what is a class a license

A Class A license is a type of commercial drivers license (CDL) that allows drivers to operate vehicles that weigh 26,001 pounds or more. It is required to operate any combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 or more pounds. In most states, this license allows the driver to operate any vehicle with a semi-trailer or trailer with two or more axles. This also includes any combination of vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) greater than 26,000 pounds (provided that the GVWR of the towed vehicle is in excess of 10,000 pounds) . A Class A CDL is required for drivers towing trailers with more than 10,000 pounds of GVWR. Additionally, a Class A license allows the holder to operate Class B and C vehicles. To obtain a Class A license, drivers must pass a specialized knowledge exam and a skills test.