There are the 3 written tests you must pass to get your permit. Click the icons for practice tests.

General Knowledge

Air Brakes

Combination Vehicle

​The specific class of CDL you apply for and any additional endorsements you hold will determine exactly what type of vehicle you can drive and which types of driving professions you can have. Please visit the Iowa DOT’s website for more information about the different types of CDL licenses and their requirements and limitations: www.iowadot.gov

​The Iowa DOT has revealed a new app to  help you pass the written tests! Check out the free app here. Iowa  CDL Test App

We can begin training as soon as you have your permit. Note, state law requires 14 days from issuance of the permit and the CDL testing date. However, you can begin training at Goldline CDL and get your test scheduled as soon as you have your permit.

Pre-Trip Inspection

The pre-trip inspection is a big part of the test and much harder to pass since the 2015 changes. We provide a Memory Aid Card, detailed information to perform the pre-trip inspection for our truck and aids to help remember the many things you need to do the inspection as the examiner requires. 

​We will walk you through the process, step-by-step, until you know the fundamentals needed to pass the pre-trip inspection. Our trainer will stay with you through the entire process and answer any questions you may have so you have the best opportunity to pass your CDL test in one day. 

Skills Test

Once you have passed the Pre-Trip Inspection with the examiner, you will move onto the Skills Test.

​Our field training includes learning backing methods, how to maneuver and observation in real situations and using cones just like the DOT examiner will. We spend a great deal of time in areas that students seem to have the most difficulty in, such as backing. The basic maneuvers of safe backing, parallel parking, and alley docking are required to pass the skills test.

Driving Test

Once you pass the Skills Test with the examiner, you will move on to the Driving portion which will present many driving hazards. You will demonstrate proper driving techniques and safe driving practices. You must double-clutch to pass the driving test.

Our instructors will ride with you as you become familiar with our vehicle and prepare for your driving test. The driving portion of our training is also true to life, allowing you to drive on actual streets and highways. This exposes you to situations encountered over the road, like traffic, tight turns, stop lights and lane changes.