The applicability of the requirements relative to licensing as defined in this article shall, except when a commercial driver's license is required solely because the vehicle is transporting hazardous materials or passengers, be based upon the vehicle manufacturer's GVWR, the registration weight of the vehicle or the actual weight of the vehicle and the load, whichever is greater, or with respect to passenger and limited use automobiles shall be based upon the registration weight of the automobile.
New York Legal Code