What type of vehicle requires a Class B CDL?

A Class B CDL is specifically required for operating any single vehicle that has a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of more than 26,000 pounds, provided that it is not towing a vehicle that weighs over 10,000 pounds. This is an important distinction because the Class B license is designed for heavier, larger vehicles, where the driver is responsible for both the vehicle’s weight and the safety of its operation.

Vehicles under the 26,000-pound threshold, which include options classified under less strict requirements, do not necessitate a Class B CDL. Thus, a vehicle weighing less than 26,000 pounds, whether single or in combination and whether towing a lighter vehicle or not, falls outside the need for this particular license. This principle is crucial in understanding the licensing requirements for commercial drivers, as it differentiates Class B vehicles from those that require a Class A or a Class C license, based on their weight and towing capabilities.