Montana CDL Study Guide
Montana issues commercial driver licenses through the Motor Vehicle Division of the Department of Justice. The state follows federal CDL rules. You can drive a commercial vehicle inside Montana at 18. You must be 21 to drive across state lines or carry hazardous materials.
Key Montana 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 Montana 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 Montana, you may schedule a retake at the MVD. Additional fees may apply. See the Montana MVD CDL page for current retake details.
Frequently asked questions
How old do I need to be to get a CDL in Montana?
You must be at least 18 to drive a commercial vehicle inside Montana. You must be 21 to drive across state lines or carry hazardous materials.
How long must I hold my Montana 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 Montana CDL cost?
The interstate CDL is $41.72 and the intrastate CDL is $35.54. The CLP fee equals the full license fee.
Do I need to take Entry-Level Driver Training in Montana?
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 Montana CDL?
Yes. You must complete a DOT medical exam and submit your Medical Examineru0027s Certificate to the MVD.
What is the official Montana CDL manual?
Montana uses the Commercial Driver License Manual available through the Motor Vehicle Division. You can find it free on the MVD CDL page.
Free practice
Start a Montana General Knowledge quiz →
Sources: Montana MVD Commercial Driver License page Montana MVD Licensing Fees Montana DOJ Commercial Driver Licensing Getting a New CDL in Montana