The vehicle you drive decides the license class you need. Most people need only a Regular Class C. Heavier vehicles, combinations, and commercial passenger or hazmat vehicles need Class A or B, or a commercial driver license (CDL).
Regular (non-CDL) license classes
| Class | Required to operate |
|---|---|
| A | CDL-exempt combination; towed unit GVWR 10,001 lb+ |
| B | CDL-exempt single vehicle GVWR 26,001 lb+ |
| B (towing) | Such a vehicle towing a unit of 10,000 lb or less |
| C | Noncommercial single vehicle under 26,001 lb GVWR |
| C (towing) | Combination under 26,001 lb, driver 18 or older |
GVWR
Gross vehicle weight rating, the weight figure the handbook uses to set each license class.
Handbook p. 7 ↗CDL vehicle classes
| CDL class | Vehicle |
|---|---|
| A | Combined GVWR 26,001 lb+ with a towed unit of 10,001 lb+ |
| B | Single vehicle GVWR 26,001 lb+ |
| B (towing) | Towing unit 26,001 lb+ with towed unit under 10,001 lb |
| C | Not A or B, but carries 16+ people incl. driver |
| C (hazmat) | Not A or B, but hauls placarded hazardous materials |
Know the rule
A CDL is required for paid or volunteer drivers of those vehicles when they are designed or used to transport passengers or property.
Handbook p. 7 ↗No CDL needed (but the right regular class is) for:
- Recreational vehicles
- Military equipment
- Fire and/or emergency equipment
- Certain farm vehicles
Know the rule
Volunteer fire, rescue or EMS members on duty may operate Class A, B or C fire-fighting, rescue or EMS vehicles with a Regular A, B or C license.
Handbook p. 7 ↗Know the rule
Special CDL endorsements are needed to haul hazardous materials, transport passengers, drive school or activity buses, pull double trailers, or drive tank vehicles.
Handbook p. 7 ↗School bus driver requirements:
- At least 18 years old
- At least six months of driving experience
- Class B or C CDL with "S" (school bus) and "P" (passenger) endorsements
- A School Bus Driver's Certificate (special training plus an exam)
Know the rule
School activity bus drivers meet the same requirements except that no School Bus Driver's Certificate is needed.
Handbook p. 7 ↗Know the rule
DMV will not issue or renew a CDL with a "P" or "S" endorsement for anyone required to register as a sex offender.
Handbook p. 7 ↗Put it into practice
You want to tow a camper with your pickup, and together they're rated under 26,001 pounds. You're 20, so a Regular Class C covers it: Class C includes towing combinations under 26,001 pounds for drivers 18 or older.