CDL Classes: A, B, and C
Which CDL class do you need? Here's how to decide.
There are three classes of CDL, each allowing you to operate different types of commercial vehicles. The class you need depends on the weight and type of vehicle you plan to drive.
Class A CDL
GVWR: 26,001+ lbs with a towed unit over 10,000 lbs
Vehicles you can drive:
- Tractor-trailers (18-wheelers)
- Truck and trailer combinations
- Flatbed trucks with heavy trailers
- Livestock carriers
- All Class B and Class C vehicles
Required tests: General Knowledge, Combination Vehicles, Air Brakes
Class A is the most common CDL. If you're unsure which class to get, choose Class A — it qualifies you to drive Class B and C vehicles too.
Class B CDL
GVWR: 26,001+ lbs (single vehicle, no heavy trailer)
Vehicles you can drive:
- Straight trucks (box trucks, delivery trucks)
- Large buses (city transit, tour buses)
- Dump trucks
- Cement mixers
- All Class C vehicles
Required tests: General Knowledge, Air Brakes
Class C CDL
GVWR: Under 26,001 lbs with special cargo or passengers
Vehicles you can drive:
- Small HAZMAT vehicles
- Passenger vans (16+ passengers)
- Small buses
Required tests: General Knowledge + applicable endorsement tests
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Class A | Class B | Class C |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 26,001+ lbs combo | 26,001+ lbs single | Under 26,001 lbs |
| Heavy trailer? | Yes (10,000+ lbs) | No | No |
| Can drive lower classes? | B and C | C only | C only |
| Average salary | $50K–$80K | $40K–$60K | $35K–$50K |
Which Class Should You Get?
If you want the most job opportunities, get a Class A CDL. It opens the door to the highest-paying trucking jobs and lets you drive any commercial vehicle. Most CDL training programs focus on Class A for this reason.