CDL — Commercial Driver's License Requirements | Glossary

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CDL (Commercial Driver's License)

A special driver's license required to operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) including large trucks, buses, and vehicles carrying hazardous materials.

Key Facts

Three classes: A (combination), B (single heavy), C (passengers/HazMat)
Required for vehicles over 26,001 lbs GCWR
Drivers must maintain valid DOT medical certificate
Subject to FMCSA drug and alcohol testing requirements

A CDL is required for vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) over 26,001 lbs, vehicles designed to transport 16+ passengers, or vehicles transporting hazardous materials requiring placards. Three classes: Class A (combination vehicles over 26,001 lbs), Class B (single vehicles over 26,001 lbs), Class C (vehicles carrying 16+ passengers or HazMat). CDL holders must maintain a valid DOT medical certificate and are subject to FMCSA drug and alcohol testing requirements. States issue CDLs but follow federal minimum standards.

CMV Driver Credentials Compared

Licenses, certificates, and registrations required for commercial motor vehicle operators.

Type	Issued By	Purpose	Validity Period	Required For
CDL	State DMV	License to operate CMVs	Per state renewal cycle	Vehicles > 26,001 lbs / 16+ passengers
MEC (DOT Card)	NRCME examiner	Proof of medical fitness	1–2 years	All CDL holders
NRCME Listing	FMCSA	Certifies medical examiners	10 years	Examiners performing DOT physicals
HOS Compliance	FMCSA / ELD	Tracks driving/on-duty time	Continuous	Most CMV drivers

Related Services

DOT Physical Examination DOT Drug Test - 5 Panel

Related Industries

Transportation Construction

FMCSA Temporary Exemption for Paper Medical Examiner Certificates During NRII Transition

FMCSA issued a temporary exemption allowing interstate CDL and CLP holders and motor carriers to rely on paper copies of medical examiner certificates as proof of medical certification for up to 60 da

DOT Final Rule: Hair Testing for Drug Screening

DOT published final rule allowing hair testing as an alternative to urine testing for pre-employment drug screening of CDL holders. Employers may opt in to hair testing programs with proper MRO review

FMCSA Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse: Full Compliance Required

All employers of CDL drivers must query the FMCSA Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse before hiring and annually for existing drivers. The Clearinghouse is a federal database that tracks DOT drug and alcohol