2024 Facts for Drivers PDF

2. With a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or gross vehicle weight (GVW) of at least 26,001 pounds, whichever is greater, or a combination vehicle with a combined weight or combined rated weight of 26,001 pounds or more that includes a trailer with a GVW...

2. With a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or gross vehicle weight (GVW) of at least 26,001 pounds, whichever is greater, or a combination vehicle with a combined weight or combined rated weight of 26,001 pounds or more that includes a trailer with a GVW or GVWR of 10,001 pounds or more; 3. Designed to transport at least 16 passengers, including the driver; or 4. Transporting a quantity of hazardous materials requiring placarding. This CMY definition, used for licensing purposes, is found at Section 383.5. A driver may elect to take additional testing to obtain one or more specialized endorsements to the license. These endorsements include double/triple trailer (T), passenger (P), school bus (5), tank (N), and hazardous materials (H). The federal rules require that every CDL applicant take a knowledge test before obtaining a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). A driver with a CLP can only drive in the presence of another CDL driver and is restricted in the type of equipment the driver may operate. The only endorsements a CLP driver can obtain are N (empty only), P (no passengers), and 5 (no passengers). Once a driver obtains a CLP, the driver must wait at least 14 days and complete entry-level driver training given by a provider listed on FMCSA’ss Training Provider Registry before becoming eligible to take the skills test required to be issued a CDL. The skills test is given by a person authorized by the state who is competent to evaluate and determine whether the driver has demonstrated their ability to operate a CMV and any associated equipment assigned. The road test must be long enough for the instructor to evaluate the driver. To pass the skills test, drivers must demonstrate mastery of the following: (a) Pre-trip vehicle inspection skills. Applicants for a CDL must possess basic pre-trip vehicle inspection skills for the vehicle class that the driver operates or expects to operate. (b) Basic vehicle control skills. All applicants for a CDL must possess and demonstrate basic motor vehicle control skills for 30