A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is a specialized license required to operate large or heavy vehicles, typically used for commercial purposes. There are different classes of CDLs (Class A, B, and C) depending on the type and weight of the vehicle and what is being transported.

Obtaining a CDL requires passing both written and practical tests that assess knowledge of vehicle operation, safety, and regulations.

Meet the basic requirements of the state of Kentucky, obtain a commercial learner’s permit (CLP), pass the CDL skills test, submit medical certification, and pay the required fees.

A Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) allows the holder to operate a combination of vehicles with a gross combined weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the vehicle being towed is heavier than 10,000 pounds.

Vehicles with a GCWR of 26,0001 pounds or more typically include large tractor-trailers, semi-trucks, tanker vehicles, livestock carriers, flatbed trucks, and any combination of vehicles such as truck and trailer setups.

The typical cost for obtaining a Class A CDL can range from $4,000 to $10,000, depending on the location. ANU offers a very competitive tuition rate. Learn more.

A Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) allows the holder to operate a single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, or any vehicle that is towing another vehicle weighing 10,000 pounds or less.

With a Class B CDL, you can drive Straight trucks, Large buses, Box trucks, Cement mixers, and Garbage trucks. You can also tow vehicles or trailers that are 10,000 pounds or less with this license.

A Class C Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) allows the holder to operate vehicles that are designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or are used to transport hazardous materials in amounts requiring placards.

With a Class C CDL, you can drive small passenger vans, buses that don’t meet the weight criteria for a Class B license, and vehicles used to transport hazardous materials (with proper endorsements).

A CDL endorsement is an additional qualification added to your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) that allows you to operate specialized types of commercial vehicles or transport specific types of cargo.

Allows the driver to transport hazardous materials. Requires a written test and passing a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) background check.

Allows the driver to operate a vehicle that transports liquid or gaseous materials in a tank (often over 1,000 gallons). Requires a written test.

Allows the driver to pull double or triple trailers. Requires passing a written test.

Allows the driver to operate a vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver. Requires a written and skills test.

Allows the driver to operate a school bus. Requires passing a written and skills test as well as a background check.

Allows the driver to operate both tanker vehicles and transport hazardous materials. It combines the requirements for both the “N” (tanker) and “H” (hazmat) endorsements.