Non-CDL Hotshot Requirements: How to Start Hotshot Trucking Without a CDL

To make this short, you can drive hotshot without a CDL, and there’s not that much of a downside. A commercial driver's license (CDL) is needed to drive certain jobs and certain vehicles. However, drivers with their CDL mainly drive semi-trucks and jobs that aren’t typical of hotshot jobs.

If you’re thinking about getting a CDL for your hotshot business, there are some things to consider.

Non-CDL Hotshot Requirements—What You Need to Succeed

To become a hotshot driver without a CDL, you must:

• Be at least 18 Years old
• Be insured
• Have a clean driving record
• Have an up-to-date vehicle license and registration
• Have a reliable truck and trailer

As a non-CDL hotshot hauler, you’ll be limited to hauling shipments that weigh less than 10,000 lbs. Depending on your state, you may also have restrictions on the length of your truck and trailer. In Arizona, the length restriction is at 45 ft, while in its neighboring state, Colorado, the length restriction is set at 40 ft.

Read our related article for a complete guide on hotshot trucking.

Non-CDL Hotshot Insurance Requirements

Insurance is a requirement for any vehicle that drives on the road, and that doesn’t change for hotshot drivers. The most important insurance coverages for hotshot trucking include primary liability insurance, physical damage insurance, and cargo insurance.

Cargo insurance is often broken down into three different categories: A, B, and C. A, or all-risk cargo insurance, is the most encompassing and covers basically every kind of accident or loss. C is the most minimal and will only cover damage due to acts of God.

Read our related article for an in-depth look at hotshot trucking insurance.

What Can Non-CDL Hotshots Haul?

Hotshots with their CDL have a lot to take care of, and they only have slightly more options for jobs than non-CDL drivers. Hotshots without their CDL are still able to haul some of the most important cargo, including:

• Construction materials and equipment
• Agriculture equipment
• Heavy machinery
• Vehicles
• Landscaping materials
• Solar panels
• Furniture
• Roofing materials
• HVAC
• Gym and workout equipment
• So much more

Non-CDL hotshots can haul just about anything, and they don’t need to spend time updating their licenses.

What Can’t Non-CDL Hotshots Haul?

Several categories of freight require a CDL to haul. The materials that non-CDL hotshots can’t haul include:

• Liquids that require tanker trailers
• Hazardous materials
• Double trailers
• Livestock

It’s important to note that a CDL is not the only thing needed to haul tankers and hazardous materials, and most states have tiered commercial licenses for weight ratings. 

Weight Considerations for Non-CDL Hotshots

Veteran drivers will understand the various weight categories and requirements, but for newer drivers and outsiders, weight requirements are confusing and daunting. 

Weights are categorized by gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), gross combination weight rating (GCWR), and gross axle weight rating (GAWR). Here’s a quick explanation of each:

• GVWR: The maximum weight a vehicle can weigh while driving. This number includes the weight of the vehicle itself.
• GCWR: The combined maximum weight of a vehicle and a trailer. Similar to GVWR, this includes the weight of the trailer and any passengers.
• GAWR: How weight is distributed is important to consider. GAWR is the maximum weight each axle can carry. This includes vehicle and trailer weight. 
• Payload Capacity: This is how much a vehicle and trailer can haul. To find this, subtract the weight of your rig from your GVWR or GCWR.

The non-CDL hotshot weight limit is 26,000 pounds. However, they also can’t exceed the GVWR of their truck and trailer separately. Federal law requires any driver to have a CDL if the vehicle’s GCWR is over 26,000 pounds.

Read our related article for more information on how much weight you can haul without a CDL.

How to Become a Hotshot Driver Without a CDL

If you’re looking to become a hotshot driver but you don’t have a CDL, then Open Road is the solution for you.

Open Road is a shipping platform that connects hotshot drivers with businesses that need them. Our driver app makes it easy to sign up, find a job, and get paid. 

Sign up to be an Open Road driver and start getting hotshot jobs.