Vehicles Requiring a CDL

Combination vehicle (truck and trailer) if the gross combined weight rating (GCWR) is 26,001 pounds or more when the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the trailer, which is added to the GVWR of the power unit (the truck), is 10,001 pounds or more.  

• Class A CDL is required.

Any vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more. A trailer may be towed if the GVWR of the trailer is 10,000 pounds or fewer.

• Class B CDL is required.

Any vehicle with a GVWR of 26,000 pounds or fewer if the vehicle is required to be placarded to transport hazardous materials or if the vehicle transports 16 or more passengers, including the driver.  

• Class C CDL is required, and an applicant must also have a passenger (P) or hazardous materials endorsement (HME) to obtain a Class C CDL.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating means the weight that is assigned by the vehicle manufacturer to a vehicle and that represents the maximum recommended total weight including the vehicle and the load for the vehicle.