Obtaining a Class B CDL is great, but if you want to extend your driving career with more opportunities and higher pay, upgrading your CDL to a Class A is essential. But how you can upgrade your Class B to Class A CDL? This post will give you a comprehensive answer.
We will walk you through the outstanding benefits of upgrading. After that, you will learn about detailed requirements to upgrade your license. A step-by-step upgrading guideline is also provided in the final section. Scroll down for more details to upgrade your license successfully!
Benefits of upgrading from Class B to Class A CDL
The reason why a driver wants to upgrade from a Class B to a Class A CDL is pretty straightforward: it opens up a whole world of job opportunities with higher pay. Let’s break down why this changeover is worthwhile:
Higher pay
Class A CDL drivers can be paid more than their class B counterparts. According to Indeed, the average annual salary for Class A truck drivers is around $82,326 to up to $100,000 while that of Class B drivers is just around $67,000 annually. This drastic difference in salaries is because Class A holders are qualified to handle heavier and more complex vehicles on longer hauls. As a result, the demand for Class A drives tends to be higher, leading to higher pay.
More job opportunities
The job opportunities for Class A drivers are significantly broader. They can drive all the vehicles that a Class B driver can haul, plus others such as tractor-trailers and larger commercial trucks. This opens up more specialized jobs in industries involving logistics, shipping, and long-haul; transportation. In addition, employers often look for Class A CDL holders due to their license versatility, making it easier to find steady and full-time jobs.
What are the Class B to Class A CDL requirements?
If you are thinking about upgrading your Class B to a Class A CDL, it is crucial to learn what particular requirements are involved. While the process varies among states, generally, the most common requirements for upgrading your CDL are as follows:
Eligibility criteria
You must meet the minimum qualification for eligibility, including:
- Already hold a valid Class B CDL.
- Be at least 18 years old, or 21 years old if you plan to drive interstate.
- Have a clear driving record.
- Provide a valid FMCSA medical qualification certificate if required based on the type of class and driving you plan to do.
- Pass vision test.
Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)
You will need an application for the Commercial Learner’s Permit in Class A before upgrading. You must undertake and pass a series of written tests, including general knowledge, air brakes, combination vehicles, and extra endorsements.
Entry-level driver training (ELDT) program
The FMCSA requires that by February 2022, drivers upgrading from Class B to Class A must undertake the ELDT program. This program will generally consist of:
- Theory and in-class training.
- Behind-the-wheel training.
You are required to possess your CLP at least 14 days before you are allowed to take a skills test for your class A CDL.
Endorsement tests
Depending on the various classes of vehicles you desire to operate, you may be required to get other endorsements.
Upgrade fees
Be prepared to pay for the upgrade process, including costs for training, CLP, skill tests, and endorsement fees.
How to upgrade from Class B to Class A?
Now you understand the basic requirements, let’s review the detailed steps involved in upgrading from a Class B to Class A CDL:
Apply for a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)
The first step you should do when upgrading your CDL is to apply at your local DMV for your CLP. Bring your valid Class B CDL, proof of identity, and any applicable medical certification with you. You should prepare for possible application fees right when visiting the DMV.
Register with an ELDT program
Next, you will have to participate in an ELDT program, as mandated by the FMCSA. You are required to study and pass the written knowledge test to complete this program. Behind-the-wheel training is also included, ensuring that you have experience and knowledge to operate a Class A vehicle, which is important to pass the skills test.
Pass the skills test
After you have completed your ELDT program and hold your CLP for at least 14 days, schedule your skills test. The skills test consists of three parts:
- A Pre-trip inspection.
- A Basic vehicle control test.
- An on-the-road driving test.
Practice as many times as possible to secure your success on the test day.
Obtain Class A CDL
Pass the skills test and submit the paperwork, along with any remaining fees to officially upgrade your CDL. You will have your new Class A license, opening several new opportunities.
FAQS
1. How long does it take to upgrade from Class B to Class A CDL?
Some states take a few weeks while others can take a few months. It depends on your state, test availability, and your readiness. You need to complete the ELDT program, hold your CLP for at least 14 days, and pass the skills test of the vehicle you expect to operate.
2. What is the difference between class A and class B?
Here are the key differences between Class A and Class B CDL licenses:
- Type of vehicle allowed:
- Class A: Combination vehicles such as tractor-trailers.
- Class B: Singer vehicles only such as buses or box trucks.
- Job opportunities: Class A drivers generally have more job opportunities, especially in long hauls, while Class B drivers usually cover local delivery jobs.
- Pay scale: A Class A driver typically gets higher-paying jobs due to the high demand for their expertise.
- Required training and testing: Class A CDL requires longer training and more comprehensive testing than Class B.
For more details, you can read our post on Class A vs Class B CDL.
Final thoughts
Upgrading from a Class B to Class A CDL is a worthwhile investment in your trucking career. It opens the door to higher-paying jobs and assures long-term stability and flexibility in your job. By satisfying the Class B to Class A CDL requirements listed above, and following our detailed guidelines on the upgrading process, you will be closer to driving large vehicles and opening yourself up to more opportunities. So why wait? Start your CDL upgrade process today and take your career to the next level!
