Georgia has over 73,000 registered commercial vehicles in the state. These may include 18-wheelers, flatbed trucks, delivery vehicles, normal cars and even buses. All of these trucks need drivers, and driving one of these vehicles typically requires having a commercial driver’s license.
Similar to the way there are many different types of commercial vehicles, there are also different types of commercial driver’s licenses. Keep reading below to learn about the different types of commercial driver’s licenses available in Georgia.
Class A CDL
A Class A commercial driver’s license (CDL) gives you the most driving privileges of all CDL types.
According to the Georgia Department of Driver Services, Class A CDL holders may operate truck trailers or tractor-semitrailer combinations in which the combined weight is 26,001 pounds or more. The trailer may also exceed 10,000 pounds.
Some examples of the types of rigs that a Class A CDL holder may operate include:
- Tractor trailers
- Semis & 18-wheelers
- Tanker trucks
- Flatbed trucks
Additionally, Class A CDL holders may operate most Class B and Class C vehicles.
Class B CDL
A Class B CDL holder may operate vehicles that are similar in nature but lighter in weight. A Class B CDL is needed to operate single vehicles weighing 26,001 or more pounds with the towed vehicle weighing less than 10,000 pounds.
Class B drivers can also operate most Class C vehicles with the proper endorsements.
Class B drivers are allowed to operate:
- Box trucks
- Dump trucks
- School buses, city buses, or other large buses
- Concrete mixers
- Utility repair vehicles
Class B operators typically operate single vehicles, although they may tow trailers in some cases. However, the trailer must weigh less than 10,000 pounds.
Class C CDL
A Class C CDL is issued to a driver who needs to operate a vehicle that carries 16 or more passengers, including the driver. This includes small buses and some vans. Additionally, a Class C CDL is needed to drive vehicles used to transport hazardous materials.
How Do I Get a CDL in Georgia?
Obtaining a CDL license is more difficult than getting a standard driver’s license. You may apply for a CDL at age 18, although you may only operate vehicles within the state of Georgia. To operate a commercial vehicle across state lines, you must be at least 21 years old.
First, you must hold a valid regular Georgia driver’s license before you can apply for a commercial driver’s license. Next, you must successfully complete the Entry Level Driver Training. This new requirement began in 2022, and it was created to establish Federal standards for training CDL applicants.
If you are applying for a first-time CDL or upgrading from one class to another, you must hold a valid Class AP or BP Instructional Permit (CLP). You must hold this permit for at least 14 days before applying for a full CDL. During the application process, you will need to specify your driving category. Depending on your category, a medical card or medical waiver may be required.
Finally, you will need to pass a vision exam along with the CDL skills test and road test. Upon successful completion of all the requirements and payment of the required fee, you will be issued a Georgia commercial driver’s license.
What Should I Do After an Accident With a Commercial Vehicle?
Even though getting a CDL requires robust training, big truck accidents still happen frequently. If you are in an accident with a commercial vehicle, you may be entitled to compensation for your economic and non-economic damages. After an accident, notify the police and seek medical treatment for any injuries.
Try and obtain as much information about the truck and driver as possible. The police report should also help fill in any gaps that you may have missed. Finally, seek the help of an experienced Georgia truck accident lawyer who can help investigate the accident and hold all the responsible parties accountable.
Contact the Kennesaw Truck Accident lawyer from Starks Byron, P.C. for Help Today
For more information, don’t hesitate to contact our team at Starks Byron, P.C. to schedule a free consultation with a truck accident lawyer in Kennesaw, GA today.
We proudly serve Cobb County and its surrounding areas:
Starks Byron, P.C.
1275 Shiloh Rd NW Ste 2710,
Kennesaw, GA 30144
(404) 795 5115
