This commercial driver study guide covers relevant Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) concepts and Illinois commercial driver knowledge topics. Review the regulations, procedures, and safety checklists below as part of your CDL and commercial learner permit (CLP) preparation.
Knowledge tests
General Knowledge has 30 questions; Combination 20; Air Brakes 25; Passenger 20; Tank 20; School Bus 20; HazMat 30; Doubles/Triples 20; Charter Bus 20.
Skills sequence
The skills examination consists of vehicle inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving in a properly classified representative vehicle.
Failure waits
After the third failure of the same test the wait is 30 days; after six failures it is 90 days; after nine failures it is one year.
Fees
The handbook lists $60 for CDL renewal or matching out-of-state transfer, $50 for an original or reissued CLP, and $5 for an upgrade or endorsement/restriction change.
Exam focus
Apply the rule to the vehicle, credential, trip, or testing situation described. Do not substitute another state’s procedure for the Illinois rule.
Commercial Driver License Exam Readiness: Achieving a passing grade of 80% or higher on state DMV commercial driver knowledge exams requires mastery of federal vehicle inspection procedures, gross vehicle weight ratings (GVWR / GCWR), braking mechanics, and road safety regulations.