What is a CDL?
Also commonly referred to as a Commercial Driver’s License, a CDL is a type of specialized license that you need to operate any type of large commercial vehicle. This includes not only most large trucks, but also buses, any vehicle that carries hazardous materials, and more.
How Many Types of CDLs Are There?
The purpose of a CDL is to make sure that the driver has the specialized knowledge needed to safely operate the vehicle in question. There are a lot of different types of vehicles that require special skills out there – meaning that there is no “one size fits all” approach to getting your CDL.
Today, there are three main classes to choose from depending on your needs – Class A, Class B, and Class C.
What is a Class A CDL License?
If the vehicle that you’re trying to operate is under 26,000 pounds or won’t be towing anything over 10,000 pounds, you need a Class A CDL license.
How to Obtain a Class A CDL
To obtain a Class A CDL, you’ll first need to make sure that you’re at least 18 years old or are 21 if you’re planning on driving between states. You’ll have to pass a knowledge test that covers things like road signs and best practices, and you’ll have to go through a training program. After passing a skills test, you’ll be able to obtain your Class A CDL.
Salary Outlook for Class A Drivers
While the salary outlook for truck drivers in particular will vary wildly depending on what company you’re working for, where in the country you live, and other factors, truck drivers with a Class A CDL can typically expect to make between $45,000 and $75,000 per year.
What is a Class B CDL?
This is a type of CDL that allows drivers to operate vehicles that weigh 26,000 pounds or more, provided that they’re not towing anything heavier than 10,000 pounds.
How to Obtain a Class B CDL
The process for obtaining your Class B CDL is similar to that of a Class A CDL, with a few key exceptions. All the skills you need will be specific to Class B vehicles, so you can expect both the knowledge test and the training to be geared more towards that direction. Once you successfully pass your driving test while safely operating a Class B vehicle, you’ll be able to apply for your Class B CDL.
Salary Outlook for Class B Drivers
Again, this is something that will vary wildly depending on where you live, what type of vehicle you’re operating, and even how much driving you’ll be doing regularly. Typically, you can make between $35,000 and $60,000 per year as a Class B driver.
What is a Class C CDL?
This is a special type of CDL that allows drivers to have more than 16 passengers at a time, including themselves. This is also the type of CDL you’ll need if you’re going to be transporting hazardous materials or if you are behind the wheel of a vehicle big enough to require placarding.
How to Obtain a Class C CDL
As you would expect, obtaining your Class C CDL will require you to go through specific courses and pass a written test that has been customized for Class C regulations. Once you have the necessary training under your belt, you’ll be able to take that skills test. Once you pass, you can finalize your CDL application and submit it at any DMV in your area – the same as you can with the other types of licenses.
Salary Outlook for Class C Drivers
Because you’re specifically talking about transporting passengers, the salary outlook for Class C drivers is going to fluctuate depending on the industry you’re operating in. Keep in mind that school bus drivers or shuttle service operators need a Class C CDL to operate, too. Because of that, you can usually expect to make between $30,000 and $50,000 per year, once all other variables are accounted for.
What Are CDL Endorsements?
Again, not all commercial vehicles are created in quite the same way, and sometimes to get a job, you’ll need to show that you have additional qualifications beyond what a simple CDL license will provide.
For those situations, you have endorsements, which show that you can operate specific types of vehicles or carry certain types of loads. CDL endorsements can include but are not limited to ones like T, which is used for double or triple trailers, and H, which is used for hazardous materials. The N endorsement is also applicable to tank-based vehicles.
What Are CDL Restrictions?
Based on your skill as a driver or the type of vehicle you have experience working with, you could also find certain restrictions placed on your vehicle. A K restriction means that you’re only able to operate within a specific state, for example. You can’t cross state lines at all, which will limit the types of jobs you can take. An L restriction means that you’re not able to operate vehicles that have air brakes.
What is The Difference Between a CDL & CLP?
A Commercial Learner’s Permit, otherwise known as a CLP for short, means that you’re able to operate a commercial vehicle only under the supervision of someone who actually has a CDL. It’s not too dissimilar to a learner’s permit for a traditional driver’s license in that way.
How Long Does it Take to Get a CDL?
The amount of time it will take you to get your CDL will vary depending on several factors, including the state where you live and the amount of training you need to go through. Usually, people can get theirs in a period of a few weeks to several months, at which point they can start applying for jobs.
How Long Does it Take to Get a CLP?
If you want to get a CLP, on the other hand, know that this is a relatively straightforward process. In most situations, you’ll be able to get yours in a few days or even a week or more. Ultimately, it will come down to the state, but part of the point is to get you on the road as soon as possible.
If you’d like to find out more information about the different types of CDLs that are out there and how they might fall into your own career goals, or if you’d just like to speak about your long-term prospects with a team of professionals in a bit more detail, please don’t hesitate to contact the Advanced Commercial Capital team today.