Virginia General Knowledge Test

About the Virginia General Knowledge Test

Virginia's roads aren't easy. You'll face heavy traffic on I-95 near Washington, winding mountain passes on I-81, and aggressive drivers on I-64. The General Knowledge test checks if you know basic safety rules. Don't forget about Virginia's weather—snow in the mountains, fog in the valleys, and sudden rainstorms anywhere. This test prepares you for those real-world conditions. We also cover loads that matter here: logs, coal, and farm products. Our questions come straight from the Virginia CDL handbook.

You need to know how to handle weight distribution, especially for coal trucks on mountain descents. Virginia's DMV examiners expect you to understand air brake systems because many trucks here use them. We've broken down the manual's toughest topics into easy questions. Practice until you feel confident.

One more thing: Virginia's testing is strict. They'll ask about pre-trip inspection procedures, and you can't skip steps. Use this test to build your speed without losing accuracy. You've got this.

What This Test Covers

• Vehicle Inspection – Virginia requires a thorough pre-trip inspection every time you drive. Know the steps.
• Basic Control – Handle curves on I-77's steep grades and merging on I-395's heavy traffic.
• Shifting Gears – Manage 10-speed transmissions on I-81's hills. Downshifting is critical.
• Communication – Signal early in D.C. commuter traffic. Virginia law requires proper use of turn signals.
• Space Management – Keep distance on I-64's winding roads. Tailgating is a common violation.
• Hazard Awareness – Watch for deer on rural Virginia roads. Fog in valleys reduces visibility.

Study Tips

Start by reading the Virginia CDL manual's 'General Knowledge' chapter. Focus on vehicle inspection, basic control, and hazard awareness. Use our practice tests to spot your weak areas. You can take the real test at any DMV customer service center, but book an appointment first. Bring your driver's license, medical certificate, and application form. The fee is just $3 for each attempt if you fail.

Here's a Virginia-specific tip: Learn the weight limits for I-81 and I-77. Many questions test your knowledge of bridge formulas and axle weights. Also, practice air brake questions if your truck has them. We've seen students pass after two or three tries with our site. Don't give up.

Virginia DMV Information

You can take the Virginia General Knowledge test at any DMV customer service center. Schedule online to skip the line. The first test is included in your CDL application fee (about $29). Retests cost $3 each. You need a valid Virginia license, a medical certificate (if required), and a completed CDL application (MVR-27C).

Testing locations include Richmond (Broad Street), Norfolk (Norview Avenue), Fairfax (Waples Mill Road), Roanoke (Valley View Boulevard), and many others. Some rural offices don't offer CDL testing, so call ahead. Plan for at least 90 minutes. You can retake after 7 days if you don't pass. Use our practice test to avoid that.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Resources

Other Virginia CDL Practice Tests

Test Details

• State: Virginia
• Test: General Knowledge Test
• Questions: 140
• Passing Score: 80%
• Time Limit: 60 minutes
• Cost: Free

Need ELDT Training?

If you're getting your first CDL, you need ELDT theory training before your skills test.