Types of CDLs

Commercial vehicles are divided into three size classes: A, B, and C. You may also need a special endorsement if you plan to carry passengers, haul hazardous materials, or drive double-trailer, triple-trailer, or tank vehicles.

The table below shows which vehicles can be driven with each class of commercial driver license (CDL).

CDL Class What you can drive
A
  • Single or combination vehicles of any size.
B
  • Single vehicles of any size.
  • Vehicles towing a trailer with a weight rating of 10,000 pounds or less.
  • Any vehicles listed under Class C, if properly endorsed.
C
  • Vehicles carrying 16 or more persons including the driver.*
  • Vehicles carrying hazardous materials with a weight rating of 26,001 pounds or less.*

* Requires a special endorsement