Class A Cdl: Unlocking Cheaper Auto Insurance Rates

People with a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) are often subject to greater scrutiny than regular drivers, including annual physicals and higher standards for DUIs. While having a CDL might not always lead to cheaper auto insurance, some insurers do offer discounts of up to 15% for CDL holders. Maintaining a clean driving record, meeting CDL standards, and exploring specialised coverage options can help optimise these benefits.

CDL holders are subject to greater scrutiny than regular drivers

CDL holders are also scrutinized more closely when it comes to driving under the influence (DUI). The blood alcohol concentration limit for driving a commercial vehicle is lower than that for a private vehicle, and any DUI offence, even in a personal vehicle, can result in disqualification from holding a CDL.

Additionally, CDL holders are expected to maintain a pristine driving record, as employers seek to obtain premium insurance rates. Any traffic violations, even in a personal vehicle, can impact a CDL holder's employability.

The higher scrutiny on CDL holders also extends to their insurance policies. Commercial truck insurance is generally more expensive than standard auto insurance due to factors such as the type of cargo transported, the operating radius, and the vehicle's weight. Accidents and violations have a more significant impact on commercial truck insurance rates, as the large, heavy vehicles can cause extensive damage in an accident.

Furthermore, CDL holders may face challenges when seeking discounts on their auto insurance. While various factors, such as age, marital status, and accident history, can reduce insurance rates for non-CDL holders, CDL holders may not always benefit from similar reductions. This discrepancy has been attributed to insurance companies' profit motives and the perception that CDL holders are more likely to be at fault in accidents due to their professional driving status.

CDL holders are held to a higher standard for DUIs

CDL holders who consent to breath testing and blow above a .04% but below .08% will still face a 12-month disqualification, as the result will be reported to the Illinois Secretary of State due to their CDL status. To avoid this, CDL operators must beat both the summary license suspension and the DUI charge. CDL operators do have the right to challenge the disqualification of their CDL privileges and can request an Administrative Hearing to do so.

CDL holders are subject to greater scrutiny than regular drivers, including annual physicals and health tests. They are held to a higher standard due to the increased responsibility and potential risks associated with operating large, heavy vehicles.

CDL holders are required to undergo annual physicals

The DOT physical is typically required every two years for most drivers. However, certain medical conditions may require CDL holders to undergo annual physicals or more frequent examinations. For example, individuals with high blood pressure (hypertension) may need to have physicals every three months while undergoing treatment.

The physical examination also includes a detailed health history form, where CDL holders are required to disclose information about their medications, surgeries, substance use, and any current health symptoms or conditions. This form can be filled out ahead of time and brought to the appointment.

In addition to the health history form, CDL holders must bring relevant medical records, laboratory results, auditory or visual aids, and a list of prescription medications to their DOT physical. This information helps the licensed medical examiner conducting the physical make an informed assessment of the individual's health and fitness to drive a commercial vehicle.

By undergoing these annual physicals, CDL holders can ensure they meet the rigorous physical requirements of their job and maintain their certification to drive commercial vehicles.

CDL holders have more driving experience

CDL holders are required to have more driving experience than non-CDL holders. This is because the process of obtaining a CDL is more rigorous and demands a higher level of knowledge, experience, skills, and physical abilities than what is required for a non-commercial driver's license.

To obtain a CDL, applicants must pass both skills and knowledge tests that are geared towards higher standards. These tests cover a range of topics, including vehicle inspection, highway safety, and different parts of a truck. The driving skills test must be taken in the type of vehicle that the applicant expects to operate, such as a tractor-trailer or bus.

In addition to the testing requirements, CDL holders are subject to more stringent health and medical standards. They must undergo regular physicals, including tests for sight, hearing, blood sugar, kidney health, and blood pressure. CDL holders are also held to a higher standard when it comes to DUIs, with a lower blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit than non-CDL drivers.

The extensive training and experience required to obtain a CDL lead to a higher level of driving proficiency. CDL holders are expected to have a deeper understanding of vehicle operation and road safety, which can result in safer driving habits and lower accident rates. This additional experience and proficiency can be beneficial not only when operating a commercial vehicle but also when driving personal vehicles.

While having a CDL does not automatically make one a safer driver, the increased level of driving experience that comes with it can contribute to a reduction in accident risks. This, in turn, could be a factor in determining insurance rates, as insurance companies often consider driving experience when calculating premiums.

CDL holders have passed more driving tests

CDL holders are required to pass more driving tests than non-CDL holders. The CDL written knowledge test covers topics such as road signs, traffic laws, safe driving practices, vehicle equipment, and other important topics. CDL holders are also required to pass a driving skills test. This includes a pre-trip inspection practice test, which prepares CDL holders for the internal and external portions of the vehicle inspection exam. CDL holders must also pass a road test, which evaluates their ability to drive a commercial vehicle safely.

In addition to the standard CDL tests, there are also several endorsements that CDL holders can obtain. Endorsements allow CDL holders to drive specific types of vehicles or transport certain types of cargo. Each endorsement requires passing a separate knowledge exam and/or road exam. Examples of endorsements include hazardous materials, passenger vehicles, school buses, air brakes, and combination vehicles.

The extensive testing process for CDL licenses ensures that holders have a strong understanding of safe driving practices and are capable of operating commercial vehicles safely. This additional training and experience should be reflected in lower insurance premiums for CDL holders. However, insurance companies may view CDL holders as higher-risk drivers due to the potential for more severe accidents involving large, heavy vehicles.

Despite the lack of discounts specifically for CDL holders, some insurance companies do offer discounts for professional drivers or commercial vehicle operators. It is important for CDL holders to shop around and compare insurance rates to find the best value for their specific needs.

Frequently asked questions