A Class D license with an F endorsement covers most passenger vehicles and lets you tow a trailer
A Class D license with an F endorsement is a standard driver's license that permits you to operate passenger cars, pickup trucks, and vans — and also to tow a trailer behind them. The F endorsement specifically authorizes towing. Without it, you can drive the vehicle itself but cannot legally pull a trailer, even a small one. Most states issue the F endorsement at the same time you get your Class D, and it costs little or nothing extra.
The F endorsement does not let you tow a commercial trailer or operate a vehicle designed to carry more than 15 passengers. Those require a different license class, usually a Class B or C with a different endorsement. The F endorsement is for personal use — moving a boat, utility trailer, or enclosed cargo trailer behind your own truck or SUV.
Key Takeaways
- An F endorsement on your Class D license authorizes you to tow a trailer behind a passenger vehicle or light truck.
- Most states add the F endorsement automatically when you pass your Class D test, or you can request it at the DMV.
- The endorsement applies only to non-commercial trailers and does not permit towing for hire or business purposes.
- Towing without an F endorsement when one is required can result in a traffic citation and insurance denial if you are in an accident.
What vehicles you can drive with a Class D and F endorsement
With a Class D license and F endorsement, you can legally operate:
- Passenger cars (sedans, coupes, hatchbacks)
- Pickup trucks and light-duty trucks
- Sport utility vehicles (SUVs) and crossovers
- Vans designed to carry 15 or fewer passengers
- Any of the above vehicles while towing a non-commercial trailer
The trailer itself must meet your state's weight and equipment standards. Most states allow you to tow a trailer with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) up to a certain limit — often 10,000 pounds or less — without additional licensing. Check your state's DMV website for the exact threshold, because it varies.
You cannot use an F endorsement to tow a commercial trailer, operate a vehicle registered as a commercial vehicle, or tow for payment or business. If you are paid to tow or haul, you need a commercial driver's license (CDL) instead.
How to get an F endorsement on your Class D license
In most states, the F endorsement is added to your Class D license automatically when you pass your written and driving tests. The test covers basic towing safety — how to check your trailer lights, what to do if your trailer starts to sway, and how to back up safely with a trailer attached. You do not need a separate test just for the F endorsement.
If you already have a Class D license without an F endorsement and want to add one, you can visit your state's DMV and request it. You may need to pass a short written test or a practical demonstration, depending on your state. Some states charge a small fee to add an endorsement; others do not. Call your local DMV or check their website to find out what is required in your state and whether there is a cost.
Bring your current license, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. The process usually takes a few minutes if you are only adding an endorsement to an existing license.
Towing safety and what your insurance needs to cover
Having an F endorsement means you are legally permitted to tow, but it does not automatically mean your insurance covers towing. Before you hitch a trailer to your vehicle, contact your insurance company and tell them what you plan to tow and how often. They may need to add a rider or endorsement to your policy, or they may already cover it under your standard policy.
If you are in an accident while towing and you do not have the proper license endorsement or insurance coverage, your claim can be denied. Insurance companies use your license class and endorsements to determine whether you were operating the vehicle legally. Towing without an F endorsement when your state requires one is a violation, and insurers may refuse to pay for damage or injury.
Basic towing safety includes checking that your trailer lights work, ensuring the trailer is properly hitched and secured, and knowing the weight limits of both your vehicle and trailer. Many states require trailers to have working brake lights, turn signals, and a license plate. Your vehicle's owner's manual will tell you the maximum towing capacity — do not exceed it, even if your trailer weighs less than your state's legal limit.
When you might not need an F endorsement
Some states do not require an F endorsement for towing very small trailers — typically those under a certain weight, such as 3,000 pounds. A small utility trailer or jet ski trailer might fall into this category. However, the rules vary widely by state, and some states require an F endorsement for any trailer, regardless of size.
The safest approach is to assume you need an F endorsement if you plan to tow anything. If your state does not require one for your specific trailer, you will find that out when you check. But if you tow without an endorsement and your state does require one, you face a traffic citation and potential insurance problems.
Difference between F endorsement and other towing licenses
The F endorsement on a Class D license is for personal, non-commercial towing. If you are towing for business — such as operating a towing service, hauling equipment for a construction company, or towing as part of a job — you need a commercial driver's license (CDL) with a towing endorsement instead. A CDL requires additional testing, medical certification, and background checks.
Some states also distinguish between towing a single-axle trailer and towing a double or triple trailer. A Class D with F may cover single-axle towing but not multi-axle commercial trailers. If you are unsure whether your towing situation requires a CDL, contact your state's DMV or the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an F endorsement to tow a small utility trailer?
It depends on your state and the trailer's weight. Some states require an F endorsement for any trailer; others only for trailers above a certain weight, such as 3,000 pounds. Check your state's DMV website or call them to confirm the rule for your specific trailer before you tow.
What happens if I tow without an F endorsement?
You can receive a traffic citation and face a fine. If you are in an accident, your insurance company may deny your claim because you were operating the vehicle illegally. Adding the endorsement after the fact does not cover an accident that already happened.
Can I add an F endorsement to my existing Class D license?
Yes. Visit your state's DMV, bring your current license and proof of residency, and request the endorsement. You may need to pass a short written test or pay a small fee, depending on your state. The process usually takes a few minutes.
Does my insurance automatically cover towing with an F endorsement?
No. An F endorsement means you are legally permitted to tow, but your insurance policy may not cover it. Contact your insurance company before you tow and ask whether your policy includes towing coverage or whether you need to add it.
What is the difference between an F endorsement and a CDL?
An F endorsement on a Class D license covers personal, non-commercial towing. A commercial driver's license (CDL) is required if you tow for business or operate a vehicle designed to carry more than 15 passengers. A CDL requires additional testing and medical certification.