CDL Classes Explained (2026)
Your CDL "class" is decided by one thing: the size and setup of the vehicle you drive. Here's exactly how Class A, B, and C are defined in federal law — with the real weight numbers, example vehicles, and what each one lets you do behind the wheel.
The three CDL classes at a glance
- Class A
- Combination: GCWR ≥ 26,001 lb where the towed unit(s) have a combined GVWR over 10,000 lb (tractor-trailers)
- Class B
- Single vehicle with GVWR ≥ 26,001 lb — or that vehicle towing something 10,000 lb or less (straight trucks, buses)
- Class C
- Smaller vehicle (below A/B limits) built for 16+ passengers including the driver, OR hauling placarded hazmat
- Step-down
- Class A can drive B and C; Class B can drive C — with the right endorsements. Class C gives no step-down
Requirements verified July 20, 2026 against FMCSA (49 CFR 383.91)
Class A, B, and C compared
| Class | Weight threshold | Example vehicles | What it lets you drive |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class A | Combination with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of 26,001 lb or more, where the towed unit(s) have a combined GVWR over 10,000 lb. | Tractor-trailer, flatbed with heavy trailer, tanker rig, most over-the-road rigs. | Class A vehicles — plus Class B and Class C vehicles (step-down), with the right endorsements. |
| Class B | A single vehicle with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,001 lb or more — or that vehicle towing a unit rated 10,000 lb or less. | Straight (box) truck, dump truck, large delivery truck, most city and transit buses. | Class B vehicles — plus Class C vehicles (step-down), with the right endorsements. |
| Class C | A vehicle that doesn't meet the Class A or B weight limits, but is designed to carry 16+ passengers (including the driver) or is used to haul placarded hazardous materials. | Passenger van or small bus, smaller hazmat vehicle. | Class C vehicles only. No step-down to other classes. |
GCWR = Gross Combination Weight Rating (the whole rig). GVWR = Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (a single unit). These are the manufacturer's ratings, not the actual loaded weight on a given day.
The step-down rule (and why it matters)
Federal rules build in a "step-down" so higher classes cover lower ones. A Class A holder may drive Class B and Class C vehicles. A Class B holder may drive Class C vehicles. Class C does not step down to anything. This is a big reason Class A is the most versatile license — it's the only one that covers all three groups.
One catch: step-down does not hand you endorsements. To carry passengers, drive a school bus, haul hazmat, or pull tanks, you still need the matching endorsement no matter which class you hold.
Class is not the same as an endorsement
People mix these up constantly. Your class is set by the vehicle's weight and configuration. An endorsement is a separate add-on that unlocks specific cargo or vehicles:
- H — Hazmat: hauling placarded hazardous materials (knowledge test + TSA background check).
- N — Tanker: hauling liquids or gases in bulk.
- P — Passenger: driving vehicles that carry passengers.
- S — School bus: driving a school bus (requires P first).
- T — Doubles/Triples: pulling more than one trailer (Class A only).
You can add endorsements to any class. See the full breakdown on ourCDL endorsements guide.
Go deeper on each class
- Class A CDLThe most versatile license — tractor-trailer and over-the-road jobs.
- Class B CDLStraight trucks, dump trucks, and buses — often local work.
- Class A vs Class BSide-by-side comparison to help you choose.
Ready to start? Read how to get a CDL, check the CDL cost breakdown, and study with our free CDL practice tests. First-time Class A and B drivers also need Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) before testing.
CDL classes FAQ
What is the difference between a Class A, B, and C CDL?
It comes down to weight and how the vehicle is put together. Class A is for combination vehicles — a power unit plus a heavy towed trailer (over 10,000 lb) with a combined rating of at least 26,001 lb. Class B is for a single heavy vehicle rated 26,001 lb or more. Class C is for smaller vehicles that either carry 16 or more people (including the driver) or haul placarded hazardous materials.
Can a Class A CDL driver drive Class B and Class C vehicles?
Yes. Federal rules give Class A a "step-down": with the correct endorsements, a Class A holder can operate Class B and Class C vehicles too. A Class B holder can step down to Class C. Class C confers no step-down. You still need the right endorsement for anything like hazmat, passengers, tank, or school bus.
Are endorsements the same as a CDL class?
No. Your class is set by the vehicle's size and configuration. Endorsements are separate add-ons that unlock specific cargo or vehicles — hazmat (H), tanker (N), passenger (P), school bus (S), and doubles/triples (T). You can hold any class and add endorsements on top of it.
Why do some sources call them "groups" instead of classes?
The federal regulation (49 CFR 383.91) technically calls them "groups" of commercial motor vehicles. States brand them as "classes" on the license itself. They mean the same thing, so we use "class" throughout.
Which CDL class should I get?
If you want the widest range of trucking jobs — tractor-trailer and over-the-road work — a Class A opens the most doors. If you plan to drive straight trucks, dump trucks, or buses locally, a Class B may be all you need. Compare them on our Class A vs Class B page.
Official sources
Every requirement on this page traces to one of these official sources.