New Jersey CDL Study Guide
New Jersey issues commercial driver licenses through the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC). The state follows federal CDL rules in its Commercial Driver License Manual. You can drive a commercial vehicle inside New Jersey at 18. You must be 21 to drive across state lines or carry hazardous materials.
Key New Jersey 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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey, you may schedule a retake at the MVC. Additional fees may apply. See the NJ MVC CDL FAQ for current retake details.
Frequently asked questions
How old do I need to be to get a CDL in New Jersey?
You must be at least 18 to drive a commercial vehicle inside New Jersey. You must be 21 to drive across state lines or carry hazardous materials.
How long must I hold my New Jersey 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 New Jersey CDL cost?
The test receipt fee is $125 and the 4-year CDL is $42, plus $2 per endorsement.
Do I need to take Entry-Level Driver Training in New Jersey?
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 New Jersey CDL?
Yes. You must complete a DOT medical exam and submit your Medical Examineru0027s Certificate to the MVC.
What is the official New Jersey CDL manual?
The NJ MVC Commercial Driver License Manual is the official study guide. You can download it free from the NJ MVC website.
Free practice
Start a New Jersey General Knowledge quiz →
Sources: NJ MVC Commercial Driver License (CDL) Manual page NJ Commercial Driver License Manual (PDF) NJ MVC Getting your CDL page NJ MVC License and Permit Fees