Delaware CDL Study Guide
Delaware issues commercial driver licenses through the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles. The state follows federal CDL rules in its Commercial Driver License Manual. You can drive a commercial vehicle inside Delaware at 18. You must be 21 to drive across state lines or carry hazardous materials.
Key Delaware numbers
- Minimum age (intrastate): 18
- Minimum age (interstate or hazmat): 21
- CLP hold before skills test: at least 14 days
- General Knowledge passing score: 80%
- General Knowledge test: ~50 questions
- Air Brakes test: ~25 questions (required if your vehicle has air brakes)
- Combination Vehicles test: ~20 questions (required for Class A)
Topics on the Delaware General Knowledge test
- Vehicle inspection (pre-trip, en-route, post-trip)
- Driving safely (speed management, space management, hazard perception)
- Transporting cargo safely
- Air brakes (if your vehicle is air-braked)
- Combination vehicles (Class A)
If you fail a test
If you fail a CDL knowledge or skills test in Delaware, you may schedule a retake at the DMV. Additional fees may apply. See the Delaware DMV CDL page for current retake details.
Frequently asked questions
How old do I need to be to get a CDL in Delaware?
You must be at least 18 to drive a commercial vehicle inside Delaware. You must be 21 to drive across state lines or carry hazardous materials.
How long must I hold my Delaware CLP before the skills test?
You must hold your Commercial Learneru0027s Permit for at least 14 days before you can take the CDL skills test.
How much does a Delaware CDL cost?
The CLP is $10, the CDL is $55, and each endorsement adds $10. Fees rose in October 2025.
Do I need to take Entry-Level Driver Training in Delaware?
Yes. If you are getting your first Class A or B CDL, or your first H, P, or S endorsement, you must complete federal ELDT from an FMCSA-registered provider.
Do I need a DOT medical card to get a Delaware CDL?
Yes. You must complete a DOT medical exam and submit your Medical Examineru0027s Certificate to the Delaware DMV.
What is the official Delaware CDL manual?
The Delaware Commercial Driver License Manual (Modernized Version, 2025) is the official study guide. You can download it free from dmv.de.gov.
Free practice
Start a Delaware General Knowledge quiz →
Sources: Delaware CDL Manual PDF (Modernized, Feb 2025) Delaware DMV CDL page Delaware DMV Fees Delaware ELDT info