Yes, most truck drivers must have a commercial license to drive a truck in Virginia. They must meet certain requirements under state and federal laws and take a driving test in order to obtain this license. The type of license a trucker needs to have will depend on the type of truck being driven.
When a Truck Driver Must Have a Commercial License in Virginia
There are four classifications of commercial licenses in Virginia. Each classification allows a trucker to drive a certain weight or type of truck. Here are the current classifications of these licenses:
- Class A. A Class A license is needed when trucks are used to tow great weight. The weight of the combined vehicles must have a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of more than 26,000 pounds, and the GCWR of the vehicle being towed must be more than 10,000 pounds.
- Class B. This license is for single and combination vehicles where the single vehicle weighs more than 26,000 pounds, and the one being towed weighs less than 10,000 pounds.
- Class C. This type of license is required for vehicles that transport 16 or more people, including the driver, and to transport hazardous materials that must have a warning sign, called a placard, under federal regulations.
- Class D. Regular operators of vehicles transporting passengers must have this classification of commercial license.
Each classification allows a trucker to drive a truck in the classifications below it. For example, a truck driver with a Class A classification can also drive vehicles in Class B through D categories. Someone with a Class D license could not drive a truck requiring a Class A through C license.
While most truck drivers are required to have a license, not all are. Drivers of lighter weight trucks, small delivery trucks, and rental trucks may not need a commercial license to drive them.
Why the Trucker’s Commercial License Is Important to Your Truck Accident Claim
If you were injured in a truck accident, you need to find out if the trucker had a proper license. Why is this important? If he did not have a commercial license or an incorrect license one for the truck he was driving, this could be evidence that his lack of training and experience caused or contributed to your crash. In addition, you could have a separate negligent hiring claim against the trucking company that employs him.
Figuring out if the trucker had the correct commercial license and training is too complicated to do on your own. You should retain an experienced truck accident lawyer who understands the complicated laws and issues in these cases to determine this for you. Call our Norfolk office to schedule a free case evaluation to learn about your legal rights to compensation for your injuries and how we can help you obtain the settlement you deserve.
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