In the United States, there are three classes of Commercial Driver Licenses (CDLs). A Class A CDL is typically for operating heavy combination vehicles, such as semi-trucks and tractor-trailers. A Class B CDL is typically for operating large single-unit vehicles, including large buses, box trucks, and most dump trucks. A Class C CDL is typically for operating smaller commercial vehicles that transport hazardous materials or at least 16 occupants (including the driver), such as small buses (including shuttle buses) or small trucks carrying hazardous materials.
To obtain a CDL of any class, you must meet a series of requirements. Notably, you must pass a medical examination and a General Knowledge test on commercial driving theory to obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). With a CLP, you can practice commercial driving under supervision until you become good enough at it to pass the official skills test, which includes basic vehicle maneuvers, a pre-trip inspection test, and a road test. Passing the skills test is a necessary and huge step toward obtaining a CDL.
However, depending on which class of CDL you’re applying for and which types of vehicles you plan to drive, you may have to pass certain additional knowledge tests. To be allowed to drive combination vehicles, you must pass the Combination Vehicles knowledge test.