Class B CDL Training and Prep Near You | Truck Driver Institute (original) (raw)
Class B CDL training allows you to transport freight that weighs less than 10,000 pounds GVWR with a single axle trailer and this training is offered at every Truck Driver Institute facility.
After the Class A CDL (commercial driver’s license), the Class B CDL training is the second most popular CDL; however, Class A is universal, so it is a better choice for those entering the trucking industry.
We’re here to explain the benefits of training and how you can turn our CDL program into a lucrative career. Although it doesn’t grant the same privileges and offer the same freedoms that the Class A does, Class B CDL training can be an entry point into the trucking industry for a number of reasons.
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First and foremost, you can’t obtain an interstate Class A CDL if you’re under 21 years of age. This makes it difficult for younger people who want to begin careers in the trucking industry. However, the Class B CDL requires a minimum age of 18. This helps those prospective drivers break into the industry and begin earning earlier. Class B CDL holders also have access to a wide array of different trucking jobs. This allows for great diversity in the industry and provides a great jumping-off point for any prospective driver.
After all, the more miles you have under your belt, the more attractive you are to prospective employers. And, if you decide to get your Class A CDL down the line, the process will be even quicker and more straightforward than it already is.
Continue reading to learn more about Class B CDL training and determine if it’s right for you or if you’d rather obtain the universal license and enroll in our Class A CDL program.
What Can I Do with My Class B CDL Training?
Class B CDL holders have access to a wide variety of careers after receiving their training.
If you get your Class B CDL, you’ll be able to transport freight that weighs less than 10,000 pounds GVWR with a single axle trailer. Compare this to the Class A CDL which allows its holders to haul freight that weighs upwards of 80,000 pounds with a multi-axle trailer.
The Class B CDL also restricts where you can drive, as you’re limited to the state where the license was issued. This means you can only work regional and local jobs with your Class B CDL. However, the interstate and long-haul capabilities of a Class A CDL aren’t in-line with everyone’s career path, and there are several well-paying and rewarding careers that you can attain with Class B CDL training.
If you’re not interested in the long-haul or interstate tractor-trailer job description, check out the following possibilities that you can explore with your Class B CDL:
- Courier
- Highway maintenance technician
- Delivery driver
- Dispatcher
- School bus driver
- Supervisor or terminal manager
- …and much more!
Class B CDLs is also a great resume piece for careers that don’t center on truck driving. For example, you will need a CDL if you want to operate specific construction equipment such as a concrete mixer, dump truck, or other heavy-duty vehicles.
Employers would prefer a candidate who already has a Class B CDL for those kinds of jobs because they can begin work immediately. Those who don’t have a commercial driver’s license yet would need to go through Class B CDL training after hiring.
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Since Class B CDL holders are permitted to drive trucks that haul trailers that don’t exceed 10,000 pounds GVWR and other large vehicles that don’t have detachable trailers, the vehicles they operate include:
- Metro busses
- School busses
- Tour busses
- Passenger vans
- Delivery trucks
- Dump trucks
- Cement mixers
- Box trucks
- Straight trucks
- Tilt beds
- …and more!
As you explore the possibilities of a Class B CDL, it becomes clear that a select few vehicle classes require special endorsements. These include, but are not limited to, hazmat vehicles, city and school busses, and other special operations equipment. However, Class B CDL training is required before you can pursue these endorsements.
What Can I Do with My Class A CDL Training?
Obtaining a Class A CDL opens up a world of endless opportunities within the trucking and transportation industry. Class A CDLs, as noted above, provide a wider range of job possibilities ensuring that you are qualified for any position in the industry. TDI’s Class A CDL training provides you with the knowledge and skills to operate larger vehicles and engage in a variety of driving assignments. Below is a glimpse into the potential careers and opportunities unlocked when graduating from TDI with your Class A CDL.
- Over-the-Road Trucking: With a Class A CDL, you can drive the largest types of long-haul trucks across the state and the country. OTR trucking allows you to see the country and drive from coast to coast, and this trucking type offers the highest salary for drivers.
- Specialized Freight Hauling: This includes items like heavy machinery, oversized loads, hazardous materials, or refrigerated goods. These jobs generally require additional endorsements but offer higher pay rates due to the nature of the loads. Plus, a Class A CDL streamlines the path to any endorsements you may need down the line.
- Tanker Hauling: Tanker trucks transport liquid or gaseous materials, such as fuel and chemicals or milk and other liquid food products. Like specialized freight, tanker hauling may require additional endorsements; however, you can receive those unless you already have a Class A CDL.
- Flatbed Trucking: Flatbed trucking involves transporting goods that do not fit in a standard trailer, such as construction equipment or large machinery. Your TDI training will help you learn how to secure and transport uneven loads safely.
- Owner-Operator Opportunities: Many Class A CDL holders choose to become owner-operators, running their own trucking business. This route offers enhanced independence and the potential for higher earnings; however there are a unique set of challenges and responsibilities that come along with this trucking path.
- Local Delivery Services: Although a Class B CDL is sufficient for many local jobs, some companies prefer or require a Class A for certain positions.
- Instructor Trainer Roles: With experience, Class A CDL holders can transition into instructor or trailer roles, sharing their knowledge with the future of the industry.
- Management and Logistics Positions: A Class A CDL, combined with experience, can lead to opportunities in management and logistics.
In addition to offering a broader range of career opportunities, a Class A CDL demonstrates a higher level of skill and proficiency in commercial driving, which makes it more valuable asset for anyone looking to get behind the wheel of their next career. Whether you’re drawn to a career on the road, the chance to explore the country, ability to make your own hours and be your own boss, or are retried and want to start something new, a Class A CDl can set you along that path. For guaranteed industry success, consider getting in contact with TDI. Our reputable institution features a comprehensive 3 week program that covers theoretical and practical topics, ensuring that you can enter the workforce confident you can handle anything you encounter while on the road. Plus, our job placement services will work with you to find your first job upon graduation and work with you in the future if you want a new opportunity. At TDI, you aren’t just getting your CDL and moving on but joining the TDI community!
How Class A CDL Training Works at TDI
Students at TDI receive their Class A CDL training in three phases that span 15 days (three weeks). It involves a mixture of classroom learning and hands-on training behind the wheel.
You’ll learn all the technical skills you’ll need to know to become a truck driver during week one. In the classroom, you’ll go over topics like:
- Trucking laws
- Common paperwork
- Map reading
- Service requirements
- Weight scales
The first week of your Class B CDL training focuses on preparing you for the written exam to get your permit. After you get your permit, you can begin your behind-the-wheel training.
During week two, you begin your training behind the wheel. TDI campuses have private roadways for new truck drivers to learn on safely. Your basic driving training will include:
- Air brake inspection
- Pre-trip inspection
- Backing maneuvers
- Various mechanical instruction
During week three, you’ll apply your knowledge on the road with other drivers. You’ll learn some more advanced techniques as well as get comfortable with night driving.
Congratulations! You’ve completed your Class A CDL training. Soon after your third week, you’ll be able to take the final test and leave TDI with a Class B commercial driving license.
Class A CDL Training–The TDI difference
Apart from unparalleled instruction and an impressive history of student satisfaction, TDI offers much more than simple Class B CDL training.
TDI is very proud to offer a job placement program with a success rate of over 80%.
Not only will you learn the ins-and-outs of truck operation and road safety, but you’ll also receive expert guidance from our seasoned trucking veterans to help you along in your job search. This involves:
- A pre-hire job screening that allows carriers and other industry leaders to look your application over and make sure you’re qualified to work in the industry. Many students receive job offers before they’ve even graduated!
- TDI’s job placement during training involves one-on-one instruction from a job placement specialist. They will help you identify the best employer for your situation and career goals, thus helping you create a detailed and tailor-made career plan before you leave our facility.
- We also offer CDL job placement for graduates. This means we work with you after your graduation date to ensure you find the job you’re looking for and assist if you wish to make a career change or switch carriers.
- TDI’s carrier partners show that we produce the best new CDL drivers. They include some of the nation’s leading carriers and companies, and they trust TDI to train their drivers properly and thoroughly. That’s why TDI graduates are sought out by the best companies nationwide.
Where Can I Begin My Class A CDL Training?
Are you ready to get started? TDI has 10 campuses conveniently located around the Southeast and the Midwest. Many of our campuses include comfortable lodging for students who don’t live in the area. That way, you don’t have to tackle a long commute every day during your time with us.
Our truck driving school locations are in Atlanta, Birmingham, Gulfport, Indianapolis, Nashville, Orlando, Pensacola, Columbia, South Bend, and Tupelo. Contact the nearest to you to find out what you need to do to begin your Class A CDL training at TDI.
TDI takes great pride in the difference we make in people’s lives every day. With proper Class A CDL training, you can confidently enter a new and lucrative career no matter what your background is. With TDI CDL training, you’re automatically qualified to work with companies that provide competitive salaries, retirement plans, and healthcare benefits.
Whether you have a poor driving record, criminal convictions, or even a DUI, a CDL is the perfect way to get back on track.
Need financial aid? Apply today to see if you qualify for a scholarship, grant, or military*/GI Bill ®. It’s also common for carriers to reimburse a student’s tuition to help pay for their training if they qualify, but this is specific from carrier to carrier and individual results may vary.
Now that you know how easy it is to receive life-changing Class A CDL training, take your first steps and contact TDI today.
To inquire, get started here, or give us a call at 800-848-7364.To stay up-to-date with everything CDL or learn more about TDI, check our blog out to find out how we can help you advance your career as soon as possible.