If you want to find a job that not only assures financial freedom, but also allows you to find and have more employment opportunities, becoming a CDL trucker could be a great idea. For that, of course, you need to get a commercial driver’s license, or CDL. In this post, we are discussing more on types of CDL licenses, and things you need to know.
The basics
Before going into the CDL program, let’s discuss the types of commercial licenses, which determine the length of the program.
- Class A. This license allows you to drive a combined truck and trailer with gross weight of 26,001 pounds at the least, with minimum trailer weight of 10,001 pounds.
- Class B. With this license, you can operate vehicles with GVWR with at least 26,001 pounds, with trailer having GVWR less than 10,000 pounds.
- Class C. This license allows you to drive vehicles with GVWR of few than 26,000 pounds, along with ‘passenger endorsement’.
Getting your CDL license
You are expected to complete the program, which involves anywhere between 30 and 80 classroom hours, before applying to sit for the CDL test. Typically, the course can be done in a matter of five weeks or less, depending on what kind of program you enroll into. You can consider both full-time and part-time CDL programs. Classes can be pursued on weekends and even at night, so there’s enough flexibility for aspiring CDL truckers. The course takes longer if you go on to add endorsements, but in general, getting a Class A education requires more classroom hours.
Things to know
If you are looking for a school, we recommend that you select one that offers driving time practice, as well. Or else, your alternative is to find a truck and experienced licensed CDL driver, with whom you can practice your driving skills. In many states in the US, these courses are not really mandatory, but it does add to your experience and understanding. People who have experience of operating heavy machinery in military, they don’t need to appear for theCDL test. It can take anywhere between 1.5 to 2 months to get the CDL license, for states such as Arizona. You have to complete the Arizona license application for that and must get a certificate from medical examiner.
Check online now to find more on how to become a CDL trucker, and figure out what kind of license you want.
