N.Y. Veh. & Traf. Law § 502-a

§ 502-a. Determination of weights applicable to license requirements.\nThe applicability of the requirements relative to licensing as defined\nin this article shall, except when a commercial driver's license is\nrequired solely because the vehicle is transporting hazardous materials\nor passengers, be based upon the vehicle manufacturer's GVWR, the\nregistration weight of the vehicle or the actual weight of the vehicle\nand the load, whichever is greater, or with respect to passenger and\nlimited use automobiles shall be based upon the registration weight of\nthe automobile.\n