Who needs a CDL in Michigan?

If you are going to operate ANY of the following vehicles either within the state or across state/foreign borders, you need a CDL designator added to your Michigan Chauffeur license.

What type of CDL do I need ?

A Michigan resident needs a valid operator or chauffeur license with the appropriate group designation to operate the following vehicles:

Group A - To operate a vehicle which is:

• A combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 lbs. or more, including a towed vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 10,000 lbs.

• A single vehicle having a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 lb. or more

Group C - To operate small vehicles:

• Designed to carry 16 or more people including the driver; or
• Not meeting the requirements for group A or B which carry hazardous materials in amounts requiring placarding (refer to CDL Manual).

What endorsements do I need on my CDL in Michigan?

In addition to the appropriate CDL group designation, endorsements are required for the following:

T - DOUBLE or TRIPLE TRAILERS (Triple-trailer combinations are not permitted in Michigan)

P - PASSENGER: For vehicles which are designed to carry more than 16 people (including the driver);

N -TANK VEHICLES: For vehicles designed to haul liquids or liquefied gases in permanently mounted tanks of any size or portable tanks rated at 1,000 gallons or more

H - HAZARDOUS MATERIALS: To carry hazardous materials in amounts requiring placarding (includes small trucks, pickup trucks and passenger vehicles)

X - An "X" endorsement will appear on the license instead of the H and N codes when an applicant receives both the tanker and hazardous materials' endorsements

CDL Exceptions

Michigan offers exceptions to the CDL requirements, which include:

• Active military duty operating military vehicles
• Police and firefighters operating authorized emergency vehicles
• Farmers operating within a 150-mile radius of a farm (an "F" endorsement may be required)
• Individuals operating motor homes or other vehicles used exclusively to transport personal possessions or family members for non-business purposes