Class A vs. Class B CDL: What's the Difference and Which Should You Get?

When pursuing a Commercial Driver's License, one of the first decisions you'll face is whether to get a Class A or Class B CDL. Understanding the difference will help you choose the license that best fits your career goals.

What is a Class A CDL?

A Class A CDL authorizes you to operate combination vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the towed vehicle exceeds 10,000 pounds. This includes:

• Semi-trucks / 18-wheelers (tractor-trailers)
• Tanker trucks
• Flatbed trucks
• Livestock carriers
• Any vehicle a Class B or C CDL holder can operate

What is a Class B CDL?

A Class B CDL covers single vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001+ pounds, or towing a vehicle under 10,000 pounds. This includes:

• City buses and school buses
• Dump trucks
• Straight trucks
• Large box trucks
• Delivery vehicles over 26,000 lbs

Which CDL Should You Get?

For most people entering the trucking industry, a Class A CDL is the better investment. It opens significantly more job opportunities, commands higher salaries, and gives you the flexibility to drive virtually any commercial vehicle. The additional training required is minimal compared to the career benefits.

At GetCDL School, our Class A CDL program is just $3,000 and takes approximately 4 weeks. Contact us to learn more.