Steps to Upgrade from Class B to Class A CDL

If you currently hold a Class B CDL license and you are thinking of upgrading it to a Class A CDL, then you’re making a smart career choice. With this upgrade, you will get more flexibility, better pay, and opportunities for a wider range of driving jobs across the country.  

In this article, we’ll break down the process of upgrading from a Class B to a Class A CDL. By the end of this, you will know what to expect during the transition and why training with a professional school can make all the difference.

Why Upgrade from a Class B to a Class A CDL?

First of all, you should know why you should upgrade your license from Class B to a Class A CDL. Following is a list of all potentially beneficial reasons you should know. 

1. More Vehicle Options

In Class B CDL, you can drive only single vehicles like buses, delivery trucks, or dump trucks. But with a Class A CDL, you can actually operate larger vehicles including tractor-trailers, flatbeds, tankers, livestock carriers, etc.  

2. Higher Pay Potential

Trucking companies across the U.S. are always looking for Class A drivers. The high demand means you can secure regional or long-haul positions that usually come with better pay compared to most Class B jobs.

3. Career Growth

You can have a more rewarding long-term driving career by upgrading to the Class A CDL license. It will prove your versatility and competence in the market. You will become more relevant in the trucking industry if you keep leveling yourself and your skills.

4. More Job Security

The trucking industry is sure to face driver shortages especially for long-haul routes. The Class A drivers gets more priority because they can handle a wider variety of vehicles and jobs along with legal license. This means that even in times of economic uncertainty, the Class A CDL license will give you better stability and job security.

5. Opportunities for Specialized Driving

The Class A CDL license not only lets you drive big rigs, but it also opens opportunities in the specialized sectors. You can do jobs in tanker transport, hazardous material hauling (with endorsements), and oversized load carriers. These roles will pay you more, giving you expertise in high-demand areas of trucking.

6. Freedom to Choose Your Path

Some drivers prefer local or regional jobs to stay close to home. While some also love to have a cross-country driving job. With this Class A CDL, you can choose the job you love. It can be a steady home time or a long-haul trucking adventure; you will decide what type of job you want.

Steps to Upgrade from Class B to Class A CDL 

You ned to follow some rules and requirements to legally upgrade from a Class B to a Class A license. The following is an explanation of the same. 

Step 1: Basic Requirements Fulfillment

• You must be at least 18 years old (and 21 for interstate driving).

• You must hold a valid Class B CDL in good standing.

• You must have a clean driving record, that there should be no major road safety violations charges against you. 

• Provide a valid DOT medical certificate since medical clearance is required to hold any commercial license.

Step 2: Apply for a Class A CDL Permit

Just like when you earned your Class B license, you’ll need a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) for Class A. In most cases, this means passing knowledge tests such as:

• General Knowledge

• Combination Vehicles

• Air Brakes (if not already endorsed on your Class B)

The requirements can vary in different states. So you should always confirm with the state’s DMV that which exams you have to take based on your current license.

Step 3: Enroll in CDL Training

This is where we, Fremont Truck & Bus Driving School in Hayward, CA, can really help you. Our professional CDL training programs prepare you for both the written exams and hands-on road tests. In training, you’ll learn how to:

• Safely operate large towed vehicles.

• Complete all the pre-trip inspections.

• Back up, park, and handle large trucks and combination vehicles.

• And drive in real-life conditions with the help of certified instructors.

Step 4: Complete the Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) 

Since February 7, 2022, the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) requires every driver to complete the ELDT through a registered provider if he/she wish to upgrade from a Class B to a Class A CDL. If you already held a CDL or CLP before this date, you may get an exemption. But for all the new applicants, completing the ELDT is compulsory. 

Step 5: Pass the Skills Test

Once your training is complete, you’ll need to pass a three-part CDL skills test:

• Pre-trip inspection – Demonstrate your knowledge of truck safety checks.

• Basic control skills – Show your ability to maneuver the vehicle in tight spaces.

• Road test – Drive safely under real traffic conditions.

Note: If you test in an automatic transmission truck, your CDL may be restricted to “automatic only”. Testing in a manual transmission will give you the flexibility to drive both.

Step 6: Receive Your Class A CDL

After successfully completing your exams, you’ll be issued your new Class A CDL. This license grants you permission to drive both Class A and Class B vehicles.

How long does it take to upgrade?

The time varies depending on your schedule and the chosen training program. Mostly drivers complete their CDL training in Hayward, CA, within 4 to 8 weeks. This is based on typical school schedules, not a federal rule. The FMCSA requires proficiency, not a minimum number of training hours.  

Why Choose a Truck Driving School in Hayward, CA?

The upgrading process becomes much smoother and easier to follow if you are enrolled in a good Truck & Bus Driving School. We at Fremont Driving School offer everything you need to get your driving career started at its best pace.

Local Advantage

Training locally on Whithesell Street in Hayward means you’re preparing in the same environment where you’ll likely start your career.

Experienced Instructors

Our instructors bring real-world trucking experience to the classroom and road training making sure you’re confident and job-ready.

Job Placement Support

Many schools, including ours, have connections with trucking companies actively seeking new Class A drivers. Thus, you can step into a job quickly after getting the Class A license.

Conclusion

Upgrading from Class B CDL to Class A CDL is not only about getting a new license. It provides you with bigger job prospects, better income options, and overall career growth. And if you are guided rightly, then you can make this happen in a very smooth and fruitful way.

If you’re ready to start, our truck driving school in Hayward, CA, on Whithesell Street is here to guide you. Contact us today to learn more about our CDL training programs and take the first step toward your future as a professional Class A driver.