Michigan CDL Test Questions 2026: Format, Topics & Retakes
Michigan CDL knowledge tests for 2026: official question counts, 80% passing score, one-day retake rule, and what to study.
Michigan publishes unusually clear CDL knowledge-test counts in its Commercial Driver License Manual. The numbers depend on the CDL group and endorsements you are applying for, so study the tests you actually need rather than a generic 'CDL test' question bank.
Official Michigan question counts
- Group A: 70 questions. Michigan notes that this includes a 20-question Combination Vehicles test.
- Group B: 50 questions.
- Group C: 50 questions.
- Air Brakes: 25 questions if you want to operate vehicles equipped with air brakes.
- Double/Triple Trailers (T): 20 questions.
- Passenger (P): 20 questions plus the applicable skills test.
- School Bus (S): 20 questions plus the applicable skills test.
- Tank Vehicle (N): 20 questions.
- Hazardous Materials (H): 30 questions, plus separate TSA and ELDT requirements.
Passing score and retakes
Michigan's CDL manual requires at least 80% on each knowledge test. The Secretary of State also says that if you fail a CDL knowledge test, you must wait one day before retaking it, with the same one-day wait applying after later failures. The manual states that applicants are allowed one test per day from each testing category.
What the core tests cover
General Knowledge focuses on safe vehicle operation, inspections, basic control, communication, speed and space management, hazards, emergencies, and cargo. Air Brakes focuses on system components, inspections, pressure, spring brakes, braking technique, and failure prevention. Combination Vehicles adds coupling, trailer air systems, off-tracking, rollovers, jackknifing, inspection, and safe handling of tractor-trailer combinations.
Use the Michigan manual, not just generic questions
The official manual is the source Michigan tells applicants to study. Practice questions are most useful after you have read the relevant sections: use them to identify weak topics, then return to the manual instead of memorizing answer patterns.
Official sources checked
Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual and Michigan Secretary of State CDL application guidance. Last verified October 6, 2026.