Class A Vs Class B CDL: What’s the Difference?

When deciding which CDL to apply for, it’s important to understand the differences in training requirements, knowledge, and vehicle specifications for each license class. A key factor to consider is the type of vehicles you want to drive, as this choice will help determine which CDL is the best fit for your career goals.

There are three classes of CDL: Class A, Class B, and Class C. The main differences between these licenses revolve around the types of vehicles you can drive and the weight of the vehicle and trailer combinations. This article explores the key differences between CDL-A and CDL-B licenses, helping you determine which one best fits your career path in commercial driving.

When do you need a CDL?

Simply put, if your commercial vehicle has a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more (not including the trailer), you are required to hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) to operate it legally. Driving a commercial vehicle demands advanced skills, specialized knowledge, and physical capability, far beyond what’s needed to drive a regular passenger car.

Class A vs Class B CDL – Which one do you need?

What is a Class A CDL or CDL-A?

A Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) allows drivers to operate combination vehicles, such as a tractor attached to a trailer, with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more and a trailer weight exceeding 10,000 pounds. This license is the most versatile CDL, often referred to as the “universal” commercial driver’s license, because it allows drivers to operate virtually all types of commercial vehicles, including those covered under Class B and Class C licenses.

To earn a Class A CDL, drivers must complete comprehensive training that combines classroom instruction with practical, hands-on driving experience. Training covers vehicle operation, maintenance, federal regulations, and safe driving practices. Because Class A vehicles are large and complex, the skills test is more rigorous than other CDL classes, ensuring drivers can handle these vehicles safely and efficiently.

Class A CDL holders can also obtain additional endorsements—such as HAZMAT, passenger, or tanker endorsements—to legally operate specialized vehicles or transport hazardous materials. Requirements for endorsements vary by state, and drivers must comply with state-specific regulations.

Overall, a Class A CDL opens the door to a wide range of career opportunities, particularly in long-haul, over-the-road (OTR) trucking, making it the preferred license for those seeking flexibility and advancement in the commercial driving industry.

What is a Class B CDL or CDL-B?

A Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) allows drivers to operate single vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the trailer does not exceed 10,000 pounds. Unlike Class A vehicles, Class B vehicles typically do not involve heavy trailers, making this license ideal for operating straight trucks, buses, and other single-unit commercial vehicles.

With the proper endorsements, Class B drivers can also operate Class C vehicles, such as small HAZMAT trucks, passenger vans carrying up to 16 people, or combination vehicles not covered under Class A or B. Certain Class B vehicles, like school or commercial buses, also require specific endorsements, and drivers must comply with state-specific rules.

Class B CDL training is generally shorter and less intensive than Class A. It includes classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel practice, with the skills test focusing on the safe operation of buses and straight trucks. This makes Class B an accessible entry point for those looking to begin a career in commercial driving.

Overall, a Class B CDL suits drivers interested in local deliveries, bus operations, or construction-related driving. It provides career opportunities with more predictable schedules and allows drivers to gain experience before potentially upgrading to a Class A CDL for larger combination vehicles.

Difference between Class A and Class B CDL

Vehicle weight

One of the primary differences between Class A and Class B CDLs lies in the types of vehicles you can operate and their weight limits.

Class A CDL vehicle weight: 

Drivers with a Class A CDL can operate combination vehicles—such as tractor-trailers, semi-trailers, truck and trailer combinations, and flatbeds—with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more. Additionally, Class A holders can tow trailers weighing over 10,000 pounds, which makes this license essential for long-haul trucking and other jobs involving large, heavy commercial vehicles.

Class B CDL vehicle weight:

A Class B CDL allows drivers to operate single-unit vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, such as buses, straight trucks, box trucks, dump trucks, and segmented buses. However, Class B holders cannot tow trailers exceeding 10,000 pounds, which limits the scope of vehicles and combination configurations they can legally operate.

Vehicle type 

The primary difference between Class A and Class B CDLs lies in the vehicles you are authorized to drive. Class A covers combination and heavier vehicles, whereas Class B is restricted to single-unit vehicles like buses and straight trucks.

Class A CDL vehicle types:

With a Class A CDL, drivers can operate some of the largest and most advanced vehicles on the road, such as:

• Tractor-trailers (commonly called semis, 18-wheelers, or big rigs)
• Truck and trailer combinations
• Tanker trucks
• Flatbed trucks
• Double and triple trailers (with the appropriate endorsements)
• Tractor-trailer buses
• Livestock carriers
• Refrigerated trucks
• Dump trucks
• Car carriers
• Most vehicles that are permitted under a Class B or C CDL

Class B CDL vehicle types:

With a Class B CDL, drivers can operate a wide range of heavy-duty vehicles, including:

• City, transit, and school buses
• Dump trucks
• Straight trucks
• Segmented or articulated buses
• Box trucks (such as furniture or delivery trucks)

• Cement mixers
• Garbage trucks
• Tow trucks

Job opportunities and earning potential

The type of CDL you hold can significantly influence the career paths, job variety, and earning potential available to you.

Class A CDL job potential:

A Class A CDL qualifies drivers to operate a wide range of commercial vehicles, including all vehicles that require a Class B license. This versatility opens the door to diverse job opportunities across the trucking and transportation industry. 

Common positions for Class A CDL holders include:

• Truck Driver
• Line Haul Driver
• Log Truck Driver
• Over-the-Road (OTR) Driver
• Production Truck Driver
• Semi-Truck Driver
• Tractor-Trailer Operator
• Tow Truck Driver

Class A drivers are often eligible for long-haul, interstate, or over-the-road trucking positions, which typically offer higher pay and broader career growth. Because Class A CDL holders can operate combination vehicles and heavier loads, they have the flexibility to work for a wider variety of employers, increasing both job opportunities and earning potential.

Class B CDL job potential:

A Class B CDL is ideal for drivers who operate single-unit vehicles within a more limited geographical area. Common roles include:

• Local Delivery Driver
• Construction Vehicle Operator
• School or Transit Bus Driver
• Limousine Driver

While Class B positions may offer fewer options compared to Class A, they often provide more predictable schedules and consistent hours, making them attractive for drivers seeking stability or local work. These jobs are well-suited for individuals who prefer to stay close to home or do not plan to pursue long-haul trucking as a career.

Endorsements & restrictions

An important factor when choosing between Class A and Class B CDLs is the endorsements and restrictions associated with each license. Both types of CDL allow drivers to obtain special endorsements that qualify them for specific types of vehicles or cargo. Common endorsements available for both Class A and B include:

• HAZMAT (H) – permits transport of hazardous materials
• Tanker (N) – allows operation of vehicles carrying liquids or gases
• Passenger (P) – authorizes driving vehicles designed to carry passengers

However, there are differences in scope and specialization between the two CDL classes:

Class A CDL endorsements:

• Doubles/Triples (T) – allows operation of double or triple trailers
• HAZMAT, Tanker, and Passenger endorsements expand the range of vehicles and cargo a Class A driver can legally handle
• Class A CDL holders can operate Class B and Class C vehicles with the appropriate endorsements, making it the most versatile license
• Certain endorsements, such as HAZMAT, require additional testing and background checks

Class B CDL endorsements:

• Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements allow Class B drivers to operate buses and school buses
• The S endorsement requires a written test, road test, and background check, ensuring drivers meet safety standards for transporting children
• The N (Tanker) endorsement permits Class B drivers to operate tanker vehicles carrying liquids and gases
• Class B endorsements are typically more specialized and focus on single-unit vehicles rather than combination vehicles

Testing and training requirements

The training and testing requirements are one of the main differences between Class A and Class B CDLs and can play a significant role in deciding which license to pursue.

Class A training requirements:

Training for a Class A CDL is more extensive due to the complexity of the vehicles involved. Programs typically include a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on, behind-the-wheel training, covering topics such as:

• Federal and state regulations
• Vehicle inspections and maintenance
• Safe driving and operating techniques for large combination vehicles
• Maneuvering and handling of tractor-trailers and multi-trailer combinations

Class A CDL training often provides students with the skills to safely operate a variety of commercial motor vehicles. Because of the complexity and size of the vehicles, the skills test for Class A CDL is more stringent, requiring drivers to demonstrate advanced control and precision. The typical Class A CDL course can range around 180 hours, with costs between $3,000 and $10,000, depending on the program.

Class B training requirements:

Class B CDL training is generally shorter and less intensive. It combines classroom learning with behind-the-wheel practice, focusing on single-unit vehicles such as buses, straight trucks, and box trucks. 

Coursework may include:

• Vehicle maneuvering and range practice
• Driving on public roads
• Trip report preparation
• Safety procedures, cargo handling, and railroad crossing techniques
• General CDL knowledge

The Class B skills test primarily evaluates the driver’s ability to operate straight trucks and buses, making the exam simpler than the Class A test. Overall, the time commitment and cost for obtaining a Class B CDL are lower, reflecting the narrower scope of vehicles it covers.

Class A or B CDL: Which one is right for you?

Factors to consider while choosing between Class A and Class B CDL

When choosing between a Class A and Class B CDL, consider these key factors to ensure your decision aligns with your career objectives and earning potential. These factors include:

1.Career goals

• Long-term vs. short-term employment: 
  • A Class A CDL offers a wide range of opportunities, including long-haul trucking, making it well-suited for those seeking a long-term career in commercial driving. 
  • In contrast, a Class B CDL is better suited for shorter routes or local driving jobs, ideal for those seeking more localized work.

• Job market demand: 
  • Drivers with a Class A CDL are generally in higher demand, often securing positions with better job security and higher pay. 
  • While Class B CDL drivers are also needed, these roles may offer fewer openings and lower salary potential.

2.Types of vehicles operated

• Vehicle complexity:
  • A Class A CDL enables you to operate larger and more complex vehicles, like tractor-trailers and multi-trailer setups. 
  • On the other hand, a Class B CDL is limited to single-unit vehicles and doesn’t allow towing heavy trailers.

• Vehicle preferences:
  • If you want to drive buses, straight trucks, or delivery vehicles, a Class B CDL is the right choice. 
  • However, if you plan to operate larger trucks and tractor-trailer combinations, then a Class A CDL is the better option.

3.Training and testing requirements

• Training duration:
  • Class A CDL training involves extensive hands-on driving experience with larger vehicles, making it more time-intensive. 
  • Class B CDL training is generally shorter and less demanding, focusing on single-unit vehicles.

• Testing rigorousness:
  • The Class A CDL skills test is more comprehensive and challenging, designed to evaluate proficiency with complex vehicles. Drivers confident in their abilities and ready for a tougher exam may find Class A CDL the right choice.

4. Earning potential

• Salary differences:
  • Drivers with a Class A CDL typically earn higher salaries than those with a Class B CDL, especially in long-haul trucking, where experienced drivers can make up to $90,000 annually. 
  • Class B CDL jobs are competitive but generally offer lower pay.

• Benefits and bonuses:
  • Class A CDL positions often include additional perks such as retirement plans, health insurance, and performance-based bonuses, enhancing overall compensation.

5.Lifestyle considerations

• Work schedule:
  • Jobs with a Class A CDL often involve long hours and extended periods away from home, especially in long-haul trucking.
  • In contrast, Class B CDL positions usually provide more predictable schedules, allowing drivers to spend more time at home.

• Work-life balance:
  • For those prioritizing family time and a steady routine, Class B CDL roles are generally a better fit, offering consistent hours and a more balanced lifestyle.

6.Future Opportunities

• Career advancement potential:
  • A Class A CDL opens doors to advanced career opportunities, including roles like owner-operator or management positions within the trucking industry.

• Endorsements:
  • Both Class A and Class B CDLs offer endorsements—such as HAZMAT or passenger endorsements—that can enhance your qualifications and expand your career prospects.

By considering all these factors, you can make an informed decision and select the CDL class that aligns with your career ambitions and lifestyle priorities.

Can a driver hold both a Class A and Class B CDL?

No, a driver cannot hold separate Class A and Class B CDLs. A Class A CDL supersedes a Class B, allowing you to operate all vehicles covered under a Class B license as well as larger combination vehicles. If you start with a Class B and later upgrade to a Class A, your Class B license is essentially replaced by the Class A CDL, along with any required endorsements.

With the right endorsements—such as passenger or HAZMAT—a Class A driver can also operate vehicles that fall under Class B and Class C categories. Conversely, a driver with only a Class B or Class C CDL cannot legally operate Class A vehicles.

Choosing between Class A and Class B CDL

Understanding the differences between Class A and Class B CDLs is crucial for anyone pursuing a career in commercial truck driving or for businesses dependent on freight transportation. While both licenses are essential for operating commercial vehicles, they differ significantly in training and testing requirements, job opportunities, earning potential, endorsements, and restrictions.

If your goal is to drive large combination vehicles and explore long-haul routes, a Class A CDL may be the right fit. If you prefer the simplicity of driving straight trucks, buses, or local delivery vehicles, a Class B CDL could be more suitable.

Take your time when choosing a CDL—consider the career growth, financial prospects, and lifestyle implications each license offers. Whether you’re navigating highways in a big rig or making local deliveries in a straight truck, the key is to enjoy the journey and embrace the freedom and excitement of life on the road.