Oops, certificates.Ĭommon Requirements for Most Types of Pilot Licenses Now we got that out of the way, let’s take a look at the different types of pilot licenses. Still, using ‘license’ is quite popular, especially for private and higher pilot certification. However, according to an FAA safety briefing, the correct term is ‘certificate’. If you feel puzzled, don’t worry, even the Federal Aviation Administration uses both on its website. Granted, the definitions are quite similar, but which one do you think seems more appropriate for pilots?
On the other hand, ‘certificate’ means a document certifying that one has fulfilled the requirements of and may practice in a field. Let’s see what a good old dictionary says:Īmong other meanings, Merriam-Webster dictionary defines ‘license’ as a document evidencing permission granted by competent authority to engage in a business, an occupation, or an activity otherwise unlawful.
Are they just two ways to say the same thing, though?Īfter all, becoming a pilot means learning how to get things right.
EXAMPLE: A small truck towing a trailer.Most people use the terms certificate and license interchangeably when discussing the different types of pilot licenses.Combination vehicles not described in class A or B.Hazardous material (HAZMAT) as laid out by federal guidelines.Įxamples of vehicles you might be able to operate with a Class C CDL (with proper endorsement) include:.At least 16 passengers (to include you, the driver).The vehicle you intend to drive does not meet the criteria described for either a Class A or Class B license.For more information, visit our guide to CDL endorsements.Ī Class C commercial driver's license may be required if: Some of the vehicles you may be allowed to operate (with the right endorsement) include:Ī Class B license may allow you to operate some Class C vehicles if you possess the correct endorsements.
Specific endorsements to operate some vehicles with a Class B license. Any vehicle as described above that is towing another vehicle weighing UP TO 10,000 lbs.Īs with Class A licenses, you may be required to possess.A single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 lbs.
In addition, a Class A license may allow you to drive some Class B and Class C vehicles as long as you possess the correct endorsements.Ī Class B commercial driver license is required to operate: While your towing allowances will depend on which endorsements you obtain, a few of the vehicles you MAY be able to drive with a Class A CDL (with proper endorsements) include: or more, to include a towed vehicle that is HEAVIER than 10,000 lbs. Here is a breakdown for each CDL classification and the examples of vehicles you may be allowed.Ī Class A commercial driver's license is required to operate any combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 lbs. Keep in mind that the CDL classification you apply for will determine not only the type of vehicle you are allowed to drive, but also which endorsements you may be required to obtain. Classes for commercial driver licenses are:Įach CDL classification is distinguished by the vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) among other items. The type of vehicle you intend to operate dictates your CDL classification, and vice versa. These licenses, however, are not all created equal.
To drive certain types of commercial motor vehicles in the United States, the federal government requires drivers to possess a commercial driver's license (CDL).