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States

TNTennessee 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
Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security
Official CDL page
tn.gov ↗
Official CDL manual
tn.gov ↗
Testing, fees and appointments
tn.gov ↗
Knowledge-test language
Confirm with the agency

The Tennessee manual says you may take a paper test or have the computer read the test aloud in English; no other test languages are listed.

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

Test languages

The Tennessee manual says you may take a paper test or have the computer read the test aloud in English; no other test languages are listed.

Source: tn.gov

Age

You must be at least 18; drivers under 21 may drive commercially only within Tennessee.

Source: tn.gov

Also important

Skills tests are scheduled directly with certified CDL third-party testing organizations, which may charge extra fees. Since January 1, 2026, green-card holders receive a temporary CDL.

Source: tn.gov

State-only topics in the manual

  • Tennessee section 1 additions: where to take knowledge tests (Driver Service Centers), time zones, testing options and CLP endorsement limits.

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.