Which document must a driver possess to legally operate certain CMVs?

To legally operate certain Commercial Motor Vehicles (CMVs), a driver must possess a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). This specialized license is required because CMVs, which include large trucks and buses, are subject to different regulations and safety standards than regular passenger vehicles. The CDL ensures that drivers have received specific training and tested skills necessary to operate such vehicles safely on public roads.

A CDL is structured to verify that the driver understands the complexities of handling larger, heavier vehicles and is knowledgeable about vehicle safety requirements, maintenance, and the rules of the road specific to commercial driving. This training helps to reduce the risk of accidents and improve safety for all road users. Other documents, such as a personal identification card, state driver's license, or vehicle registration, do not provide the same level of competency assurance necessary for operating CMVs.