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

Earning your commercial driver’s license (CDL) in Montana is a crucial step toward a trucking career. The final challenge is the Montana CDL skills test, a three-part exam administered by Montana Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) approved third-party testers. This test evaluates your ability to inspect, maneuver, and safely operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) according to Montana-specific regulations.

At CDL eXpert, we specialize in preparing drivers for the knowledge and skills tests required to obtain a CDL. While we don’t offer behind-the-wheel training, our FMCSA-compliant Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) program provides the essential knowledge you need to approach the Montana CDL skills test with confidence.

This guide explains the structure of the Montana CDL skills test, state-specific requirements, and how CDL eXpert can help you prepare.

What’s on the Montana CDL Skills Test?

The Montana CDL skills test consists of three parts:

1. Pre-trip vehicle inspection

2. Basic vehicle control (backing maneuvers)

3. On-road driving

Each section tests your ability to safely and efficiently operate a commercial vehicle under Montana MVD guidelines.

Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection

The pre-trip inspection evaluates your ability to assess your vehicle’s condition before driving. You must inspect key components, explain their function, and identify potential safety issues.

What to Expect

• You will inspect critical vehicle components, including:

  • Engine compartment

  • Brakes

  • Tires and wheels

  • Lights and reflectors

  • Steering system

  • Trailer coupling devices (if applicable)

• If your vehicle has air brakes, you must perform a full air brake system check, including the air brake leakage test and emergency brake test.

• You must verbally explain each part of the inspection using correct terminology such as:

  • "Properly mounted and secure"

  • "Not damaged or leaking"

Montana-Specific Requirements

• Montana CDL pre-trip inspections are pass/fail. Missing critical components results in automatic failure rather than a point deduction.

• Air brake system tests are mandatory for vehicles equipped with air brakes. Failing to perform the test correctly will immediately disqualify you from receiving an air brake endorsement.

• Montana’s cold winters and rugged terrain can impact vehicle performance. Examiners emphasize checking brakes, tires, and suspension for wear, freezing damage, and corrosion due to extreme conditions.

• The Montana CDL handbook provides an official pre-trip checklist that applicants must follow exactly to pass.

Basic Vehicle Control (Backing Maneuvers)

This section evaluates your ability to maneuver the vehicle in a controlled space. You must complete a series of backing and parking maneuvers while staying within boundaries and avoiding obstacles.

What to Expect

Montana CDL examiners typically test the following maneuvers:

• Straight-line backing – Reversing the vehicle in a straight path between two sets of cones.

• Offset backing (left or right) – Backing into a space offset from your starting position.

• Parallel parking (driver-side or conventional) – Parking the vehicle within a marked boundary.

• Alley docking – Backing the vehicle into a simulated dock or parking space at a 90-degree angle.

Montana-Specific Requirements

• Parallel parking is required for all CDL applicants in Montana. Unlike some states, Montana mandates this maneuver for all commercial drivers.

• Offset backing and alley docking are commonly tested. The required maneuvers may vary slightly by testing location.

• Hitting cones, excessive pull-ups, or crossing boundaries results in deductions. Too many mistakes will cause failure.

• Some testing sites may emphasize certain maneuvers over others. Checking with the test location before your exam is recommended.

On-Road Driving

The final portion of the test assesses your ability to operate a CMV safely in real traffic conditions. The examiner will evaluate your driving on city streets, highways, and possibly rural or mountainous roads, depending on the testing site.

What to Expect

During the on-road driving test, you will be evaluated on:

• Lane positioning and speed control

• Proper use of mirrors and signals

• Turning, intersections, and right-of-way rules

• Shifting gears (for manual transmissions)

• Merging onto highways and handling traffic

• Railroad crossings, school zones, and work zones

Montana-Specific Requirements

• Montana CDL tests frequently include mountainous and rural roads. Drivers must demonstrate proper handling on steep grades, sharp turns, and long downhill sections where braking techniques are crucial.

• Winter driving considerations may be tested. Examiners may evaluate how well drivers adjust to wet, icy, or high-wind conditions.

• Freeway driving is required. You must correctly merge, maintain highway speed, and exit safely.

• Strict lane change and blind spot rules apply. Examiners watch for proper mirror use, signaling, and blind spot checks before merging or changing lanes.

• School zones and work zones are strictly enforced. Any speeding violation will result in automatic failure.

• Proper railroad crossing procedures are required. Even if no train is present, failing to stop when required will result in immediate failure.

Montana CDL Testing Locations

The Montana CDL skills test is only conducted at MVD-approved third-party testing centers—Montana MVD offices do not administer CDL road tests. Due to high demand, appointments should be scheduled well in advance.

Some of the busiest CDL testing locations in Montana include:

• Billings

• Missoula

• Great Falls

• Bozeman

• Helena

Scheduling your test early is strongly recommended.

How CDL eXpert Helps You Prepare

At CDL eXpert, we provide the knowledge foundation you need to pass the Montana CDL skills test. Our FMCSA-compliant ELDT program ensures you are fully prepared by covering:

• Pre-trip inspection procedures – Step-by-step guidance on inspecting your vehicle, explaining each component, and using correct terminology.

• Backing maneuvers and vehicle control – Techniques for setting up your vehicle, using mirrors effectively, and correcting your position safely.

• On-road driving rules and safety – Guidance on Montana-specific traffic laws, defensive driving techniques, and proper gear-shifting strategies.

• Air brake system knowledge – Montana CDL tests emphasize air brake inspections, and our training covers this in detail to help you pass.

While hands-on practice is essential, our ELDT training provides the strong knowledge base you need to confidently pass your skills test.

Final Thoughts

The Montana CDL skills test is a challenging but necessary step in earning your CDL. With the right preparation, you can pass on your first attempt. CDL eXpert’s ELDT program gives you the knowledge and support you need to succeed.

From mastering the pre-trip inspection to understanding vehicle control and road safety, our training ensures you are fully prepared for this critical step in your CDL journey.

Good luck on your Montana CDL skills test!