The five main license classes and what they let you drive

Every state issues driver's licenses in classes, and each class permits you to operate a different category of vehicle. The class you hold determines what you're legally allowed to drive on public roads. Most people hold a Class D (or Class C in some states), which covers standard passenger cars, pickup trucks, and vans under a certain weight. The other classes — A, B, and commercial classes — cover motorcycles, larger trucks, and vehicles that carry passengers or hazardous materials for pay.

The specific names and rules vary by state. Some states call the basic passenger car license "Class D"; others call it "Class C". A few states use numbers instead of letters. What matters is that your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency publishes a chart showing which vehicles each class covers, and you need to know which class you hold before you buy or operate a vehicle.

You cannot straightforward choose a class. The class you receive depends on the vehicle you're tested on, your age, and whether you pass the written and driving tests. If you want to drive a motorcycle, you must take a separate test and receive a motorcycle endorsement or a Class M license. If you want to drive a commercial truck, you must pass a commercial driver's license (CDL) test and meet additional requirements.

Key Takeaways

  • Class D or C licenses (the names vary by state) cover passenger cars, light trucks, and vans, and are what most people hold.
  • Class A and B licenses cover motorcycles and larger vehicles, and require separate testing and training.
  • Commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) are required to drive trucks that carry cargo or passengers for pay, and have stricter medical and testing requirements.
  • Your state's DMV publishes a chart showing the exact weight limits and vehicle types for each class in your state.
  • You cannot upgrade to a higher class without taking a new written test and driving test for that class.

Class D (or C): The standard passenger car license

Class D is the license most people hold. It permits you to drive passenger cars, pickup trucks, vans, and small SUVs up to a certain weight limit — usually 26,000 pounds gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). You receive this class when you pass your written and driving test at your local DMV, typically between ages 16 and 18 depending on your state's rules for new drivers.

If you are under 18, your state may issue a learner's permit first, which restricts when and where you can drive (usually no driving alone at night, no passengers under a certain age). After holding the permit for a set period and passing the driving test, you receive an unrestricted Class D license. If you are 18 or older, you can often go straight to the full license after passing both tests.

Class D does not cover motorcycles, commercial trucks, or vehicles designed to carry more than a certain number of passengers. If you want to drive any of those, you need a different class or an endorsement added to your Class D license.

Class M: Motorcycles and motorized bicycles

Class M (or Motorcycle in some states) permits you to operate motorcycles, mopeds, and motorized bicycles on public roads. To receive this class, you must pass a separate written test and a riding test on an actual motorcycle. Some states require you to complete a motorcycle safety course before you can take the test; others make the course optional but offer a discount on your license fee if you complete it.

You can hold both a Class D and a Class M license at the same time — they are separate endorsements on your license card. Many riders take the motorcycle safety course through the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) or a state-approved provider, which teaches basic handling, braking, and emergency maneuvers. The course typically takes one or two days and costs between $150 and $300.

Some states allow you to add a motorcycle endorsement to your existing Class D license instead of receiving a separate Class M. Either way, you must pass the riding test to prove you can control the motorcycle safely.

Class A and B: Larger vehicles and commercial trucks

Class A and Class B licenses cover larger vehicles — usually trucks over 26,000 pounds GVWR, vehicles designed to tow heavy trailers, and buses or vans designed to carry more than a certain number of passengers. The exact definitions vary by state, but Class A typically covers the largest vehicles and Class B covers medium-sized ones.

To receive a Class A or B license, you must pass a written test and a driving test in a vehicle of that class. You cannot straightforward upgrade from a Class D by taking a written test; you must demonstrate that you can operate the larger vehicle safely. Some states require you to hold a Class D for a minimum period before you can test for Class A or B.

If you plan to drive these vehicles commercially — that is, for pay or as part of your job — you need a commercial driver's license (CDL) instead, which has stricter requirements. Class A and B non-commercial licenses are less common and are usually held by people who own large personal vehicles or operate them for private use only.

Commercial driver's licenses (CDL): Trucks and buses for pay

A commercial driver's license (CDL) is required if you operate a truck or bus for pay, or if the vehicle is designed to carry hazardous materials or more than 15 passengers. CDLs come in three classes — A, B, and C — based on the vehicle's weight and what it carries. The requirements are stricter than for non-commercial licenses: you must pass a medical examination, a written test covering commercial driving rules, and a driving test in the actual vehicle you will operate.

You must also hold a valid non-commercial driver's license (Class D) before you can receive a CDL. Most people take a commercial driving school course before testing, which covers vehicle inspection, backing, and emergency procedures. The course typically takes four to eight weeks and costs between $3,000 and $7,000, though some employers pay for it if you agree to work for them after you receive your CDL.

CDLs require renewal every four years (compared to four to eight years for non-commercial licenses), and you must pass a medical examination each time. If you lose your CDL, you cannot drive commercial vehicles, even if you still hold a valid Class D license.

Endorsements and restrictions on your license

Your license card may show endorsements — additional permissions — or restrictions — limitations on what you can drive. An endorsement might be "M" for motorcycle or "H" for hazardous materials. A restriction might be "B" (corrective lenses required), "D" (automatic transmission only), or "L" (no interstate driving). Endorsements and restrictions are added based on your test results, medical history, or the vehicle you tested on.

If your license shows a restriction you want to remove, you can usually request a new test or medical examination. For example, if you are restricted to automatic transmission only and later learn to drive a manual transmission, you can take a driving test in a manual vehicle to have the restriction removed. If you want to add an endorsement — such as the motorcycle endorsement — you take the test for that endorsement and it is added to your existing license.

Always check your license card to see what class, endorsements, and restrictions you hold. Driving a vehicle outside your class or ignoring a restriction can result in a ticket, even if you are a safe driver.

How to find your state's specific license classes

Every state's DMV website publishes a chart or guide showing the exact classes, weight limits, and vehicle types for that state. The names and definitions are not identical across all states — what one state calls Class A, another might call Class B. To find your state's chart, search "[your state] DMV driver's license classes" or visit your state's DMV website directly.

Your state's DMV also publishes a driver's manual that explains the written test questions and the rules for each class. You can read the manual for free from the DMV website or pick up a printed copy at any DMV office. The manual is the best source for the exact rules in your state, including age requirements, testing procedures, and what vehicles each class covers.

If you are unsure whether your current license covers a vehicle you want to drive, call your state's DMV or visit an office in person. They can tell you when ready whether you need a different class or endorsement, and what steps you need to take to receive it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive a truck with a regular Class D license?

It depends on the truck's weight. Class D covers pickup trucks and vans up to about 26,000 pounds GVWR. If the truck is heavier or is designed to carry cargo or passengers for pay, you need a Class A or B license or a CDL. Check your truck's registration or owner's manual for the GVWR, then compare it to your state's chart.

Do I need a separate license to drive a motorcycle, or can I add it to my Class D?

Most states let you add a motorcycle endorsement to your existing Class D license by passing a motorcycle written test and riding test. A few states issue a separate Class M license instead. Either way, you must pass the motorcycle test. Check your state's DMV website to see which system your state uses.

What happens if I drive a vehicle outside my license class?

You can be ticketed and fined, and the ticket may appear on your driving record. In some states, driving a commercial vehicle without a CDL is a criminal offense. If you cause an accident while driving outside your class, your insurance may not cover the damage, and you could face additional liability.

How long does it take to get a CDL after I have my Class D license?

The timeline depends on whether you attend a commercial driving school. Most schools take four to eight weeks. After school, you take the CDL written and driving tests, which usually happens within a few weeks. Total time is typically two to four months from start to finish.

Can I renew my license online, or do I have to go to the DMV?

Most states allow online renewal for Class D licenses if you have no restrictions or endorsements and your license is not expired by more than a certain period. CDLs and licenses with endorsements usually require an in-person visit. Check your state's DMV website to see what renewal options are available for your specific license class.