What to Expect on the Delaware CDL Skills Test: A State-Specific Guide

Getting your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Delaware is a key step toward launching your career in the trucking or commercial driving industry. The final challenge is the Delaware CDL skills test, a three-part exam administered by the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This exam evaluates your ability to inspect, maneuver, and safely operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) under real-world conditions and state-specific regulations.

At CDL eXpert, we help drivers prepare with the CDL Skills Exam course, taught by veteran examiner Al Hanley. This course covers everything you’ll face during the skills test—so you can pass on your first try with confidence.

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This guide outlines what to expect during the Delaware CDL skills test, key state requirements, and how our course helps you get fully prepared.

What’s on the Delaware CDL Skills Test?

The Delaware CDL skills test consists of three required parts:

• Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection

• Basic Vehicle Control (Backing Maneuvers)

• On-Road Driving

You must pass each section independently to earn your CDL.

Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection

This section tests your ability to identify key vehicle components and determine whether the vehicle is safe to drive. You’ll be required to explain how each part should be inspected and what potential defects to watch for.

What to Expect

You’ll be asked to inspect and describe components including:

• Engine compartment (belts, hoses, fluid levels)

• Brake system (service brakes, air brakes, lines)

• Steering and suspension systems

• Tires, wheels, and rims

• Lights, reflectors, and safety equipment

• Coupling devices (if applicable)

If your vehicle is equipped with air brakes, you’ll need to complete a full air brake system check, including:

• Static and applied pressure tests

• Low air warning test

• Spring brake engagement test

You’ll be expected to use proper inspection terminology like:

• “Properly mounted and secure”

• “Not cracked, bent, or broken”

• “No leaks and functioning correctly”

Delaware-Specific Requirements

Delaware DMV follows a pass/fail inspection model. Missing required inspection items—especially safety-critical components—can result in automatic failure.You must complete the pre-trip without notes or assistance once the test begins.Delaware examiners adhere closely to the Delaware CDL Manual, which outlines the exact inspection sequence.Failure to properly perform the air brake check results in disqualification from the air brake endorsement.

Basic Vehicle Control (Backing Maneuvers)

This portion of the test evaluates your ability to control the vehicle at low speeds in a confined area. You’ll be required to complete a series of backing maneuvers using only mirrors and visual awareness.

What to Expect

Delaware CDL testing typically includes three of the following maneuvers:

• Straight-Line Backing

• Offset Backing (Left or Right)

• Alley Dock

• Parallel Parking (Driver-Side or Conventional)

Each maneuver must be completed while staying within the lines and avoiding contact with cones or other obstacles.

Delaware-Specific Requirements

Parallel parking is required for most CDL classes in Delaware.Examiners allow a limited number of pull-ups and stop-and-looks. Exceeding these may result in deductions or failure.Cone strikes, crossing boundaries, or unsafe corrections can result in automatic failure.Delaware uses standard AAMVA backing layouts, but spacing may vary slightly by location—be ready for all maneuver types.

On-Road Driving

The final section assesses your ability to operate a CMV in real traffic conditions. The examiner will observe your performance through a mix of traffic environments and road types.

What to Expect

You’ll be evaluated on your ability to:

• Stay in your lane and maintain proper speed

• Check mirrors and blind spots regularly

• Signal properly and complete turns legally

• Shift gears correctly (manual transmission)

• Merge, change lanes, and adjust to traffic

• Navigate intersections, stop signs, and traffic lights

• Safely approach school zones, railroad crossings, and work zones

Delaware-Specific Requirements

Delaware enforces strict railroad crossing procedures—you must come to a full stop, even when no train is present.Improper mirror use, incomplete stops, or speeding—especially in school zones—can result in failure.The test route may include urban roads, highways, and residential areas depending on location.Drivers must demonstrate complete control and awareness throughout the exam.

Delaware CDL Testing Locations

CDL skills tests in Delaware are administered by the Delaware DMV at official state-operated testing centers.

Common testing locations include:

• Wilmington

• Dover

• Georgetown

• Delaware City

You must schedule your appointment in advance through the DMV’s website or by phone. Availability varies by location and time of year.

How CDL eXpert Helps You Prepare

The CDL Skills Exam course is built to help you pass the Delaware CDL skills test with confidence. Created by a former CDL examiner, the course prepares you for every scoring category and covers the areas where most drivers lose points.

What’s Included?

• Pre-Trip Inspection walkthroughs (standard and legacy formats)

• Clear demonstrations of backing maneuvers with setup and corrections

• On-road driving tips that align with examiner scoring

• Full air brake inspection training using required terminology and procedures

Course Details

• $29.95

• 2.5 hours of video training

• 37 easy-to-follow lessons

• Free preview available

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This course is perfect for first-time testers and anyone looking to retest with better preparation.

Final Thoughts

The Delaware CDL skills test is your final challenge on the path to earning your commercial license. With the right preparation, you can pass with confidence. The CDL Skills Exam course gives you the structure, insight, and test-day readiness you need to succeed.

From detailed inspections to smooth backing and road safety—this course helps you feel fully prepared for every part of the test.

Good luck on your Delaware CDL skills test!