Montana CDL at a Glance (Plain-English Summary)
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Age & eligibility:
You must be 18+ for intrastate and 21+ for interstate, passenger, or hazmat driving. -
Valid license & record:
You need a current Montana driver’s license and a clean driving record. -
Medical card:
A valid DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate is required for most CDL drivers. -
Knowledge tests → CLP:
Pass all required written tests for your CDL class (A/B/C) and endorsements to earn your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). -
Skills test:
After holding your CLP for at least 14 days, take the three-part skills test (pre-trip, basic control, on-road). -
ELDT:
Federal Entry-Level Driver Training applies to new Class A/B and H/P/S applicants before the skills test. -
Hazmat:
Requires a TSA background check and passing the Hazmat written test. -
Where to test:
CDL testing is administered by the Montana Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) and approved third-party testers. -
Tip:
Always verify the latest steps, fees, and forms with the Montana MVD before scheduling.
What’s on the Montana CDL Knowledge Tests
General Knowledge
— inspection, safe driving habits, space/speed management, driving at night or in bad weather, and cargo basics.Air Brakes
— air brake parts, dual systems, spring brakes, stopping distance, and downhill control.Combination Vehicles
— coupling, uncoupling, skids, rollover prevention, and inspections.Hazmat (H)
— hazard classes, placards, shipping papers, parking, emergencies, and security.Passenger (P) & School Bus (S)
— passenger safety, emergencies, bus evacuation, mirror use, and rail crossings.Tankers (N)
— surge/slosh, rollover, and inspection details.Doubles/Triples (T)
— coupling, converter dollies, inspections, and control on turns.Pre-Trip
— step-by-step inspection items and safety checks.Required for All CDL Drivers
These tests are mandatory for all Commercial Driver's License applicants
About General Knowledge Tests
Basic rules, regulations, and safe driving practices for commercial vehicles
General Knowledge Test 1
Basic CDL knowledge and traffic laws
General Knowledge Test 2
Vehicle safety and inspection procedures
General Knowledge Test 3
Driving techniques and hazard awareness
General Knowledge Test 4
Transportation of cargo and passengers
General Knowledge Test 5
Emergency procedures and vehicle maintenance
General Knowledge Test 6
Final comprehensive review test
About Air Brakes Tests
Air brake systems, inspection, and operation procedures
Air Brakes Test 1
Basic air brake system components and operation
Air Brakes Test 2
Air brake inspection and testing procedures
Air Brakes Test 3
Emergency procedures and troubleshooting
Air Brakes Test 4
Advanced air brake systems and safety
About Pre-Trip Inspection Tests
Vehicle inspection procedures and safety checks
Pre-Trip Inspection Test 1
Engine compartment and cab inspection
Pre-Trip Inspection Test 2
Exterior vehicle inspection
Pre-Trip Inspection Test 3
Trailer and coupling system inspection
Endorsement Tests
Additional certifications for specialized commercial driving
About Combination Vehicles Tests
Tractor-trailers, truck and trailer combinations
Combination Vehicles Test 1
Coupling and uncoupling procedures
Combination Vehicles Test 2
Inspection of combination vehicles
Combination Vehicles Test 3
Driving combination vehicles safely
Combination Vehicles Test 4
Backing and maneuvering techniques
Combination Vehicles Test 5
Advanced combination vehicle operation
About Hazmat Tests
Hazardous materials transportation and safety
Hazmat Test 1
Hazmat classification and identification
Hazmat Test 2
Loading and handling procedures
Hazmat Test 3
Documentation and placarding
Hazmat Test 4
Emergency response and safety procedures
About Passenger Vehicles Tests
Buses and vehicles designed to transport passengers
Passenger Vehicle Test 1
Pre-trip inspection for passenger vehicles
Passenger Vehicle Test 2
Loading and unloading passengers
Passenger Vehicle Test 3
Passenger safety and emergency procedures
Passenger Vehicle Test 4
Special situations and regulations
About School Bus Tests
School bus operation and student transportation safety
School Bus Test 1
Loading and unloading students
School Bus Test 2
Emergency exits and evacuation procedures
School Bus Test 3
Student management and safety
School Bus Test 4
Special hazards and situations
About Tanker Vehicles Tests
Liquid cargo transportation and tank vehicle operation
Tanker Vehicle Test 1
Tanker vehicle inspection and safety
Tanker Vehicle Test 2
Driving techniques for liquid cargo
Tanker Vehicle Test 3
Loading, unloading, and emergency procedures
About Doubles/Triples Tests
Double and triple trailer combinations
Doubles/Triples Test 1
Coupling and inspection procedures
Doubles/Triples Test 2
Driving techniques and safety
Doubles/Triples Test 3
Emergency procedures and troubleshooting
FAQs — Montana CDL
Additional certifications for specialized commercial driving