Trucking dictionary
CDL classes
CDL classes: CDL classes are the three groups of commercial driver's license: Class A for combinations rated 26,001 lb or more towing a unit rated over 10,000 lb; Class B for single vehicles rated 26,001 lb or more; and Class C for smaller vehicles that carry 16 or more people or placarded hazardous materials. Endorsements add specific vehicles or cargo.
The three classes
| Class | What it covers (49 CFR 383.91) | Typical trucks |
|---|---|---|
| A | Combination with GCWR of 26,001 lb or more, towing a unit with GVWR over 10,000 lb | Tractor-trailers; dump truck with heavy trailer; larger hotshot rigs |
| B | Single vehicle with GVWR of 26,001 lb or more (may tow 10,000 lb or less) | Straight trucks, tandem dump trucks |
| C | Smaller vehicles built for 16+ people, or carrying placarded hazmat | Hazmat in a light truck |
Source: 49 CFR 383.91, eCFR · checked 2026-10
A Class A license generally lets you drive Class B and C vehicles too, if you hold the needed endorsements.
In practice
- 26 ft box truck, 25,999 lb GVWR
- No CDL by weight
- 26 ft box truck, 33,000 lb GVWR
- Class B
- Pickup 14,000 + trailer 11,999
- No CDL (GCWR 25,999)
- Dually 16,500 + trailer 24,000
- Class A
- Tractor-trailer
- Class A
Ratings on the labels decide it, not what you carry. Run yours in the CDL checker.
The weight lines use ratings (GVWR and GCWR), not scale weight. That's why many 26 ft box trucks and small hotshot rigs are built to stay just under 26,001 lb. Check any setup in the CDL checker.
Endorsements
Endorsements go on top of the class (49 CFR 383.93): H for hazardous materials, N for tank vehicles, X for both, T for double and triple trailers, P for passengers and S for school buses. See the tanker endorsement and hazmat endorsement.
Do I need a CDL for a 26 ft box truck?
Only if its GVWR is 26,001 lb or more, or it carries placarded hazmat. Many are rated 25,999 lb or 26,000 lb, which doesn't need a CDL by weight.
What training is required for a first CDL?
First-time Class A or B applicants, and those upgrading, must complete entry-level driver training from a provider on FMCSA's Training Provider Registry (49 CFR 380.609).
Steve Woods · Lead Dispatcher, TruckSprint
Steve Woods leads the TruckSprint dispatch desk and reviews every guide we publish. How we research and update guides.
Updated October 2026