CDL Weight Vs. Actual Weight

The differences between actual weight and CDL License weight can confuse, even, trucking industry experts.

CDL Weight (GVWR)

CDL is all about the manufacturer's rating- GVWR. 26,001 pounds (GVWR) is a CDL vehicle. People think they need a CDL (for a particular truck) because they bought license plates (registered weight) above the 26,001 pound threshold. Take a truck that has a GVWR of 26,000 pounds. The one pound makes all the difference. The truck was manufactured at 26,000 pounds on purpose-to avoid the need for a CDL. You can't test in this 26,000 pound truck because it doesn't require a CDL in the first place. 

Do you know how the manufacturer determines the GVWR? 

GVWR is determined by the manufacturer. GVWR has everything to do with the suspension. A few tweaks to the suspension reduces (or increases) the GVWR. 

Weight for license plates and CDL are two different things. 
Truck Registration showing registered weight.
This truck is a tandem axle day cab tractor.

Registered and Actual Weight

The sticker shows the GVWR of 35,000. Requires a CDL.
This truck is a single axle day cab tractor.
I register my school trucks at the actual weight of the truck and trailer (about 20,000 pounds). 
  • The combined GVWR (actually GCWR) of an 18 wheeler is 117,000 pounds.  
  • I don't want to buy license plates at 117,000 pounds because it's too expensive. 
  • I buy license plates at the actual weight of 20,000 pounds. 
  • I save $1500 per truck and trailer by registering them this way. I'm telling the state that I won't exceed 20,000 pounds on their roads.
  • But, the actual weight of the truck and trailer needs to match the registration- or I'll pay a fine for being overweight. 
  • I'll get in trouble if I haul a load this truck. I wouldn't have paid enough road tax. I only registered the truck at 20,000 pounds.