle towing another vehicle not exceeding 10,000 pounds GVWR. Examples include large buses and straight trucks.
Class C CDL: Applies to vehicles that do not meet the definitions of Class A or B but are designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, or are used to transport hazardous materials requiring placarding.
CDL Endorsements in Kentucky:
Depending on your specific driving duties, you may need to obtain one or more endorsements to your CDL:
Hazardous Materials (H) Endorsement: Allows the transportation of hazardous materials. To obtain this endorsement, you must pass the Hazardous Materials knowledge test and complete a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) background check, including fingerprinting.
Passenger (P) Endorsement: Authorizes the operation of vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver. This endorsement requires passing both knowledge and skills tests specific to passenger transport.
School Bus (S) Endorsement: Allows for the operation of school buses. To obtain this endorsement, you must pass both knowledge and skills tests and meet specific requirements related to school bus operations.
Tank Vehicle (N) Endorsement: Permits the operation of vehicles designed to transport liquids or gases in bulk tanks. This endorsement requires passing a knowledge test.
Double/Triple Trailers (T) Endorsement: Enables the towing of double or triple trailers. A knowledge test is required for this endorsement.
It’s crucial to determine the specific CDL class and endorsements applicable to your intended commercial driving activities before proceeding with the CDL application process. This ensures compliance with Kentucky regulations and prepares you for the necessary tests and training.
Step 2: Obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP):
After selecting your CDL class and necessary endorsements, the next step in Kentucky is to apply for a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). A CLP allows you to legally practice driving a commercial vehicle on public roads while supervised by a qualified CDL holder.
Requirements to Obtain a CLP in Kentucky
To apply for a CLP in Kentucky, you must already have a valid Kentucky driver’s license. You must be at least 18 years old to drive a commercial vehicle within Kentucky (intrastate) and at least 21 years old to drive interstate, transport hazardous materials, or carry passengers. Applicants are required to present proof of identity, Kentucky residency, legal presence in the U.S., and Social Security Number.
Before receiving your CLP, you must pass the required knowledge tests for the CDL class and any endorsements you are applying for. These may include the General Knowledge test, Air Brakes test, and other endorsement-specific tests such as Combination Vehicles or Hazardous Materials. Additionally, you must provide a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate (DOT medical card) unless you qualify for an exemption and must complete self-certification to indicate the type of commercial driving you will be performing (intrastate or interstate).
CLP Validity
In Kentucky, the CLP is valid for 180 days and can be renewed one time within 30 days of expiration if needed.
CLP Driving Rules
When operating a commercial vehicle with a CLP in Kentucky, you must be accompanied by a qualified CDL holder who is at least 21 years old, holds a valid CDL for the same class of vehicle, and has the appropriate endorsements. The supervising driver must be seated in the front passenger seat at all times during vehicle operation.
Before the Skills Test
You are required to hold your CLP for at least 14 days before becoming eligible to schedule and take your CDL skills test.
Step 3: Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT):
Before you can take the CDL skills test in Kentucky, you may be required to complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT). This is a federal requirement regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), and Kentucky follows these guidelines fully.
Who needs to complete ELDT in Kentucky
You are required to complete ELDT if you are:
- Applying for your first Class A or Class B CDL.
- Upgrading an existing CDL from Class B to Class A.
- Applying for your first Passenger (P), School Bus (S), or Hazardous Materials (H) endorsement.
What ELDT includes
ELDT consists of two main parts. First, theory training covers essential knowledge topics such as safe driving techniques, vehicle inspections, hours-of-service regulations, cargo handling, and traffic laws. This can be completed online or in a classroom through an approved training provider.
Second, behind-the-wheel (BTW) training provides hands-on driving instruction on a closed course and public roads, supervised by a qualified instructor.
How to complete ELDT
You must complete your training through a provider listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR). After you finish, your provider will submit your training records directly to the FMCSA system. You cannot schedule your CDL skills test or take the Hazardous Materials endorsement test until your ELDT is officially recorded.
Important notes
ELDT is only required once for each CDL class or endorsement. If you already held the same CDL class or endorsement before February 7, 2022, you are not required to complete ELDT for that credential.
For more details on ELDT requirements and a list of approved training providers, visit the official Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) website or the FMCSA Training Provider Registry.
Step 4: Practice with Your CLP:
Once you receive your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) in Kentucky, you must use this time to gain practical experience operating a commercial vehicle. This practice period is essential to prepare for the CDL skills test. You are required to hold your CLP for at least 14 days before taking the skills test.
CLP Driving Rules in Kentucky
While practicing with your CLP, you are only allowed to drive a commercial vehicle if you are accompanied by a qualified CDL holder. The supervising CDL holder must be at least 21 years old, have a valid CDL for the same class of vehicle, and possess the necessary endorsements. They must remain seated in the front passenger seat at all times while you operate the vehicle.
What to practice with your CLP
This is your opportunity to develop the skills that will be tested during your CDL skills test. You should focus on performing a complete pre-trip inspection, improving your basic vehicle control (such as backing, turning, and parking maneuvers), and gaining confidence driving on public roads, including practicing intersections, lane changes, turns, and highway driving.
Additional tips
It is recommended that you practice in the same type and class of vehicle you plan to use for the CDL skills test. If you take your skills test in a vehicle with limitations (such as an automatic transmission or without air brakes), these restrictions may appear on your final CDL.
For full guidance on practicing with your CLP and preparing for your skills test, refer to the Kentucky CDL Manual, available through the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC).
Step 5: Schedule and Pass the CDL Skills Test:
After holding your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) for at least 14 days and completing any required training, the next step is to schedule and take your CDL skills test in Kentucky. This test is designed to confirm your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle.
How to schedule your CDL skills test
You must schedule your skills test through a Kentucky State Police (KSP) testing location or an approved third-party examiner. Before scheduling, you must ensure that your Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) is completed and officially recorded in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry, if required.
What to bring on test day
To take the skills test, you must bring your valid Kentucky driver’s license, your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP), and your valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate (DOT medical card), if required. You also need to provide a vehicle that matches the class of CDL you are testing for, and it must be in safe operating condition and able to pass a basic safety check.
What the CDL skills test includes
The skills test is divided into three parts. First, you must complete a pre-trip vehicle inspection to show you understand how to check your vehicle’s safety systems. Second, you will complete the basic vehicle control test, which includes specific maneuvers like straight-line backing, offset backing, and parallel parking. Finally, you must successfully complete the on-road driving test, where you will demonstrate your ability to safely drive in real traffic situations, including intersections, turns, lane changes, and highway driving.
Important reminders
If you take your skills test in a vehicle with certain features, such as an automatic transmission or no air brakes, these limitations will appear as restrictions on your CDL. You must provide your own vehicle for the test, and it must meet all safety and legal requirements.
Once you pass all three sections of the CDL skills test, your results will be submitted to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC), and you will become eligible to receive your official Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
Step 6: Obtain Your CDL:
After successfully passing all three parts of the CDL skills test in Kentucky, the final step is to officially receive your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
How to get your CDL
Once your skills test results are submitted to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC), you will need to visit a Driver Licensing Regional Office to complete the CDL issuance process.
What to bring to obtain your CDL
You must bring your valid Kentucky driver’s license, your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP), and your valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate (DOT medical card), if required. You will also need to provide proof of identity, legal presence in the U.S., your Social Security Number, and Kentucky residency if these documents are not already on file. You will be required to pay the applicable CDL fees, which vary based on your CDL class and endorsements.
What happens next
After your documents are verified and fees are paid, you will be issued your official CDL. Your license will clearly list your CDL class (A, B, or C), any endorsements you have earned (such as Hazmat, Tanker, or Passenger), and any restrictions based on the vehicle you used during testing (for example, automatic transmission or no air brakes).
After receiving your CDL
You are responsible for keeping your medical certification current with the KYTC. Kentucky CDLs are generally valid for eight years, and it is your responsibility to renew your license on time. You must also update your address or any personal information as required and follow all state and federal regulations for CDL holders to maintain your license in good standing.
Once you receive your CDL, you are legally authorized to operate commercial vehicles in Kentucky and other states (if eligible for interstate driving), according to the class and endorsements on your license.
Additional Considerations:
When applying for and maintaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Kentucky, there are important regulations and responsibilities you must follow to stay compliant and protect your CDL status.
Medical Certification
Most CDL holders are required to maintain a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate (DOT medical card) and submit it to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC). You must also complete a self-certification form that indicates whether you drive interstate or intrastate and whether you are subject to medical requirements. If your medical certificate expires or is not kept current, your CDL may be downgraded, suspended, or canceled.
Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME)
To obtain or renew a Hazardous Materials (H) endorsement, you must pass the Hazmat knowledge test, complete a TSA security threat assessment (including fingerprinting), and meet all federal security requirements. This background check must be renewed every five years to maintain your endorsement.
Military Skills Test Waiver
Kentucky offers a Military Skills Test Waiver for eligible service members with recent military experience operating heavy military vehicles. This waiver may allow you to skip the CDL skills test, but you must still pass all required knowledge tests and meet medical requirements.
Driving Record Requirements
CDL holders are held to higher safety standards than regular drivers. Serious violations—such as DUI, leaving the scene of an accident, or committing a felony using a commercial vehicle—can result in the suspension, revocation, or permanent disqualification of your CDL. Violations that occur in your personal vehicle can also affect your CDL status.
CDL Renewal
Kentucky CDLs are generally valid for eight years. You are responsible for renewing your CDL on time and ensuring that all required documents, medical certifications, and background checks are kept up to date.
Vehicle Restrictions
If you complete your CDL skills test in a vehicle with limitations (such as an automatic transmission or no air brakes), corresponding restrictions will be placed on your CDL.
Notification Requirements
As a CDL holder in Kentucky, you must notify the KYTC of any changes to your address, medical certification, or driving eligibility. You are also required to report any out-of-state traffic convictions or disqualifying offenses.
By following these rules and keeping your records current, you can maintain your CDL and continue driving legally and safely in Kentucky and across the U.S.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum age to get a CDL in Kentucky?
In Kentucky, you must be at least 18 years old to obtain a CDL for intrastate driving (within Kentucky). To drive interstate (between states), transport hazardous materials, or carry passengers, you must be at least 21 years old.
Do I need a regular Kentucky driver’s license before applying for a CDL?
Yes. Before applying for a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) or CDL, you must already have a valid Kentucky driver’s license.
What is a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) and why do I need one?
A CLP allows you to practice driving a commercial motor vehicle on public roads under the supervision of a qualified CDL holder. In Kentucky, you must hold your CLP for at least 14 days before taking the CDL skills test.
What tests are required to get a CDL in Kentucky?
To obtain a CDL, you must pass all necessary knowledge tests (such as General Knowledge, Air Brakes, and Combination Vehicles) and complete the CDL skills test, which includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
Is Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) required in Kentucky?
Yes. ELDT is required if you are applying for your first Class A or B CDL, upgrading from Class B to Class A, or getting your first Passenger (P), School Bus (S), or Hazardous Materials (H) endorsement. ELDT must be completed through a provider listed in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry.
Do I need a medical card to get a CDL in Kentucky?
Yes. Most CDL holders must have a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate (DOT medical card) and keep it current with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC). If your medical card expires, your CDL may be downgraded or suspended.
How do I get a Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME) in Kentucky?
To obtain a Hazmat endorsement, you must pass the Hazardous Materials knowledge test, complete a TSA background check with fingerprinting, and meet all federal security requirements. The background check must be renewed every five years.
Can military driving experience help me get a CDL in Kentucky?
Yes. Kentucky offers a Military Skills Test Waiver for eligible service members who have recent experience driving military vehicles. This may allow you to waive the CDL skills test, but you still need to pass the required knowledge tests.
What happens if my medical certificate expires?
If your medical certificate expires and you do not update it with the KYTC, your CDL will be downgraded, suspended, or canceled, and you will lose your commercial driving privileges.
Where can I find official CDL information for Kentucky?
You can find complete and official CDL information on the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) website or by visiting a local Driver Licensing Regional Office.