Do I need a CDL?

Many drivers are not sure if they need a CDL, or what class CDL is required to operate the vehicles they intend to drive. Below is a decision tree wizard to help you determine if you need a CDL, and if so what class.

Gross combination weight rating (GCWR) means the value specified by the manufacturer of the power unit, if the value is displayed on the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) certification label; or the sum of the gross vehicle weight ratings (GVWRs) or the gross vehicle weights (GVWs) of the power unit and the towed unit(s), or any combination thereof, that produces the highest value.
(The underlined and italicized text above is for use by roadside enforcement only for the purpose of determining whether the driver/vehicle is subject to CDL regulations. It is not used to determine whether a vehicle is representative for the purpose of Skills testing).

Gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) means the value specified by the manufacturer as the loaded weight of a single vehicle.