You need a commercial driver’s license to operate heavy vehicles. The reason for getting these commercial driver’s licenses is to ensure strict compliance with regulations.
There are different types of commercial driver’s licenses. You can get these commercial driver’s licenses only after you have passed your written and practical driving tests. So, what are the various types of commercial driver licenses?
- Class A: This commercial driver’s license is given to people who want to drive combination vehicles with a trailer, exceeding 10,001 pounds Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). Examples of such vehicles are tractor-trailers, flatbeds, semi-trucks, and double or triple trailers.
- Class B: If you want to drive heavy straight trucks, exceeding 26,000 pounds GVWR, you need a class B commercial driver’s license. Examples of these heavy straight trucks are cement mixers, box trucks, larger passenger buses, dump trucks, and even garbage trucks.
- Class C: These are for individuals who want to drive small passenger vehicles. These vehicles transport more than 16 passengers and materials considered hazardous under federal laws. Examples of such vehicles are hotel shuttles and buses.
Other types of commercial driver licenses include:
- A Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) is required for a person to undergo their commercial driver’s license training.
- Commercial Driver’s License—Agriculture/Military (CDL-A/M) are licenses that exempt military and agricultural drivers.
- Commercial Driver’s License—School Bus (CDL-S) is specialized license training for people who want to drive school buses. School bus driving is also considered a form of commercial driving.
Commercial Driver’s License Endorsements
Endorsements are additional certifications for specialized vehicles or cargo. They include:
- H: Hazardous Materials (Hazmat)
- N: Tank Vehicle
- P: Passenger
- S: School Bus
- T: Double/Triple Trailers
- X: Tank Vehicle and Hazmat combination
Commercial Driver’s License Restrictions
Several restrictions have been put in place to limit what a driver with a commercial driver’s license can do like:
- E: No manual transmission
The driver is prohibited from operating vehicles with a manual (stick shift) transmission. - K: Intrastate only (no interstate driving)
This restriction limits the driver to operating within a single state, preventing them from driving across state lines. - L: No full air brake equipped CMV
The driver cannot operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) that has full air brakes. - M: No passenger endorsement
This means the driver is not allowed to transport passengers. - N: No cargo in tanker
The driver is not permitted to carry cargo in a tanker vehicle. - O: No fifth-wheel connection
This restriction prohibits the driver from operating vehicles that have a fifth-wheel connection, often used for towing. - V: Medical variance
This indicates that the driver has a medical condition that may limit their driving capabilities but has received a variance. - W: No cargo in tanker with hazardous materials
This restriction means the driver is not allowed to transport hazardous materials in a tanker.
How to Obtain a Commercial Driver License
- Check to ensure that you meet the residency and age requirements.
- There are physical examinations you must undertake and pass to get your license.
- You have to complete commercial driver’s license training.
- Ensure that you pass the skills and knowledge tests so that you are given the license.
- Maintain a spotless driving record at all times.
Conclusion
It’s important to know about the different types of commercial driver’s licenses if you want to drive a commercial vehicle. Understanding what each license means helps you stay safe and follow the rules. It also makes sure that only licensed drivers are on the road, which keeps everyone safe.
If you want to drive a commercial vehicle, start by getting the right license. Make sure you understand the rules that come with it. By knowing what to expect, you can help keep the roads safe for everyone.
