So you want to get your CDL?


It's a rewarding career
A CDL is a license to make money. Millions have went down this path and have had successful careers driving commercial vehicles, and so can you.
Before we begin, let's discuss the various CDL Classes and Endorsements and Restrictions involved in a CDL
CDL Classes
There are three CDL Classes, A, B and C. Each of these classes are explained below.
Online Classroom
Class A
A Class A CDL is a combination vehicle, where the total combination weight rating (GCWR) of the power unit AND trailer is 26,001 Lbs or greater, of which the trailer's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is 10,001 lbs or greater. This is anything from a full size semi all the way down to a pickup truck with gooseneck trailers (depending on the GVWR).

Class A with an O Restriction
These vehicles are a "restricted Class A" or a Class A with an O restriction. These vehicles utilize non tractors, but the main issue is that the coupling system is NOT a tractor trailer fifth wheel. If you test with a truck using a Gooseneck ball, a pintle hitch, or a non tractor-trailer fifth wheel. NONE of these vehicles will get you a full Class A. If you test in this vehicle and decide you need a full class A, you will have to repeat all of the elements of the skills test, just as if you had never taken your test before (NOT RECOMMENDED)

Class B
A Class B CDL is a single vehicle, with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 lbs or greater, or a combination of the vehicle pulling a trailer with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 10,000 lbs or LESS. These are examples of Class B vehicles. If you test in this vehicle and decide you need a Class A, you will have to complete ELDT and retest in a Class A vehicle. (It's like starting from scratch to upgrade). If you have a Class B with no restrictions, you can test in a Class A automatic and not lose your manual on your CDL.




Class C
A Class C CDL vehicle is designed to carry 16 or more persons to include the driver, or a vehicle carrying placarded hazardous materials, provided the GVWR of the vehicle is under 26,000 lbs. These are examples of Class C Vehicles.
A Class C Vehicle requires you to have either a Passenger or Hazmat Endorsement. In theory, for a Class C Hazmat you could come in a passenger car or truck and test. REMEMBER - You have to take the same pretrip in these small trucks as you do a large truck!
If you are taking the Hazmat Class C, you do not require a licensed driver to accompany you to the CDL Test.
