What does the term "commercial driver's license" (CDL) refer to?

The term "commercial driver's license" (CDL) specifically refers to a special license that is required to operate large or heavy vehicles, such as buses, trucks, and vehicles that transport hazardous materials. The purpose of a CDL is to ensure that drivers of these larger vehicles meet certain standards of knowledge and skill necessary for safe operation. These vehicles often require more complex handling and pose greater risks than standard passenger vehicles, which is why they have different licensing requirements.

In contrast to personal vehicle licenses, a CDL is not intended for the operation of smaller vehicles typically used for personal transportation. It is also distinct from temporary driving permits, which do not grant the same level of authority to operate commercial vehicles. Moreover, while taxi and ride-share drivers do often require licenses, their requirements may differ based on local regulations and they do not necessarily need a CDL unless they are driving large passenger transport vehicles. Thus, the correct understanding of a CDL is a specialized licensing requirement for drivers of larger vehicles, making the designation accurate as a special license for those specific types of vehicles.