There are THREE types (classifications) of California CDL (Commercial Drivers License)
If you possess a Class A CDL, you may also drive Class B and Class C vehicles if you have the appropriate endorsements. See detailed differences between the
California CDL Classification Codes.
California Class A CDL (Commercial Drivers License) Requirements
Any combination of vehicles which has a gross combination weight rating or gross
combination weight of 11,794 kilograms or more (26,001 pounds or more) whichever
is greater, inclusive of a towed unit(s) with a gross vehicle weight rating
or gross vehicle weight of more than 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds) whichever
is greater.
- Includes "tractor-trailer" type vehicles such as an "eighteen
wheeler".
- Some states (check locally) require a Class A CDL when pulling ANY
trailer exceeding 10,000 lbs GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) even
when the COMBINED gross vehicle weight rating (CGVWR) does not exceed
26,000 pounds . . . example: a one-ton "dually" pulling a
trailer exceeding 10,000 pounds but truck GVWR plus the trailer GVWR
not exceeding 26,000 pounds. (Most states have an exception for private
recreational travel trailers; check locally).
How to get a California Class A CDL (Commercial Drivers License)
- Provide documentation and pay fees
- Provide Medical Certificate
- Pass applicable written test(s) to obtain a CDL Class A permit (General
Knowledge, Air Brakes and Combination Vehicles)
- Pass skills tests in a "representative" type vehicle
For more detailed information, go to
how to get your California CDL.
If you need help . . .
determining what Class of CDL you need based upon the type
of vehicle you will drive (A, B or C) or are not sure which CDL
Endorsements you need based upon the type of loads you will carry; use the
free CDL Selector Tool . . .
California
Go to CDL Selector Tool
Not sure which CA CDL Tests you need to pass? Use this tool to determine what Class of CDL and which CDL Endorsements you require.
California Class A Exam Requirements
To operate trucks or truck combinations weighing 26,001 lbs or more, and towing
a vehicle/unit over 10,000 lbs, then a California Class A CDL is needed. The following
tests are required:
- General Knowledge test
- Combinations vehicle test
- Air Brakes
- Pre-Trip
- Basic Skills
- CDL Road Test
- Applicable exams for desired endorsements
You can normally take the required California CDL written tests and obtain your your CDL
permit without having to make an appointment. You will have to make an appointment
to take the California CDL Skills tests. Check your specific
California CDL Information for details.
Are YOU ready to get YOUR California CDL?
Prepare for YOUR California CDL Tests NOW . . .
In addition to the California CDL (commercial driver's license) information found in our website covering the California CDL and in the free California CDL Handbook (which is quite boring and a bit confusing - and doesn't have a single multiple-choice question in it that is asked on the actual tests), the complete online
California CDL Practice Test prep program will prepare you to easily pass your
California CDL written exams to get your California CDL permit. The skills test modules are invaluable to give you a head start before doing your
behind the wheel work, possibly saving you a lot of money. The California CDL test prep program includes the following features . . .
- Covers ALL Eight California CDL written tests.
- In separate study modules - you won't need all of them - don't waste time on what you don't require.
- Covers ALL Three California CDL skills tests.
- In separate study modules - you won't need all of them - don't waste time on what you don't require.
- 670 practice California CDL test questions with actual answers.
- Access to CDL videos covering written and skills tests.
- CDL study guide in both text and audio - listen as you read along.
- CDL study Quick Reviews.
- Interactive online CDL Quizzes.
- and much more!
May your new CAREER be prosperous!!!
Michael Hamilton
Director
"Spent about nine hours over three days. Aced my Class A CDL written tests. I liked the narrated audio and videos.
" - R.F., Topeka, KS
"Exactly what I needed. I liked to have all of the study options. The CDL handbook bored me to death. Passed my tests on the FIRST try. I just started driving a school bus last week.
" - R.N., Virginia Beach, VA
"I just want to thank you for your program. Much better than expected. I got my Class B permit on my first try. I am now studying your CDL skills tests material before I start my hands-on training.
" - M.K., Lakeland, FL
"Just want to thank you for the help. Upgraded my Class B to a Class A CDL. I liked all the options including audio, video, quizzes and all. I'll recommend it to others.
" - H.L., Houston, TX
