A Beginner’s Guide to the Types of CDL and Which One You Need

If you’re thinking about getting a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), you’re probably wondering where to start. With a few different classes and endorsements to choose from, it’s important to understand what each one allows you to do.

In this guide, we’ll explain the different types of CDLs and help you determine which one best suits your goals. Whether you want to drive a big rig across state lines or operate a school bus locally, there’s a license type made for that.

You’ll also learn what kind of vehicles each CDL covers, the general requirements to qualify, and some tips on choosing the right path if you’re just getting started. Let’s clear up the confusion so you can move forward with confidence.

What is a CDL?

A Commercial Driver’s License, or CDL, is required if you want to operate large or specialized vehicles for commercial use. That includes semi-trucks, buses, tankers, and vehicles carrying hazardous materials.

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), sets the federal rules. States issue the licenses and may have extra requirements. But at a basic level, you’ll need a CDL to drive most vehicles over 26,001 pounds, carry more than 15 passengers, or haul hazardous materials.

The Three CDL Classes

There are three main classes of CDL: Class A, Class B, and Class C. Each class determines the size and type of vehicle you’re allowed to drive.

Class A CDL

A Class A license is the most flexible and allows you to drive the biggest vehicles.

What it covers:

• Tractor-trailers (also called semis or 18-wheelers)
• Tanker trucks
• Flatbeds
• Livestock carriers
• Vehicles towing trailers over 10,000 pounds

If you’re planning to drive long distances across states or deliver freight for a trucking company, this is the license you’ll likely need. According to 49 CFR § 383.91, a Class A CDL allows operation of any combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the towed unit exceeds 10,000 pounds.

Common jobs with Class A:

• Over-the-road (OTR) truck driver
• Regional freight hauler
• Heavy equipment transporter

Class B CDL

A Class B license is for operating single vehicles that are heavy but not part of a combination (meaning no big trailers).

What it covers:

• Straight trucks
• Delivery trucks (e.g., furniture, food service)
• Dump trucks with small trailers
• School and city buses

Per federal law, Class B covers any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, or one towing a vehicle not heavier than 10,000 pounds. It’s a good choice if you’re staying local or working in construction or municipal services.

Common jobs with Class B:

• Bus driver
• Delivery truck driver
• Waste management driver

Class C CDL

A Class C license is for vehicles that don’t fit into Class A or B but still require a commercial license. These often involve transporting people or hazardous materials.

What it covers:

• Passenger vans for 16 or more people (including the driver)
• Small hazmat vehicles
• Some medical transport or airport shuttles

According to FMCSA rules, you’ll need a Class C if the vehicle is designed to carry 16+ passengers or is used to transport hazardous materials requiring placards under federal regulations.

Common jobs with Class C:

• Shuttle driver
• Hazmat courier
• Passenger transport operator

CDL Endorsements

Endorsements are added to your CDL to qualify you for specific roles. These require extra testing and sometimes background checks.

Some common endorsements include:

• H: Hazardous Materials
• N: Tank Vehicles
• P: Passenger Transport
• S: School Bus (must have P as well)
• T: Double/Triple Trailers
• X: Combination of Tanker and Hazmat

Endorsements can be critical depending on your job. For example, transporting gasoline would require both the H and N endorsements (or the X combination).

Choosing the Right CDL

The right CDL depends on your career plans. Ask yourself:

• Will you be driving long-distance or locally?
• Are you hauling cargo, passengers, or materials?
• Do you need any endorsements for the job?

Also, check your state’s CDL manual for specific training, testing, and medical requirements. Under FMCSA regulations, all drivers must pass a medical exam and meet age requirements—18 for intrastate driving and 21 for interstate driving.