Maine sorts licenses by the size and weight of what you drive. Almost everyone taking this test is after a Class C license. Classes A and B are commercial licenses for heavy trucks and combinations.
Number of driver's license classes in Maine (A, B and C)
Handbook p. 8 ↗Maine license classes
| Class | Covers |
|---|---|
| A (commercial) | Combinations of 26,001+ lbs GCWR towing over 10,000 lbs |
| B (commercial) | Single vehicle of 26,001+ lbs GVWR (may tow ≤ 10,000 lbs) |
| C (standard) | Any single vehicle or combination not in Class A or B |
Know the rule
A Class A or B holder may, with any appropriate endorsements, operate all vehicles in Classes B and C.
Handbook p. 8 ↗Know the rule
A Class C license is a commercial driver's license only if it carries a hazardous material, tanker and/or passenger (bus) endorsement.
Handbook p. 8 ↗You need a Commercial Driver's License to operate:
- A combination of 26,001+ lbs GVWR when the towed vehicle(s) weigh more than 10,000 lbs
- A single vehicle of 26,001+ lbs GVWR, or one towing not more than 10,000 lbs
- A vehicle carrying hazardous materials in a quantity requiring placards under federal DOT rules
- A vehicle designed to carry over 15 passengers, including the driver
Know the rule
School buses, passenger buses and motorcycles are not separate classes. Each requires a special endorsement and an examination for that vehicle; separate study manuals cover CDL and motorcycle tests.
Handbook p. 8 ↗Minimum age for a school bus license (plus at least 1 year of licensed driving experience)
Handbook p. 8 ↗Know the rule
Anyone convicted of O.U.I. within the preceding ten years cannot receive a school bus operator's license.
Handbook p. 8 ↗Know the rule
Mopeds may be operated on a license of any class. A motorized bicycle or tricycle requires a valid license of any class, an appropriate learner's permit, or a motorcycle or moped endorsement.
Handbook p. 8 ↗Put it into practice
A 20-year-old with a clean Class C license wants to drive a school bus part-time. Not yet: school bus applicants must be 21 or older and have at least one year of licensed driving experience.