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States

ARArkansas CDL permit test guide

The core course follows the national manual text most states use. When your state manual gives a different number, it wins.

Licensing agency
Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration; Arkansas State Police
Official CDL page
dfa.arkansas.gov ↗
Official CDL manual
dps.arkansas.gov ↗
Testing, fees and appointments
dps.arkansas.gov ↗
Knowledge-test language
Confirm with the agency

We have not confirmed this state's current language policy from an official source. Ask the agency before you book.

Source collection date

Steps to your CDL (federal minimums)

  1. Choose your class (A, B or C) and endorsements.
  2. Get a DOT medical exam from a provider on the National Registry and a medical examiner's certificate.
  3. Pass the knowledge tests at the state agency to get your commercial learner's permit (CLP).
  4. Hold the CLP at least 14 days and practice with a qualified CDL holder. A CLP is valid for up to one year (some states less).
  5. Complete entry-level driver training (ELDT) with a registered provider.
  6. Pass the skills test: pre-trip inspection, basic control and road test, in English.
  7. Get your CDL. You must be 21 to drive across state lines.

What is different in this state

Learner permit (CLP)

An Arkansas CLP is valid for up to 1 year; after it expires you must retake the general and endorsement knowledge tests. You cannot take the skills test in the first 14 days.

Source: dfa.arkansas.gov

Age

You must be at least 18 to hold a CLP.

Source: dfa.arkansas.gov

Also important

Testing is done by the Arkansas State Police: you first buy a CDL-1 test form at a DFA revenue office; written tests are at all troop sites, but skills tests (by online appointment) only at Troops A, B, G, I, J and L. From January 1, 2027, failed skills-test parts are not saved and a retest starts again with the vehicle inspection.

Source: dps.arkansas.gov

State-only topics in the manual

  • Arkansas applicants must name specific steering parts (steering shaft, gear box, Pitman arm, drag link, steering arm, tie rod) in the vehicle inspection test.

Source collection date:

The three permit tests

General Knowledge

Required for every CDL class.

Mock exam

Air Brakes

Needed to drive a vehicle with air brakes without an "L" restriction.

Mock exam

Combination Vehicles

Needed for Class A (tractor-trailers).

Mock exam
Study the core course

7CDL is an independent study aid. It is not a government website, not affiliated with any state agency, FMCSA or AAMVA, and not an ELDT provider. Always check your state's official CDL manual and agency.