Ask X3What are the CDL classes and what can each drive under 49 CFR 383.91?
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Short answer
There are three CDL classes: Combination Vehicle (Group A), Heavy Straight Vehicle (Group B), and Small Vehicle (Group C). Each class has specific requirements and restrictions.
1. Combination Vehicle (Group A) - any combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 11,794 kilograms or more.
2. Heavy Straight Vehicle (Group B) - any single vehicle with a GVWR of 11,794 kilograms or more.
3. Small Vehicle (Group C) - any single vehicle, or combination of vehicles, that meets neither the definition of Group A nor that of Group B.
The rule says
"Any combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 11,794 kilograms or more (26,001 pounds or more) provided the GVWR of the vehicle(s) being towed is in excess of 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds)." (49 CFR 383.91(a)(1))
"Any single vehicle with a GVWR of 11,794 kilograms or more (26,001 pounds or more), or any such vehicle towing a vehicle not in excess of 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds) GVWR." (49 CFR 383.91(a)(2))
"Any single vehicle, or combination of vehicles, that meets neither the definition of Group A nor that of Group B as contained in this section, but that either is designed to transport 16 or more passengers including the driver, or is used in the transportation of hazardous materials as defined in 383.5." (49 CFR 383.91(a)(3))
In plain English
The three CDL classes are defined based on the type and weight of the vehicle. A Group A CDL is required for combination vehicles with a GCWR of 26,001 pounds or more, while a Group B CDL is required for single vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more. A Group C CDL is required for vehicles that do not meet the definitions of Group A or B, but are designed to transport 16 or more passengers or are used to transport hazardous materials. In practice, this means that drivers must obtain the correct class of CDL based on the type of vehicle they will be operating.
What to do
- Determine the type and weight of the vehicle to be operated.
- Obtain the correct class of CDL based on the vehicle type and weight.
- Ensure that the CDL has the required endorsements for the specific type of vehicle or cargo.
- Verify that the driver meets the eligibility requirements for the CDL class and endorsements.