A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is a specialized driver’s license required in the United States to operate large or heavy vehicles, such as trucks, buses, and vehicles transporting hazardous materials or more than 15 passengers (including the driver). The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets minimum standards for CDLs, but specific requirements can vary by state.
You must obtain a CDL if you operate:
- Any single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or actual gross vehicle weight (GVW) of 26,001 pounds or more.
- A combination of vehicles with a GVWR or actual GVW of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the GVWR or GVW of the towed vehicle exceeds 10,000 pounds.
- A vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
There are three main classes of CDLs:
- Class A: For operating combination vehicles with a GCWR of 26,001 pounds or more, including a towed unit over 10,000 pounds.
- Class B: For driving single vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, or towing a vehicle not exceeding 10,000 pounds GVWR.
- Class C: For single or combination vehicles not meeting the criteria for Class A or B, but designed to transport 16 or more passengers or hazardous materials.
To obtain a CDL, applicants must pass both knowledge and skills tests. Knowledge tests cover topics such as road signs, traffic laws, and vehicle operation, while skills tests assess the ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely. Additionally, applicants must meet medical and age requirements.
For comprehensive information on obtaining a CDL in Oregon, including application procedures, fees, and testing locations, visit the Oregon Department of Transportation’s DMV website.