What is Class A CDL vs Class B: Salary & Job Options

What is Class A CDL vs Class B: Salary & Job Options [2025 Guide]

Wondering what is Class A CDL and how it differs from Class B? These commercial driver’s licenses open different doors in the trucking industry, with distinct salary potential and career paths.

When choosing between CDL A and CDL B licenses, you’re essentially deciding what type of truck driver you want to become. A Class A CDL permits you to operate larger combination vehicles like tractor-trailers, while a Class B CDL limits you to single vehicles with less towing capacity. Furthermore, these differences impact not just what you’ll drive, but also how much you can earn—with Class A drivers typically commanding higher salaries than their Class B counterparts.

Whether you’re just starting your career or considering a change, understanding these two license types is crucial for making an informed decision. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the vehicle types, training requirements, job opportunities, and salary expectations for both CDL classes, specifically focused on what you can expect in 2025.

CDL Class A vs Class B: Vehicle Types and Weight Limits

The fundamental difference between commercial driver’s licenses lies in the specific weight limits and vehicle configurations they permit operators to drive. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for anyone considering a career in commercial driving.

Class A CDL: Combination vehicles over 26,001 lbs with trailer over 10,000 lbs

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 vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds ¹. This classification primarily covers articulated vehicles—those with a permanent or semi-permanent connection between the towing unit and trailer.

The precise definition according to federal regulations describes Class A as “any combination of vehicles which has a gross combination weight rating or gross combination weight of 11,794 kilograms or more (26,001 pounds or more) whichever is greater, inclusive of a towed unit(s) with a gross vehicle weight rating or gross vehicle weight of more than 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds) whichever is greater” ¹.

Consequently, this license offers the most versatility in the trucking industry, allowing drivers to operate virtually any commercial motor vehicle when paired with the appropriate endorsements.

Class B CDL: Single vehicles over 26,001 lbs with trailer under 10,000 lbs

In contrast, a Class B CDL permits operation of single vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more ¹. Unlike Class A, this license restricts drivers to vehicles not towing trailers heavier than 10,000 pounds GVWR ².

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration defines Class B as “any single vehicle which has a gross vehicle weight rating or gross vehicle weight of 11,794 or more kilograms (26,001 pounds or more), or any such vehicle towing a vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating or gross vehicle weight that does not exceed 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds)” ¹.

This classification focuses primarily on heavy straight vehicles rather than combination vehicles. Additionally, Class B CDL holders can legally operate Class C vehicles (those designed to transport 16+ passengers or hazardous materials) ³, though they cannot drive Class A vehicles without upgrading their license.

Examples of Class A vehicles: Tractor-trailers, tankers, flatbeds

Class A vehicles represent the backbone of long-haul freight transportation across North America. Some common examples include:

Tractor-trailers/Semi-trucks: These 18-wheelers are the most recognizable Class A vehicles, designed specifically for long-haul freight transportation ⁴
Tanker trucks: Specialized vehicles used for transporting liquids or gasses in bulk, often requiring additional endorsements ⁴
Flatbed trucks with trailers: Used for hauling building supplies or oversized equipment ⁴
Livestock carriers: Vehicles specifically designed for transporting animals ⁴
Combination vehicles: Any configuration with a GCWR of 26,001+ pounds where the towed unit exceeds 10,000 pounds ⁵

Examples of Class B vehicles: Busses, dump trucks, box trucks

Class B vehicles typically operate within more localized areas and include:

Straight trucks: Single-unit vehicles without articulation between cab and cargo area ⁶
Busses: Including school busses, city transit busses, and tour busses (with appropriate endorsements) ⁶
Dump trucks: Single-unit dump trucks with a GVWR over 26,001 pounds ⁷
Box trucks: Commonly used for local deliveries and moving services ⁶
Cement mixers: Heavy single vehicles frequently used in construction ⁵
Garbage trucks: Large municipal waste collection vehicles ⁸

The primary distinction remains the trailer weight threshold of 10,000 pounds—exceeding this limit requires a Class A CDL regardless of the towing vehicle’s size ³. Furthermore, this weight-based classification system ensures operators have the appropriate training and skills for the specific vehicles they’ll be handling.

Training and Testing Requirements for Each CDL

Preparing for a commercial driving career involves specific training requirements that vary significantly between license classes. The path to becoming qualified differs in duration, intensity, and financial investment depending on whether you pursue a Class A or Class B CDL.

Class A CDL: 160-hour programs with behind-the-wheel training

Class A CDL training programs are comprehensive due to the complexity of operating combination vehicles. These programs typically span 160 hours ⁹, combining classroom instruction with extensive practical experience. Most full-time programs require 4-6 weeks to complete, with evening or weekend options extending to 8 weeks ¹⁰.

The curriculum encompasses several critical areas:

Classroom theory covering federal regulations and safety protocols
Vehicle systems and maintenance instruction
Logbook management and compliance training
Extensive behind-the-wheel experience with combination vehicles ¹¹

The hands-on portion focuses particularly on mastering tractor-trailer operation, including pre-trip inspections, backing maneuvers, and road skills in various traffic conditions. Moreover, Class A programs emphasize vehicle control techniques necessary for managing articulated vehicles with trailers exceeding 10,000 pounds.

Class B CDL: Shorter programs with basic driving instruction

In comparison, Class B training programs are less intensive, generally requiring 80 hours ¹² and spanning about 3 weeks for full-time students or 6 weeks for evening participants ¹⁰. These programs focus primarily on single-vehicle operation rather than combination vehicles.

The curriculum still includes classroom instruction covering:

Safety regulations and compliance
Vehicle inspection procedures
Local traffic regulations
Basic vehicle maintenance ¹³

However, the practical driving component centers on straight trucks, busses, and other Class B vehicles. Since these vehicles lack articulation points, the training emphasizes different maneuvering techniques appropriate for single-unit heavy vehicles.

Testing difficulty: Class A requires more complex maneuvers

Both license classes require passing written knowledge tests and skills assessments, yet notable differences exist in testing difficulty. Class A skills tests are more rigorous because they evaluate a driver’s ability to safely operate articulated vehicles ¹³.

The testing components include:

Pre-trip vehicle inspection demonstration
Basic control skills (backing, parking, docking)
Road test in actual traffic conditions ¹⁴

Class A testing specifically examines skills like managing combination vehicles, controlling articulation points, and handling significantly longer vehicles. Conversely, Class B testing focuses on single-vehicle operation, with less emphasis on complex backing maneuvers or trailer management ¹³.

Cost comparison: $7,000–$10,000 for Class A vs lower for Class B

Financial investment varies substantially between the license classes. Class A CDL programs typically cost between $7,000 and $10,000 ⁷, reflecting their longer duration and more complex training requirements.

Class B programs generally cost less, with examples including:

$3,000 to $5,000 for a 8-hour program ¹²
Beyond tuition, additional expenses for both license types include:

DOT physical examination ($50-$150) ¹⁶
CDL application fees ($10-$50) ¹⁶
License fees ($30-$75) ¹⁶
Endorsement testing fees if applicable ¹⁶

Both license types now require completion of Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from FMCSA-registered providers ¹⁷, which became mandatory for new applicants after February 7, 2022. This federal requirement establishes baseline standards for both classroom theory and behind-the-wheel training before CDL testing.

Job Options and Career Paths in 2025

Commercial driving careers branch into distinct paths in 2025, with license type determining your access to various industries and roles. Employment opportunities vary greatly between Class A and B CDL holders, especially regarding work schedules, travel requirements, and compensation.

Class A CDL jobs: OTR driver, line haul, tanker operator

Class A CDL holders can pursue diverse career paths including:

Over-the-Road (OTR) driving: Long-haul transportation across state lines, sometimes requiring 3-4 weeks on the road before returning home ¹⁸. These positions often pay more due to the extended travel time and typically operate on a per-mile payment structure.
Regional hauling: Operating within specific regions like the Midwest or Northeast, allowing more regular home time—usually weekends—while maintaining good earnings ¹⁸.
Line haul operations: Transporting freight between distribution centers, often with weekly home time and potential earnings between $94,000-$106,000 annually ¹⁹.
Tanker operations: Specialized transportation of liquids or gasses, requiring additional endorsements but offering premium compensation ¹.

Many major employers offer Class A drivers comprehensive benefits including health insurance, 401(k) plans, and paid time off. Walmart, for instance, provides quarterly safe driving bonuses and activity pay for their fleet of over 12,000 Class A drivers ².

Class B CDL jobs: Local delivery, school bus, construction driver

Class B careers typically offer more predictable schedules and daily home time:

Local delivery: Operating box trucks for food distributors, furniture companies, or parcel services ⁵.
School bus transportation: Requiring Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements, with mandatory training including at least 14 hours of classroom and 6 hours of in-bus instruction ²⁰.
Construction drivers: Operating dump trucks, cement mixers, and other heavy equipment for construction sites ⁵.
Transit services: Driving city busses, shuttle services, or paratransit vehicles ²¹.

Job flexibility: Class A offers more cross-state and long-haul roles

Class A licenses provide greater geographic mobility and career flexibility. Unlike Class B roles that are primarily local or intrastate, Class A positions frequently involve interstate commerce, opening doors to nationwide employment opportunities ²².

This broader scope translates to diverse work arrangements including dedicated routes, regional positions, and specialized hauling. Class A holders can choose between long-haul adventures or local/regional routes depending on lifestyle preferences ¹⁸.

Licensing crossover: Class A can drive Class B vehicles

One significant advantage of obtaining a Class A CDL is that it permits operation of most Class B vehicles as well ¹. This versatility allows drivers to shift between different types of driving jobs as market conditions or personal preferences change ²².

Many drivers strategically obtain Class A licenses first because they provide the widest range of opportunities while including most Class B driving privileges ¹. This flexibility becomes especially valuable during economic fluctuations or when seeking new employment.

Salary Comparison: Class A vs Class B CDL

Compensation differences between commercial driving licenses reveal a substantial gap that reflects the varying responsibilities and skill requirements. Indeed, salary ranges provide a clear picture of the financial implications when choosing between license types.

Average salary for Class A CDL: $90,000–$103,000/year

Class A CDL holders typically earn the highest wages in the trucking industry. The average annual salary for drivers with a Class A CDL reaches approximately $103,742 ⁷, making it significantly more lucrative than other commercial driving positions. Experienced over-the-road drivers can earn between $65,000 and $85,000 annually ⁶, with specialized Class A drivers commanding $75,000 to $90,000 or more ⁶. Top performers at major carriers like Werner earn $90,000+ annually ²³, clearly demonstrating the earning potential of this license class.

Average salary for Class B CDL: $55,000–$70,000/year

Class B CDL positions offer more modest compensation. The typical annual salary for Class B CDL drivers ranges between $55,000 and $70,000 ⁶, with the national average at approximately $67,671 ⁷. Entry-level Class B drivers often start between $30,000 and $40,000 yearly ⁶, subsequently advancing to $40,000-$55,000 with experience ⁶. Notably, the salary range spans from $54,965 (25th percentile) to $83,647 (75th percentile) ²⁴, reflecting considerable variation based on location and specialization.

Bonuses and benefits: Class A often includes health and retirement

Beyond base salary, Class A positions frequently offer comprehensive benefits packages. These primarily include:

Health insurance plans covering medical, dental, and vision care ⁶
Retirement savings options like 401(k) plans ⁶
Paid time off including vacation days, sick leave, and holidays ⁶

Certain carriers provide additional incentives such as guaranteed weekly pay of up to $1,300 on select accounts ²³ or signing bonuses reaching $5,000 ³.

Work hours and overtime: Class B offers more predictable schedules

Class B positions typically feature more consistent schedules. Unlike Class A roles that may require extended periods away from home, Class B jobs commonly follow regular daily routes ²⁵. Many positions offer overtime opportunities after 8-hour shifts ³, with overtime rates reaching $33.75 per hour in some cases ³. This predictability makes Class B licenses appealing for drivers prioritizing work-life balance despite the lower overall compensation.

Endorsements and License Flexibility

Endorsements can significantly enhance your commercial driving license, opening doors to specialized transportation roles and higher pay potential. Each additional certification requires specific knowledge tests and sometimes road tests, yet pays dividends throughout your career.

Common endorsements: HAZMAT (H), Tanker (N), Passenger (P), School Bus (S)

Several key endorsements are available for both CDL classes:

H (Hazardous Materials): Permits transportation of hazardous materials requiring placards, costs approximately $85.25 for new applicants in 2025 ²⁶
N (Tanker): Required for hauling liquids or gasses in bulk
P (Passenger): Necessary for vehicles carrying 16+ passengers ²⁷
S (School Bus): Requires P endorsement plus additional testing ²⁸
X (Combination): Covers both Tanker and Hazardous Materials ²⁹

Class A exclusive: Doubles/Triples (T) endorsement

The T endorsement remains exclusively available to Class A CDL holders, authorizing operation of multiple trailers simultaneously ²⁹. This certification typically costs $15-$30 ⁸ and requires passing a 20-question test with at least 80% correct answers ³⁰.

How endorsements expand job options

Each endorsement unlocks specific career paths—HAZMAT qualifies you for chemical transport, Passenger allows bus operation, plus Tanker enables liquid hauling. Most importantly, multiple endorsements maximize employment flexibility and earnings potential.

State-specific requirements and background checks

States maintain unique endorsement regulations. Typically, HAZMAT requires fingerprinting and TSA security threat assessment ³¹. Background checks examine criminal history and driving records, with costs ranging from $67-$86.50 ³².

Conclusion

Choosing between a Class A and Class B CDL represents a significant career decision that affects everything from daily responsibilities to long-term earning potential. Class A licenses clearly offer greater versatility, allowing drivers to operate virtually any commercial vehicle while commanding substantially higher salaries—typically $90,000-$103,000 annually compared to $55,000-$70,000 for Class B operators. This salary difference reflects the additional skills required for managing combination vehicles exceeding 26,001 pounds with trailers over 10,000 pounds.

Training requirements likewise differ considerably. Class A programs demand approximately 180 hours of comprehensive instruction with complex vehicle maneuvering skills, whereas Class B training programs require less time and focus primarily on single-vehicle operation. The financial investment mirrors this disparity, with Class A programs costing $7,000-$10,000 compared to the more affordable Class B alternatives.

Job opportunities vary significantly between these license types. Class A CDL holders qualify for diverse roles including lucrative over-the-road positions, regional hauling, and specialized tanker operations. Conversely, Class B licenses lead to more predictable local careers such as bus driving, construction vehicle operation, and local delivery services. Many drivers appreciate that Class A credentials automatically permit operation of Class B vehicles, thus maximizing employment flexibility.

Endorsements further expand career possibilities for both license types. Hazardous materials, tanker, passenger, and school bus certifications open doors to specialized transportation roles, though the doubles/triples endorsement remains exclusive to Class A CDL holders.

The ultimate decision between pursuing a Class A or Class B CDL depends largely on personal priorities. Drivers seeking maximum earning potential and career flexibility should consider the Class A path despite its higher initial investment. Those prioritizing daily home time and predictable schedules might find Class B licenses better aligned with their lifestyle goals. Regardless of choice, commercial driving continues offering stable employment opportunities with competitive compensation packages throughout 2025 and beyond. Ready to start your career behind the wheel? Get started at Northeast Technical Institute