Trucking: Class A vs. CDL, motor carrier regulations, federal motor carrier


Question
I have a class A drivers license & took what they call a "Truck Test" in NC. Is there a difference in a Class A & a CDL?

Answer
CDL means Commercial Drivers License. There are two classes that fall under a CDL. Here are class descriptions straight from the Federal Motor Carrier Regulations book.

Section 383.91(a)(1) Combination vehicle (class A) — Any combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more provided the GVWR of the vehicle(s) being towed is in excess of 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds).

(a)(2) Heavy Straight Vehicle (class B) — Any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, or any such vehicle towing a vehicle not in excess of 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds) GVWR.

If you are NOT operating a commercial vehicle you may not need a CDL. Question 3 and 9 are from the guidance portion of the Federal Motor Carrier Regulations book. You may operate a large RV or pull a camper with a large truck without CDLs. Federal regulation does not require it, but your home state could require it.

Question 3: Does part 383 apply to drivers of recreational vehicles?

Guidance: No, if the vehicle is used strictly for non-business purposes.

Question 9: May a State require persons operating recreational vehicles or other CMVs used by family members for non-business purposes to have a CDL?

Guidance: Yes. States may extend the CDL requirements to recreational vehicles.

I hope I answered your question. If I need to clarify anything let me know.