In the US there are two basic commercial drivers’ licenses; Class A and Class B. A Class B license is needed if you are going to operate a vehicle with a GVWR, gross vehicle weight rating of more than 26,001 pounds. Every state has its own system of rules and regulations for issuing a Class B license, these regulations can include proof of residency in the state, the various fees that are charged and the steps that need to be followed when applying. Although there are variables between states, they all follow the guidelines which have been promulgated by the US Department of Transport. These Federal rules include taking commercial driver education courses which include written tests, practical tests, physical fitness tests and for certain tasks it is necessary to get special endorsements.
This rule is not dependent on the state; the first thing that has to be done is to make the application. Anyone applying for a Class B CDL, commercial drivers license must meet the minimum age and pass a physical fitness medical. There are some states that will allow an applicant as young as 18 to apply for the license but most states will not entertain an applicant until they reach 21 years of age. In those states which allow 18 year old people to have a Class B license these people must stay within state lines, they cannot drive interstate. It is a Federal law that interstate drivers must be at least 21 years old.
A candidate must pass a health check; this check includes vision and hearing although there are restrictions on those who suffer from heart conditions, epilepsy, diabetes, etc. Every driver applicant must pass these tests and the current OSHA requirements demand that these tests be repeated every two years to keep the license current and in force.
Candidates for a Class B license must enroll in a class that offers commercial driver education and then pass a written test prior to being granted the license. Once the license has been granted the holder can then begin practicing on the vehicle. It is the new license holder’s task to seek training in the appropriate vehicle. Depending on the endorsements there may be a need for additional skills training; such endorsements could be driving a school bus or hauling hazardous materials.
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