When you’re looking for truck driving opportunities, you may notice that some are listed as class A CDL jobs, while others are class B. If you’re new to the field and are trying to choose an endorsement to launch a career, you may wonder how the two options stand apart. 

By understanding what each endorsement means and how they differ, you can select an option that’s best for your career. Here’s a look at class A and class B commercial endorsements, including how they’re different. 

What Is a Class A Endorsement?

Class A endorsements are required for any truck driving job that involves driving combination vehicles, such as a tractor and trailer. Additionally, it’s essential for combination vehicles over 26,000 or those with towing capacities that exceed 10,000 pounds. 

Generally, a class A endorsement – referred to broadly as a CDL-A license – is the most comprehensive option from a vehicle size perspective. It allows drivers to operate traditional tractor-trailers, as well as many smaller commercial trucks, including class B and C, that also require special licensing. 

What Is a Class B Endorsement?

With a class B endorsement – also referred to as a CDL-B – drivers can operate single vehicles that weigh in excess of 26,000 pounds, as well as those that tow trailers with towing capacities under 10,000 pounds. Most class B trucks don’t have trailers. Instead, vehicles in these categories are usually things like delivery, dump, or garbage trucks. 

Those with a class B endorsement are also allowed to drive suitable class C vehicles – barring those that require additional endorsements. However, they aren’t legally allowed to operate vehicles that require a CDL-A, as a CDL-B doesn’t cover those vehicles. 

The Difference Between Class A and Class B

In the simplest sense, the main difference between a class A and class B endorsement involves driving combination vehicles that weigh more than 26,000 pounds or tow more than 10,000. While a CDL-A allows a person to drive a tractor-trailer, a CDL-B driver doesn’t have the right endorsement for that vehicle. 

Otherwise, the capabilities associated with the two endorsements are the same. Both CDL-A and CDL-B truck drivers can operate class B and class C vehicles. The only exceptions are those that may require additional endorsements, such as hazmat, as CDL-A and CDL-B don’t automatically cover those situations. 

Is CDL-A or CDL-B Better for Your Career?

Ultimately, getting a class A or class B endorsement can lead to a rewarding career as a truck driver. However, the CDL-B is inherently more limiting, as you won’t be able to operate semi-trucks legally. 

If your goal doesn’t involve tractor-trailer combinations, then a CDL-B is often sufficient. However, if you want a chance to explore class A CDL jobs, then going with the class A endorsement is your best bet. 

Find CDL-A or CDL-B Trucking Driving Jobs

Partner with a leader in commercial truck employment for your next CDL A or CDL B job. Premium Transport Staffing is a CDL temp agency in California with a reputation for connecting qualified drivers with the nation’s top carriers. Contact us today to speak with one of our CDL recruiters about our open full-time or part-time driving jobs.