California CDL Practice Test 2026 & California DMV Rules
Prepare for your commercial driver's license with the official California exam curriculum. TruckerPass combines the 985 federal FMCSA questions with California-specific commercial vehicle limits, air brake testing, and the 2026 Modernized Pre-Trip inspection.
California 55 MPH Speed Cap & Mountain Chain Laws
- California Vehicle Code § 22406 enforces a strict 55 MPH maximum limit for all commercial motor vehicles on all highways.
- Caltrans enforces mandatory tire chain control on Donner Pass (I-80) and the Grapevine (I-5); carrying chains is legally required in winter.
- Strict CARB (California Air Resources Board) emissions and idle limits: commercial diesel idling is capped at 5 minutes maximum.
- Commercial vehicles must use the right-hand two lanes only on four-or-more-lane highways.
Official California Test Format
- Licensing Agency: California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
- General Knowledge: 50 questions, 80% to pass (at least 40 correct).
- Air Brakes Endorsement: 25 questions, 80% to pass (required for air-equipped rigs).
- Combination Vehicles: 20 questions, 80% to pass (Class A tractor-trailers).
- Modernized Pre-Trip Inspection: 4-Zone component walkaround + 4-Step air brake test.
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