A Class DJ license is for driving medium-sized trucks and certain passenger vehicles

A Class DJ driver license is a commercial license category that lets you operate vehicles heavier than a standard passenger car but smaller than the largest commercial trucks. The exact vehicles you can drive depend on your state, because license classes vary by state law. In most states that use this classification, a Class DJ covers trucks in a specific weight range — typically vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) between certain thresholds — and may include some passenger buses or multi-passenger vehicles under certain conditions.

You need a commercial driver license (CDL) to hold a Class DJ, which means you must pass a written knowledge test, a skills test, and a medical examination. The medical exam is required by federal law for anyone operating a commercial vehicle. Unlike a regular driver license, a CDL also appears on your driving record and is subject to stricter rules about violations and medical disqualifications.

The reason Class DJ exists is to create a middle tier between regular driving and the heaviest commercial trucking. If you drive a delivery truck, a small box truck, or certain types of buses, you may need this license rather than a Class A or Class B CDL.

Key Takeaways

  • A Class DJ license is a commercial license for medium-weight vehicles, and the exact weight range depends on your state's definitions.
  • You must pass a written test, a driving skills test, and a Department of Transportation medical exam to get a Class DJ.
  • Class DJ requirements are stricter than a regular license but may be less demanding than a Class A CDL, depending on your state and the endorsements you need.
  • Your state's DMV or driver licensing agency publishes the specific vehicle types and weights that fall under Class DJ in your state.

Vehicle weight and GVWR determine whether you need Class DJ

The key number is gross vehicle weight rating, or GVWR — the maximum weight a vehicle is designed to carry safely, including the vehicle itself, cargo, and passengers. A Class DJ typically covers vehicles above a certain GVWR threshold but below another. For example, some states define Class DJ as vehicles with a GVWR between 10,001 and 26,000 pounds, though this varies.

You do not measure the vehicle's actual weight on the day you drive it. You look at the manufacturer's GVWR rating, which is printed on a label inside the driver's door frame or in the owner's manual. If the GVWR falls within your state's Class DJ range, you need that license to drive it legally — even if the truck is empty on a particular day.

Some states also define Class DJ by the type of cargo or passengers. A vehicle designed to carry a certain number of passengers, or a truck used for specific commercial purposes, may require Class DJ even if its weight would not. Check your state's DMV website or handbook to see how your state defines the class.

The written test covers commercial driving rules and vehicle operation

To get a Class DJ, you must pass a written knowledge test administered by your state's DMV or licensing agency. The test covers federal and state commercial driving regulations, vehicle inspection procedures, safe driving practices, and how to handle emergencies. You cannot straightforward take a regular driver license test; the commercial test is longer and more detailed.

Most states allow you to study using the official CDL handbook, which is free and available online from your state's DMV website. The handbook explains braking systems, cargo securement, hours-of-service rules, and other topics specific to commercial driving. Some states also offer practice tests online so you can see the format before you take the real exam.

You must score a certain percentage — usually 80 percent or higher — to pass. If you fail, you can retake the test, but there may be a waiting period between attempts, typically a few days to a week.

The driving skills test shows you can operate the vehicle safely

After passing the written test, you must take a behind-the-wheel driving skills test in the actual type of vehicle you want to drive. You cannot test in a regular car and then drive a commercial truck; the examiner must see you operate the Class DJ vehicle you will use on the road.

The test usually has three parts: a pre-trip vehicle inspection, a basic control skills test, and an on-road driving test. During the pre-trip inspection, you walk around the vehicle and point out safety features, lights, brakes, and other components while explaining what you are checking and why. During the basic control test, you perform maneuvers like backing up, turning, and parking in a controlled area. During the on-road portion, you drive in traffic and follow the examiner's directions.

You must bring a valid Class DJ vehicle to the test — you cannot borrow one from a friend at the last minute. Many people use a vehicle provided by a commercial driving school, which is why attending a CDL training program is common before testing.

Medical certification is required and must be renewed

Federal law requires anyone holding a commercial driver license to pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical examination. A certified medical examiner — not your regular doctor — performs this exam and checks your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and overall health. The examiner also reviews your medical history and any medications you take.

If you pass, the examiner issues a medical certificate, which is valid for one or two years depending on your health status and state law. You must carry this certificate with you when you drive, and you must renew it before it expires. If your certificate expires while you are driving, you lose the right to operate a commercial vehicle until you pass a new exam.

Certain medical conditions — such as uncontrolled diabetes, severe sleep apnea, or a heart condition — may disqualify you from holding a medical certificate. If you have a chronic health condition, ask a DOT medical examiner whether it will affect your ability to get certified before you invest time and money in training.

Endorsements may be required depending on what you carry or transport

Beyond the basic Class DJ license, you may need additional endorsements — special permissions that appear on your license and allow you to drive certain types of vehicles or carry certain cargo. Common endorsements include the Hazmat endorsement (for hazardous materials), the Passenger endorsement (for buses or vehicles carrying multiple passengers), and the Tank endorsement (for tanker trucks).

Each endorsement requires its own written test. If your job involves transporting hazardous materials, for example, you must pass the Hazmat test in addition to the Class DJ test. Some endorsements also require a background check or fingerprinting.

Ask your employer or the company hiring you which endorsements you need before you begin training. Getting the wrong endorsements wastes time and money, and getting the right ones from the start means you are ready to work as soon as you pass your tests.

Training programs can prepare you faster than self-study

Many people attend a commercial driving school to prepare for the Class DJ license. These programs typically last two to four weeks and include classroom instruction, vehicle operation training, and practice for the written and skills tests. Some schools may provide that you will pass the DMV test or offer a refund, though guarantees vary.

A training program is not required by law — you can study the handbook on your own and take the tests — but many people find that hands-on instruction and practice with an instructor reduces the number of test attempts needed. Schools also provide access to a commercial vehicle for the skills test, which solves the problem of finding a suitable vehicle to test in.

Training programs cost money, typically between $1,000 and $3,000 depending on the school and location. Some employers pay for training if you commit to working for them for a certain period. Some community colleges and workforce development programs also offer CDL training at lower cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Class DJ license if I have a regular driver license?

Yes. You do not need to hold a regular license first, but you must meet your state's age requirement (usually 18 or 21) and pass the medical exam. You can go straight to commercial licensing if you want, though most people hold a regular license first.

What happens if I drive a Class DJ vehicle without the right license?

You can be cited for operating a commercial vehicle without a commercial license, which is a serious violation. Fines are typically $500 to $1,000 or more, and you may face criminal charges depending on your state and whether anyone was injured. Your insurance may also deny a claim if you were driving without the proper license.

How long does it take to get a Class DJ license?

If you attend a training program, the process usually takes three to six weeks from start to finish. If you self-study, it depends on how quickly you pass the written and skills tests. Most people need at least a few weeks to prepare and schedule test appointments.

Do I need a Class DJ if I drive a truck for my own business?

It depends on the truck's GVWR and your state's rules. If the truck's GVWR falls within the Class DJ range, you need the license even if you own the truck and drive it yourself. Check your state's DMV handbook or call your local DMV office to confirm whether your specific vehicle requires Class DJ.

Can my Class DJ license be suspended or revoked?

Yes. Commercial licenses are subject to stricter rules than regular licenses. Violations like speeding, reckless driving, or driving under the influence can result in suspension or revocation. Some violations automatically disqualify you from holding a commercial license for a set period.