Do I need a special license to drive flat bed truck?

In the United States, a special license is generally required to drive a flatbed truck if the truck's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) exceeds a certain threshold. The specific requirements vary from state to state, but in general, a commercial driver's license (CDL) with an appropriate endorsement is necessary.

The GVWR of a vehicle is the maximum weight of the vehicle, including its cargo and passengers. For flatbed trucks, the GVWR is typically determined by the manufacturer and can be found on the vehicle's registration paperwork or in the owner's manual.

In most states, a CDL is required to operate a commercial motor vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more. This includes flatbed trucks that exceed this weight threshold. Additionally, some states require a special endorsement for flatbed trucks, regardless of their GVWR. This endorsement may involve additional testing and fees.

The specific requirements for obtaining a CDL and any necessary endorsements for flatbed trucks vary from state to state. It is important to check with the relevant state licensing authority for the most up-to-date information.