In most countries and regions, driving garbage trucks is not permitted without a truck driver's license. Only small-sized garbage trucks can be operated by drivers with an ordinary car driver's license. However, to drive heavy-duty garbage trucks, a specialized driving license is required. For commercial garbage trucks, drivers must also obtain a specific driving license to operate them.
North America
The United States:
Core Standard: Classified by Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).
≤ 26,000 pounds (approximately 11.79 tons): An ordinary driver's license is sufficient. For commercial use, a DOT medical certificate is required.
26,001 pounds (approximately 11.8 tons): A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is mandatory.
Heavy single-unit vehicles: Require a Class B CDL.
Vehicles with trailers: Require a Class A CDL.
Some states also mandate an "N endorsement" (tanker endorsement).
Exception: For intrastate commercial use, vehicles weighing 18,001–26,000 pounds may require a Class C CDL.
Canada:
≤ 11,000 kilograms (approximately 11 tons): An ordinary Class G driver's license is sufficient.
11,000 kilograms, or vehicles towing trailers (trailer weight > 4,600 kilograms): A Class D commercial driver's license is required.
Note: Drivers of commercially used garbage trucks must complete cargo safety training.
Europe
EU Uniform Standards:
≤ 3.5 tons: An ordinary Class B driver's license is sufficient.
3.5–7.5 tons: Exempt from commercial license requirements if used for self-employed professional transportation (i.e., transporting goods related to the driver's own occupation).
3.5 tons for commercial transportation: A Class C commercial driver's license is required (the minimum age requirement will be lowered from 21 to 18 in 2025).
Vehicles with trailers (trailer weight > 750 kilograms): Require a Class C1E or CE driver's license.
Examples of Member States:
Germany: For vehicles weighing over 7.5 tons, both a Class C driver's license and a specialized vehicle operation certificate are required.
Key Takeaway
All regions primarily classify garbage truck driving requirements based on vehicle weight, though specific weight limits and license types vary. Commercial use typically imposes additional requirements (e.g., training, special certificates).
