What is a Commercial Drivers License?

A commercial drivers license , often referred to as a "CDL", is required in the United States to operate any type of vehicle with a gross weight of 26,001 lbs or over. Drivers have been required to have a CDL in order to drive a Commercial Motor Vehicles since April 1, 1992.

The Federal Highway Administration has developed standards for testing and licensing commercial motor vehicles drivers. The standards require States to issue Commercial drivers licenses to their commercial motor vehicle drivers only after the driver passes knowledge and skills tests administered by the State related to the type of vehicle to be operated. 

There are three types of commercial drivers licenses: Class A , Class B and Class C

Class A CDL Training is any combination of vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 or more pounds provided the GVWR of the vehicle(s) being towed is in excess of 10,000 pounds.

Class B CDL Training is any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 or more pounds, or any such vehicle towing a vehicle not in excess of 10,000 pounds GVWR."

Class C CDL Training is any single vehicle, or combination of vehicles, that does not meet the definition of Class A or Class B, but is either designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, or is placarded for hazardous materials.

Before you begin your search, consider the type of training you need. If you're not sure, get more truck driving information or call 800-831-1300.