CDL Skills & Knowledge Exam Prep
Passing the CDL exam is the final and most crucial step toward earning your Commercial Driver’s License — and starting a professional career as a truck driver. At Smart CDL Academy, we make sure you’re prepared for every part of the test, from written questions to behind-the-wheel driving skills.
Whether you’re pursuing a Class A or Class B CDL, our exam prep program helps you understand what’s on the test, how to approach it with confidence, and what it takes to succeed.
Written vs. Road Test: What’s the Difference?
To earn your CDL in Texas, you must pass two major exams:
The CDL Written Test (Knowledge Test)
This test evaluates your understanding of:
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General driving safety
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Vehicle inspection procedures
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Cargo handling
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Hazard awareness
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Air brakes (if applicable)
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Combination vehicles (for Class A)
You’ll take the written test on a computer at a Texas DPS office. Questions are multiple-choice and based on the Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Driver Handbook.
Important: If you plan to operate specific vehicles, like school buses or tankers, or carry hazardous materials, you’ll also need to take endorsement exams.
2. The CDL Road Test (Skills Test)
Once you pass the written test and hold your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP), you’ll be eligible to take the skills exam. This is an in-person driving test conducted at an approved CDL test site.
The skills exam has three parts:
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Pre-trip Inspection – Demonstrate your ability to identify and explain the safety checks required for your vehicle.
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Basic Vehicle Control – Maneuver your truck in a controlled environment (e.g., straight-line backing, offset backing, and alley dock).
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On-Road Driving – Show safe driving practices on public roads, including turns, lane changes, railroad crossings, and more.
Top-Rated Training + Job Placement Support
What to Expect on Exam Day
Whether it’s the written or skills test, preparation is key. Here’s what you can expect:
CDL Written Test
Format: Multiple choice
Location: DPS office
Topics covered: General knowledge + endorsements
Time: Usually 60-90 minutes
Smart CDL Academy will make sure you’ve practiced similar questions in advance — so nothing feels like a surprise.
Skills Test
Pre-trip inspection is all verbal and visual.
Vehicle control is done in a closed lot — you’ll be asked to back up, park, and make controlled turns.
Road driving will take place in traffic with a DPS examiner evaluating your decisions, awareness, and control.
Smart CDL Academy’s Mock Testing Advantage
We don’t just tell you what’s on the test — we replicate it with our CDL mock exam system.
Mock Written Tests
We offer multiple practice exams designed to mimic the actual DPS format, helping you build confidence and track progress. These include:
General Knowledge
Air Brakes
Combination Vehicles
Endorsements
Every question includes instant feedback, so you learn as you go.
Mock Road Tests
Our instructors run you through realistic CDL skills test scenarios, including:
Full pre-trip inspections
Backing maneuvers with cones and reference points
Road driving evaluations with simulated scoring
This way, by the time you take the actual test, you’ve done it all before — and you’re mentally ready to pass.
Exam Locations & Scheduling in Texas
Once you’re ready, our team will help you schedule your official CDL exam. Here’s what you need to know:
Where to Take the Exam
CDL testing in Texas is conducted at approved Third-Party Skills Testing (TPST) locations or Texas DPS offices. Smart CDL Academy partners with approved test sites near Dallas, Arlington, and Irving, so you don’t have to travel far.
How Scheduling Works
You must have held your CLP for at least 14 days before taking the skills test.
Our team will help you schedule your road test appointment at the earliest possible date.
We also make sure all your paperwork — including your medical card and training certificate — is in order before the test.
Pro Tip: Test appointments fill up quickly, especially in high-demand areas. Enrolling early means more flexibility and faster results.
Why Train with Smart CDL Academy?
At Smart CDL Academy, our mission is simple: help you pass your CDL exam the first time — with less stress and more confidence.
Here’s what sets us apart:
FMCSA-Compliant Curriculum- Experienced Instructors who know what examiners are looking for
- Mock Exams that replicate the real thing
- Flexible Class Schedules to fit your lifestyle
- Local Test Site Partnerships for easier scheduling
From your first practice quiz to your final road test, we’re by your side every step of the way.
Ready to Start Your CDL Career?
Contact our admissions team today at 972-989-6450 to schedule your program consultation. Discover how Smart CDL Academy can help you launch a rewarding career in the transportation industry with industry-leading training and support.