September 12, 2025 / Truck Accidents

Types of Commercial Driver’s Licenses

Types of Commercial Driver’s Licenses

Operating a commercial vehicle in Illinois requires more than a standard driver’s license. Drivers must hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), which federal and state law regulates. CDLs are divided into three primary classes, Class A, Class B, and Class C, with each allowing drivers to operate different types of vehicles. Here is what you need to know about the distinctions among the types of Commercial Driver’s Licenses. 

Class A CDL

A Class A CDL is the most comprehensive license. It allows drivers to operate a combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the towed vehicle is heavier than 10,000 pounds. 

Examples of vehicles requiring a Class A CDL include:

  • Tractor-trailers 
  • Livestock carriers
  • Tanker trucks
  • Flatbeds

Class A license holders can operate a wide range of heavy-duty vehicles, which makes them subject to strict testing. Drivers may also need endorsements depending on the cargo they are hauling, such as hazardous materials

Class B CDL

A Class B CDL covers single vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, or a vehicle towing a trailer that does not exceed 10,000 pounds. This license is often used by drivers who operate large vehicles for construction, transit, or delivery purposes. 

Examples of vehicles requiring a Class B CDL include:

  • City buses and school buses
  • Dump trucks
  • Straight trucks
  • Delivery trucks with smaller trailers

A Class B license is somewhat more limited than a Class A. However, it still requires specialized training and testing, particularly when passengers are involved.

Class C CDL

A Class C CDL is required for vehicles that do not meet Class A or Class B definitions but are designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or are used to transport hazardous materials. 

Examples of vehicles requiring a Class C CDL include:

  • Small passenger vans used for shuttles
  • Certain hazmat vehicles (like smaller tankers or trucks carrying regulated amounts of chemicals)
  • Vehicles designed for group transportation, such as church buses or airport shuttles

This license ensures that even drivers of smaller commercial vehicles meet higher safety standards when the risk involves hazardous cargo or passenger safety.

CDL Endorsements in Illinois

Drivers may need endorsements that permit them to operate specialized vehicles or carry specific cargo. They are required in addition to obtaining the correct class of CDL. These endorsements require additional knowledge tests and, in some cases, skills tests. 

Common endorsements include:

Failing to obtain the correct endorsements can lead to license suspension, fines, or even criminal charges if negligence causes a truck accident.

How to Obtain a CDL in Illinois

Getting a CDL in Illinois is a step-by-step process. It is designed to ensure drivers have the knowledge, skills, and qualifications to operate large commercial vehicles safely. 

Drivers must complete several key milestones before earning their CDL: 

  • Meet requirements: Applicants must be at least 18 years old for intrastate driving. Applicants must be at least 21 years old for interstate driving, transporting hazardous materials, or carrying passengers, and also hold a valid Illinois driver’s license.
  • Get a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP): Applicants must provide proof of residency, pass knowledge tests, and potentially submit a DOT medical certificate to obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP).
  • Hold CLP for 14 days: The CLP must be held for at least 14 days to practice driving under supervision.
  • Pass the CDL skills test: Schedule and pass a CDL skills test focused on pre-trip inspections, control skills, and on-road driving.
  • Add endorsements: Get applicable endorsements as needed.

The Illinois Secretary of State will issue a CDL once these steps are complete and fees are paid.

Contact the Lake County Truck Accident Lawyers at Kass & Moses Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today

Successfully earning this license not only allows drivers to pursue commercial driving opportunities but also ensures they are fully compliant with state and federal safety standards. Overall, obtaining the proper CDL and endorsements is essential for safety, compliance, and long-term success in a commercial driving career.

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, Kass & Moses Personal Injury Lawyers is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation with a Lake County truck accident attorney.

We serve throughout all of Northbrook, IL, and Lake County.

Kass & Moses Personal Injury Lawyers
601 Skokie Blvd Suite 401
Northbrook, IL 60062
(847) 513-9582