Class B CDL

A Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) allows you to operate single vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, or any vehicle towing a trailer that weighs less than 10,000 pounds. This includes vehicles like straight trucks, dump trucks, large buses (school, city, and tour buses), box trucks, and more.

Class B CDL training is designed to fully prepare students for both written knowledge exams and hands-on driving skills tests, ensuring they can operate large commercial vehicles safely and professionally.

Training is generally divided into three core parts:

1. Theory Training (Classroom or Online)

This part of the training helps students pass the CDL written exam and understand all the safety and regulatory knowledge needed to operate large single-unit vehicles. Key topics include:

• General CDL knowledge

• Air brake systems (if vehicle is equipped with them)

• Vehicle inspection procedures

• Safe driving practices

• Basic control and shifting techniques

• Hours of Service regulations

• Backing, turning, and space management

• Trip planning and map reading

Students may also receive training related to passenger or school bus endorsements (P & S) if they are pursuing jobs driving buses.

After completing the theory portion, students take the CDL written exams to obtain their Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP).

2. Range (Yard) Training – Basic Control Skills

Once students have a CLP, they move on to behind-the-wheel practice in a controlled yard environment. This stage focuses on:

• Pre-trip inspections on large vehicles

• Straight-line backing, offset backing, and alley dock parking

• Controlling the vehicle in tight spaces

• Proper use of mirrors and blind spot awareness

• Bus-specific boarding procedures (if applicable)

This hands-on practice builds confidence in handling large vehicles before going on the road.

3. Public Road Training (Behind-the-Wheel)

The final phase is conducted on real streets and highways. Students drive with an instructor and learn how to handle:

• City traffic and rural roads

• Wide turns and intersections

• Proper braking, lane management, and merging

• Passenger pick-up/drop-off procedures (for bus drivers)

• Emergency handling and hazard recognition

This section is critical to building the real-world driving skills needed to pass the CDL road test and perform safely on the job.

CDL Skills Test Preparation

When all training phases are complete, students are prepared to take the official CDL skills test, which includes:

• Pre-trip Inspection

• Basic Vehicle Controls

• On-Road Driving

Your training provider will also report your progress to the FMCSA Training Provider Registry, making you officially eligible for testing.

Common Jobs for Class B CDL Holders

• Box Truck Driver

• Dump Truck Operator

• Delivery Driver (e.g., Amazon, FedEx, or local freight)

• Concrete Mixer Truck Driver

• Utility and Maintenance Truck Operator

Facts check: Class B CDL driver makes up to $70,000/YR!