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What Is a Class C Driver’s License?

Learn what a Class C driver’s license is, who needs it, the vehicles it allows you to drive, and the requirements to obtain this type of license.

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The most common driver's license type in the United States is a Class C driver's license. This license typically allows individuals to operate standard passenger vehicles, but it also has a few wrinkles. Here, we answer the question "What are Class C driver's licenses?" and delve into its scope and how it differs from other license types.

Understanding Class C Licenses

A Class C driver's license is a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) that permits you to drive vehicles that are not categorized as Class A or Class B. Those vehicles tend to be very large cargo or transport trucks, like tractor trailers. Generally, Class C licenses are held by school bus drivers, triple-trailer drivers, small business truck drivers, or drivers of small vehicles that transport hazardous materials.

Eligibility Requirements

The requirements for a Class C license vary between states. First, however, you must be at least 18 years old for intrastate driving and 21 years old for interstate driving. Otherwise, you must:

  • Meet any non-conforming state age and residency requirements.

  • Pass physical and vision tests to verify your ability to operate a commercial vehicle.

  • Pass background checks.

Identification and Documents

In addition to meeting eligibility requirements, you must provide proof of residency and identity. Some documents that can meet these standards include a Class D (standard) driver's license, a social security card, or a U.S. Passport.

Types of Vehicles Covered

What is a Class C driver's license? A Class C license lets you operate a wide variety of vehicles, from passenger vehicles to pick-up trucks and vans. With a Class C license, you may drive:

  • Vehicles that transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, like school buses

  • Vehicles that transport hazardous materials

  • Small trucks towing a trailer

  • Delivery trucks

  • Warehouse trucks

  • Small hazardous materials (HAZMAT) trucks

How To Obtain a Class C License

Getting special licenses like a Class C license is more complex than getting a standard passenger vehicle license. The step-by-step application process generally goes like this:

  1. Verify that a Class C license will permit you to operate the commercial motor vehicles you need to drive and that you understand your state's requirements.

  2. Obtain the CDL manual to learn about the types of vehicles you can drive and important terms, from gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) and combination weight rating (CWR) to triple trailers and more.

  3. Pass the state's written exam and any physical and vision tests necessary.

  4. Hold a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) for the state's designated period and complete any state-required training.

  5. Practice driving with a licensed CDL holder.

  6. Pass the driving test and pay the necessary licensing fee.

State-Specific Requirements

Every state has its own requirements for obtaining a Class C license. Some states may have more requirements than others, and it's important to understand exactly what's expected of you before you begin the application process. Look up the Class C requirements on your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website or visit a local DMV office to ask in person.

Maintaining a Class C License

As a commercial driver, your livelihood likely hinges on your Class C license. A suspended license could have major consequences. As such, it's vital to maintain a clean driving record and go through the license renewal process whenever required. Renewing your CDL typically requires showing your license and a residency document, and regular renewals and adherence to safety standards will keep you compliant with the state authority.

Understanding Restrictions

Like any license, Class C licenses have certain restrictions and may be revoked for certain violations. Like with any other license type, you must go through license registration, and the state authority will enforce regulations and restrictions.

Common Class C License Restrictions

The most important license restriction to remember is that a Class C license doesn't qualify you to operate Class A or Class B vehicles. These vehicles include combination vehicles like tractor-trailers or semi-trailers, while Class B covers lighter vehicles like straight trucks.

Like any other license, you may also risk losing your CDL for:

  • Operating under the influence of a controlled substance

  • Operating with an alcohol blood volume (ABV) of 0.04 or greater

  • Refusing an alcohol test

  • Leaving the scene of an accident

  • Operating without insurance

Don't Forget Car Insurance

That last bullet raises a critical point. Whether you operate a single vehicle or a small fleet, it's vital to have an auto insurance policy that protects all of these vehicles — and yourself. Navigating commercial auto insurance can be challenging, so whether you're a driver with a Class C license or the owner of a commercial vehicle, it's vital to have the right help in your corner.

That's where EverQuote's comparison tools come in. With simple, intuitive tools, you can explore your car insurance options and find affordable coverage for the types of vehicles covered under a Class C license.

FAQs About Class C Licenses

What does it mean to be Class C?
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Someone with a Class C driver's license has met the qualification requirements to operate certain commercial vehicles, like passenger vans, delivery trucks, school buses, and small hazardous materials vehicles.
What are type C vehicles?
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Vehicles you can drive with a Class C license include:
  • Vehicles that transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, like school buses
  • Vehicles that transport hazardous materials
  • Small trucks towing a trailer
  • Delivery trucks
  • Warehouse trucks
  • Small hazardous materials (HAZMAT) trucks
Is Class A or Class C better?
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Class A and Class C licenses are just different. Both are commercial driver's licenses, but Class A is considered the "universal" CDL, allowing you to drive all types of commercial vehicles, from Class C vehicles to tractor-trailers. However, a Class A license is harder to obtain than a Class C license, and if you don't need to operate major cargo vehicles, it doesn't really make sense for you to get one. In some instances, a Class C license may be better for your specific situation.