Not all vehicles are licensed in the same way. EasyDriversEd has made it simple to understand the different types of driver’s license classes.
Standard Driver’s License
Class D licenses are used for personal vehicles. With one, you can legally operate vehicles that weigh less than 26,000 pounds, and depending on the locale, this license allows drivers to operate recreational vehicles and tow small trailers. However, these additional vehicles and attachments will need to weigh less than 10,000 pounds.
Commercial Driver’s Licenses
Knowing the different classes of driver’s licenses becomes more complicated when considering a commercial driver’s license (CDL). If you’re operating commercial vehicles and large trucks, you’ll first need to obtain a CDL. These licenses require more training and have additional requirements that must be met when compared to the more common Class D license type. You will have to complete various physical assessments and renew more frequently when obtaining a CDL.
Class A
A Class A CDL allows drivers to operate vehicles that exceed 26,000 pounds, such as 18-wheelers. You can also tow cargo exceeding the 10,000-pound limit with a Class A CDL.
Class B
With a Class B CDL, you can operate single, unhitched vehicles that exceed 26,000 pounds, such as city buses and dump trucks. With the proper endorsement, some Class B CDL holders might be eligible to operate limited types of Class C vehicles.
Class C
Lastly, Class C CDLs legally allow drivers to operate any vehicles that carry hazardous materials and vehicles that seat 15+ passengers, such as city buses and hazmat vehicles.
Common Commercial License Endorsements
If you’re operating an especially complex and specialized vehicle, you may be required to have additional commercial license endorsements. H, N, P, S, T, and X endorsements fall under the commercial license endorsement category.
Additional License Types
There’s one final puzzle piece to understanding what all the classes of driver’s licenses are. Some commercial and alternative vehicle types require specialized licenses:
- Taxi Service License: Even if you’re doing ridesharing, taxi drivers will often be required to have a Class E license.
- Junior License: In some states, younger drivers have added restrictions due to being given a junior (or DJ) license before they can acquire a full-on Class D license.
- Motorcycle License: Motorcyclists require some special training and receive this by obtaining a Class M license.
Get on the Road With Quality Driver’s Ed
Continuing or basic driver’s ed is needed to stay safe on TX roadways. If you want to up your driving game, contact EasyDriversEd to set up a quality drivers ed online course in Texas.