What Is a Commercial Vehicle?

Commercial trucks worldwide come in many versions, including the most recognizable semi-truck or tractor-trailer rig, as well as vans, buses, taxis, private hire cars, trailers and coaches. Chauffeurs, taxi drivers, and truck and bus drivers are required to possess a commercial driver's license to operate these vehicles in most parts of the world.

Class 7 and 8

A commercial vehicle is identified as a Class 7 vehicle, with a gross vehicle weight from 26,001 to 33,000 pounds. A Class 8 truck is above 33,000 pounds.

License Requirements

A Class A commercial driver's license is required for driving a combination of vehicles over 26,001 pounds and a Class B license is for drivers of a single vehicle of 26,001 pounds or more.

Light-Duty Trucks

Any light-duty truck driven by an employee of a company in the business of transporting goods for sale or delivery is classified as a commercial vehicle.

Limousines

Limousines hired for the specific purpose of transportation for any number of individuals are commercial vehicles.

Trailers

Trailers used to transport goods are commercial vehicles, but not car trailers, light farm trailers or house trailers.

DOT Regulations

The U.S. Department of Transportation limits commercial vehicles, most notably tractor-trailer rigs, to 13.5 feet high, 102 inches wide and weighing no more than 80,000 pounds.

Resources

• Commercial vehicle history