What is a Class A CDL Truck?
Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) trucks are heavy-duty vehicles that require a special license to operate in the United States.
What is a Class A CDL?
A Class A CDL allows drivers to operate 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.
Requirements to Obtain a Class A CDL
- 1Minimum age
18 years old for intrastate driving, 21 for interstate driving.
- 2Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)
You must pass a written knowledge test before taking the driving exam.
- 3Skills test
Includes vehicle inspection, basic maneuvers, and an on-road test.
- 4DOT medical exam
A physical exam to ensure you are fit to drive.
- 5Optional endorsements
You can earn additional endorsements for specialized vehicles (HazMat, double trailers, passenger buses, etc.).
Vehicles You Can Drive
A Class A CDL is the "Master Key" of trucking, allowing you to operate the widest variety of commercial vehicles.
Semi-trucks
Standard 18-wheelers and tractor-trailers.
Heavy-duty Trucks
Flatbeds, refrigerated trailers (reefers), and dry vans.
Tanker Trucks
Vehicles designed for transporting liquids or gases.
Doubles & Triples
Pulling two or three trailers at once (requires endorsement).
HazMat Vehicles
Transporting hazardous materials (requires endorsement).