Online CDL Permit Practice Tests
state Maine
Ace Your Maine 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 Maine
Step 1: Determine Your CDL Class and Endorsements
To operate commercial vehicles in Maine, 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 Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) provides official guidelines to assist you in making these determinations.
CDL Classes in Maine:
Class A CDL: Required for operating a combination of vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the vehicle being towed has a GVWR exceeding 10,000 pounds. This typically includes vehicles like tractor-trailers.
Class B CDL: Pertains to single vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, or such a 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 Maine:
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 comply with federal regulations, including background checks as mandated by the USA PATRIOT Act.
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 Maine regulations and prepares you for the necessary tests and training.
Step 2: Obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP):
Step 3: Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT):
Before taking the CDL skills test in Maine, 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 Maine follows these guidelines.
Who must complete ELDT in Maine
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.
- Obtaining your first Passenger (P), School Bus (S), or Hazardous Materials (H) endorsement.
What ELDT includes
ELDT is divided into two parts:
- Theory Training, which covers essential knowledge such as vehicle inspection, basic control, safety procedures, cargo handling, hours of service, and federal regulations. This training can be completed online or in a classroom through an approved provider.
- Behind-the-Wheel (BTW) Training, which provides hands-on driving practice on both a closed course and public roads with a qualified instructor.
How to complete ELDT
ELDT must be completed through a provider listed in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR). Your training provider will electronically submit proof of your completion to the FMCSA database. You cannot schedule your CDL skills test (or the Hazmat knowledge test, if applicable) until your ELDT is officially recorded.
Important notes
ELDT is a one-time requirement for each CDL class or endorsement. If you held the same CDL class or endorsement before February 7, 2022, you are not required to complete ELDT for that credential.
For more details and a list of approved training providers in Maine, visit the official Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) website or the FMCSA Training Provider Registry.
Step 4: Practice with Your CLP:
Once you have obtained your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) in Maine, you are required to practice operating a commercial vehicle to prepare for the CDL skills test. This practice period is essential for building the driving skills and knowledge needed to safely operate a commercial motor vehicle.
CLP Driving Rules in Maine
While holding a CLP, you are only allowed to drive a commercial vehicle when 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 and type of vehicle, and hold all necessary endorsements. The CDL holder must remain seated in the front passenger seat at all times while you are driving.
What to focus on during practice
During your CLP period, you should focus on practicing the skills required for the CDL skills test, such as:
- Completing a full pre-trip vehicle inspection to identify potential safety issues.
- Performing basic vehicle control maneuvers like backing, turning, and parking.
- Safely driving on public roads and highways, including handling intersections, lane changes, and merging onto highways.
Additional tips
It is highly recommended that you practice in the same type and class of vehicle you will use for your CDL skills test. If you complete the test in a vehicle with certain features (such as automatic transmission or no air brakes), these limitations may result in restrictions on your CDL.
Your time with the CLP is an important step to gaining confidence and ensuring you are fully prepared for the CDL skills test. For further details, refer to the Maine CDL Manual provided by the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).
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 Maine. The skills test evaluates your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle and is required to obtain your CDL.
How to schedule your CDL skills test
You must schedule your skills test through an approved Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) testing location. Before scheduling, you must ensure that your Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT), if required, is completed and properly recorded in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry.
What to bring on the day of your test
On the day of your test, you must bring your valid Maine driver’s license, your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP), and your valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate (DOT medical card) if applicable. You must also provide a vehicle that matches the class of CDL you are testing for. The vehicle must be in good working condition and pass a basic safety inspection.
What the CDL skills test includes
The CDL skills test in Maine has three parts:
- Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You must demonstrate your ability to inspect your vehicle and identify safety-related issues.
- Basic Vehicle Control Test: You will perform maneuvers such as straight-line backing, offset backing, and parallel parking.
- On-Road Driving Test: You will drive in live traffic conditions and demonstrate your ability to safely operate the vehicle on public roads, including handling intersections, turns, lane changes, and highway driving.
Important reminders
If you take your skills test in a vehicle with certain limitations, such as an automatic transmission or no air brakes, these restrictions will be applied to your CDL. You must supply the appropriate vehicle for your test, and it must be representative of the CDL class you are applying for.
After successfully passing all three parts of the CDL skills test, your results will be submitted to the Maine BMV, and you will be eligible to receive your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
Step 6: Obtain Your CDL:
Once you successfully pass all three parts of the CDL skills test in Maine, the final step is to officially obtain your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) through the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).
How to get your CDL
After your test results are submitted and verified by the Maine BMV, you must visit a BMV branch office to complete the CDL issuance process.
What to bring to the BMV
You must bring the following:
- Your valid Maine driver’s license.
- Your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP).
- Your valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate (DOT medical card) if required.
- Proof of identity, legal presence, Social Security Number, and Maine residency (if these documents are not already on file).
- Payment for any required CDL fees, which vary depending on the CDL class and endorsements you are obtaining.
What happens next
Once your documents are verified and fees are paid, the Maine BMV will issue your CDL. Your license will include your CDL class (A, B, or C), any endorsements you earned (such as Tanker, Hazmat, or Passenger), and any applicable restrictions (such as automatic transmission or no air brakes) based on the vehicle you used for your skills test.
After receiving your CDL
It is your responsibility to keep your medical certification current with the Maine BMV. CDLs in Maine are typically valid for five years, and you must renew your license on time. You must also notify the BMV of any changes to your address, medical status, or driving eligibility, and comply with all state and federal regulations to maintain your CDL in good standing.
Once issued, your CDL authorizes you to legally operate commercial vehicles based on your license class and endorsements, both in Maine and across the U.S. (if eligible for interstate driving).
Additional Considerations:
When obtaining and maintaining your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Maine, there are important responsibilities and rules to follow to ensure compliance with both state and federal regulations.
Medical Certification
Most CDL holders must maintain a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate (DOT medical card) and keep it on file with the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). You are also required to submit a self-certification to declare the type of commercial driving you perform (interstate or intrastate) and whether you are subject to federal medical requirements. If your medical certificate expires or is not updated, your CDL may be downgraded or suspended until it is renewed.
Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME)
If you are applying for or renewing a Hazardous Materials (H) endorsement, you must pass the Hazmat knowledge test, complete a TSA security threat assessment (which includes fingerprinting and a background check), and comply with all federal security requirements. This background check must be renewed every five years to keep the endorsement valid.
Military Skills Test Waiver
Maine participates in the Military Skills Test Waiver Program, which allows eligible service members with recent heavy vehicle operating experience to waive the CDL skills test. However, applicants 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 offenses such as DUI, leaving the scene of an accident, or using a commercial vehicle to commit a felony can result in the suspension, revocation, or disqualification of your CDL. Even violations in your personal vehicle can affect your CDL status.
CDL Renewal
CDLs in Maine are typically valid for five years. You are responsible for renewing your CDL before it expires and ensuring all required medical documentation, endorsements, and background checks remain current.
Vehicle Restrictions
If you take your skills test in a vehicle with certain limitations (such as automatic transmission or no air brakes), these restrictions will be placed on your CDL and may limit the types of vehicles you are authorized to operate.
Notification Requirements
CDL holders in Maine must notify the BMV of any address changes, medical status updates, or disqualifying offenses. You must also report any out-of-state traffic convictions or violations, as these can impact your CDL status.
By following these requirements and staying up to date with your documentation, you can keep your CDL valid and continue operating commercial vehicles safely and legally within Maine and across the United States.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum age to get a CDL in Maine?
In Maine, you must be at least 18 years old to get a CDL for intrastate driving (within Maine only). To drive interstate (between states), transport hazardous materials, or carry passengers, you must be at least 21 years old.
Do I need a regular Maine driver’s license before applying for a CDL?
Yes, you must hold a valid Maine driver’s license before applying for a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) or CDL.
What is a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) and why do I need one?
A CLP allows you to legally practice driving a commercial motor vehicle on public roads under the supervision of a qualified CDL holder. In Maine, you must hold your CLP for at least 14 days before you are eligible to take the CDL skills test.
What tests are required to get a CDL in Maine?
To obtain a CDL, you must pass the required knowledge tests (including General Knowledge, Air Brakes, and any applicable endorsements) and successfully complete the skills test, which includes a pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
Is Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) required in Maine?
Yes, ELDT is required if you are applying for your first Class A or B CDL, upgrading from Class B to Class A, or applying for 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 Maine?
Yes, most CDL holders must have a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate (DOT medical card). You must keep your medical certification current with the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV), or your CDL may be downgraded or suspended.
How do I get a Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME) in Maine?
To get a Hazmat endorsement, you must pass the Hazardous Materials knowledge test, complete a TSA security threat assessment (which includes fingerprinting and a background check), and meet federal safety requirements. This background check must be renewed every five years.
Can military driving experience help me get a CDL in Maine?
Yes, Maine participates in the Military Skills Test Waiver Program. If you have recent experience operating heavy military vehicles, you may be eligible to waive the skills test. However, 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 Maine BMV, your CDL will be downgraded, suspended, or canceled, and you will lose your commercial driving privileges until it is renewed.
Where can I find official CDL information for Maine?
You can find official CDL information, forms, manuals, and updates through the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) website or by visiting a local BMV office.