A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class B allows drivers to operate large, heavy vehicles that do not require a CDL Class A. It is ideal for those who want to drive vehicles such as buses, dump trucks, delivery trucks, and smaller commercial vehicles.
Class B CDL Vehicle Requirements
A CDL Class B permits a driver to operate a single vehicle with:
- A Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more.
- The towed vehicle must not exceed 10,000 pounds.
This means that Class B CDL drivers can drive large, heavy-duty vehicles, but they cannot tow heavy trailers over 10,000 pounds (which would require a Class A license).
Vehicles You Can Drive With a Class B CDL
- Straight Trucks (box trucks, furniture moving trucks)
- Dump Trucks (small construction vehicles)
- Buses (school buses, public transit, tourist buses)
- Cement Mixers
- Tow Trucks (lighter-duty wreckers)
- Delivery Trucks (like those used by UPS, FedEx, and Amazon)
Endorsements for CDL Class B
Adding endorsements expands the types of vehicles you can drive. Some common endorsements include:
- P (Passenger) – Required to drive buses (school, transit, or coach).
- S (School Bus) – Allows operation of a school bus.
- H (Hazmat) – Permits hauling hazardous materials.
- N (Tank Vehicles) – Required for driving tank trucks.
- X (Combination of Tanker and Hazmat) – Needed for hauling liquid hazardous materials.
Class B CDL Requirements
Each state may have slight variations, but generally, you need:
- Be at least 18 years old for intrastate driving and 21 years old for interstate driving.
- Have a valid driver’s license.
- Pass a medical exam (DOT Physical).
- Obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) by passing the written knowledge tests.
- Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) if getting a new CDL.
- Pass a CDL skills test, including pre-trip inspection, basic control, and road test.
How is Class B Different from Class A?
| Feature | Class A CDL | Class B CDL |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Type | Tractor-trailers, big rigs, semi-trucks | Straight trucks, buses, dump trucks |
| Towing Capacity | More than 10,000 lbs | Less than 10,000 lbs |
| Training Length | Longer | Shorter |
| Job Opportunities | More (higher pay, OTR trucking) | Local and regional jobs |
Class B CDL Job Opportunities
Many Class B CDL jobs offer steady hours and local work, making it a great choice for those who don’t want long-haul trucking. Common jobs include:
- Bus Driver (School, City, Tour)
- Cement Mixer Operator
- Dump Truck Driver
- Local Delivery Truck Driver
- Garbage Truck Driver