CDL Licenses
Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs) in the United States come in different classes, and each class corresponds to the type of commercial vehicle a driver is qualified to operate. Additionally, within each class, there may be various endorsements that allow drivers to transport specific types of cargo or operate certain types of vehicles.
Class A CDL
This class allows drivers to operate combination vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided that the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the towed vehicle is over 10,000 pounds. This includes tractor-trailers.
Class B CDL
This class is for drivers who operate single vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more or tow a trailer with a GVWR not exceeding 10,000 pounds. This class includes buses, dump trucks, and delivery trucks.
Class C CDL
This class is for drivers who operate vehicles that do not meet the criteria for Class A or Class B but are designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or carry hazardous materials in quantities that require placarding.