Class A vs Class B CDL
What each class covers
Class A: any combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more, where the towed unit is over 10,000 pounds. Tractor-trailers, flatbeds, tankers, doubles.
Class B: a single vehicle of 26,001 pounds or more, towing no more than 10,000 pounds. Dump trucks, cement mixers, garbage trucks, straight delivery trucks, buses.
A Class A holder can drive Class B vehicles. It does not work the other way.
Training and cost
Class A behind-the-wheel programs run 3 to 8 weeks and $3,000 to $7,000 at private schools. Class B programs are often 1 to 3 weeks and $1,500 to $4,000. ELDT theory is the same price for both at ELDT365.
Jobs and pay
Class A: over-the-road, regional, LTL linehaul, tanker, flatbed, owner-operator. Class B: local delivery, construction, waste, transit, school bus. Class A jobs generally pay more, especially with endorsements, but Class B jobs are more likely to be local and home daily.
Upgrading later
If you start with a Class B and want a Class A later, you take the Class B to A upgrade ELDT theory, which only covers combination vehicles, then BTW in a tractor-trailer and the Class A skills test.
Questions drivers ask
Should I just get a Class A?
If you want the most options and are willing to spend a few more weeks in training, yes. If you know you want a local job in construction, waste, or transit, Class B gets you working faster.
Is the Class B skills test easier?
The maneuvers are similar but done in a single vehicle, so there is no coupling and backing is simpler. Most drivers find it easier.
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