Do you need a cdl to drive 1979 Ford l7000?

It depends on the jurisdiction in which you are operating the vehicle. In general, a CDL is required for commercial vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of over 26,000 pounds. The 1979 Ford L7000 has a GVWR of 31,000 pounds, so a CDL is required to operate it in most jurisdictions. However, some jurisdictions may have exceptions for older vehicles, so you should check the regulations in your area to be sure.