Kentucky CDL Practice Test and Test Prep (2026)
Kentucky gives CDL tests through Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC), Division of Driver Licensing. Here is what you will be tested on, which of our practice quizzes match each test, and what the skills test involves in Kentucky.
Knowledge tests for a Kentucky permit
- General Knowledge (all applicants) — practice General Knowledge (60 questions)
- Combination Vehicles (Class A) — practice Combination Vehicles (30 questions)
- Air Brakes (if your vehicle has them) — practice Air Brakes (40 questions)
- Any endorsement tests you need (P, S, H, N, T)
Permit minimum age: 18 (in-state driving) or 21 (interstate). Holding period before the skills test: 14 days. Permit validity: 365 days.
Kentucky endorsement tests and practice
- Hazmat (H) practice
Kentucky notes for this endorsement
Kentucky is one of the 8 TSA self-managed hazmat states, so the fingerprinting and TSA Security Threat Assessment run through the state rather than a generic TSA/IdentoGO center. You pass the hazmat knowledge test ($5, written only — no oral option) at a Regional Office and complete ELDT if first-time, then a fingerprint-based background check is processed through the Kentucky State Police (KSP) to the FBI and TSA. Fingerprinting is scheduled through the state's vendor (IDEMIA/Universal Enroll); results typically take 30–45 days. The background-check fee is $138.25. A valid TWIC card can substitute — email a copy of the front and back to [email protected]. The STA (and the H endorsement) must be renewed every 5 years based on your threat-assessment expiration. Schedule or check status with KSP at 1 (888) 655-9655.
- Tanker (N) practice
Kentucky notes for this endorsement
Tank vehicles.
- Passenger (P) practice
Kentucky notes for this endorsement
Passenger; ELDT required for first-timers.
- School bus (S) practice
Kentucky notes for this endorsement
School bus; requires ELDT and the passenger path, plus S knowledge and skills tests. Adding it carries an application fee of $24 (Class A) or $9 (Class B).
- Doubles/triples (T) practice
Kentucky notes for this endorsement
Double/triple trailers (knowledge test only, CDL required).
The Kentucky skills test
Components: Pre-trip vehicle inspection, Basic vehicle control skills, On-road driving test.
Test vehicle: You must supply your own commercial vehicle representative of the class you're testing for — KSP does not provide a test vehicle. The skills test must be taken in the same class of vehicle you intend to operate.
Where and how to book: The Kentucky State Police (KSP) is exclusively responsible for testing all CDL permit and license applicants — Kentucky does not use third-party skills testers. Schedule the road skills test by calling (800) 542-5990 and pressing 1. Training schools can prepare you and often supply a vehicle, but they do not administer the state skills test.
Waits and retests: Because KSP is the sole tester statewide, availability depends on trooper testing schedules in your region; there is no official published wait time. Book early. The written knowledge test can be retaken as many times as needed (once per day; 24-hour wait after a failure).
Practice the inspection part with our pre-trip inspection guide. Research dated 2026-10-12; confirm testing details with Kentucky.
All practice tests
- General Knowledge (60 questions)
- Air Brakes (40 questions)
- Combination Vehicles (30 questions)
- Hazardous Materials (H) (30 questions)
- Tank Vehicles (N) (25 questions)
- Passenger (P) (25 questions)
- School Bus (S) (25 questions)
- Doubles/Triples (T) (20 questions)
Ready to apply? See the full Kentucky CDL requirementsor build your Kentucky checklist.