chat

That's interesting and also somewhat comical. It makes more sense than the US system though where you can test in a small vehicle, like a VW Jetta or something, then as soon as you have your license you can legally hop in a Dodge Ram without restrictions (possibly a few if you're under 18. But after that there's no distinction at all).

Also the US CDL system works so that if you hold a Class A then you are also legally able to drive Class B and C as well. And if you hold B you can drive C as well. Although the additional endorsement requirements typically mean someone cannot go from being a big tractor trailer driver to bus driver without first doing additional training and evaluation.

Someone who only drives the big trucks is unlikely to have the passenger endorsement. There's also some special endorsement for hauling school children ("S" I believe) which they probably don't have. So it's more than just what class CDL they hold. Luckily the federal government at least got most of the commercial driving requirements more locked down and not a free for all the way non commercial is. You also have to be 21 to drive interstate, if I remember correctly. There's medical evaluations like at least every two years or so, but it can more often if someone has a condition that can affect driving.

One of the few things that somehow got regulated in a "common sense" way here. But it almost doesn't matter because the majority of drivers are non commercial with essentially no requirements beyond a basic medical exam when you're young and passing the written and practical tests. Then you're good to go for 70 years as long as you don't get unlucky or do dangerous stuff like drink and drive.