CDL License Classes A, B, and C: What You Need to Know

Bill Duckstein

19/07/2024

⏳ 4 min

Updated on December 16th, 2024

Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is an essential permit for drivers in the trucking sector. Their obtaining foresees stringent requirements to ensure a driver has the necessary skills of complex car handling. The article reviews the licenses features, types of CDL, and how to obtain it.

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Table of Contents

What is a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)?
What are the types of CDL?

Class A CDL

Class B CDL

Class C CDL

What is the most common CDL type?
What’s the Difference between CDL and CLP?
How to Get a CDL
Conclusion

What is a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)?

CDL is a main document for drivers who operate in the trucking industry. It proves the ability to drive commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). The requirement was set in 1986 to increase safety on roads and set the single standard for the whole commercial driving in the U.S.

To obtain a CDL, you should pass the knowledge and skill examination. It evaluates your ability to operate a large vehicle safely. The knowledge test exams your knowledge of road rules, vehicle operations, and safety measures. The skill test is a practical examination to verify your ability to operate a large vehicle. A driver should pass a pre-road inspection, driving maneuvers, and traffic navigation.

What are the types of CDL?

The CDL has three classes. Each of them foresees driving a different type of vehicle and specific requirements for the driver.

Class A CDL

This CDL type allows operating vehicles with a weight more than 26,001 pounds, while a towed vehicle can be heavier than 10,000 pounds. Class A CDL covers tractors, trailers, tankers, livestock carriers, and flatbed trucks.

In addition, this permit allows drivers operating vehicles covered by B and C CDL classes. It makes this license type more versatile, giving drivers a broader range of job opportunities.

Vehicles are covered by Class A CDL

Semi-trucks. The combination of a tractor unit and one or more semi-trailer with a freight.
Livestock carriers. Trucks are designed to transport animals.
Flatbeds. Open trailers that ship oversized or irregularly shaped cargo.
Tanker vehicles. Trucks for transporting liquids or gases.
Combination vehicles. Trucks that tow several trailers.

Class B CDL

This CDL class legalizes driving any vehicle heavier than 26,001 pounds as well. Still, a towered vehicle’s weight must not exceed 10,000 pounds. In addition, it provides a right to drive vehicles of Class C CDL.

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Vehicles that require a Class B license

Straight trucks. The large trucks with a single frame are usually used for local deliveries.
Large buses. City buses, tourist buses, or school buses.
Box trucks. They are usually used for parcel deliveries and moving services.
Dump trucks with smaller trailers. They ship materials like sand, gravel, or demolition waste.

Class C CDL

In accordance with the federal laws, Class C permit covers vehicles that transport 16 or more people or hazardous materials (hazmat). It includes small vans, some school buses, and hazmat trucks.

Vehicles that require Class C CDL

Small passenger vans. Transport groups of people, such as shuttle vans.
Some school buses. Smaller busses that aren’t covered by Class B requirements.
Vehicles shipping hazardous cargo. Trucks that ship materials such as radioactive cargo, chemicals, and explosives.

What is the most common CDL type?

Among the different CDL classes, the most common is the Class A license, as it covers a broader range of vehicles. This class covers not only vehicles of its categories but also those that need B and C classes of CDL. Thus, a Class A license allows driving vehicles like straight vehicles, large buses, small passenger vans, and hazardous materials trucks. It makes the Class A CDL more valuable for those who seek the broadest range of work opportunities.

In conclusion, Class A CDL has the following benefits:

Flexibility. It may be crucial for drivers who want to increase their earnings.
There are more job opportunities. The Class A license allows you to drive a variety of vehicles. Whether you want to drive a tanker, provide long-haul deliveries, or transport people, this license will fit.
Higher earnings. A wide range of vehicles often means higher earnings potential as businesses may pay more to employees who can handle multiple transportation types.
Career growth. A Class A license means a broad skill set and experience. Thus, such drivers will be stronger than their colleagues with a Class B or C CDL.

What’s the Difference between CDL and CLP?

CLP or Commercial Learner’s Permit is one of the steps to obtain a full CDL. It allows drivers to practice under the control of a CDL holder. The CLP is valid for a limited period and foresees restrictions being lifted upon obtaining a CDL.

Aspect	CDL	CLP
Purpose	Independent operations	Training and practice
Supervision	Drive alone	Accompanied by a licensed CDL driver
Validity	Up to 180 days	Up to several years, depending on each state’s regulations

How to Get a CDL

This process involves several steps, such as meeting skill requirements, passing medical examinations, or completing a training program.

Steps to obtain a CDL:

Requirements compliance. Ensure you’re aware of which regulations are necessary for a CDL. In particular, candidates must be no older than 18 or 21, depending on cargo type and state regulations. You also should have a valid non-commercial driver’s license.
Medical examination. This certificate ensures the compliance with physical requirements for large vehicle operations.
CLP obtaining. This license is one of the major steps to obtain a CDL in the future. It requires passing a written test and allows drivers to practice under supervision.
Training program. You should complete a special training to gain the necessary skills and knowledge.
Tests passing. CDL obtaining means passing the knowledge and skills tests. They verify your understanding of traffic laws, safety measures, and skills of vehicle operations and inspection.
Medical examination. Obtaining a medical certificate is necessary to ensure you meet all physical requirements for operating large vehicles.
Get a CLP. This license requires passing a written test. With the CLP, you can practice under supervision to obtain a CDL.
Training program. Complete a unique training program to obtain the necessary skills and knowledge for large vehicle operations.
Pass the tests. To obtain a CDL, you should pass the knowledge and skills tests. It’s needed to verify your understanding of traffic laws, safety measures, and skills of vehicle operating and inspection.

Conclusion

A Commercial Driver’s license is a main requirement for drivers who want to operate large vehicles. Understanding the different CDL classes, which vehicle types they cover, and the obtaining process will help you navigate the sector.

Whether you drive a semi-truck, flatbed, or a local bus, the CDL license provides you with a range of opportunities in commercial driving. In particular, it ensures stable career opportunities and continued professional growth. With the constant demand for skilled drivers, CDL holders can obtain job security and competitive salaries. The CDL also allows one to get jobs with additional requirements, such as shipment of hazardous materials.You can use our services to maximize the benefits and success you may achieve. Logity Dispatch provides support in managing loads and route optimization. Our team offers you a reliable service so you can focus on driving.