How to Get a Commercial Driver's License (CDL)

Commercial driving is a thriving industry in the United States, offering numerous opportunities for those with the right credentials. One of the essential qualifications for entering this field is obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). There are different classes of CDLs, each catering to specific types of commercial vehicles and driving jobs. In this guide, we will focus on the CDL Class B – what it is, the general steps to acquire it, and the specific requirements for obtaining it in the state of Massachusetts.

What is a CDL Class B?

A CDL Class B license allows you to operate any single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, as well as any such vehicle towing another vehicle not exceeding 10,000 pounds. This class of license is typically required for drivers of heavy straight vehicles, including:

Straight trucks
Large passenger buses (e.g., city buses, tourist buses, and school buses)
Box trucks for delivery drivers
Dump trucks with small trailers
Garbage trucks
Cement mixers
Food trucks

Having a CDL demonstrates to future employers and carriers that you are well-trained and a competent professional driver. Driving a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) requires a higher level of knowledge, experience, and physical ability than driving a regular automobile. It requires specialized skills.

There are different types of CDLs, and choosing the right one for you depends on your experience and the job you are most interested in. To make it easy and clear:

CDL Class A is for any combination of vehicles weighing 26,001 or more pounds, provided the vehicle(s) being towed exceed 10,000 pounds.
CDL Class B allows you to operate any heavy straight vehicle with a GVWR greater than 26,000 pounds, as well as any vehicle towing another vehicle not exceeding 10,000 pounds.

An important fact to note is that Class B is not for tractor-trailers; it is typically for single-framed vehicles only. With a CDL Class A, you are allowed to drive across state lines, while with a CDL Class B, you may only operate within the state in which the commercial driver’s license is issued.

General Steps to Get a CDL Class B

Acquiring a CDL Class B involves several steps, ensuring that applicants are well-prepared to handle the responsibilities of commercial driving. Here’s a general overview:

Meet the Eligibility Requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old to drive intrastate (within the state) and 21 years old to drive interstate (between states).
- Have a valid non-commercial driver’s license.
- Possess a clean driving record.
Obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP):
- Study the CDL manual for your state.
- Pass a knowledge test covering general CDL information, as well as specific information related to the Class B license.
- Complete a vision test.
Complete a CDL Training Program:
- Enroll in a CDL training school to receive both classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training.
- Gain hands-on experience driving a Class B vehicle under the supervision of a qualified instructor.
Pass the Skills Test:
- Schedule a skills test at a certified testing center.
- Demonstrate your ability to perform vehicle inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
Obtain Your CDL Class B:
- Submit the required documentation, including proof of identity, residency, and medical certification.
- Pay the applicable fees.

Getting a CDL Class B in Massachusetts

The process of obtaining a CDL Class B in Massachusetts is similar to the general steps outlined above, with a few state-specific requirements:

Eligibility Requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old for intrastate driving and 21 years old for interstate driving.
- Hold a valid Massachusetts Class D (non-commercial) driver’s license.
- Have a clean driving record.
Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP):
- Visit a Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) service center to apply for a CLP.
- Pass the written knowledge test specific to Massachusetts CDL regulations.
- Complete a vision screening at the RMV service center.
CDL Training Program:
- Enroll in a Massachusetts-approved CDL training program to receive the necessary instruction and practical experience.
Skills Test:
- Schedule and pass the CDL skills test, which includes vehicle inspection, basic control skills, and on-road driving.
- The skills test must be taken in a vehicle that meets the requirements for a Class B license.
Obtain Your CDL Class B:
- After passing the skills test, return to the RMV with your CLP, proof of passing the skills test, and any other required documents.
- Submit your application for the CDL Class B and pay the necessary fees.

By following these steps, you can successfully obtain a CDL Class B in Massachusetts and begin your career in commercial driving. The process ensures that you have the necessary knowledge and skills to operate heavy vehicles safely and competently, opening up a range of job opportunities in the commercial driving industry.

What Kind of Vehicles Can I Drive with a CDL – Class B?

A CDL Class B license opens up a variety of opportunities in the commercial driving industry. With this license, you are qualified to drive a range of vehicles that play essential roles in various sectors, from transportation and logistics to public services and construction. Here’s an overview of the types of vehicles and typical jobs you can pursue with a CDL Class B:

Types of Vehicles

Straight Trucks:
- These are non-articulated trucks that are commonly used for transporting goods and materials within local or regional areas. They are ideal for pickup and delivery (PU&D) services.
Large Passenger Buses:
- City Buses: Used in public transportation to move passengers within urban areas.
- Tourist Buses: Employed by travel companies to transport tourists to various destinations.
- School Buses: Used to transport students to and from school and other school-related activities.
Segmented Buses:
- These are articulated buses with a pivot joint that allows for increased passenger capacity and maneuverability, often used in busy urban transit systems.
Garbage Trucks:
- These trucks are essential for municipal waste collection and disposal, serving residential and commercial areas.
Box Trucks for Delivery Drivers:
- Also known as cube trucks, they are widely used for delivering packages, furniture, and other goods. They are a staple in parcel delivery services.
Dump Trucks with Small Trailers:
- Utilized in construction and landscaping, these trucks transport loose materials such as sand, gravel, and demolition waste.
Cement Mixers:
- Critical in the construction industry, these trucks mix and deliver concrete to construction sites.
Food Trucks:
- Mobile kitchens that prepare and sell food to customers, often seen at events, festivals, and various locations within a city.

Typical Jobs

Pickup and Delivery (PU&D): Handling local deliveries for businesses and residential customers, ensuring timely and safe transport of goods.
Parcel Delivery: Working with major delivery companies to distribute packages and parcels to customers.
Furniture Delivery: Transporting furniture from warehouses or stores to customers’ homes or offices, often requiring careful handling and assembly.
Household Goods Movers: Assisting with residential or office moves, involving packing, transporting, and unloading belongings.
Public Transportation: Driving city or school buses, ensuring safe and efficient transport of passengers on designated routes.
Municipal Services: Operating garbage trucks for waste collection and disposal, playing a vital role in maintaining public health and cleanliness.
Construction Support: Driving dump trucks or cement mixers to support construction projects, delivering essential materials to job sites.
Mobile Food Service: Operating a food truck, providing culinary services at various locations, and catering to events.

Specialized Endorsements

To drive certain specialized vehicles or carry specific types of cargo, you may need additional endorsements on your CDL Class B:

Passenger (P): Allows you to carry passengers.
Tank (T): Permits you to drive vehicles with large liquid tanks.
Hazardous Materials (H): Required for transporting hazardous materials, including flammable liquids, explosives, and radioactive substances.

Having a CDL Class B not only qualifies you to drive a wide range of vehicles but also equips you with valuable skills and experience that can advance your career in the commercial driving industry. Whether you prefer a stable job in public transportation or a dynamic role in delivery services, a CDL Class B opens the door to numerous opportunities.

Now Let’s Talk About the Money

Obtaining a CDL Class B can be a lucrative investment in your future, offering stable and well-paying job opportunities across various sectors. Understanding the potential earnings and job prospects can help set realistic expectations and motivate you to pursue this career path.

Earnings Potential

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:

Bus Drivers (School or Special Client): The median annual wage was $32,420 in May 2018. This translates to approximately $2,700 per month.
Bus Drivers (Transit and Intercity): The median annual wage was $42,080 in May 2018. This translates to about $3,500 per month.

These figures represent median wages, meaning that with experience, specialized skills, and additional endorsements, you could potentially earn more.

Job Opportunities and Growth

The demand for commercial drivers remains strong, with overall employment of bus drivers projected to grow 6 percent from 2016 to 2026. This growth is driven by increasing demand for public transportation and delivery services, ensuring a steady stream of job opportunities for CDL Class B holders.

Realistic Earnings After Graduation

Entry-Level Positions: Immediately after obtaining your CDL Class B, you can expect to start in entry-level positions. Depending on the job and location, starting salaries for new drivers typically range from $2,500 to $3,000 per month.
Experienced Drivers: With a few years of experience and potentially additional endorsements, you can see your monthly earnings increase to $3,500 or more.

Job Opportunities Available

With a CDL Class B, a variety of job opportunities become accessible, including:

School Bus Driver: Transporting students to and from school, typically working on a predictable schedule with weekends and holidays off.
Transit Bus Driver: Operating city buses, providing public transportation within urban areas.
Delivery Driver: Working for parcel delivery services or logistics companies, ensuring timely delivery of goods.
Garbage Truck Driver: Serving municipal or private waste management companies, playing a crucial role in maintaining public health.
Cement Mixer Operator: Supporting construction projects by delivering and pouring concrete.
Food Truck Operator: Running your own mobile food business, combining culinary skills with driving.

Training and Getting Started

Enrolling in a CDL training program is the first step towards starting your new career. These programs typically combine behind-the-wheel training with classroom instruction, covering essential topics such as vehicle operation, safety regulations, and practical driving skills.

Here at Boston CDL Driving School, we offer comprehensive classroom training designed to prepare you for the CDL Class B exam. Our experienced instructors provide hands-on training and valuable insights into the commercial driving industry. You can enroll today and begin your journey towards a rewarding career in commercial driving.

Check out the next session available on our website and take the first step towards securing a stable and well-paying job in the commercial driving sector. With a CDL Class B, you’ll have the skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a growing industry.