Do You Need a CDL to Drive a Fire Truck?

Driving a fire truck is not like cruising around in your everyday sedan. These vehicles are heavy, powerful, and play a crucial role in emergency rescues. Naturally, many people wonder if they need a CDL to operate one. In this blog, we will answer that question by discussing regulations, training, and other intricacies related to the topic.

Can Civilians Drive Retired Fire Trucks?

When a fire truck is retired and decommissioned from active duty by a fire department, the vehicle is often sold at government auctions. Once sold, they become private property, and civilians can own and operate them.

Registration and Title

Just like any other motor vehicle, a retired fire truck must be properly registered with the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The title would no longer be labeled as “emergency vehicle,” but instead be classified as a “commercial vehicle” or another suitable classification based on size and weight.

Insurance

Given the size and unique nature of fire trucks, not all insurance companies offer policies. However, specialized companies or agents familiar with uncommon vehicles will provide coverage. Premiums vary based on the truck’s use (e.g., RV, work truck, parades, private property use, rentals, farm vehicle) and other factors.

License Requirements

Depending on the truck’s weight and size, you might need a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) to legally operate it on public roads. Some states have exemptions or special license classes for antique or collector vehicles, so be sure to check local regulations.

Equipment Modifications

All jurisdictions require removal or deactivation of certain equipment that’s exclusively meant for emergency use. This includes sirens and specific flashing lights, among other things. Similar modifications may be required to comply with local safety and emission standards.

Use on Public Roads

While you can drive a retired fire truck on public roads, including the city, remember that your automobile no longer has the rights or privileges of an active emergency vehicle. You cannot use sirens or lights to navigate traffic or park in zones reserved for active emergency vehicles.

Fire Truck Weight Classifications

Once you start browsing fire trucks put up for auction, you will discover that there are different types and weight classes.

Weight by CDL Class

In the United States, the requirement to obtain a CDL is primarily based on the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) and type of vehicle being operated. Here’s a general breakdown of weight requirements for a CDL:

Class A CDL

• Vehicle Weight: Combination vehicle towing another vehicle that weighs in excess of 10,000 pounds.

• Common Vehicles: Truck and trailer combinations, flatbeds, and livestock carriers.

Class B CDL

• Vehicle Weight: Single automotive with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more.

• Common Vehicles: Fire engines, ladder trucks, quints, buses, dump trucks, tow trucks, and delivery trucks.

Class C CDL

• Vehicle Weight: Designed to transport 16 passengers or more, including the driver, or designed to transport hazardous materials that require placards. Typically, these vehicles do not meet the criteria for Class A or B, but still need a CDL due to their purpose rather than weight.

• Common Vehicles: Small hazmat vehicles, passenger vans, and any vehicle transporting hazardous materials.

Most common for this type of automotive are the Class C and Class B licenses. Aside from size, category can also depend on the governing state agency. For example, in the California Vehicle Code, a regular driver with a Class C license may be permitted to operate certain fire department vehicles. However, specific training and endorsements might still be required.

Weight by Fire Truck Type

With varying purposes, weights, and licensing requirements, not all fire trucks are the same. Here’s a look:

Engine/Pumper

• Weight: Between 30,000 to 40,000 pounds (15 to 20 tons)

• Purpose: Primary firefighting vehicle, carries water, hoses, and basic equipment.

• Class B CDL.

Ladder Truck/Tower Ladder

• Weight: Between 70,000 to 105,000 pounds (35 to 52.5 tons).

• Purpose: For high-rise operations, equipped with a long ladder that can be elevated and extended.

• Class B CDL.

Tender/Tanker

• Weight: Between 50,000 to 56,000 pounds (25 to 28 tons).

• Purpose: Primarily carries a large amount of water, especially useful in areas without fire hydrants or a steady water supply.

• Class B CDL.

Quint

• Weight: Between 50,000 to 70,000 pounds (25 to 35 tons).

• Purpose: A combination of engine and ladder truck. Equipped with hoses, water, and an aerial ladder.

• Class B CDL.

Brush Truck/Wildland Fire Truck

• Weight: Between 10,000 to 26,000 pounds (5 to 13 tons)

• Purpose: Designed for fighting wildfires, can go off-road and carries water, tools, and a small crew.

• Class A CDL.

Rescue/Ambulance

• Weight: Between 10,000 to 14,000 pounds (5 to 7 tons) for ambulances, and 20,000 to 27,000 pounds (10 to 13.5 tons) for heavy rescue vehicles.

• Purpose: Medical emergencies, technical rescues, and extrications. Equipped with medical supplies, tools, and other necessary equipment.

• Class A CDL.

Command/Squad Vehicle

• Weight: Between 5,000 to 9,000 pounds (2.5 to 4.5 tons) based on the size and type of vehicle (e.g., SUV vs. van).

• Purpose: Used by chiefs or officers and can serve as a command post at large incidents.

• CDL not required.

Comparing to RVs

Recreational vehicles (RVs) will not require CDLs in most states unless the GVWR exceeds 26,000 pounds or another unit is being towed in excess of 10,000 pounds. If so, they follow the same criteria as fire trucks. Again, this is dependent upon the state as the weight thresholds vary.

Do you need a CDL to drive a fire truck in various states?

A CDL is needed depending on the weight and purpose of your fire truck. Bear in mind that a commercial learner’s permit (CLP) is required in certain places before obtaining a CDL. Similarly, if you are under 21, your driving will most often be restricted to intrastate instead of interstate. Requirements are generally the same from state to state, but here’s a quick rundown:

State CDL Requirements

Alabama – Conventional classes, but depending on your operation, a medical examiner’s certification could be required.

Alaska – Conventional requirements.

Arizona – Conventional requirements.

Arkansas – Conventional requirements.

California – Conventional requirements.

Colorado – Conventional requirements.

Connecticut – Conventional requirements.

Delaware – Conventional requirements, though a non-commercial variation is available for those operating on farms or firefighting.

Florida – Conventional requirements.

Georgia – Conventional requirements, but includes an individual vehicle driving 15 or more people.

Hawaii – Conventional requirements.

Idaho – Exemptions for RVs for personal use and farm vehicles.

Illinois – Conventional requirements.

Indiana – Conventional requirements.

Iowa – Conventional requirements.

Kansas – Conventional requirements.

Kentucky – Conventional requirements, but includes an individual vehicle driving 15 or more people.

Louisiana – Conventional requirements.

Maine – Conventional requirements, and if your firetruck is being put to use solely on a farm, then a CDL is not required.

Maryland – Conventional requirements.

Massachusetts – Conventional requirements, though CDLs with K restrictions are available for anyone under 21.

Michigan – Conventional requirements.

Minnesota – Conventional requirements.

Mississippi – Conventional requirements.

Missouri – Conventional requirements.

Montana – Conventional requirements.

Nebraska – Conventional requirements.

Nevada – Conventional requirements.

New Hampshire – Conventional requirements.

New Jersey – Conventional requirements.

New Mexico – Conventional requirements.

New York – Conventional requirements.

North Carolina – Conventional requirements.

North Dakota – Conventional requirements, plus English as a specified language requirement.

Ohio – Conventional requirements.

Oklahoma – Conventional requirements.

Oregon – Conventional requirements.

Pennsylvania – Conventional requirements.

Rhode Island – Conventional requirements.

South Carolina – Conventional requirements.

South Dakota – Conventional requirements.

Tennessee – Conventional requirements, but includes an individual vehicle driving 15 or more people.

Texas – Conventional requirements.

Utah – Conventional requirements.

Vermont – Conventional requirements.

Virginia – Conventional requirements.

Washington – Conventional requirements, and you must not have a “lifetime driver license disqualification.”

Washington DC – Conventional requirements.

West Virginia – Conventional requirements.

Wisconsin – Conventional requirements.

Wyoming – Conventional requirements.

Fire Truck Exemptions

Aside from driving a fire truck around town, you can also put them to use for other purposes. Uses include serving as a utility truck for a small company, like a landscaping or electrical business. You could convert it into a mobile bar or food truck. Even more creative, the fire truck could be turned into a prop on an airsoft field, in which case, a CDL is usually not required.

If your fire truck is only used on a farm, you could even get an exemption from needing a special license. Just be sure to call your local DMV to verify that your specific use and vehicle meets exemption requirements.

Licensing for Firefighters

Behind every fire department, there’s a series of licensing and training that ensures these first responders can perform their jobs well. This means that for both city and county establishments, having a firefighter endorsement is crucial. This endorsement recognizes that a firefighter has undergone specialized training (often overseen by a state fire marshal or equivalent authority) to safely operate the department’s fire equipment.

Even volunteer fire departments have similar strict regulations in place. Whether it’s a full-fledged fire engine or a smaller piece of fire apparatus, proper training is a must to ensure safe operation.

Training Requirements and the Role of the DMV

Contrary to popular belief, the fire department and the state fire marshal are only part of the role in the training and licensing of fire truck drivers. The DMV is often also responsible for overseeing some licensing requirements. However, remember that while the DMV provides the license, the endorsement and specialized training primarily come from the fire department itself. That portion involves both classroom learning and hands-on experience with emergency equipment.

Specialized Driver Training Programs

For a firefighter to be permitted to drive any fire apparatus, they must undergo training. This can vary from one department to another, but there are common threads:

Emergency Driving

Firefighters are trained to drive under extreme conditions, ensuring they can reach an emergency situation as swiftly and safely as possible. Not only are they moving personnel, but they have to transport equipment too.

Equipment Familiarization

Each fire truck or engine can be vastly different, which means each firefighter receives detailed training on the specific models their department uses. That includes understanding the various tools and not just the vehicle itself.

Tiller Operator Training

Some models, especially longer ladder trucks, come with a tiller – a secondary steering wheel at the back. Handling these requires specialized training, as the tiller operator must steer the rear wheels, making the truck more maneuverable in tight spots.

Hands-on Driving

Theory is crucial, but there’s nothing like a hands-on training course. Every firefighter gets to drive under the direct supervision of an instructor.

Continuous Training

As equipment gets updated or new strategies emerge, firefighters must continue to learn. This involves refresher courses, updated certifications, and staying in tune with any changes in regulations.

Why Not Just Require a CDL?

You might be wondering why every fire truck driver doesn’t just get a CDL. However, the answer is not so simple. Fire departments operate under a unique set of circumstances. For instance, backup drivers might need to jump into action in an emergency situation without the time to undergo full commercial class training. Also, not all fire trucks are as massive as you’d think! Some are smaller and fall under the weight limit for a standard Class C license. The key takeaway is that while a CDL might be beneficial, the firefighter endorsement holds more weight in this area.

Continuous Training and Updates

Driving a fire truck isn’t a one-and-done deal. Continuous training is essential. As equipment gets updated or new strategies emerge, firefighters must stay updated. This can involve refresher courses, updated certifications, and staying in tune with any changes in regulations. Oftentimes, there is an instructor registered to teach the course who is following requirements set by the department. The fire chief works in tandem with them to decide the depth and frequency of the training.

The Role of Volunteer Firefighters

Volunteer firefighting also comes with specific considerations regarding driving fire trucks and the necessary training. These brave individuals balance their regular jobs with the immense responsibility of being called on for emergencies. They’re crucial for many communities, especially in more rural areas. While a volunteer fire department may operate differently than a regularly organized fire department, the urgency and importance of their duties remain the same. This means the requirements for driving a fire truck are equally stringent.

Training: Just as Crucial for Volunteers

Whether you’re a full-time firefighter or a volunteer, operating a truck requires intensive training. Volunteers undergo similar, if not the same, fire department driver training. This ensures that in an emergency situation, the volunteer can respond in a timely, safe and efficient way. In some counties, the state agency or the state fire marshal might even offer specialized courses for the volunteers, accommodating their unique schedules and needs.

Licensing and Endorsements for Volunteers

Much like their full-time counterparts, volunteers need to be properly licensed to operate fire engines or trucks. While they might not always have a CDL, they certainly need a firefighter endorsement. As previously discussed, this signifies the firefighter’s ability to operate the vehicle safely under various conditions.

In some cases, volunteers might also be given a grace period or be under exclusive control of the department’s chief for training purposes. This means they can drive the fire apparatus under supervision without the official recognition or endorsement. However, this is strictly for training and not during an actual emergency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the smallest fire truck that requires a CDL?

The commercial drivers license requirement depends more on the weight of the vehicle than its size. Typically, any automotive weighing over 26,001 pounds requires one for operation. Smaller fire trucks or apparatuses under this weight might not need a CDL, but many still do because of equipment and water-carrying capacity.

What is the driver of a fire engine called?

The driver of a fire engine is often referred to as an “engineer” or “driver/operator.”

How heavy is a fire truck?

The weight of a fire truck varies greatly by type and equipment. A typical fire engine can weigh between 30,000 to 40,000 pounds, but larger trucks, especially ladder trucks, weigh much more.

Do fire trucks have air brakes?

Yes, many modern fire trucks are equipped with air brakes due to their superior stopping power, especially for heavy vehicles.

What is the F endorsement in Nevada?

The F endorsement in Nevada signifies a firefighter’s authorization to operate firefighting equipment. It is an essential certification for those looking to drive fire trucks in the state.

What is the top speed of a fire engine?

This depends on the model and make, but most fire engines have a top speed ranging between 60 to 70 mph.

Conclusion

The spectrum of fire trucks and engines is vast. From smaller vehicles to the colossal ladder trucks, each comes with its own set of perks and challenges, but if you’re curious about learning more and want to get your own, then don’t forget to browse Municibid’s online auctions. We sell motor vehicles like fire trucks, police cars, and so much more. You can be a firefighter, a volunteer firefighter, or a civilian, there’s something for everybody!