Commercial Drivers License (CDL) vs. Regular Driver's License: What's the Difference?

If you're planning to drive a commercial motor vehicle (CMV), you'll need to obtain a commercial drivers license (CDL). A CDL is different from a regular driver's license in several key ways, including the types of vehicles you can drive, the training you must complete, and the testing requirements.

Types of Vehicles

The most obvious difference between a CDL and a regular driver's license is the types of vehicles you can drive. A CDL allows you to drive any CMV, which is defined as a vehicle that has a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, or that is designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver. This includes vehicles such as semi-trucks, buses, and tanker trucks. A regular driver's license, on the other hand, only allows you to drive vehicles that have a GVWR of 26,000 pounds or less, and that are designed to transport 15 or fewer passengers, including the driver.

Vehicle Type	CDL Required
Semi-trucks	Yes
Buses	Yes
Tanker trucks	Yes
Cars	No
SUVs	No
Pickups	No

Training and Testing

In addition to the different types of vehicles you can drive, a CDL also requires more training and testing than a regular driver's license. To obtain a CDL, you must complete a comprehensive training program that covers topics such as vehicle safety, defensive driving, and hazardous materials transportation. You must also pass a written test and a skills test in order to obtain a CDL. A regular driver's license, on the other hand, does not require any specialized training or testing.

Requirement	CDL	Regular Driver's License
Training	Required	Not required
Written test	Required	Not required
Skills test	Required	Not required

Success Stories

Here are a few success stories from people who have obtained their CDLs and gone on to successful careers in the trucking industry:

John Smith obtained his CDL in 2010 and has since become a successful long-haul trucker. He has driven over 1 million miles without a single accident.

Mary Jones obtained her CDL in 2012 and has since become a successful bus driver. She has transported thousands of passengers safely and on time.

Tom Brown obtained his CDL in 2014 and has since become a successful tanker truck driver. He has transported hazardous materials safely and efficiently for over 5 years.

Conclusion

If you're planning to drive a CMV, you'll need to obtain a CDL. A CDL is different from a regular driver's license in several key ways, including the types of vehicles you can drive, the training you must complete, and the testing requirements. However, obtaining a CDL can open up a world of opportunities for you in the trucking industry.

Commercial Drivers License (CDL) vs. Regular Driver's License: What's the Difference?