Shifting gears: New Jersey CDL practice questions
Part of the General Knowledge test. We have 8 checked questions on this topic. Here are the key rules, and two to try.
Key facts
| Part of | the General Knowledge test (80% to pass) | NJ MVC CDL FAQ |
|---|---|---|
| Manual section | §2.3 Shifting gears | NJ CDL Manual p. 2-9 |
| Questions in CDL Mile's bank | 8 | CDL Mile, checked against NJ CDL Manual |
Key rules
- § 2.3.1p. 2-10
Being in the right gear before the curve lets you apply some power while turning, which helps keep the vehicle stable. It also lets you speed up as soon as you leave the curve.
Manual Transmissions
- § 2.3.1p. 2-9
Downshift before you start down a hill, into a gear low enough to hold your speed without hard braking. That gear is usually lower than the one you would use to climb the same hill.
Manual Transmissions
Try two questions
General Knowledge · Shifting gears
Your truck has a retarder, and the road ahead is wet and icy. What should you do with the retarder?
Tap an answer to see the explanation and the manual page.
General Knowledge · Shifting gears
You are driving a truck with an automatic transmission down a long grade. How should you use the transmission to help control your speed?
Tap an answer to see the explanation and the manual page.
More General Knowledge topics
Sources
New Jersey Commercial Driver License Manual, version March 2025, New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. Page references are to its printed page numbers. CDL Mile is independent and not affiliated with the NJ MVC.
Updated for the March 2025 New Jersey CDL manual. Last checked November 5, 2026.
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