Virginia CDL knowledge tests and skills tests aren't necessarily taken at the same type of location — and not every DMV office offers CDL testing. Here's exactly where each test happens and how to find and book the right location.
CDL knowledge tests are taken on a computer at Virginia DMV customer service centers. Not every DMV office offers CDL testing services, so confirm your preferred location supports it before visiting.
Always verify first. Use the official DMV location finder at dmv.virginia.gov/licenses-ids/cdl/locations to confirm CDL testing availability at any specific office before making the trip.
The skills test is conducted either by a DMV representative at select DMV customer service centers, or by a certified examiner at an approved third-party testing location.
A DMV representative conducts the test in a vehicle you provide, at select customer service centers offering skills testing.
Certified businesses, government entities, and Class A driver training schools that employ DMV-certified examiners. Some CDL schools that are third-party testers can test students on-site right after training.
Availability is limited. Because there are fewer skills testing locations than knowledge testing locations, schedule your skills test appointment several weeks in advance wherever possible.
Find it at dmv.virginia.gov/licenses-ids/cdl/locations for an up-to-date list of offices offering CDL knowledge and skills testing.
Ask directly whether they're a certified third-party tester — if so, you may be able to test on-site right after training, saving a separate DMV trip.
If multiple locations are within reasonable driving distance, check appointment availability at each, since wait times can vary significantly.
Appointments for both knowledge and skills tests are managed through Virginia DMV's scheduling system, or directly through your third-party tester if applicable. Book as early as your CLP hold period timeline allows — skills test slots in particular can fill up weeks in advance.
At any Virginia DMV customer service center that offers CDL testing, on a computer. Use the DMV's official location finder to confirm CDL testing is offered at your preferred office before visiting.
At select DMV customer service centers, or at an approved third-party testing location, including some Class A driver training schools certified as third-party testers.
Yes, appointments are strongly recommended and often required, especially for skills tests, since availability is limited. Schedule several weeks in advance where possible.
Use our free Virginia CDL practice tests to prepare for your knowledge exams. 500 questions, instant explanations, no signup required.
Start Free Practice Test →