What does 49 CFR 383.91 (Commercial motor vehicle groups) require?

Short answer

49 CFR 383.91 requires each driver applicant to possess and be tested on their knowledge and skills for the commercial motor vehicle group(s) they desire a CDL for, with three groups defined: Combination Vehicle (Group A), Heavy Straight Vehicle (Group B), and Small Vehicle (Group C).

The rule says

"Each driver applicant must possess and be tested on his/her knowledge and skills, described in subpart G of this part, for the commercial motor vehicle group(s) for which he/she desires a CDL." (49 CFR 383.91(a))

1. "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))

2. "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))

3. "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

This regulation is about making sure drivers are qualified to operate the specific type of commercial vehicle they will be driving. The three groups of vehicles are defined based on their weight and what they are used for. For example, a Combination Vehicle (Group A) is a big rig with a trailer, while a Small Vehicle (Group C) might be a bus or a truck used to transport hazardous materials. The rule requires drivers to be tested on their knowledge and skills for the specific group of vehicle they want to drive.

What to do

• Determine which commercial motor vehicle group(s) you want to operate in
• Study and prepare for the knowledge and skills tests for that group
• Take the tests and obtain the required CDL
• Ensure you have the requisite endorsement(s) for the vehicle group you will be operating in