CDL
Commercial Driver's License
A specialized driver's license required to operate large, heavy, or hazardous material vehicles in the United States, issued by individual states under federal standards.
A CDL (Commercial Driver's License) is a driver's license required to operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in the United States. CDL requirements are established by federal law and regulated by the FMCSA, but the licenses are issued by individual state departments of motor vehicles. A CDL is required for vehicles with a gross combination weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more, vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver), and any vehicle required to carry hazardous materials placards.
There are three classes of CDL. Class A authorizes the operation of combination vehicles with a gross combination weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the towed vehicle weighs more than 10,000 pounds. Class B authorizes single vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, or towing a vehicle weighing less than 10,000 pounds. Class C covers vehicles that do not meet Class A or B criteria but are designed to transport 16 or more passengers or carry hazardous materials.
In addition to the base license class, drivers can obtain endorsements that authorize additional types of operation. Common endorsements include the Hazmat (H) endorsement, Tanker (N) endorsement, Double/Triple Trailer (T) endorsement, Passenger (P) endorsement, and School Bus (S) endorsement. Each endorsement requires passing an additional knowledge or skills test.
CDL holders are subject to stricter regulations than non-commercial drivers, including lower blood alcohol concentration limits (0.04% vs. 0.08%), mandatory drug and alcohol testing, medical certification requirements, and hours-of-service regulations enforced by the FMCSA.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different CDL classes?
Class A is for combination vehicles over 26,001 lbs GCWR where the towed vehicle exceeds 10,000 lbs. Class B is for single vehicles over 26,001 lbs GVWR. Class C covers vehicles transporting 16+ passengers or hauling hazmat that don't meet Class A or B weight requirements.
How do I get a CDL?
You must be at least 18 years old for intrastate or 21 for interstate driving, obtain a CDL learner's permit by passing a written knowledge test, complete CDL training, pass a skills test (pre-trip inspection, basic controls, and road test), and meet medical certification requirements.
Do CDL drivers need a medical card?
Yes. All CDL holders who operate in interstate commerce must maintain a valid medical examiner's certificate (medical card) from a DOT-certified medical examiner. The certificate is typically valid for up to two years, though some conditions may require more frequent examinations.
Related Terms
Hazmat Endorsement
A special endorsement added to a commercial driver's license (CDL) that authorizes the driver to transport hazardous materials requiring placarding.
FMCSA
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
The federal agency within the U.S. Department of Transportation responsible for regulating the trucking and bus industries, with a focus on reducing crashes, injuries, and fatalities.
USDOT Number
United States Department of Transportation Number
A unique identifier assigned by the FMCSA to commercial motor carriers operating in interstate commerce, used to track safety information and compliance.
Operating Authority
The legal permission granted by the FMCSA that allows a carrier, broker, or freight forwarder to conduct for-hire transportation operations in interstate commerce.