There is a federal requirement that each state have
minimum standards for the licensing of commercial
drivers.
This manual provides driver license testing
information for drivers who wish to have a
commercial driver license (CDL). This manual does
NOT provide information on all the federal and state
requirements needed before you can drive a
commercial motor vehicle (CMV). You may have to
contact your state driver licensing authority for
additional information.
You must have a CDL to operate:
Any single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight
rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more.
A combination vehicle with a gross combination
weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 or more pounds,
provided the GVWR of the vehicle(s) being towed is
in excess of 10,000 pounds.
A vehicle designed to transport 16 or more
passengers (including the driver).
Any size vehicle which requires hazardous material
placards or is carrying material listed as a select
agent or toxin in 42 CFR part 73. Federal
regulations through the Department of Homeland
Security require a background check and
fingerprinting for the Hazardous Materials
endorsement. Contact your local department of
driver licensing for more information.
(Your state may have additional definitions of
CMVs.)
CDL Classi