What type of vehicle requires a Class B CDL?

A Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is specifically designed for drivers of single vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more. This includes large trucks like straight trucks, buses, and vehicles that are compliant with this weight specification. The requirement for a Class B CDL acknowledges the need for specialized training and skills to operate heavier vehicles safely on the road.

The significance of the 26,001-pound benchmark lies in the increased complexity and operational demands associated with larger vehicles. Operating a vehicle of this size requires a comprehensive understanding of vehicle dynamics, handling characteristics, and federal and state regulations to ensure safety for both the driver and other road users.

While options that mention different vehicle categories, such as gross vehicle weight ratings or combination vehicles, provide important information about CDL classifications, the defining characteristic of a Class B CDL rests squarely with single vehicles weighing 26,001 pounds or more. The emphasis on single vehicles helps distinguish the license category from Class A, which pertains to combination vehicles (like tractor-trailers) and requires a different set of skills and knowledge.