Class D Chauffeur's License Quiz

Class "D" Chauffeur's License Overview

• Permits operation of single vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 10,001 to 26,000 pounds for commerce.
• Allows driving of combined vehicles with a combined GVWR of 10,001 to 26,000 pounds, including towed units over 10,000 pounds, not for hazardous materials.

Allowed Work and Vehicle Categories

• Class "D" license permits transportation of passengers for hire, excluding Classes "A", "B", or "C" vehicles.
• Allows operation of vehicles categorized as Class "E".

Age Requirement

• Minimum age to obtain a Class "D" license is 17 years.

Vehicle Size Regulations

• Maximum width for most vehicles: 8 feet; with loads allowed to extend 6 inches beyond this limit.
• Maximum width for buses: 8 feet 6 inches.
• Maximum height for all vehicles: 13 feet 6 inches, though some structures may have lower clearances.
• Maximum length: 40 feet for single vehicles, 65 feet for truck-tractor and trailer combinations.

Exceptions to Vehicle Size Limits

• Width, height, and length regulations do not apply to auto carriers, trailers hauling poles, pilings, or logs during daylight hours.

Load Carrying Rules

• Loads must be secured to prevent dropping, shifting, leaking, or escaping.
• Loads must not pose hazards to other motorists.

Load Extension and Warning Flags

• Loads may extend 4 feet in front and 8 feet behind the vehicle; poles, pilings, and logs may extend 15 feet at the rear.
• A red flag (12 square inches) must be attached to loads extending beyond 4 feet during daylight. At night, a red light must be visible at least 500 feet.

Maximum Speed Limits in Louisiana

• General speed limit is 70 mph.
• Exceptions: 45 mph when towing another vehicle, 35 mph for school buses, and any posted lower speed limit.

Following Distance Regulations

• Drivers of motor trucks must maintain at least 400 feet distance from one another on rural highways except when passing.
• High beam headlights must dim at least 500 feet from oncoming traffic and 200 feet from the vehicle being followed.

Coasting Regulations

• Vehicles must not coast downhill with the clutch disengaged or in neutral gear.

Railroad Crossing Regulations

• Stop within 50 feet but no closer than 15 feet from the nearest rail.
• Gear changes are prohibited until after crossing the tracks.

Fire Extinguisher Equipment Requirements

• Vehicles transporting passengers for hire must carry a type 2-BC fire extinguisher, filled and functional.
• Tow trucks must have at least one 4-BC fire extinguisher.