CDL Skills Test Walkthrough

Last updated: April 2026

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Quick Answer

A Class A CDL lets you drive combination vehicles with a gross vehicle weight of 26,001 pounds or more, and a towing capacity over 10,000 pounds.
A Class B CDL is for single vehicles with a gross vehicle weight of 26,001 pounds or more, and a towing capacity of no more than 10,000 pounds.
Class A CDL training is more intensive and takes longer to finish than Class B CDL programs.
Drivers with a Class A CDL and the right endorsements can operate many commercial motor vehicles, including Class B and Class C trucks.

Getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) opens up many job opportunities in the transportation industry. The type of CDL you need depends on the vehicles you plan to drive and your career goals. The main difference between a Class A and a Class B CDL comes down to the size and type of vehicle you are allowed to operate. A Class A CDL is required for combination vehicles that weigh 26,001 pounds or more and have a towing capacity over 10,000 pounds, covering what many call big-rigs or 18-wheelers Class A versus Class B CDL differences. In contrast, a Class B CDL is for single vehicles weighing 26,001 pounds or more, but with a towing capacity of no more than 10,000 pounds. Choosing the right license impacts the jobs you can apply for, the routes you take, and your potential earnings. Federal Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) rules apply to both Class A and Class B licenses, making sure training is the same across the country.

What is the Main Difference Between Class A and Class B CDL?

The main difference between a Class A and a Class B CDL lies in the type and weight of vehicles you are certified to drive. A Class A CDL is for operating a combination of vehicles, like a tractor connected to a trailer, where the total gross vehicle weight is 26,001 pounds or more, and the vehicle being towed weighs more than 10,000 pounds. This is the license needed for large combination vehicles such as tractor-trailers, often called big-rigs or 18-wheelers. On the other hand, a Class B CDL is for driving a single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight of 26,001 pounds or more, but with a towing capacity of no more than 10,000 pounds. Class B vehicles typically do not have a trailer.

Understanding Class A CDL Capabilities

When you earn a Class A CDL, you gain the most inclusive commercial driving license. This means that with the correct endorsements, a Class A CDL lets you operate many kinds of commercial motor vehicles. This includes not only the large combination vehicles it is specifically designed for but also Class B and Class C trucks. This broad capability gives Class A drivers a wider range of job options, including long-haul and interstate trucking. The ability to drive different vehicle types makes the Class A CDL a flexible choice for drivers interested in diverse roles within the transportation industry.

Understanding Class B CDL Capabilities

A Class B CDL is suitable for drivers who plan to operate large single vehicles that do not typically tow heavy trailers. With the right endorsements, a Class B CDL allows you to drive vehicles such as straight trucks, buses, garbage trucks, dump trucks, delivery trucks, and cement mixers. These roles often involve local routes, which can mean daily home time and a better work-life balance compared to some long-haul Class A jobs. The Class B CDL can also be used to drive Class C vehicles if you have the proper endorsements. A Class C CDL covers smaller hazmat vehicles, passenger vans designed for 16 people, or combination vehicles that do not fit the definitions for Class A or Class B, such as a small truck pulling a trailer.

Choosing the Right CDL for Your Career

Choosing between a Class A and Class B CDL depends on your personal career goals and interests. As MTI stated, "Ultimately, determining which CDL class is best for you depends on your individual career goals and interests." If you want to drive the largest trucks, haul heavy loads across states, and have the most flexibility in vehicle types, a Class A CDL is likely your best choice. This license allows you to drive combination vehicles weighing 26,001 pounds or more, with a towing capacity exceeding 10,000 pounds CDL Class A and Class B distinctions. However, if your interest lies in operating single-unit vehicles, such as buses or dump trucks, often on local routes, then a Class B CDL might be a better fit. This license is for single vehicles weighing 26,001 pounds or more, but with a towing capacity of no more than 10,000 pounds. Both licenses require specific training and exams, but the scope of what you can drive differs significantly. Thinking about the types of jobs you want and the kind of schedule you prefer will help you decide which CDL class is right for you.

What Does Class A CDL Training Involve?

Class A CDL training is designed to prepare drivers for the complexities of operating large combination vehicles safely and efficiently. The training programs typically involve a mix of classroom instruction, hands-on practice, and extensive behind-the-wheel experience. This comprehensive approach ensures students learn both the theoretical knowledge and the practical skills needed to pass their CDL skills test and succeed as professional truck drivers. The curriculum is often more intensive and takes longer to complete compared to Class B CDL programs.

Classroom and Regulatory Instruction

A significant part of Class A CDL training happens in the classroom. Here, students learn about federal and state regulations that govern commercial motor vehicles. This includes rules about hours of service, vehicle inspections, hazardous materials transport, and other critical legal requirements. Understanding these regulations is vital for safe and compliant operation of a commercial vehicle. Classroom sessions also cover general knowledge needed for the written portion of the CDL exam, such as air brakes, combination vehicles, and pre-trip inspection procedures. Students learn about the different components of a tractor-trailer, how they work, and what to look for during routine checks.

Hands-On and Behind-the-Wheel Experience

Beyond the classroom, Class A CDL training puts a strong emphasis on hands-on and behind-the-wheel practice. This practical training is crucial for developing the skills to maneuver large combination vehicles. Students get the chance to learn various driving techniques that teach them how to safely drive and operate a Class A vehicle. This includes practicing basic vehicle controls, shifting gears, backing maneuvers, and coupling/uncoupling trailers. Training often takes place on a dedicated driving range where students can practice specific skills in a controlled environment. As their skills improve, training moves to public roadways, giving students real-world experience driving in different traffic conditions and on various types of roads. This exposure helps them become comfortable and confident in handling a big-rig in real-life situations.

Program Options and Flexibility

Training programs for a Class A CDL can vary depending on the school and the specific program you choose. Some programs are full-time and intense, designed to get students licensed quickly, while others might offer more flexible schedules. New England Tractor Trailer Training School (NETTTS), for example, offers different Class A CDL training program options for drivers with varying levels of experience. These programs are structured to meet the needs of both new drivers entering the industry and experienced drivers looking to upgrade their skills or obtain specific endorsements. The goal of any Class A CDL program is to equip students with the knowledge and skills required for safe operation of vehicles that have a gross vehicle weight of 26,001 pounds or more and a towing capacity of more than 10,000 pounds, preparing them for a wide array of commercial driving careers.

What Vehicles Can You Drive with a Class B CDL?

With a Class B CDL and the correct endorsements, you can operate a variety of large single-unit commercial vehicles. Unlike a Class A CDL, which focuses on combination vehicles, a Class B CDL is specifically for driving a single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight of 26,001 pounds or more, provided its towing capacity is no more than 10,000 pounds. These vehicles typically do not have a trailer, or if they do, the trailer is light. This makes a Class B CDL ideal for many local and regional driving jobs that don't involve pulling heavy, multi-axle trailers.

Common Class B Vehicles

The range of vehicles you can drive with a Class B CDL is quite diverse, catering to many industries. Some of the most common vehicles include straight trucks, which are single-unit trucks where the cab and trailer are on the same chassis. This category often includes box trucks used for local deliveries. You can also drive large passenger buses, including city buses and tour buses, provided you obtain the necessary Passenger (P) endorsement. Other vehicles include garbage trucks, which are essential for municipal services, and dump trucks, widely used in construction and landscaping for hauling materials like dirt, sand, and gravel. Cement mixers, another type of heavy-duty single-unit vehicle used in construction, also fall under the Class B category. These vehicles are characterized by their significant gross vehicle weight, but they do not typically tow heavy trailers.

The Role of Endorsements

Endorsements are crucial for expanding the types of vehicles and cargo you can handle with a Class B CDL. Without the correct endorsements, your driving privileges might be limited. For instance, to drive a bus, you would need a Passenger (P) endorsement. If you plan to drive a school bus, a School Bus (S) endorsement is also required, which often involves additional background checks and specific training related to student safety. If your Class B vehicle will transport hazardous materials, you will need a Hazmat (H) endorsement. These endorsements are special certifications that allow drivers to operate different kinds of vehicles or haul specific types of freight, significantly broadening job options for Class B drivers.

Class C Vehicle Privileges

A Class B CDL, with the right endorsements, also allows you to drive Class C vehicles. A Class C CDL is generally for smaller commercial vehicles that do not meet the criteria for Class A or Class B. This includes vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, like passenger vans, or vehicles that carry hazardous materials in quantities requiring placards. For example, a Class C CDL can be used for operating small hazmat vehicles or passenger vans of 16 people. If you have a Class B CDL, you essentially cover the privileges of a Class C license for these types of operations, assuming you have the specific endorsements like Passenger (P) or Hazmat (H). This means a Class B license provides a good foundation for many types of commercial driving jobs, especially those focused on local routes and daily home time.

How is Class B CDL Training Structured?

Class B CDL training is structured to provide students with the necessary knowledge and practical skills for operating heavy straight trucks and other large single-unit commercial vehicles. Like Class A training, it typically combines classroom instruction with behind-the-wheel practice, but it's generally less intensive and shorter in duration than Class A programs. The goal is to prepare drivers for their CDL skills test and for safe, effective commercial driving within the Class B vehicle category.

Classroom Learning and Core Knowledge

The classroom portion of Class B CDL training focuses on foundational knowledge required for commercial driving. Courses often cover general knowledge, which includes understanding traffic laws, vehicle controls, and safe driving practices specific to heavy vehicles. Students learn about the requirements for commercial driving, such as driver qualifications, hours of service rules, and proper documentation. A key part of classroom training is exam preparation, where instructors guide students through the material needed to pass the written CDL permit tests. This includes learning about air brake systems, vehicle inspection procedures, and other essential topics that are part of the federal and state regulations.

Practical and Behind-the-Wheel Training

Beyond the classroom, practical, behind-the-wheel training is a crucial component of Class B CDL programs. This hands-on experience allows students to apply what they've learned in a real-world setting. Training includes practice driving on a dedicated range, where students can master specific maneuvers like backing, parking, and turning in large vehicles. They also get to practice vehicle maneuvering skills, which are vital for navigating tight spaces and managing the size and weight of a Class B truck. As students gain confidence and proficiency, their training extends to public roadways. Driving on public roads helps them adapt to different traffic conditions, road types, and real-time driving challenges. This practical experience is essential for developing the judgment and skills needed for safe operation, including proper railroad crossings procedures and transporting cargo safely.

Additional Coursework and Program Options

Class B CDL training programs often include additional coursework and training beyond basic driving skills. This can consist of detailed vehicle inspections, teaching students how to perform thorough pre-trip, en-route, and post-trip inspections to ensure their vehicle is safe to operate. Learning about transporting cargo is also a common module, covering proper loading, securing, and weight distribution techniques to prevent accidents and ensure compliance. General CDL and vehicle knowledge are reinforced throughout the program, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of commercial driving responsibilities. Programs like the Class B Commercial Heavy Straight Truck Training (CDLB 80) license program offered by NETTTS exemplify this blended approach, combining classroom theory with practical behind-the-wheel experience to fully prepare students. The specific content and duration of training courses can vary depending on the program and schedule offered by different schools.

Why Are CDL Endorsements Important?

CDL endorsements are crucial because they significantly expand a truck driver's capabilities and career opportunities. These special certifications allow drivers to operate different types of vehicles or haul specific kinds of freight that require additional knowledge and skills beyond a basic CDL. Without the correct endorsements, a driver's job options would be limited to general freight that doesn't have special requirements. For more details, see CDL training options and career paths.

Expanding Job Prospects

Having endorsements gives drivers a distinct advantage in the job market. Many specialized driving jobs require specific endorsements, such as hauling hazardous materials or driving a passenger bus. By obtaining these certifications, drivers become eligible for a wider range of positions, making them more valuable to potential employers. This increased versatility can lead to more stable employment and access to niche markets within the transportation industry. Endorsements open up more opportunities for truckers, allowing them to haul more loads and drive different types of vehicles. This means a driver can move beyond standard dry van freight to specialized cargo that often comes with better pay.

Increased Earning Potential

One of the most compelling reasons to get CDL endorsements is the potential for a higher annual salary. Drivers with specialized endorsements are often in greater demand because fewer drivers possess the necessary qualifications to handle specific types of freight or vehicles. For example, jobs requiring a Hazmat (H) endorsement or a Tanker (N) endorsement often pay more due to the increased responsibility and specialized training involved. The ability to haul these unique kinds of freight often results in a higher annual salary. This is especially true for endorsements like Double/Triple Trailers (T) where drivers are responsible for more complex vehicle configurations. Investing time and effort into obtaining endorsements can lead to a significant return in terms of increased income over a driver's career.

Types of Endorsements

There are six main types of CDL endorsements, each allowing for different driving privileges. These include:

H - Hazardous Materials: Required for hauling hazardous materials that need placards.
N - Tanker: Needed for driving tank vehicles that carry liquid or gaseous materials.
P - Passenger: Necessary for operating vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver).
S - School Bus: Required for driving a school bus, often involving additional background checks.
T - Double/Triple Trailers: Allows a Class A CDL holder to pull double or triple trailers.
X - Combination (Hazmat and Tanker): A combination of the H and N endorsements.

These endorsements then allow drivers to operate different kinds of vehicles and haul specific types of freight. For instance, specific types of freight, like certain chemicals or a combination of multiple trailers, can only be hauled by truck drivers who have obtained these specific types of CDL endorsements. This specialization is what makes endorsements so important for professional truck drivers.

What Endorsements Are Available for Class A and Class B CDLs?

CDL endorsements vary depending on whether you hold a Class A or Class B license, as each class allows for different types of vehicles and hauling capabilities. Endorsements add specific privileges to your basic CDL, enabling you to operate specialized vehicles or transport particular kinds of cargo. Understanding which endorsements apply to your CDL class is key to expanding your career options.

Class A CDL Endorsements

For drivers with a Class A CDL, which covers large combination vehicles, several important endorsements are available. These endorsements allow you to handle more complex or specialized loads. Key Class A endorsements include:

Hazmat (H): This endorsement is required if you plan to transport hazardous materials that need to be placarded. This could include anything from explosives to flammable liquids or corrosive substances. Getting this endorsement involves passing a written test and undergoing a background check.
Tanker (N): The Tanker endorsement is necessary for driving vehicles that transport liquids or gases in bulk, such as fuel tankers or chemical tankers. These vehicles require special handling due to the shifting nature of their cargo.
Double/Triple Trailers (T): This endorsement allows a Class A CDL holder to pull double or triple trailers. This is a specialized skill that requires careful maneuvering and load management. It's important to note that you need to have a Class A CDL before applying for the doubles and triples endorsement. This endorsement is not available for Class B drivers because Class B vehicles are single units and do not tow multiple trailers.
Combo (X): The Combo endorsement is a combination of the Hazmat (H) and Tanker (N) endorsements, allowing a driver to transport hazardous materials in a tank vehicle. This endorsement streamlines the process for drivers who need both.

These Class A endorsements are crucial for drivers looking to maximize their earning potential and take on challenging, high-demand loads. Many jobs in the transportation industry, especially those listed on platforms like Indeed, specifically look for drivers with Class A CDL Hazmat, Tanker, or Double/Triple endorsements.

Class B CDL Endorsements

Class B CDL holders, who operate large single-unit vehicles, also have access to specific endorsements that broaden their job scope. These endorsements are tailored to the types of vehicles and cargo typically associated with Class B operations:

Passenger (P): This endorsement is essential for anyone driving a vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver. This applies to city buses, tour buses, and other large passenger vehicles.
School Bus (S): Similar to the Passenger endorsement, the School Bus endorsement is specifically required for driving a school bus. This typically involves additional requirements like a thorough background check and specific training related to student safety and conduct.
Hazmat (H): Just like with a Class A CDL, a Hazmat endorsement is needed for Class B vehicles if you are transporting hazardous materials that require placarding. This could apply to straight trucks carrying certain chemicals or waste.

While Class B endorsements focus on passenger transport and hazardous materials in single units, they are just as vital for career advancement within their specific vehicle categories. Some unique kinds of freight can only be hauled by truck drivers who have obtained specific types of CDL endorsements. Acquiring the right endorsements can open doors to more specialized and often higher-paying positions within the Class B driving sector, such as municipal bus routes or specialized delivery services.

What are the Basic CDL Requirements?

To get a Commercial Driver's License (CDL), there are fundamental requirements that all applicants must meet, regardless of whether they are pursuing a Class A or Class B license. These requirements are set at both federal and state levels to ensure that commercial truck drivers are qualified and responsible operators. Meeting these basic criteria is the first step toward beginning your CDL training and career.

Age and Identification Requirements

One of the most crucial requirements is age. To obtain a Commercial Driver's License, you must be at least 18 years old. This is a standard requirement across states, although some states might have additional age restrictions for interstate driving (driving across state lines), which typically requires a driver to be 21 years old. Along with meeting the age requirement, applicants must provide proof of their full name, date of birth, and Social Security number. These documents are necessary for identity verification and for processing your application with the Department of Motor Vehicles or equivalent state agency. For example, the Iowa Department of Transportation sets these requirements, including being at least age 18 and providing proof of full name, date of birth, and Social Security number for Commercial Driver’s Licenses.

Federal Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)

Beyond age and identification, federal regulations mandate specific training for new commercial drivers. Federal Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) rules apply to both Class A and Class B CDLs. These rules were put in place to standardize the training process nationwide, ensuring that all new commercial drivers receive a consistent and comprehensive education before they take their CDL skills test. ELDT requires that new drivers attend a training program from a provider listed on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Training Provider Registry. This training covers a variety of topics, including basic operation, safe operating procedures, advanced operating practices, vehicle systems, and non-driving activities like cargo handling and hours-of-service regulations. The ELDT mandate helps ensure that drivers are well-prepared for the responsibilities of operating a commercial motor vehicle, contributing to overall road safety.

Medical and Background Requirements

In addition to the basic requirements, CDL applicants must also meet federal medical standards. This usually involves passing a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam conducted by a certified medical examiner. The physical ensures that drivers are healthy enough to safely operate a commercial vehicle, checking for conditions that could impair driving ability, such as vision problems, hearing loss, or certain medical conditions that might lead to sudden incapacitation. Depending on the type of endorsement sought, such as the Hazmat (H) or School Bus (S) endorsements, additional background checks may be required. These checks are designed to ensure that drivers handling sensitive cargo or transporting vulnerable passengers do not have a disqualifying criminal history. Meeting all these requirements is essential for obtaining and maintaining a valid CDL, underscoring the high standards expected of commercial truck drivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference in earning potential between Class A and Class B CDLs?

Class A CDL holders generally have higher earning potential than Class B CDL holders. This is because a Class A license allows drivers to operate large combination vehicles, including tractor-trailers, which often involve long-haul routes and specialized freight. These roles can demand more skill and time away from home, leading to higher pay. Class B jobs, while offering easier entry and better work-life balance, often involve local routes with single-unit vehicles like buses or dump trucks, which typically have a lower average salary.

Does a Class A CDL allow me to drive any Class B or Class C vehicle?

Yes, a Class A CDL with the correct endorsements allows drivers to operate many commercial motor vehicles, including Class B and Class C trucks. This makes the Class A CDL the most inclusive type of commercial driver's license. For example, if you have a Class A CDL, you can drive a straight truck (Class B) or a passenger van (Class C with a passenger endorsement), provided you have obtained any necessary endorsements specific to those vehicle types.

What are some common jobs for Class B CDL holders?

Class B CDL holders typically work in jobs that involve operating large single-unit vehicles, often on local routes. Common jobs include driving straight trucks for deliveries, operating city or school buses (with Passenger and School Bus endorsements), driving garbage trucks for municipal services, operating dump trucks for construction or landscaping, and driving cement mixers. These roles are ideal for drivers seeking daily home time and a good work-life balance.

How does training time compare between Class A and Class B CDL programs?

Training time differs between the two classes. Class A CDL programs are generally more intensive and take longer to complete than Class B CDL programs. This is due to the increased complexity of operating combination vehicles and the broader range of skills and knowledge required for a Class A license. Class A training often involves more extensive behind-the-wheel practice with larger, multi-trailer setups.

Are there federal rules that apply to both Class A and Class B CDL training?

Yes, federal Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) rules apply to both Class A and Class B CDLs. These rules ensure standardized training nationwide, meaning all new drivers seeking either a Class A or Class B CDL must complete a specific curriculum from an approved training provider. This helps ensure that all new commercial drivers receive a consistent level of instruction before taking their CDL skills test.