Special Licenses

Who Needs a Commercial License?

You'll need to obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL if you intend to drive any of the following:

• A vehicle whose actual, registered, or gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is over 26,000 pounds and is towing a vehicle with an actual, registered, or GVWR of over 10,000 pounds (class A license)

• A vehicle whose actual, registered, or GVWR is over 26,000 pounds and is not towing another vehicle with a GVWR over 10,000 pounds (class B license)

• A vehicle weighing under 26,000 pounds and designed to either transport at least 16 people (including the driver) or carry hazardous materials (class C license)

Certain driving professions require having endorsements in addition to a CDL, while others don't require a CDL but do require an endorsement.

School Bus Drivers

To drive a school bus, applicants must have a CDL along with a school bus ("S") endorsement.

Shuttle Bus Drivers

Shuttle buses not only come in a variety of styles and sizes, but are used in many different ways. Drivers may need to obtain a a CDL, along with a passenger or other endorsements. Check with the potential employer to find out what is needed for the particular situation.

Taxi Drivers

You'll have to check with your local government offices or a taxi company. As a general rule, taxi drivers only need to have the standard, Class E driver's license. However, local jurisdictions may impose additional requirements.

Chauffeurs

Those seeking to be a chauffeur should obtain a CDL along with a passenger ("P") endorsement.

Sports Vehicle Drivers

You don't need to have a special license to ride an all-terrain vehicle or off-road vehicle.