Traveling America’s highways as a long-haul trucker is not necessarily for everyone. Those who wish to earn a steady income as a truck driver without driving long distances can secure a Class B driver’s license. This type of CDL allows professionals to operate certain vehicles with a gross combination weight of 26,001 pounds or more.
While that threshold mirrors a Class A driver’s license, individuals with a Class B driver’s license cannot lawfully tow a trailer or other load that exceeds 10,000 pounds. This distinction, although seemingly minor to those unfamiliar with the freight hauling industry, typically separates over-the-road (OTR) truckers from those working local or regional routes and occupations.
Types of Vehicles Operable with a Class B CDL
With a Class B driver’s license, drivers can operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) such as:
- Straight Trucks: These are trucks with a fixed trailer, commonly used for local delivery and moving services.
- Passenger and Public Transportation Buses: These include city buses, intercity buses, and other types of public transit vehicles.
- Segmented Passenger Buses: These buses are used for transporting passengers in sections, often seen in airport shuttles.
- School Buses: Many Class B CDL holders pursue endorsements to drive school buses, a vital role in public education systems.
- Box Trucks: Commonly used for delivering goods and moving services.
- Dump Trucks Pulling Low-Weight Trailers: Used in construction and landscaping for transporting loose materials.
- Tractor-Trailers that Do Not Exceed Weight Thresholds: These include certain smaller rigs used for regional deliveries.
Endorsements for Class B CDL Holders
Qualified Class B CDL holders can also secure endorsements to expand their driving capabilities. Endorsements allow drivers to operate specific types of vehicles or transport certain types of cargo. One endorsement frequently pursued by Class B CDL holders is the "P" endorsement, which permits the operation of passenger vehicles such as school buses. This endorsement is especially valuable for those interested in roles within public transportation or educational services.
Salary Outlook for Class B Drivers
In 2023, workers with a Class B driver’s license earned an average wage of approximately $44,000, with top earners exceeding $50,000. Class B drivers enjoy steady employment opportunities and a job growth rate of around 5 percent year-over-year. The demand for Class B drivers remains strong across most regions, providing a stable and lucrative career path for those who prefer local or regional driving.
Class B CDL driving offers a viable alternative for individuals seeking a career in trucking without the long-distance commitments associated with Class A CDL driving. It provides diverse job opportunities, competitive salaries, and the ability to stay closer to home while enjoying the benefits of a professional driving career.
Get Your CDL B License Training at Smith & Solomon
Get your CDL Class B license training at Smith & Solomon and open the doors to a rewarding career in the transportation industry. With our comprehensive training program, experienced instructors, and state-of-the-art facilities, you can be confident in your ability to succeed in obtaining your CDL Class B license.
Whether you are looking to become a bus driver, delivery driver, or other CDL Class B licensed professional, Smith & Solomon can provide you with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in your new career.
Contact Smith & Solomon today if you are looking to obtain your CDL B License and start your career in the trucking industry.
Get Started
What They're Saying
It took me just 2 months to change my life and Smith & Solomon helped me do that. The instructors there are very knowledgeable and helpful and they want to see you succeed. I will always be forever grateful for everyone at Smith & Solomon for helping me reach my goals. You will succeed in this school if you just listen to the instructors and put in the effort! Thank you to all the instructors who helped me get better every day that I went there!
— Kevin Curiel
If you are looking for a driving school, this is the one to go to. I had a complicated schedule because I was still working full-time when attending, and they made it so easy. The women in the office are so understanding, encouraging, and experienced. This place feels like one big family and they welcome you with open arms. The instructors make you laugh all day and do everything they can to ensure you understand what they’re teaching. They really go above and beyond. I’m months out of this school and still keep in touch. I could never repay them for the skills and confidence they gave me while starting this journey. I LOVE YOU GUYS.
— Samantha Rose
Hello everyone, I just graduated from Smith & Solomon today and it was a great experience. I learned every detail I needed to pass the state test. Huge thanks to instructors Mr. Mike, Mr. Well, and Mr. Steve for their guidance both in the yard and on the road. I also want to thank all the ladies in the office—Mrs. Beverly, Mrs. Janette, Mrs. Danielle, and Mrs. Kat—for their incredible support. This school truly has a great team, and I will never forget this experience.
— Arcadio D. Andeliz Jr.
Just graduated from Smith & Solomon Deptford. Great experience. On-road instruction from Will and Mike helped me fix my flaws and pass the state test. Steve’s insights and pre-trip training were invaluable. Ms. Kat made classroom learning engaging. Office staff—Mrs. Beverly, Mrs. Janette, Mrs. Danielle—were all approachable and extremely helpful. Highly recommended for anyone pursuing a CDL-A license.
— Johnny O
Was in and out in 6 weeks. The manager Nick and instructors Taj and Don really take their time to help you prepare for the CDL test. Malcolm in the classroom and Ms. Carolyn in onboarding made the process seamless. Highly recommend this school for anyone looking to get their CDL Class A.
— Brandon Gaston
I had a great experience getting my CDL through Smith & Solomon’s Bordentown campus! Nick, Taj, and Don are extremely knowledgeable and helped me prepare for the test. Carolyn went above and beyond from admission through graduation, making my experience stress-free. I highly recommend this school.
— Nicholas Harris