Can You Drive a Commercial Vehicle Without a CDL?

Whether you’re hauling goods for business or just towing a trailer for a weekend getaway, you need to have the right license. This can help you avoid costly fines or legal trouble, especially if you get into a truck accident. 

A driver’s history and license verification will be part of any investigation into a truck accident.

Can you drive a commercial vehicle without a commercial driver’s license (CDL)? Here’s what you need to know before you hit the road with confidence.  

When Do You Need a CDL in Nevada? 

A commercial driver’s license (CDL) is a specialized one. This is required for anyone operating commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). These vehicles are larger, heavier, or designed for certain tasks.  

Nevada regulations state that you will need a CDL if you plan to operate: 

• A vehicle weighing more than 26,000 pounds, including trucks and other large vehicles, with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of over 26,000 pounds 

• A tow vehicle with a combined weight exceeding 26,000 pounds, and the towed unit weighs more than 10,000 pounds 

• Vehicles carrying 16 or more passengers, including buses or vans used for commercial purposes 

• Vehicles transporting hazardous materials  

These regulations are not just state regulations; they align with federal rules that apply across the United States. Any driver operating these vehicles must possess the skills and knowledge to handle them safely on the road and avoid a truck accident. 

What About Non-Commercial Vehicles? 

Keep in mind that not all large vehicles in Nevada require a CDL. If you’re driving for personal use or operating a vehicle that doesn’t fit the commercial criteria, you might not need this license.  

For example, anyone driving a recreational vehicle (RV) or a farm vehicle may be able to do so without a CDL. This only applies if they are not being used for business purposes. 

Non-Commercial Licensing Options 

Nevada offers Non-Commercial Class A and Class B licenses. These options allow you to drive certain vehicles without needing a CDL. With that, you can tow large trailers or drive large vehicles for personal use. 

Non-Commercial Class A License 

This license allows you to operate a combination vehicle (truck and trailer) where the combined weight exceeds 26,000 pounds, and the trailer weighs more than 10,000 pounds.  

Non-Commercial Class B License  

This allows you to drive a single vehicle over 26,000 pounds or a combination vehicle where the trailer weighs 10,000 pounds or less. 

You just can’t add these designations to your existing license. Drivers need to be tested to make sure they can handle the vehicle safely. 

Who Doesn’t Need a CDL? 

Some situations don’t need a CDL; these include:  

• Driving an RV for personal use: If you’re behind the wheel of a recreational vehicle, you don’t need a CDL. This falls into the non-commercial category.   

• Military personnel: Anyone on active duty and operating a vehicle as part of their military duties does not need a CDL for those vehicles. 

• Farm vehicles: Farmers can drive large trucks to transport their goods within a 150-mile radius of their farm without a CDL. However, the vehicle must be used for personal farming purposes and not for hire. 

• Emergency vehicles: Fire trucks, ambulances, and other emergency response vehicles are exempt from licensing requirements. 

What Happens If You Drive a Truck Without a CDL? 

If you are driving a truck that requires a CDL and don’t have one, you could face serious consequences. State and federal laws take this very seriously.  

You and your employer will face penalties for not having a CDL when required. These can include: 

• Fines 

• Suspension of your driving privileges 

• Legal actions (depending on the situation) 

In cases where an unlicensed driver causes an accident, that could mean they are liable for any damages suffered by the other parties in the crash.  

The best way to avoid these penalties is to check in with the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) before getting behind the wheel of a large truck. Driving a truck without a CDL is only allowed under certain conditions in Nevada. If you’re unsure, always double-check your vehicle’s weight, intended use, and licensing requirements.

If you’ve been involved in a crash with an under-licensed driver, you have options, too.  

In these situations, the driver can be held responsible for any injuries and damages you have suffered. At the Law Offices of Matthew L. Sharp, we can help you determine your next steps for a claim.