CDL Training in tennessee

Entering any new career field is a big deal, especially one that can be dangerous like truck driving.  Although it’s not required, it is wise for anyone who is working towards becoming a CDL driver take the time to read through the TN Commercial Driver’s License Manual.  Many individuals make light of getting a CDL and want to cut corners with their training as if it’s not that important.  Please don’t be one of these people!  Learn as much as you can. I promise you will be glad you did! 

In fact, I want to share a quote with you that I once heard.  It said, “Let no man’s ghost return to say that his training let him down”.  Whether someone else is teaching you or you are learning on your own, the more knowledge you have, the better off you will be.  It could mean the difference between life or death!

Here’s a link to the TN Commercial Driver’s License Manual:  CLICK HERE

 Lots of people are seeking a CDL practice test in Tennessee.  I have two words for you, DMV Genie.  There are all sorts of practice test websites out there, but don’t even bother with them.  I’m afraid most are just trash.  My recommendation to anyone for CDL practice tests is to get an app called DMV Genie.  It’s simply the best.  If you do the practice tests, you will pass the CDL permit test in Tennessee the first time! 

 As mentioned earlier, all states follow the same basic procedures for getting a CDL.  That usually begins with an individual taking the written exam(s) to earn the commercial learner’s permit/CLP for the desired class of vehicle.  These are multiple choice tests that you can take at your state’s DMV, usually at any location although some require an appointment.  You must pass each test with an 80% or better.  So, how many questions are on the permit test in TN?  The answer is, the same as all the other states.  But to be more specific, see the info below. 

Test                                                                                # of Questions         # required to Pass

General Knowledge                                                       50                                    40

Air Brake                                                                              25                                    20

Combination Vehicles                                                  20                                    16

Passenger Endorsement                                             20                                    16

Tanker Endorsement                                                     20                                    16

Hazmat Endorsement                                                  30                                    24

Doubles & Triples Endorsement                            20                                    16

School Bus Endorsement                                           20                                    16

What is self certification you ask?  Well, when you get a commercial learner’s permit or CDL in Tennessee, you are asked to self certify.  This is basically when you let the DMV know what type of CDL driving you intend to engage in. 

There are four classifications for you to choose from.

1. Non-excepted Interstate (NI) – I operate or expect to operate in interstate commerce and am required to maintain federal medical certification. (Medical Certificate/Card Required)
2. Non-excepted Intrastate (NA) – I operate or expect to operate only in intrastate commerce and am required to meet FMCSA driver qualification requirements. (Medical Certificate/Card Required)
3. Excepted Interstate (EI) – I operate or expect to operate in interstate commerce, but engage exclusively in operations that qualify me for exception from the requirement to maintain federal medical certification.
4. Excepted Intrastate (EA) – I operate or expect to operate only in a city, county, state or federal vehicle only, and I am exempt from the FMCSA driver qualification requirements