Trucking: Truck & Trailer Combination Weight, gross vehicle weight, cdl driver

Question
If I have a trailer at the weight of 22,500 and trailer at the weight of 10,001, does this require a CDL driver to pull this? Also, what is the maximum height restrictions for truck, trailer & load.  This is a drilling business, moving from shop to locations daily.

Answer
Joyce, check with your state DOT.  Below is excerpt from Florida and I think most or all states have the same requirements.

COMMERCIAL DRIVER LICENSE (CDL)
A CDL is required if you operate any of the following motor vehicles:
 A vehicle with a gross combination weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more with a
towed unit with a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 10,000 pounds;
 A vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more;
 A vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver;
 A vehicle of any size used to transport hazardous materials and is required to be
placarded.
CLASS “E” DRIVER LICENSE (NON-CDL)
Though not a CDL, a Class “E” driver license is required for all drivers of vehicles not
required to have a CDL Class License.
MEDICAL CERTIFICATE REQUIREMENTS
INTERSTATE COMMERCE
Drivers are required a valid medical examiners certificate when operating a commercial
motor vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating or gross combination weight rating, or
gross vehicle weight or gross combination weight of 10,001 pounds or more, which ever
is greatest; or is designed to transport more than eight passengers (including the driver)
for compensation; or is designed to transport more than 15 passengers, including the
driver regardless of compensation; or is transporting placardable amounts of hazardous
materials. Certain farm vehicle drivers and private motor carriers of passengers (nonbusiness)
are exempted for this requirement. Medical certificates are valid for up to two
years.
INTRASTATE COMMERCE
Drivers are required to possess a current medical certificate when operating a
commercial vehicle 26,000 pounds or more gross vehicle weight, transporting
passengers in a vehicle designed for more than 10 passengers, or transporting
hazardous materials in amounts that require placards. Medical certificates are valid for
up to 2 years.

Hope this helps.  Jim