A professional truck driver has the opportunity to explore the cities and countryside of the United States –while keeping the American economy bustling strong. Truckers tend to appreciate the independence a professional driving career brings because typical trucking routes often take days or weeks to complete.
Are you ready for a successful career as a professional truck driver and ready to join the 3.5+ million professional truckers transporting goods locally, or from coast to coast?
If so, the first step is to understand CDL Permit requirements.
In order for you to obtain a CDL license, you must determine which type of Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) you will be driving. The U.S. Department of Transportation has categorized vehicles into three classes or license groups.
Commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) fall into three general classes. Each CDL class is mainly differentiated based on the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) being driven, however, there are other factors. Additionally, each class of license may determine whether a truck driver is required to obtain an additional endorsement to drive legally.
The Class A License is required for truck drivers operating a vehicle with a GVWR in excess of 26,000 lbs. – with a vehicle in tow weighing more than 10,000 lbs. A Class A CDL is generally required for long-distance tractor-trailer drivers. Class A CDL drivers generally obtain the endorsements required to carry specific payloads. Examples include:
A Class A CDL License requires a driver-applicant to obtain at least 160 hours of classroom hours, combined with wheel training hours. Additionally, with proper endorsements, a Class A license holder may be permitted to drive Class B & C vehicles.
The Class B License is required for operating a motor vehicle that has a GVWR that exceeds 26,000 pounds – with a vehicle in tow weighing less than 10,000 lbs. Examples include:
The Class C License is required for drivers who operate a passenger vehicle with 15 or more passengers, plus the driver, or for the transport of HAZMAT materials as defined by the Federal Government.
A smart way to put forth your best effort when taking the Commercial Driver’s License Permit test is to allocate enough preparation time before sitting for the exam. Check out the many CDL practice tests, study guides and flashcards available to prepare for the CDL written test regarding: