Every driver has unique needs that make certain vehicles better suited for them than others. For example, while some may prefer a compact car’s trimmed-down size and fuel efficiency, others need the power and versatility a truck offers to take care of their day-to-day needs. But will the same license that lets you drive a car also let you legally operate a pickup truck?
You can drive a pickup truck with a car license. However, there may be certain requirements for hauling certain trailers, depending on your location. You also need special licensing to drive a truck for commercial purposes.
Wondering what restrictions and requirements exist for driving a pickup truck? I’ll give you that information and some tips for finding the right pickup truck for your needs in the article below.
Can Anyone Use a Car License for Driving a Pickup Truck?
Driving with proper licensing is important for avoiding costly fees resulting from violating the rules in your local area. The right documentation is also the best way to show that you have the necessary skills to operate your vehicle safely.
Anyone can use a standard car driver’s license to drive a pickup truck. The major exception to this rule is if you are using your truck for commercial purposes. If you’re driving a truck for business purposes, you need the proper licensing.
Driving with a large trailer or RV is generally covered under a normal driver’s license. However, certain states may require a special license if you intend to drive with a trailer weighing over 1,500 pounds (454 kg), so be sure to check with your local regulations to ensure you comply. In addition, your area may have other trailer licensing requirements, such as licenses for trailers with braking systems.
When Do You Need a Special License for a Truck?
As covered above, certain states may require you to have a special license to drive with certain trailers attached to your truck. The other major restriction to keep in mind depends on the purpose you’re driving a truck for.
You need a special license to drive a truck when you’re driving for commercial purposes. This license is known as a commercial driver’s license or a CDL. These licenses can be obtained by passing the appropriate skills test to prove your ability.
The main thing to ask yourself to determine whether you need this special licensing is whether or not you’re getting paid for your driving. For example, getting paid to haul cargo to a job site would require a commercial license.
Most pickup truck drivers use their vehicles for personal use, whether that be commuting to work or for recreational purposes. This use is covered under the same driver’s license that allows you to drive a car or SUV.
What To Look For in a Pickup Truck
Now that I’ve covered the licensing requirements for driving a pickup truck, you may be wondering how to find the best pickup truck for your needs. If you are used to driving a smaller vehicle, like a compact car, there are a few key factors to keep in mind when selecting a truck:
- Engine strength
- Utility features
- Safety systems
Below I will cover each of these factors in detail.
Engine Strength
One of the first factors that any truck driver considers when deciding on their ride of choice is if the truck in question has the strength to take care of their needs.
Light-duty trucks provide plenty of horsepower to take care of most jobs you might need to get done. However, a heavy-duty truck might be what you’re looking for if you’re doing any heavy work.
Along with horsepower ratings, consider if the truck you’re assessing has the necessary towing capacity. If you plan on hauling your boat, RV, or any other trailer with your truck, you want to ensure the truck can handle the weight of anything you’ll be taking with you.
Utility Features
Strength isn’t everything when getting what you need from a truck. You also want to ensure that the truck you’re looking for has a range of other features that will cover any needs you might have when you’re out on the road.
A durable and versatile truck bed is one of the first things you should look for when choosing which truck to drive. You can also check to see if the truck in question includes features like onboard power systems to power lights or tools wherever you are or trailering technology that helps keep what you’re hauling steady and secure.
Safety Systems
No matter what kind of vehicle you’re driving, having the right features to ensure your safety and the safety of anybody else on board is absolutely essential. Having the right safety features on your side will help you take to the road with confidence and peace of mind.
A high-strength frame designed to disperse force and reduce the impact felt by those on board, as well as advanced airbags, should be the bare minimum you’re looking for in terms of safety features. Modern trucks can also come equipped with advanced driver assistance technology that helps you stay one step ahead of potential threats you encounter on the road.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to pickup trucks, the licensing requirements are largely the same as operating any other car or SUV. The exceptions to this rule are special licensing requirements that your local jurisdiction may require for certain trailers or licensing requirements for driving a truck for commercial purposes.
If you’re driving a truck for personal use, the same license that covers your car will also allow you to legally operate your truck. Be sure to check any legal requirements in your area and always stay safe when you’re out on the road.
Sources
- PickupTrucks.com: Talking Trucks Tuesday: Pickup Licenses
- Pennsylvania Department of Transportation: License Types & Restrictions
- Pickup Truck + SUV Talk: Do you need a CDL for your new HD truck or RV? The truth
- Consumer Reports: Best Pickup Trucks Reviews
- FMCSA: How do I get a commercial driver’s license?