In order the drive for Dot Transportation, Inc. (DTI), our drivers have to obtain their Class A commercial driver’s license (CDL). But, we often get questions like “What is the difference between a Class A and a Class B CDL?” or “What types of vehicles can I drive with my Class A license?” We’re here to break it all down.
Commercial driver’s licenses have been a requirement for drivers driving a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) since April 1, 1992. Today, any larger truck or bus that you see on the road is being driven by a driver who holds a CDL.
So you want to drive a commercial vehicle. What license class do you need to obtain?
Class A CDL
Typically, a Class A CDL holder works as a heavy truck or semi truck driver driving over the road (OTR) or regionally. If you hold a Class A CDL, you are authorized to drive:
- Tractor trailers
- Truck & trailer combinations
- Double and triple trailers
- Tractor trailer buses
- Tanker vehicles
- Livestock carriers
- Flatbeds
You are also authorized to operate any vehicle that falls under the Class B CDL. This provides drivers with the opportunity to drive a wider variety of commercial vehicles and have more career paths to choose from.
Class B CDL
If you’re looking for a job that is more local or are planning on driving a commercial vehicle for a short period of time, a Class B CDL may be the best choice for you. As a Class B CDL holder, you would be authorized to drive:
- Straight trucks
- Box trucks, such as a delivery truck
- Large passenger buses
- Dump trucks with small trailers
What License Type Do I Need to Drive for Dot Transportation?
In order to drive for DTI, you will need to have a Class A CDL, as well as your Tanker and Haz-Mat endorsements.
Don’t have your Class A CDL?
No need to worry about that either! If you want to drive for DTI, apply today and we’ll help you obtain the necessary endorsements during our best-in-class, paid training and orientation program.
When considering obtaining your commercial drivers license, you may have a hard time deciding exactly which CDL you want to obtain. Some of the most common questions we get are about Class A versus Class B commercial drivers licenses.
Why choose Class A or Class B CDL? What’s the difference anyway? Is one better than the other?
Class A CDL vs. Class B CDL
Keep reading to learn the difference between a Class A CDL and a Class B CDL and find out which commercial drivers license is the best option for your career.
What is a Class A CDL?
If you are looking for a fulfilling career driving a semi-truck, a Class A CDL may be the best choice for you. A class A CDL is the most common type of commercial drivers license. A Class A license is required to operate a wide variety of vehicles that have a gross weight of over 26,000 pounds and a towing capacity of over 10,000 pounds. Class A CDL allows for the operation of 18-wheelers, flatbeds, livestock carriers and more.
With a Class A CDL, you may drive interstate or locally, long-haul or over-the-road. You must be over 21 years of age to receive your Class A license. Because Class A can be an all-encompassing license if you have the right endorsements, it allows for the operation of Class B vehicles as well.
What is a Class B CDL?
A Class B CDL allows for the operation of a single vehicle with a gross weight of over 26,000 pounds but a towing capacity of no more than 10,000 pounds. Examples of vehicles you can drive with a Class B license include buses, garbage trucks, delivery trucks, dump trucks and more.
For a Class B CDL, you must be at least 18 years of age. Additionally, a Class B CDL only allows drivers the ability to operate within the state in which they obtained their license.
Which CDL is right for you?
There are advantages to having both a Class A CDL and a Class B CDL.
A Class A CDL allows you to have more opportunity and variety in your career and is the best choice if you are looking for a long-term career as a driver.
If traveling the country appeals to you, Class A CDLs allow for interstate travel. Additionally, Class A CDL jobs typically have a higher starting salary and earning potential.
On the other hand, a Class B CDL is a great option for those who see truck driving as a short-term job rather than a career.
This license is a great choice for those looking for a job as a delivery driver, bus driver or other local trucking jobs.
Ready to take the next step in your truck driving career?
CDL of AL is Alabama’s top driving school offering superior Class A CDL training at low cost or no cost at all.
Still not sure which option is right for you? Don’t hesitate to reach out to CDL of AL with any more questions you may have about obtaining your CDL.
For more information on obtaining your Class A CDL, check out our blog, How do you get an Alabama Class A CDL?