The state of Georgia offers several license classes for drivers, each with its own set of requirements and restrictions. Understanding these classes is crucial for individuals seeking to obtain a driver's license in Georgia. The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) is responsible for issuing these licenses and ensuring that all applicants meet the necessary criteria. In this article, we will delve into the 10 Georgia license classes, providing detailed information on each to help applicants prepare and easily pass their exams.
Overview of Georgia License Classes
Georgia license classes are categorized based on the type of vehicle being operated and the driver’s qualifications. The classes range from non-commercial to commercial licenses, each with distinct requirements. It’s essential for applicants to choose the correct license class based on their needs and qualifications to ensure a smooth application process. The following are the 10 Georgia license classes:
Class CP - Non-Commercial Driver’s License
A Class CP license is the standard driver’s license issued to most drivers in Georgia. This license allows holders to operate non-commercial vehicles, such as cars, trucks, and vans, with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of less than 26,001 pounds. To obtain a Class CP license, applicants must be at least 17 years old, pass a vision test, and complete a knowledge exam and a driving skills test.
Class CN - Non-Commercial Driver’s License with Restrictions
A Class CN license is a restricted version of the Class CP license. This license is typically issued to new drivers under the age of 18 who have completed a driver’s education course and have a minimum of 40 hours of supervised driving experience, including 6 hours of nighttime driving. The restrictions on this license include no driving between midnight and 5:00 a.m. unless accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old and has a Class C license, and no driving with more than one passenger under the age of 21 who is not a member of the driver’s immediate family.
Class C - Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
A Class C CDL is required for drivers who operate commercial vehicles with a GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds, but are designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, or are used to transport hazardous materials. To obtain a Class C CDL, applicants must be at least 21 years old, pass a vision test, and complete a knowledge exam and a driving skills test.
Class B - Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
A Class B CDL is required for drivers who operate commercial vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, but do not tow a trailer with a GVWR of more than 10,000 pounds. This license is typically required for drivers of large trucks, buses, and construction vehicles. To obtain a Class B CDL, applicants must be at least 21 years old, pass a vision test, and complete a knowledge exam and a driving skills test.
Class A - Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
A Class A CDL is the most comprehensive commercial driver’s license in Georgia. This license is required for drivers who operate commercial vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, and tow a trailer with a GVWR of more than 10,000 pounds. To obtain a Class A CDL, applicants must be at least 21 years old, pass a vision test, and complete a knowledge exam and a driving skills test.
Endorsements
In addition to the license classes, Georgia also offers several endorsements that can be added to a CDL. These endorsements include:
- H - Hazardous Materials: required for drivers who transport hazardous materials
- N - Tank Vehicles: required for drivers who operate tank vehicles
- P - Passenger Vehicles: required for drivers who operate vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver
- S - School Bus: required for drivers who operate school buses
- T - Double/Triple Trailers: required for drivers who operate vehicles with double or triple trailers
Restrictions
Georgia also imposes several restrictions on CDLs, including:
- L - Air Brake Restriction: restricts drivers from operating vehicles with air brakes
- E - Automatic Transmission Restriction: restricts drivers from operating vehicles with manual transmissions
- V - Medical Variance Restriction: restricts drivers who have a medical condition that affects their ability to operate a commercial vehicle
| License Class | Description | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| CP | Non-Commercial Driver's License | 17 years old, vision test, knowledge exam, driving skills test |
| CN | Non-Commercial Driver's License with Restrictions | 17 years old, vision test, knowledge exam, driving skills test, 40 hours of supervised driving experience |
| C | Commercial Driver's License (CDL) | 21 years old, vision test, knowledge exam, driving skills test |
| B | Commercial Driver's License (CDL) | 21 years old, vision test, knowledge exam, driving skills test |
| A | Commercial Driver's License (CDL) | 21 years old, vision test, knowledge exam, driving skills test |
What is the minimum age requirement for a Class CP license in Georgia?
+The minimum age requirement for a Class CP license in Georgia is 17 years old.
What is the difference between a Class C and a Class B CDL in Georgia?
+A Class C CDL is required for drivers who operate commercial vehicles with a GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds, but are designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, or are used to transport hazardous materials. A Class B CDL is required for drivers who operate commercial vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, but do not tow a trailer with a GVWR of more than 10,000 pounds.
How do I obtain a CDL endorsement in Georgia?
+To obtain a CDL endorsement in Georgia, you must meet the necessary requirements, pass a knowledge exam, and complete any additional training or testing required for the endorsement. You must also hold a valid CDL and meet the eligibility requirements for the endorsement.
