Oregon CDL Study Guide
Oregon issues commercial driver licenses through the Department of Transportation Driver and Motor Vehicle Services (Oregon DMV). The state follows federal CDL rules in its Commercial Driver Manual. You can drive a commercial vehicle inside Oregon at 18. You must be 21 to drive across state lines or carry hazardous materials.
Key Oregon 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 Oregon 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 Oregon, you may schedule a retake at the DMV. A $10 fee applies for each knowledge test attempt and $145 for each skills test attempt. See the Oregon CDL Fees page for current retake details.
Frequently asked questions
How old do I need to be to get a CDL in Oregon?
You must be at least 18 to drive a commercial vehicle inside Oregon. You must be 21 to drive across state lines or carry hazardous materials.
How long must I hold my Oregon CLP before the skills test?
You must hold your Commercial Learner Permit for at least 14 days before you can take the CDL skills test.
How much does an Oregon CDL cost?
The CLP is $40, each knowledge test is $10, the skills test is $145, and the CDL is $160. Fees rose January 1, 2024 under HB 2100.
Do I need to take Entry-Level Driver Training in Oregon?
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 an Oregon CDL?
Yes. You must complete a DOT medical exam and submit your Medical Examineru0027s Certificate to the Oregon DMV.
What is the official Oregon CDL manual?
The Oregon Commercial Driver Manual is the official study guide. You can download it free from oregon.gov.
Free practice
Start an Oregon General Knowledge quiz →
Sources: Oregon Commercial Driver Manual PDF (2022-2023) Oregon Commercial Driver Manual online (Section 1) Oregon CDL page Oregon CDL Fees