Driver and Motorcycle Learner's Permit
The knowledge exam (Learner's Permit Test) tests your knowledge of traffic laws, road signs, and driving safety rules. It determines whether you are prepared to operate a vehicle in accordance with DC law. The exam is offered on a walk-in basis at DMV service locations, and available in English, Spanish, Amharic, Chinese, French, Korean and Vietnamese. Audio assisted exams are also provided for those who need help with their reading.

You may download a copy of the Driver Manual* and Motorcycle Operator's Manual* online. Hardcopy manuals are no longer available. Also, effective July 1, 2011, there is a fee for each knowledge test taken.

Commercial Drivers License (CDL)
An individual seeking to obtain a CDL must already have a regular driver license prior to taking the CDL knowledge test. In order to receive a CDL, each applicant is required to take the appropriate CDL Knowledge tests for the CDL Class and/or endorsements they are applying for. CDL knowledge tests are offered on a walk-in basis at our Brentwood or Southwest Service Centers and are available in English only. Upon successful completion of the knowledge test(s), a CDL learner permit will be issued in conjunction with your regular driver license. The CDL learner permit is valid up to one year and is non-renewable. Endorsements H (Hazardous Material), T (Tankers) S (School Bus) and X (Hazardous Material and Tankers) will not be displayed on the CDL learner permit.

You may download a copy of the DC CDL Manual* online. Hardcopy manuals are no longer available. Also, effective July 1, 2011, there is a fee for each knowledge test taken.

Note: If you fail the knowledge test 3 times within a 12 month period, you will not be allowed to take the 4th test until 12 months after the 1st failed test. Therefore, please ensure you have studied the driver, motorcycle or CDL manual prior to taking the written test. Testing Time limits: NCDL – 40 minutes, GRAD – 50 minutes, Motorcycles – 40 minutes, CDL General Knowledge – 1 hour, CDL Endorsements – 40 minutes. Exceeding these time limits will result in a test failure.