A 3-minute lesson from the Minnesota course. Read the rules and examples, follow the handbook page references, and check your understanding before you move on.
Your license class decides which vehicles you may drive. Most people need only Class D; heavier or specialized vehicles need a commercial class or an endorsement.
Know the rule
Always carry your license when driving. Your class, endorsements and restrictions are listed on the back. Minnesota has four license classes.
You need an endorsement for motorcycles, buses, school buses, double and triple trailers, tank vehicles and hazardous materials. Every endorsement requires extra written tests; bus, school bus and motorcycle endorsements also need a special road test.
Work vehicles over 10,000 pounds, delivery vehicles and vehicles built for more than eight passengers (including the driver) may fall under commercial motor carrier rules, including a USDOT medical certificate.
You tow a 12,000-pound camper with a pickup; together they weigh 24,000 pounds. Class D covers it because the combined weight is 26,000 pounds or less. At 27,000 pounds combined, it wouldn't.
Check your understanding
Read the question, decide on an answer, then open it to check the explanation. These are Roadwise study questions based on the source handbook.
A Class D license does NOT allow you to drive a vehicle with a gross vehicle weight of what or more?
10,000 pounds
26,001 pounds
15,000 pounds
20,000 pounds
Answer: 26,001 pounds
Class D excludes vehicles with a gross vehicle weight of 26,001 pounds or more.