Classes A, B, and C

CDL Classes

If you received your commercial learner's permit after February 7, 2022, you will need to complete an FMCSA approved ELDT training program to be eligible to take a CDL skills test.

There are three classes of commercial driver's licenses (CDL):

  • Class A - Any combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed is more than 10,000 pounds.
  • Class B - Any single unit vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more or any vehicle like that towing a vehicle that does not weigh more than 10,000 pounds.
  • Class C - Any single vehicle, or a combination of vehicles, that are not Class A or B vehicles, but can carry 16 or more people (including the driver), or have a hazmat placard.

If you have a Class A, B or C CDL, you may drive a three-wheel vehicle, but not a two-wheel motorcycle with a side car.

Your CDL will expire every eight years unless you have a hazardous material (Hazmat) endorsement. A CDL with a Hazmat endorsement expires five years from the pass date of your Security Threat Assessment.

CDL Endorsements

As of February 7, 2022, you will need to complete an FMCSA approved ELDT training program to be eligible to apply for a hazardous materials (H) endorsement.

The following endorsements may be added to your CDL:

  • H - Hazardous Material (Hazmat)
  • N - Tanker Vehicle
  • P - Passenger Vehicle (Designed to carry 16 or more people, including the driver)
  • S - School Bus (You must have a P endorsement to have an S endorsement)
  • T - Double/Triple Trailers
  • X - Combination Hazmat and Tanker

You must complete the following tests for each endorsement above:

  • H - Knowledge test and TSA threat assessment
  • N - Knowledge test
  • P - Knowledge and skills test
  • S - Knowledge and skills test*
  • T - Knowledge test
  • X - Knowledge test and TSA threat assessment

*If you're interested in receiving the S endorsement, you must take the skills/road test in a vehicle that meets the following definition: "School Bus means a commercial vehicle used to carry pre-primary, primary, or secondary school students from home to school, from school to home, or to and from school-sponsored events. A school bus does not include a bus used as a common carrier.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) 49 CFR, 172, F