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May 12, 2015|CDL Programs, CDL Training, Commercial Drivers License, Truck Driver Training, Truck Driving School

What Are The Different CDL Classifications?

There are a number of different types of CDL classifications—classes, permit status, and endorsements. At Elite Truck School, a truck driving school near Portland, we want you to be aware of these different classifications before you begin looking for trucking jobs. Read on to learn more about how the various CDL classifications differ from one another.

CDL Classes
The Class A Commercial classification allows a truck driver to operate any vehicle or combination of vehicles, provided the proper endorsements are obtained. A truck driver with a Class B Commercial classification can drive any single vehicle with the appropriate endorsements and may tow a trailer up to 10,000 pounds Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW). Those with a Class C Commercial classification can drive any single vehicle with a GVR

that does not exceed 26,000 pounds that is designed to carry more than 16 people or moving hazardous materials in quantities that require placarding. The Class C classification allows a driver to operate any single vehicle designed to carry 16 or fewer persons (including the driver) and not transporting hazardous materials that require placarding, as long as the GVW is not more than 36,000 pounds. This class allows a driver to operate an emergency fire vehicle is he or she is a firefighter.

CDL Instruction Permit
The CDL Instruction Permit allows the holder to operate a commercial vehicle under certain conditions if it is not carrying hazardous material. An adult over 21 years old with the appropriate CDL and endorsements must sit in the passenger seat as the permit holder is driving. This is the ideal permit for someone wanting to prepare for truck driver jobs.

CDL Endorsements
CDL endorsements qualify a truck driver to operate certain types of commercial vehicles, which has a bearing on the CDL jobs he or she is able to obtain. H endorsements allow CDL holders to carry any vehicle with hazardous materials requiring placards. S endorsements let a driver transport students to and from school and school events. P endorsements permit drivers to operate passenger vehicles that are designed to carry 16 people or more.

For more information, you can read about the questions to ask when choosing a CDL driving school, or simply contacting us.

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