The six main license classes and what vehicles they cover

Every state issues driver's licenses in classes, and each class permits you to operate a specific set of vehicles. The class you hold determines what you can legally drive on public roads. Most people hold a Class D license, which covers standard passenger cars, pickup trucks under a certain weight, and small vans. The other classes — A, B, C, E, and M — cover motorcycles, commercial trucks, and vehicles that require specialized training or medical certification.

The class system exists because different vehicles pose different risks. A tractor-trailer requires more training to operate safely than a sedan. A motorcycle demands different skills than a four-wheel vehicle. States use license classes to may support that drivers have demonstrated the knowledge and physical ability needed for the vehicles they operate.

Your state's motor vehicle department assigns your class based on the vehicle type you drive and your age. You cannot straightforward choose a class; you must meet the requirements for it. If you drive a vehicle outside your license class, you can be cited for operating without proper licensing, even if you are an experienced driver.

Key Takeaways

  • Class D is the standard license for cars, pickup trucks, and small vans, and is what most drivers hold.
  • Class A covers tractor-trailers and requires a commercial driver's license (CDL) with additional testing and medical certification.
  • Class B covers single-unit commercial trucks and buses, also requiring a CDL.
  • Class M is for motorcycles and requires separate testing and often a safety course.
  • Your license class is determined by the vehicle you drive and your age, not by your choice.

Class D: The standard passenger vehicle license

Class D is the most common license class in every state. It permits you to drive passenger cars, pickup trucks up to a certain gross vehicle weight rating (usually 26,000 pounds or less), and vans designed to carry up to 15 passengers. Most people obtain a Class D license as teenagers and keep it throughout their driving life.

To get a Class D license, you must pass a written test on traffic laws and road signs, pass a vision screening, and pass a behind-the-wheel driving test. The written test covers rules of the road specific to your state. The driving test evaluates your ability to control the vehicle, follow traffic laws, and respond to hazards. Age requirements vary by state, but most allow you to test for a Class D license at 16 or 17.

A Class D license does not permit you to drive commercial vehicles for hire, even if you own the vehicle. If you drive a taxi, rideshare vehicle, or delivery truck as your job, you may need a different class depending on the vehicle weight and whether passengers are involved.

Class A and B: Commercial driver's licenses for trucks and buses

Class A and Class B licenses are commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) required to operate heavy trucks and buses. A Class A CDL covers tractor-trailers and any combination of vehicles with a gross combined weight rating over 26,000 pounds. A Class B CDL covers single-unit trucks and buses with a gross vehicle weight rating over 26,000 pounds, but does not include tractor-trailers.

Obtaining a Class A or B CDL is more involved than obtaining a Class D license. You must be at least 18 years old (21 in some states for interstate driving). You must pass a medical examination and obtain a medical certificate proving you meet federal health standards for commercial driving. You must pass a written test specific to commercial vehicles, covering topics like air brake systems, cargo securement, and hazmat transport. You must also pass a behind-the-wheel test in the actual vehicle type you will drive.

Many states require you to hold a Class D license for a set period before you can test for a CDL. Some states also require you to complete a commercial driver training course. Once you hold a CDL, you must renew it every four years and maintain your medical certificate, which must be renewed every two years.

Class M: Motorcycle license

Class M is the license class for motorcycles, motorized bicycles, and mopeds. The specific vehicles covered vary by state — some states distinguish between motorcycles and mopeds, while others group them together. A Class M license does not permit you to drive a car or truck; you must hold a Class D license separately if you want to drive both.

To obtain a Class M license, you must pass a written test on motorcycle-specific rules and hazards, pass a vision screening, and pass a riding test on a motorcycle. Many states require you to complete a motorcycle safety course before you can test, or offer a waiver of the riding test if you complete an approved course. The written test covers topics like braking on a motorcycle, how to lean in turns, and how to handle road hazards that affect motorcycles differently than cars.

Some states issue a Class M endorsement that you add to your Class D license, rather than a separate license. Other states issue Class M as a standalone license. Check your state's motor vehicle department website to learn which approach your state uses.

Class C and E: Specialized and restricted licenses

Class C and Class E licenses vary significantly by state and are less common than Class D or Class M. In some states, Class C is a restricted license issued to drivers with medical conditions or age-related limitations — for example, a license that restricts you to daytime driving only, or to driving within a certain distance of your home. In other states, Class C covers certain commercial vehicles or chauffeur services.

Class E is sometimes used for vehicles that fall between a standard passenger car and a commercial truck — for example, a van designed to carry more than 15 passengers but fewer than the threshold for a commercial license. Some states use Class E for farm vehicles or for drivers who have failed to meet the standards for a higher class.

Because Class C and Class E definitions vary widely, you should check your state's motor vehicle department website or handbook to learn what these classes cover in your state. The restrictions or vehicle types may differ significantly from neighboring states.

How your age and driving history affect your license class

Your age determines when you can test for each class and sometimes what restrictions explore to your license. Most states allow you to test for a Class D license at 16 or 17, but require you to be 18 to test for a Class A or B CDL. Some states require you to hold a Class D license for a minimum period — often six months to one year — before you can test for a CDL.

Drivers under 18 often receive a provisional or restricted license that limits when and where they can drive. Common restrictions include no driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m., no passengers under a certain age, and no use of cell phones while driving. These restrictions remain in place until you reach a certain age or hold your license for a set period without violations.

Your driving history also affects your ability to obtain or maintain certain license classes. If you accumulate too many traffic violations or are convicted of certain crimes, your license may be suspended or downgraded. A CDL can be suspended or revoked for violations that would only result in points on a standard Class D license.

Upgrading or changing your license class

If you currently hold a Class D license and want to drive a motorcycle, you must test for a Class M endorsement or license. If you want to drive a commercial truck, you must test for a Class A or B CDL. You do not need to retake the written test for your Class D license; you only test on the material specific to the new class.

Some states allow you to add endorsements to your existing license rather than obtaining a new class. An endorsement is a notation on your license that permits you to drive a specific type of vehicle or transport specific cargo. For example, you might add an air brake endorsement to a Class B CDL, or a motorcycle endorsement to a Class D license.

To upgrade your license class, contact your state's motor vehicle department to learn the testing requirements and fees. You will need to schedule a test appointment, which may take several weeks depending on demand in your area. Bring your current license, proof of residency, and any medical certificates required for the new class.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive a truck with a Class D license?

You can drive a pickup truck or van with a Class D license if it is under the weight threshold for your state, usually 26,000 pounds gross vehicle weight rating. You cannot drive a tractor-trailer or single-unit commercial truck, even if you own it. If you drive a commercial truck for work, you need a Class A or B CDL.

Do I need a separate license to drive a motorcycle?

Yes, you need a Class M license or endorsement to legally drive a motorcycle. Some states issue Class M as a separate license; others add it as an endorsement to your Class D license. Either way, you must pass a written test and riding test specific to motorcycles before you can operate one on public roads.

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

Driving a vehicle outside your license class is a violation of state law. You can be cited, fined, and have points added to your driving record. If you cause an accident while driving outside your license class, your insurance may deny your claim. In some cases, you can face criminal charges.

How long does it take to get a CDL?

The timeline depends on your state and whether you complete a commercial driver training course. Testing itself takes one to two days, but you may need to wait several weeks to schedule your test appointment. If your state requires a training course, add four to eight weeks. Medical certification can take one to two weeks.

Can I hold multiple license classes at the same time?

Yes. You can hold a Class D license and a Class M endorsement, or a Class D and a Class A CDL. Each class or endorsement is noted on your license. You must renew each class according to its renewal schedule, and you must maintain any medical certificates required for commercial classes.