Thinking about getting your CDL and venturing into a life on the interstate? There are a few things to consider…like which class of CDL? If you’re anything like me, you had no idea there were different classes. I thought I would take a class, take a test, and hit the road. Silly me.
Simply put, a CDL is a Commerical Driver’s License that allows the holder to operate a vehicle that is not a regular passenger vehicle. In my mind, I assumed that an A-Class CDL was all that was needed. Only to learn that in addition to the A-Class, there are also B and C classes. On top of that, there are a series of special endorsements that allow drivers to take on different types of truck driving jobs.
Let’s start at the beginning.
Class A
A Class A CDL is required in order to operate any combination of vehicles with a combined gross weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more as long as the towed portion is heavier than 10,000 lbs. These vehicles generally include traditional transport trucks (tractor-trailer, semi-truck, big rigs, etc), livestock trucks, tankers, and flatbeds.
With a Class A, drivers are eligible to drive vehicles that fall under classes B and C as well.
Class B
A Class B CDL holder may operate a single vehicle without a trailer (except dump trucks) with a GVWR greater than 26,001 lbs. These vehicles include straight trucks, large city, tourist, school buses, box trucks, and dump trucks. That may also include small trailers.
Class C
A Class C CDL is required to operate a single vehicle less than 26,001 lbs GVWR, a vehicle towing another vehicle that weighs less than 10,000 lbs, or transports 16 or more passengers. This can include double or triple trailers, buses, and tank trucks.
Endorsements
In addition to the various CDL licenses, additional endorsements are available to drivers looking to transport particular loads. In order to secure an endorsement, drivers are required to pass a specialized knowledge test, and in some cases, a specialized driving test.
Endorsements include P (passenger), T (tanker), H (hazardous materials), and S (school bus). In addition to specialized training, drivers seeking their S endorsement must complete a background check.
As you begin your career as a commercial driver, consider your interests and look ahead to make plans. Secure the correct license and endorsements to help fulfill your goal to be the best commercial driver you can be.
