What Are The Different Types of CDLs?
One of the most common questions we get here at Driver Solutions is: What is the difference between the Commercial Driver’s Licenses classes or types? Well, there are 3 common types of CDLs a person can obtain. They all require different types of training and allow you to work various types of transportation jobs once you have them. In this blog, we'd like to define and help you understand the differences between each of the three CDL classes (A, B, and C).
3 Types of CDL Licenses
Class A CDL
Any combination of vehicles which has a gross combination weight rating or gross combination weight of 11,794 kilograms or more (26,001 pounds or more) whichever is greater, inclusive of a towed unit(s) with a gross vehicle weight rating or gross vehicle weight of more than 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds) whichever is greater.
Class B CDL
Any single vehicle which has a gross vehicle weight rating or gross vehicle weight of 11,794 or more kilograms (26,001 pounds or more), or any such vehicle towing a vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating or gross vehicle weight that does not exceed 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds).
Class C CDL
Any single vehicle, or combination of vehicles, that does not meet the definition of Class A or Class B, but is either designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, or is transporting material that has been designated as hazardous under 49 U.S.C. 5103 and is required to be placarded under subpart F of 49 CFR Part 172 or is transporting any quantity of a material listed as a select agent or toxin in 42 CFR Part 73.
For more information on the definitions, endorsements, and restrictions of each of these classes, visit the FMCSA website.
Below is a graphic taken from SCDMV Online that we found to be really helpful in understanding the differences between the 3:
What Type of CDL Do You Need Become A Trucker?
Obtaining any one of the CDLs mentioned above opens up a world of career opportunities in the transportation industry. However, to become a big rig driver you need to obtain your Class A CDL. You might be wondering how you can go about obtaining your CDL. Well, Driver Solutions can help. We will connect you with a premier truck driving school nearby to get CDL training. The best part of it is that when you choose to work with PAM and Driver Solutions, you won’t have to pay a dime for truck driving school! Our company sponsored CDL training program not only pays for you to learn the skills needed to become a professional trucker, but also sets you up with a job upon successful completion of training!
Start Your Trucking Career Now
Driver Solutions can help you get the CDL training you need to become a truck driver. Start your career now and you could be on the road making up to $50,000 in just the first year! Just take a few moments to complete our online driver application now.