The definition of a Commercial Motor Vehicle for the purpose of requiring a CDL as described in CFR 383.5 is as follows:
Commercial motor vehicle (CMV) means a motor vehicle or a combination of motor vehicles used in commerce to transport passengers or property if the motor vehicle-
- Has a gross combination weight rating of 11,794 kilograms or more (26,001 pounds or more) inclusive of the towed unit(s) with a gross weight rating of more than 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds)
- Has a gross vehicle weight rating of 11,794 or more kilograms (26,001 pounds or more)
- Is designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver
- Is of any size and is used in the transportation of hazardous materials as defined in CFR 383.5
So the answer is NO. However, your state may require a chauffeur’s license for a vehicle with a GVWR 10,000 pounds or more and less than 26,001 pounds, i.e.; Michigan and Illinois.
Also keep in mind that there is no such thing as an air brake endorsement!!! In reference to a Class A or B CDL there is an air brake restriction only. This means that the license holder either failed the air brake section of their CDL examination or they used a CMV without air brakes for their skills test.
Originally Posted on the Idealease Safety Bulletin