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- North Carolina Driver’s License Classifications (A Complete 2023 Guide)
North Carolina Driver’s License Classifications (A Complete 2023 Guide)
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Driver’s licenses aren’t created equal.
Just because you have one doesn’t mean you can drive any vehicle.
And, in North Carolina, the classifications are a bit more confusing than in other states. This is because there are 2 sets of classes with the same name. For example, there is a Regular Class A and a Commercial Class A.
So, if you are from North Carolina and in the process of applying for a driver’s license, you must first know what license class you need.
Below is a complete guide on North Carolina driver’s license classifications. Plus, we’ll also include the requirement for each type.
So let’s get started!
Driver’s License Classes in North Carolina
The six driver’s license classifications in North Carolina are as follows:
A Class A non-commercial license holder may operate any Class A vehicle for personal use or regular operation, or any single or combination Class A motor vehicle with a combined gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of less than 26,001 pounds, provided the GVWR of the towed vehicle is at least 10,001 pounds.
A Class B non-commercial license holder may operate any Class B vehicle for regular operation, such as work or recreational use.
A Class C non-commercial license holder may drive any Class C vehicle for personal use or regular operation. Or a Class A or B fire-fighting, rescue, or EMS, provided it is operated by a fire department volunteer, resume team, or EMS. Or a combination of non-commercial vehicles with a GVWR of more than 10,000 but less than 26,001 pounds.
A Class A CDL allows the holder to operate any Class A motor vehicle for commercial purposes.
A Class B CDL allows the holder to operate any Class B motor vehicle for commercial purposes.
A Class C CDL allows the holder to operate any Class C motor vehicle for commercial purposes.
The following are examples of each type of vehicle:
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How do I apply for a commercial driver’s license in North Carolina?
Before you can apply for a CDL in North Carolina, you must first secure a commercial learner’s permit. To be eligible, you must satisfy the following requirements:
- You must at least be 18 years of age. You need to be 21 years old to drive out of state and for hazardous materials.
- You must be a Regular Class A, B, or C license holder.
- You must submit the required documents: proof of identity, social security card, proof of residency or legal presence, and a document proving liability insurance coverage.
While in possession of a CLP, you must be accompanied in the front seat by an operator with a valid commercial driver’s license.
To secure a CDL, you must pass the skills test.
What endorsements are available in North Carolina?
| H | This endorsement permits the operator to drive vehicles, regardless of size or class, except tanks when carrying hazardous materials that require vehicles to be placarded. |
| M | This endorsement permits the operator to drive motorcycles. |
| N | This endorsement permits the operator to drive tanks not carrying hazardous materials. |
| P | This endorsement permits the operator to drive vehicles transporting passengers. |
| T | This endorsement permits the operator to drive double trailers. |
| X | This endorsement permits the operator to drive tanks carrying hazardous materials. |
Conclusion
A driver’s license is indeed a privilege. However, even with driver’s licenses, there are classes that have more restrictions than others. Moreover, with greater privileges come bigger responsibilities and stricter requirements.
Now that you know which license class you will need, start preparing for that specific one.
