Massachusetts · Permit testWhat’s on the CDL permit test in Massachusetts?
The RMV’s CLP page lists these exams:
| Exam | Minutes | Questions | To pass |
|---|---|---|---|
| General knowledge | 60 | 50 | 40 |
| Air brakes | 25 | 25 | 20 |
| Hazardous materials | 30 | 30 | 24 |
| Tank | 20 | 20 | 16 |
| Passenger | 20 | 20 | 16 |
| Doubles and triples | 20 | 20 | 16 |
| Combination vehicles | 20 | 20 | 16 |
| School bus | 20 | 20 | 16 |
A Class A CLP also needs the combination vehicles exam, and a Class C CLP the hazardous materials or passenger exam. The CLP page says the general knowledge and endorsement exams come in English, Spanish and Portuguese, while the Driver’s Manual, revised April 2026, lists Class A, B and C exams in English only, so ask which languages you can use when you book. Audio CDL exams are in English only.
Who can get a CLP in Massachusetts
Besides being old enough, the RMV asks for:
- A Class D license that stays valid for the whole time you hold the permit
- Proof of lawful presence in the U.S. and a valid Social Security number
- Massachusetts residency, and no license from another state
- No outstanding obligations to any state
- The RMV’s medical standards for commercial drivers
Drivers from Canada or Mexico can’t get a non-domiciled CDL; they need permanent lawful presence for a Massachusetts CDL.
Training and the road test
If you get a Class A or B CLP for the first time, upgrade from Class B to A, or add a passenger or school bus endorsement for the first time, you need entry-level driver training from a registered provider before the road test. For a hazardous materials endorsement, the training comes before the knowledge test. The training rule covers anyone doing one of these on or after February 7, 2022.
The State Police give commercial road tests, and you can book by phone at 857-368-7381 as well as online. After you pass, you visit a Service Center to have the license issued.
Keeping the permit valid
You can renew a CLP once at no fee, within 30 days of its expiry, by appointment or by phone at 857-368-8000. After that, getting a permit again means a fresh set of documents and exams, and the exam fees again. While you hold it, drive only vehicles of its class, with a licensed driver who has the right class and endorsements, and carry the permit.
Sources: Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles and 5 more. Checked November 2026.
- Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles: Apply for a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) ↗
- Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles: Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDL) ↗
- Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles: Schedule your road test ↗
- Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles: Massachusetts Driver’s Manual (PDF, revised April 2026) ↗
- Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles: Learner’s Permit FAQs (PDF, revised July 6, 2022) ↗
- Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles: Driver’s manuals ↗
Rules and fees can change, so check the official site before your test.
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