Thinking about getting your CDL? Here are some answers to questions you may have!
Q: How hard is it to get a CDL?
A: Obtaining a commercial driver’s license (CDL) can vary in difficulty depending on the individual’s level of experience and familiarity with driving commercial vehicles and the specific requirements and regulations in their state. Generally, obtaining a CDL involves passing both a written test and a skills test, which can include a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control skills, and on-road driving. Additionally, certain types of CDLs, such as those for transporting hazardous materials, may require additional training and testing.
Q: What’s the difference between CDL-A and CDL-B?
A: A CDL-A (Class A Commercial Driver’s License) is required to operate any combination of vehicles with a total weight of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the vehicle being towed is over 10,000 pounds. This type of license is typically needed for driving tractor-trailers, tanker trucks, and other large commercial vehicles.
A CDL-B (Class B Commercial Driver’s License) is required to operate a single vehicle with a weight of 26,001 pounds or more, or to operate a vehicle towing another vehicle that weighs less than 10,000 pounds. This type of license is typically needed for driving buses, delivery trucks, dump trucks, and other medium-sized commercial vehicles.
In summary, Class A license is for operating a combination of vehicles while Class B is for single vehicle.
Q: What kind of CDL endorsements are there?
A: There are several different endorsements that can be added to a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to allow the holder to operate specific types of vehicles or transport certain types of cargo. Some of the most common CDL endorsements include:
- H: Allows the holder to transport hazardous materials.
- N: Allows the holder to operate a tank vehicle.
- P: Allows the holder to operate a vehicle carrying passengers.
- T: Allows the holder to operate a double or triple trailer.
- X: Combination of N and H, Allows the holder to operate a tank vehicle transporting hazardous materials
- Other endorsements may include:
- S: School bus
- L: Air brakes
- V: Vehicle transporter
It’s important to note that obtaining a CDL endorsement may require passing additional written and/or skills tests, as well as meeting other specific requirements such as background check and medical examination.