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In the US, driving a commercial vehicle (CMV) always requires owning a special commercial driver’s license (CDL). However, not every state has the same laws when it comes to determining exactly which vehicles require this unique license.
From vehicle type requirements to permit classes, here are all the essential facts that prospective CDL candidates in Missouri should be aware of.
What Is a CDL?
A commercial driver’s license is a particular type of permit that allows one to operate a commercial vehicle. But what is considered a commercial vehicle in Missouri? These include large and heavy vehicles, as well as those used for transporting hazardous materials.
While the term CMV exists in all US states, not all have the same requirements that a vehicle must meet in order to be called one. In addition, vehicles are viewed differently based on whether they are meant for interstate or intrastate commerce.
Considering all of the requirements, there are several classes of CDLs that one can apply for. Moreover, drivers can seek certain endorsements on the licenses to allow them to drive different types of CMVs.
If you are about to operate a truck, learn more about how to get a truck license in Missouri.
CDL Classes
1. Class A
This license applies to all combination vehicles that weigh more than 26,001 pounds. In this context, combination vehicles consist of two parts, where one is pulling the other (e.g., a truck towing a trailer). Furthermore, the vehicle being towed has to weigh more than 10,001 pounds.
Any driver with a Class A license can also operate vehicles included in classes B, C, and D. However; particular permit endorsements might be necessary.
2. Class B
Aside from combination vehicles, class B licenses allow operators to drive single ones as well. These vehicles have to have a weight of more than 26,001 pounds. If there is a towed vehicle involved, it cannot exceed 10,001 pounds, which is what separates these vehicles from those included in class A.
Drivers who obtain a Class B license can also operate vehicles included in classes C and D. However, they need an endorsement to be able to operate class A vehicles.
3. Class C
This class refers to all vehicles that do not fall within the first two categories. These encompass all motor vehicles designed to carry 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
In addition, a driver can apply for this license to drive a vehicle with a placard if they wish to transport hazardous materials.
4. Class D
People with these licenses can operate all passenger cars. Furthermore, they can drive all towing vehicles and trailers that weigh less than 10,000 pounds. Examples include towing a boat, a landscape trailer, an RV, and so on.
Age Requirements for a CDL
In Missouri, one must be at least 18 years old to apply for a complete CDL. However, they can only drive within Missouri (intrastate) until they turn 21. Upon their 21st birthday, they gain the right to become an interstate driver, i.e., to cross state lines.
It is also worth mentioning that drivers have to be at least 21 to have permission to transport any amount of hazardous material. Thus, while they can get a class C license after turning 18, they can only start transporting hazardous material after their 21st birthday.
Learner’s Permit
Those aged 15 ½ and up may apply for a CDL learner’s permit. As its name suggests, this license allows teenagers to learn how to safely drive a CMV within state lines while being supervised by a CMV operator with a full license. A learner’s permit is valid for six months, after which people can renew it.
CDL Documentation Requirements
To get a CDL, all applicants must provide documents that confirm their identities. These include:
● Birth certificate or certificate of US citizenship
● Passport (either valid or expired)
● Social security number
If a candidate is not a US citizen, they must submit appropriate immigration documents that confirm their status in the country. The state has the right to request any other documents it deems relevant in the context of acquiring a CDL.
How Much Does a CDL Cost?
Learner permits, which are valid for six months, cost $7.50. An individual can get a class A, B, and C learner permit. Conversely, D licenses can only be full, and they are available to those older than 18.
The cost of full CDLs depends on how long they are valid. Those that expire after three years cost $22.50. On the other hand, people have to pay $45.00 for a license that is valid for six years.
If you encounter any questions or problems with getting CDLs, seek the help of a truck accident attorney in St Louis.