California CDL Handbook 2026

The California Commercial Driver License (CDL) handbook is the official study guide for your CDL exam. It covers all the knowledge you need to pass the written tests for Class A, Class B, and Class C commercial driver licenses.

What's in the CA CDL Handbook?

• General Knowledge — Vehicle inspection, basic control, shifting, backing, and safe driving
• Air Brakes — Air brake system components, dual air brakes, inspecting air brake systems
• Combination Vehicles — Driving combination vehicles, coupling and uncoupling
• Hazardous Materials — Rules for transporting hazmat, placarding, and emergency procedures
• Tank Vehicles — Inspecting tank vehicles, driving tank vehicles, safe operation
• Doubles and Triples — Pulling double and triple trailers safely
• Passenger Transport — Carrying passengers safely, loading, emergency exits
• School Buses — Loading and unloading students, emergency exits, railroad crossings

Download the Official Handbook

The California CDL handbook is available as a free download from the CA DMV website. We recommend downloading a copy and studying it thoroughly before taking your exam.