Hawaii's CDL manual and DMV CDL Practice Tests

for all endorsements

Hawaii's CDL Manual

Commercial Driver Handbook

To apply for a commercial driver’s license (CDL) in Hawaii, you must be at least 21 years old and already possess a valid Hawaii driver’s license with a Department of Transportation certificate that verifies that you meet the medical and physical requirements. Commercial driver’s licenses, also known as CDLs, are intended for truckers, bus operators, and other commercial motor vehicle drivers. These specialized licenses exist because of the unique driving challenges posed by operating these extra-large vehicles on Hawaiian roads. Applying for a CDL license in Hawaii is a thorough process, with several important requirements, including certain documentation, fees, and written tests. Minimum age requirement Those in possession of a valid Hawaiian driver’s license may apply for a CDL permit as soon as they are 18 years of age. However, the actual license may not be obtained until at least 21 years of age. How to apply for a CDL in Hawaii Are you ready to submit your CDL application? Here’s exactly what you need to do:

  • Be at least 18 years of age to apply for a permit (and 21 to obtain a license).
  • Possess a valid basic Hawaii driver’s license.
  • Submit a DOT Certificate (Form MCSA-5876).
  • Pass the required vision test with a minimum of 20/40 in both eyes.
  • Submit a certified United States birth certificate.
  • Submit a current front facial photos.
  • Submit 2 proof of residence documents.
  • Pass all required written tests for the class of license you wish to drive.

DMV CDL Practice Tests

General Knowledge

The general knowledge test is the first of several tests that you will have to complete in order to get your CDL. The questions cover general information about commercial vehicles, driving, and vehicle inspections. The test has a total of 50 questions, and requires at least 40 correct answers to pass.

Air Brakes

You must have an Air brake endorsement on your driver's license to drive a vehicle equipped with an air brake system. This test will test your knowledge of the function, parts, and braking distance of air brakes. The test will consist of 25 questions, and at least 20 correct answers are needed to pass.

Combination

The combination endorsement allows you to drive a vehicle with a power unit and one trailer. This test will cover the "ins and outs" of operating articulated vehicles. The exam consists of 25 questions, and requires at least 20 correct to pass.

Hazardous Material

The Hazardous Material endorsement allows the driver to operate a vehicle containing items such as poisons, explosives, flammables, etc. You will also have to pass the TSA Hazardous Material Threat Assessment to get this endorsement. There are 30 questions, 24 correct required to pass.

Tanker

The Tanker endorsement allows the driver to operate a vehicle weighing more than 26,000 pounds designed to transport any liquid or gaseous material within a tank that is permanently or temporarily attached to the vehicle. There are 20 questions, 16 correct required to pass.

Doubles / Triples

The Doubles/Triples endorsement is required for drivers to pull 2 trailers (doubles) or 3 trailers (triples) connected to a single power unit. There are 20 questions on this test, and 16 correct answers are required to pass.

Passenger

Bus drivers must have a commercial driver's license with a passenger endorsement in order to operate a vehicle which seats 16 or more, including the driver. There are 20 questions on this test, and 16 correct answers are required to pass.

School Bus

School Bus Endorsement is required for any driver who operates a school bus. After the permit tests the training can be only completed by a local school district. There are 20 questions on this test, and 16 correct answers are required to pass.

Pre Trip Inspection

The Pre-Trip exam is an oral exam where you are expected to check the vehicle parts to insure it is safe for road use. The amount of parts you need to check increase with the size of the vehicle, and by type of vehicle.