The Different Types of CDL Licenses

Operating a commercial vehicle requires far more than the basic skills needed to drive a car or pickup truck—it demands specialized training, knowledge, and the proper certification. That certification comes in the form of a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), a legal requirement for anyone looking to drive commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) such as tractor-trailers, buses, or heavy-duty trucks.

In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of CDLs — Class A, Class B, and Class C — and explain what each license allows you to drive.

What is a CDL license?

A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is a specialized driver’s license required in the United States to operate large, heavy, or hazardous commercial motor vehicles. Any vehicle with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,001 lbs or more, vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, and vehicles that carry placarded hazardous materials require the driver to hold a CDL.

CDLs are divided into three types—A, B, and C—with each class defining the specific types and sizes of vehicles a driver is allowed to operate. Understanding the differences between these CDL classes is crucial for selecting the appropriate license based on the commercial vehicle you intend to drive.

Different types of CDL classes

Class A CDL

What is a Class A CDL?

A Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is the highest and most versatile level of commercial licensure. It allows drivers to operate large combination vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, as long as the towed unit exceeds 10,000 pounds. This is the license most commonly associated with operating big rigs and long-haul trucking equipment.

Class A licensing is the standard for professional truck drivers and is widely considered the most sought-after CDL type due to the range of vehicles it qualifies you to drive and the earning potential it offers.

Vehicles you can operate with a Class A CDL

With a Class A license, you’re authorized to operate heavy combination vehicles such as:

• Tractor-trailers (semi-trucks)
• Truck and trailer combinations
• Flatbed trailers
• Tanker trucks
• Livestock carriers
• Large RVs or commercial motorhomes (when required by state regulations)

Because Class A is the most comprehensive CDL type, many states also allow Class A holders—with proper endorsements—to operate certain Class B and Class C vehicles.

Class A CDL Endorsements

Endorsements expand the types of cargo and vehicles you can legally and safely operate. Many carriers offer higher pay for drivers who hold specialized endorsements. 

Common Class A endorsements include:

• H – Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT): Allows you to haul federally regulated hazardous materials after passing a written test.
• N – Tank Vehicles: Required for operating tankers carrying liquids or gases.
• T – Double/Triple Trailers: Permits you to tow more than one trailer at a time.
• X – Tanker + HAZMAT Combination: A combined endorsement for drivers hauling hazardous liquids or gases in tank vehicles.

These endorsements increase your job opportunities and earning potential in the trucking industry.

Class B CDL

What is a Class B CDL?

A Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is required to operate a single commercial vehicle with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, or a vehicle towing a trailer weighing no more than 10,000 pounds. 

Unlike Class A drivers, who typically handle heavy combination vehicles for long-haul freight, Class B drivers generally operate large single vehicles used for local, regional, or passenger transport.

Vehicles you can operate with a Class B CDL

A Class B license qualifies you to operate a wide range of heavy commercial vehicles that are not combination tractor-trailers. These include:

• Straight trucks
• Large passenger buses
• City and transit buses
• School buses
• Segmented buses
• Box trucks and delivery trucks
• Dump trucks with small trailers
• Certain tractor-trailers that do not exceed Class A towing limits

Class B CDL Endorsements

Like Class A drivers, Class B CDL holders can enhance their qualifications by earning endorsements. Common endorsements include:

• P – Passenger Transport: Required for operating school buses, transit buses, and motorcoaches.
• S – School Bus: Specialized endorsement for school bus operation.
• H – Hazardous Materials
• N – Tank Vehicles
• X – Tanker + Hazmat Combination

The Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements are particularly popular for Class B drivers pursuing careers in public or student transportation.

Class C CDL

What is a Class C CDL?

A Class C Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is required to operate smaller commercial vehicles that don’t fall under Class A or Class B.  It is ideal to transport groups of passengers or haul certain types of hazardous cargo. 

This license is typically needed for vehicles designed to carry 16 or more occupants (including the driver) or vehicles that transport federally regulated hazardous materials (HazMat) requiring placards. It also applies to certain combination vehicles that do not meet the weight thresholds for Class A or B.

Vehicles you can operate with a Class C CDL

A Class C CDL authorizes drivers to operate a wide range of smaller commercial vehicles, such as: 

• Small HazMat vehicles 
• Passenger vans 
• Combination vehicles not covered by Classes A or B 

Class C CDL Endorsements

Because Class C drivers often handle specialized operations, endorsements are frequently required. Common endorsements include:

• H – HazMat: For transporting hazardous materials
• P – Passenger: For operating passenger vans or buses
• S – School Bus: For driving school buses
• T – Double/Triple Trailers (when applicable)
• N – Tank Vehicles.

Determine which CDL type you need

Use this simple CDL decision guide to quickly identify the license class that matches your driving goals and the type of commercial vehicle you plan to operate.

• If you’ll be operating a combination vehicle over 26,001 lbs with a trailer exceeding 10,000 lbs, you’ll need a Class A CDL.
• If you’re driving a single commercial vehicle over 26,001 lbs without a large trailer, a Class B CDL is the right choice.
• If your role involves transporting 16 or more passengers or handling placarded hazardous materials, you’ll need a Class C CDL.

When choosing the right CDL, think about your long-term career goals, the kind of vehicles you want to operate, and the sector you plan to work in. If you’re looking for maximum flexibility and the ability to drive the broadest range of commercial vehicles, a Class A CDL is often the most valuable option. Just keep in mind that higher CDL classes usually come with more extensive training requirements and more challenging exams, so be prepared for the additional commitment.

Wrapping up: Which CDL is right for you?

Choosing the right type of CDL starts with understanding your career goals and the kind of commercial vehicle you plan to operate. Whether you’re aiming for local routes, interstate trucking, or specialized hauling, each CDL class comes with specific requirements and responsibilities. You must meet federal and state eligibility rules, pass a written exam, and demonstrate your driving skills in a road test.

While federal regulations apply nationwide for anyone operating commercial vehicles over 10,000 lbs for business purposes, certain intrastate or non-business activities may qualify for exemptions. Because the rules can vary based on your situation, it’s essential to review both state and federal guidelines before you begin.

By understanding these requirements ahead of time, you can choose the CDL class that aligns best with your goals and ensure you’re fully compliant and prepared for a successful trucking career.