CDL: A commercial driver’s license (CDL) is a license required to operate certain large or heavy commercial vehicles. Classes A, B and C depend on vehicle weight and type, and endorsements allow certain kinds of freight.
Why it matters to owner operators
A Class A CDL is generally needed for combination vehicles over 26,000 pounds when the trailer weighs more than 10,000 pounds. Keep your license and medical certificate valid.
Example
A driver adds a tank vehicle endorsement to their Class A CDL to haul liquids.
Related terms
Compliance & Safety: Getting set up and staying compliant keeps your truck earning. We help new carriers with broker setup packets and certificates of insurance. Talk to our dispatch team or browse the full trucking glossary.
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