Broaden Your Knowledge of License Classifications
180 CDL Entry Level helps those who want to get their commercial driver’s license (CDL) through our training programs. This license is broken down into various classifications and endorsements.
CDL Classifications
Class A CDL
This license allows you to operate a combination vehicle, most commonly associated with a tractor pulling a trailer, with a GCWR of 26,001 or more pounds, with the GVWR of the trailer weighing more than 10,000 pounds.
GCWR = Gross Combined Weight Rating, or the total weight of both the tractor and trailer.
GVWR = Gross Vehicle Weight Rating or the total weight of any given vehicle.
If a driver has a CDL A, they can drive a Class B or D (common car or SUV) vehicle.
Class B CDL
It allows you to operate any single vehicle, most commonly associated with a straight truck, with a GVWR of 26,001 or more pounds. It also allows you to operate a single vehicle towing a trailer less than 10,000 pounds GVWR.
A driver with a Class B license can also drive a Class D vehicle, but not a Class A vehicle.
Passenger
This license allows you to operate any single vehicle, most commonly associated with a bus, such as charter buses, or buses, such as NJ Transit or PennDot buses, with a GVWR of 26,001 or more pounds.
Bus drivers transport people between places including work, school, and shopping centers—and across state or national borders. Some drive regular routes, and others transport passengers on chartered trips or sightseeing tours.
Endorsements
These are categorizations that allow a driver to operate special vehicles within the above classifications. As an example, a Class A license with an N endorsement allows a driver to operate a tractor pulling a tanker trailer.
A Class B license with a P endorsement allows a driver to operate a bus that carries more than 16 passengers, including the driver. It is often associated with motor coaches and city buses.
To obtain an endorsement, you must pass an additional written commercial driver’s license test. And for some, you also need to pass a road skills exam.
Letters in Licenses
- T – Double or Triple Trailers
- P – Passenger
- N – Tank Vehicles
- H – Hazardous Materials
- S – School Bus
Discover More About Licenses
A commercial driver’s license has many classifications. That’s why you can consult with our experts at 180 CDL Entry Level to learn more about classifications, endorsements, and more.