QuestionIsrael,
I hold a class B CDL, single vehicle with an air brake restriction. My question is, what class license is required to drive a one ton pick-up truck with a trailer registered at 12,000 pounds? Does a class B mean no commercial trailers? What is the difference between class A and class B other than combination trailers?
AnswerHello Allen
Class B means you can operate any vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 lbs. and more. You can only tow trailers up to 10,000 lbs.
Class A means you can operate vehicles with a GCWR of 26,001 lbs. and more. You can tow trailers with a GVWR of 10,001 lbs. and more.
CDL requirements BEGIN at 26,001 lbs. The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) on the trailer will determine whether you need class A CDL or not. The trailer must be 10,001 lbs and more to fall under Class A CDL.
Example 1: (truck)GVWR 11,000 lbs. + (trailer)GVWR 9,800 lbs. = GCWR 20,800 lbs. NO CDL required {11,000 + 9,800 = 20,800 lbs}
Example 2 : (truck) GVWR 11,000 lbs. + (trailer) GVWR 15,001 lbs. = GCWR 26,001 lbs. Class A CDL required {11,000 + 15,001 = 26,001 lbs.}
Example 3 :(truck) GVWR 17,000 lbs. + (trailer) GVWR 10,000 lbs. = GCWR 27,000 lbs. NO CDL required {17,000 + 10,000 = 27,000 lbs}
(The GCWR is over 26,000 lbs., but the trailer is under 10,001 lbs.)
Important number to watch is the number 1 at the end 10,001 lbs & 26,001 lbs. That 1 lb makes all the difference.
GCWR : Gross Combination Weight Rating (truck + trailer)
I hope this answers your question. If you need me to explain any part in more detail, just shoot me a question. I can provide the code section for any answer I give.
