Getting your commercial driver’s license (CDL) opens you up to a whole new world of career opportunities, such as our CDL jobs in Baltimore. However, contrary to popular belief, not all CDLs are identical. There are three different types of commercial driver’s licenses currently available: Class A, B, and C. There are notable differences between Class A and Class B CDLs. Class C CDLs also have their own specifications and requirements, although they’re mostly used in the world of passenger transportation rather than the trucking industry.

If you’re thinking about a potential career as a truck driver, it’s important to understand CDL classes because the type of commercial driving license you have will affect the type of work you are eligible for. Keep reading to learn more about CDL classes — and what class might best suit you!

Class A CDLs

Class A licenses are the “typical” CDLs that you might think of when imagining life as a trucker, and they are considered the highest qualification a truck driver can achieve. Depending on the state, you must be either at least 18 or at least 21 with a valid driver’s license (usually from the state where you are applying for your CDL) to acquire a class A license. 

Earning a class A CDL means you are authorized to:

  • Operate combination vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of more than 26,001 pounds
  • Operate combination vehicles with the capacity to tow a load that weighs more than 10,000 pounds
  • Transport cargo or passengers nationally unless specific restrictions apply
  • Operate vehicles classified under Class B or Class C

Since having a Class A CDL also qualifies you for everything in the Class B and C categories, if you are looking to expand your career opportunities as much as possible or are interested in CDL A truck driving jobs, you should aim to earn a Class A license.

If you have the correct endorsements, a Class A CDL enables you to operate vehicles such as…

  • Tractor-trailers
  • Semi-trucks
  • Flatbed trucks
  • All vehicles classified under Class B
  • All vehicles classified under Class C

Class B CDLs

To obtain your Class B CDL, you must be at least 18 years old with a valid driver’s license (usually from the state where you are applying for your CDL). Even though having a Class A license means you can drive a Class B vehicle, the reverse does not apply. In other words, you cannot drive a Class A vehicle if you only have a Class B license. You can, however, drive Class C vehicles with a Class B license if you have the correct endorsements.

Earning a Class B license allows you to:

  • Operate a single vehicle with a GVWR of more than 26,001 pounds that is not hitched to a trailer
  • Operate a single vehicle towing a load that weighs no more than 10,001 pounds using a single-axle trailer
  • Operate vehicles designed to transport 24 or more passengers (including the driver)
  • Transport cargo or passengers within the state where they are licensed
  • Operate all vehicles classified under Class C

With the correct endorsements, having a Class B CDL means you can operate vehicles such as…

  • Buses (including segmented buses and school buses)
  • Straight trucks
  • Garbage trucks
  • Dump trucks with small trailers
  • Delivery trucks
  • Cement mixers
  • All vehicles classified under Class C

Class C CDLs

Class C CDLs are primarily used to certify drivers to operate large passenger vehicles. Earning a Class C CDL enables a driver to:

  • Operate a 2-axle single vehicle with a GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds IF said vehicle is:
    • Transporting hazardous materials that require a placard designation, or
    • Designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, or
    • A school bus
  • Operate a single vehicle towing a load that weighs no more than 10,001 pounds
  • Operate a 3-axle single vehicle with a GVWR of less than 6,001 lbs
  • Operate vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver)
  • Transport cargo or passengers within the state where they are licensed

 

If the driver has the relevant endorsements, they may drive:

  • Passenger vans
  • School buses and shuttle buses
  • Other transit vehicles
  • Small HAZMAT vehicles
  • Combination vehicles that are not described in Class A or B

A Word on CDL Endorsements

A CDL endorsement is a special certification added to your CDL that allows you to operate certain vehicles or transport specific types of cargo. Endorsements vary depending on the state but often include qualifications for vehicles carrying hazardous materials, passenger vehicles, tankers, and double/triple trailers. These qualifications are designated on the license itself with a single letter in parentheses: for example, (H) for hazardous materials endorsement, (P) for passenger vehicle endorsement, and (S) for school bus endorsement.

To obtain a CDL endorsement, drivers must pass additional knowledge and skills tests specific to the type of endorsement they are seeking. For instance, a Class B CDL driver who wants to become a bus driver will need a School Bus/Passenger Transport Combo Endorsement. To learn more about the specific endorsements required for your desired position, research the types of vehicles required and what your individual state mandates. TQM Logistics proudly hires drivers with the following endorsements:

  • Hazmat (H)
  • Tank (N)
  • Tank/Hazmat (X)
  • Double/Triple Trailers (T)

Become a TQM Team Member Today!

Obtaining your CDL is a significant step in pursuing a career in the trucking industry. However, it’s important to do your research so that you can decide which type of license you need. While Class A licenses provide the most flexibility and versatility, Class B and C licenses have their own specific requirements and endorsements that can open up additional job opportunities. By researching the specifics required for your desired position and passing the necessary knowledge and skills tests, you can maximize your job prospects as a commercial driver.

As one of the fastest-growing transportation logistics companies in the industry, TQM Logistics offers competitive pay, excellent benefits, and opportunities for career advancement. If you’re looking for an engaging, rewarding career with a company that values your hard work and prioritizes your safety and success, TQM Logistics is the right choice for you. Apply today and join our team of dedicated professionals!