Georgia offers three types of commercial driving licenses. Class A licenses are for driving large tractor-trailers, Class B licenses are for operating single-unit heavy vehicles like garbage trucks, and Class C licenses are for driving hazardous materials trucks or large passenger vehicles.
These distinctions matter. Driving any type of commercial vehicle is challenging, and companies sometimes hire drivers who don’t have the necessary licenses. It’s up to your Georgia truck accident lawyer to determine if the driver had a proper license for whatever vehicle they were operating.
What Is a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)?
A commercial driver’s license, or CDL, allows a driver to operate large, heavy commercial vehicles, such as semi-trucks or garbage trucks. A CDL is distinct from a typical passenger car license. However, Georgia law requires drivers to obtain their standard driver’s license before they can apply for a CDL.
States require drivers to obtain these licenses because semi-trucks and other commercial vehicles are more difficult to handle than passenger cars. Drivers who lack proper training and experience operating these vehicles are much more likely to cause an accident, putting themselves and everyone else on the road in danger.
What Are the Types of CDLs in Georgia?
The three types of CDLs in Georgia are as follows:
- Class A – A Georgia Class A CDL allows a driver to operate tractor-trailers or combination vehicles with a total weight of more than 26,001 pounds when the towed unit weighs over 10,000 pounds. Drivers with a Class A CDL often operate semi-trucks, flatbeds, tanker trucks, and car carriers. Long-haul freight companies, regional trucking operations, and interstate shipping businesses often require this license for drivers who move goods across Georgia and beyond.
- Class B – A driver with a Georgia Class B CDL can operate a single vehicle that weighs more than 26,001 pounds, as well as a vehicle that tows a trailer under 10,000 pounds. Some vehicles that require a Class B CDL to operate include dump trucks, cement mixers, and large buses. Some industries that often rely on drivers with Class B CDLs include construction companies, local delivery services, utility providers, and public transportation systems.
- Class C – Lastly, holding a Georgia Class C CDL allows a driver to operate smaller commercial vehicles that do not meet Class A or Class B standards but still involve significant risks. These vehicles carry 16 or more passengers, including the driver, or transport hazardous materials that require placards. Shuttle services, childcare transportation providers, churches, and hazardous materials delivery companies typically require drivers to have a Class C CDL.
What Are the Requirements for Obtaining a CDL in Georgia?
In addition to first acquiring a standard Class C passenger car license, the requirements to obtain a CDL in Georgia include the following:
- Age – Drivers applying for a Georgia CDL must be at least 18 years old to operate a commercial vehicle. They can operate only within Georgia’s borders until they reach age 21. CDL applicants must also be at least 21 years old to qualify for a hazardous materials endorsement.
- Medical and physical fitness – Prospective CDL holders must pass a Department of Transportation medical exam under the supervision of a certified medical examiner. After obtaining a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate, applicants must submit their medical certification and a self-certification category to the Georgia Department of Driver Services.
- Written and skills testing – Drivers must pass knowledge tests for their desired CDL class and any endorsements. Before applying for a full CDL, applicants must obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit and follow the required waiting period before taking their CDL road test. Also, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires Entry-Level Driver Training for first-time Class A and Class B applicants, drivers upgrading to Class A, and drivers adding hazardous materials, passenger, or school bus endorsements. CDL applicants must receive training from an approved provider. Applicants must also pass a three-part skills test that covers pre-trip inspections, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
- Background checks for specific endorsements – Drivers applying for a hazardous materials endorsement must complete a TSA security threat assessment and fingerprinting.
- Necessary documents – Finally, drivers must provide proof of identity, lawful presence, Social Security number, and Georgia residency. They must also present a valid driver’s license, medical certification information, and any applicable training records, then pay all the required fees.
How Long Does It Take to Get a CDL in Georgia?
The time required to obtain a Georgia commercial driving license varies due to the many training, testing, and licensing steps. Most applicants spend several weeks completing Entry-Level Driver Training and preparing for exams. Additionally, state rules require at least 14 days between obtaining a Commercial Learner’s Permit and taking the full CDL on-road skills test. Some drivers finish within a month, while others take several months, depending on their schedule and readiness.
Can You Upgrade Your CDL in Georgia?
Georgia allows drivers to upgrade their CDL by moving to a higher class or adding endorsements. Common upgrades include moving from Class B to Class A or adding passenger, school bus, or hazardous materials privileges. Drivers who want an upgrade must meet the necessary testing, training, and background review rules.
What Should You Do After an Accident with a Commercial Vehicle Driver?
The first steps after a commercial vehicle accident in Georgia are to notify the police and seek medical attention. Once you’ve done that, follow these steps to protect your legal rights and future injury claim:
- Follow all instructions from your doctor.
- Save your medical records and proof of lost income.
- Don’t discuss the case or your injuries online.
- Write down your daily pain levels and physical limitations.
- Talk to a truck accident lawyer right away, ideally before speaking to any insurers.
Contact a Georgia Truck Accident Lawyer
Spiva Law Group’s extensive experience handling truck accident claims means we understand the state’s CDL requirements and how to identify drivers who don’t follow them. Over the past 40 years of serving Savannah and the rest of Georgia, we’ve recovered more than $500 million for our clients. We handle all the legal work for you, and you won’t pay any legal fees unless you recover compensation. Call now or complete our contact form for a free consultation.
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