CDL — Commercial License

Class A, B, C — what you can drive, age requirements, steps to get one, medical rules, and restriction codes. All per federal FMCSA standards.

The Three CDL Classes
A
Combination Vehicles
GCWR ≥ 26,001 lb + trailer > 10,000 lb
Tractor-trailers, semi-trucks, car haulers, reefers. Includes Class B and C privileges.
Tractor + semi-trailerCar haulerReeferLivestock hauler
B
Heavy Straight Vehicles
GVWR ≥ 26,001 lb (single vehicle)
Large single-unit trucks, city buses, garbage trucks, cement trucks. Trailer no heavier than 10,000 lb.
City busGarbage truckCement truckDump truck
C
Small Vehicles (Special)
Not A or B, but:
Only if: 16+ passengers including the driver, OR hauling hazmat requiring DOT placards.
Passenger vanSmall school busHazmat van
Minimum age: 18 to drive within a state. 21 for interstate, hazmat, and passenger CDL routes.
Learn More
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CDL Requirements
Age, permit, ELDT, tests
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1

Age and Residency

At least 18 years old to drive within a state (intrastate). 21 for interstate driving, hazmat, and passenger transport. You must hold a regular Class D/C license from the state where you are getting your CDL.

2

Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP)

First you get a CLP — only the written test is required (General Knowledge plus the sections you need). You must hold the CLP for at least 14 days before the skills test.

3

ELDT — Entry-Level Driver Training

Mandatory since February 7, 2022 for anyone getting a Class A or B for the first time, upgrading B→A, or adding an H, P, or S endorsement. Training only with a provider listed in the federal FMCSA TPR registry.

4

Written Tests (Knowledge)

General Knowledge (required for everyone). Additionally: Air Brakes, Combination Vehicles, and endorsement tests. Passing score is about 80%.

5

Skills Test (Practical Exam)

Three parts: (a) Pre-trip inspection — checking the vehicle; (b) Basic Control Skills — maneuvers on a closed course; (c) On-Road Driving. Taken in a real vehicle of the class you are applying for.

6

DOT Medical Certificate

Interstate drivers must pass a physical with a certified DOT Medical Examiner. Vision 20/40 in each eye, hearing, blood pressure. Valid for 2 years (or 1 year under certain conditions).

SDAP has ended: the program for 18–20-year-old interstate drivers ended on November 7, 2025. No new participants are accepted; those already enrolled may drive until they turn 21.
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CDL Medical and Vision Requirements
FMCSA standards
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Vision (each eye)
20/40
With or without correction. Each eye is tested separately
Peripheral vision
≥70°
Horizontally in each eye
Color recognition
R/Y/G
Red, yellow, green — required
Medical exam
2 years
Certificate validity. 1 year if you have hypertension or diabetes
Monocular drivers: the FMCSA issues a Vision Variance — a special waiver for drivers with one functioning eye, provided they meet all other criteria.
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CDL Restrictions — Restriction Codes
L, Z, E, O, K, and more
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  • L — No air brakes: the test was taken in a vehicle without a full air brake system, or the Air Brakes section was failed
  • Z — Air-over-hydraulic brakes only: hydraulic brakes with air assist only, not a full air brake system
  • E — No manual transmission: the skills test was taken in an automatic
  • O — No tractor-trailer: you may not drive an articulated tractor with a fifth wheel
  • M — Class B/C passengers or school bus only (downgraded)
  • N — Class C passengers or school bus only
  • K — Intrastate only: within the state only. Applies to drivers under 21
  • V — Medical Variance from the FMCSA: a special medical waiver
  • B — Corrective lenses required: you must drive with glasses or contact lenses
Tip: the L (no air brakes) restriction seriously limits your job options — most semi-trucks have air brakes. It is better to pass the Air Brakes test right away.
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Class A vs B vs C — Which One to Choose?
A practical comparison
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Class A is the most versatile and in-demand. Class B is for those not planning to pull heavy trailers. Class C is a narrow specialization.

  • Get Class A if you want to drive semi-trucks (OTR trucking), work in logistics, or are unsure — it offers the most opportunities and includes Class B/C privileges
  • Get Class B if you work on city routes (buses, garbage trucks, cement trucks) and will never pull a heavy trailer
  • Class C is enough for a school bus (with an S endorsement) or a small hazmat van
Important: Class A automatically lets you drive Class B and C vehicles. Class B covers C. It does not work the other way around.
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