What is a C class drivers license allow you to drive?

Answer 1

In some states, Class C is the "standard" licence class, which allows the driver a vehicle up to a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of 26,000 lbs. This varies between states - some states, it'll be Class D or other classifications.

There is also a Class C Commercial Drivers Licence. It is also for vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (or combinations with a Gross Combination Weight Rating) of 26,000 lbs. or less. There are three instances when this is required:

• The vehicle has a GVWR of 26,000 lbs. or less, but it is transporting hazardous materials which require placards to be displayed. This would require a Class C CDL with hazmat endorsement.
• The vehicle has a GVWR of 26,000 lbs. or less, but it is a bus designed to transport more than 15 passengers (including the driver). This would require a Class C CDL with passenger endorsement.
• The State of New York requires any NY-registered commercial vehicle with a GVWR of 18,000 - 26,000 lbs. to be operated by a driver with a Class C CDL.

Answer 2

Only CDL classes are universal throughout the country - non-CDL drivers licenses are the jurisdiction of the issuing state, and classes will vary between the states.

A Class C CDL is for vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of less than 26,001 lbs (or combination vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating of less than 26,001 lbs) but which require a CDL because they're a: carrying a quantity of hazardous materials which requires placards to be displayed; b: a bus designed to transport more than 15 persons (including the driver), or c: an intrastate commercial vehicle in New York State with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating in excess of 18,000 lbs.

As for non-CDL Class C licenses, that varies by state. In some states, it may be a standard operator's permit. In other states, it may have a different function or not even exist.