Indiana CDL Study Guide
Indiana issues commercial driver licenses (CDLs) through the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). You start with a Commercial Learner's Permit, complete federal Entry-Level Driver Training, then take a CDL skills test. Indiana also requires applicants to view a short human trafficking awareness video.
Key Indiana 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 Indiana 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
The Indiana BMV sets retake rules for failed CDL knowledge and skills tests. Applicants normally must wait before retaking and may pay another fee. Specific wait times are listed in the Indiana CDL Manual and BMV CDL pages.
Frequently asked questions
How old do I have to be to get an Indiana CDL?
You must be at least 18 to get an Indiana CDL for driving inside Indiana. You must be 21 to drive across state lines or haul hazardous materials.
How long do I have to hold the Indiana CLP?
You must hold your Commercial Learneru0027s Permit for at least 14 days before you can take the CDL skills test. The CLP itself is valid for 180 days.
How many questions are on the Indiana CDL general knowledge test?
The Indiana General Knowledge test has 50 questions. You must score at least 80% to pass.
Do I need ELDT in Indiana?
Yes. First-time CDL applicants, drivers upgrading classes, and people adding H, P, or S endorsements must complete federal Entry-Level Driver Training first.
How much does an Indiana CDL cost?
The Indiana BMV charges $17 for the Commercial Learneru0027s Permit and $35 for a new CDL. Other fees may apply for endorsements and skills tests.
What is the Indiana human trafficking video requirement?
Before getting an Indiana CDL, you must watch a short instructional video about how to recognize, prevent, and report human trafficking.
Free practice
Start an Indiana General Knowledge quiz →
Sources: Indiana CDL Manual (PDF) Indiana Specific CDL Applicant Information Indiana BMV CDL Overview Indiana BMV Obtaining a CLP