Class B CDL Training

Class B CDL training allows you to transport freight that weighs less than 10,000 pounds GVWR with a single axle trailer and this training is offered at every Truck Driver Institute facility.

After the Class A CDL (commercial driver’s license), the Class B CDL training is the second most popular CDL to obtain at TDI. High-quality Class B CDL training can be hard to come by, so we’re here to explain the benefits of training and how you can turn our CDL program into a lucrative career. Although it doesn’t grant the same privileges and offer the same freedoms that the Class A does, Class B CDL training is widely seen as an amazing entry point into the trucking industry for a number of reasons.

Get started with as little as $225 out of pocket!

First and foremost, you can’t obtain an interstate Class A CDL if you’re under 21 years of age. This makes it difficult for younger people who want to begin careers in the trucking industry. However, the Class B CDL requires a minimum age of 18. This helps those prospective drivers break into the industry and begin earning earlier. Class B CDL holders also have access to a wide array of different trucking jobs. This allows for great diversity in the industry and provides a great jumping-off point for any prospective driver. 

After all, the more miles you have under your belt, the more attractive you are to prospective employers. And, if you decide to get your Class A CDL down the line, the process will be even quicker and more straightforward than it already is.

Continue reading to discover how Class B CDL training can change your life and how TDI leads the pack when it comes to Class B CDL training and job placement.

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What Can I Do with My Class B CDL Training?

Class B CDL holders have access to a wide variety of careers after receiving their training.

If you get your Class B CDL, you’ll be able to transport freight that weighs less than 10,000 pounds GVWR with a single axle trailer. Compare this to the Class A CDL which allows its holders to haul freight that weighs upwards of 80,000 pounds with a multi-axle trailer.

The Class B CDL also restricts where you can drive, as you’re limited to the state where the license was issued. This means you can only work regional and local jobs with your Class B CDL. However, the interstate and long-haul capabilities of a Class A CDL aren’t in-line with everyone’s career path, and there are several well-paying and rewarding careers that you can attain with Class B CDL training.

If you’re not interested in the long-haul or interstate tractor-trailer job description, check out the following possibilities that you can explore with your Class B CDL:

  • Courier
  • Highway maintenance technician
  • Delivery driver
  • Dispatcher
  • School bus driver
  • Supervisor or terminal manager
  • …and much more!

Class B CDLs is also a great resume piece for careers that don’t center on truck driving. For example, you will need a CDL if you want to operate specific construction equipment such as a concrete mixer, dump truck, or other heavy-duty vehicles.

Employers would prefer a candidate who already has a Class B CDL for those kinds of jobs because they can begin work immediately. Those who don’t have a commercial driver’s license yet would need to go through Class B CDL training after hiring.

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Since Class B CDL holders are permitted to drive trucks that haul trailers that don’t exceed 10,000 pounds GVWR and other large vehicles that don’t have detachable trailers, the vehicles they operate include:

  • Metro busses
  • School busses
  • Tour busses
  • Passenger vans
  • Delivery trucks
  • Dump trucks
  • Cement mixers
  • Box trucks
  • Straight trucks
  • Tilt beds
  • …and more!

As you explore the possibilities of a Class B CDL, it becomes clear that a select few vehicle classes require special endorsements. These include, but are not limited to, hazmat vehicles, city and school busses, and other special operations equipment. However, Class B CDL training is required before you can pursue these endorsements.

As you can see, there are plenty of options out there for drivers who choose to pursue their Class B CDL, and that you don’t need a Class A CDL to earn a competitive salary in the trucking industry. So, if you’re looking for a rewarding career in driving, Class B CDL training could be your perfect place to begin.

How Class B CDL Training Works at TDI

Students at TDI receive their Class B CDL training in three phases that span 15 days (three weeks). It involves a mixture of classroom learning and hands-on training behind the wheel.

You’ll learn all the technical skills you’ll need to know to become a truck driver during week one. In the classroom, you’ll go over topics like:

  • Trucking laws
  • Common paperwork
  • Map reading
  • Service requirements
  • Weight scales

The first week of your Class B CDL training focuses on preparing you for the written exam to get your permit. After you get your permit, you can begin your behind-the-wheel training.

During week two, you begin your training behind the wheel. TDI campuses have private roadways for new truck drivers to learn on safely. Your basic driving training will include:

  • Air brake inspection
  • Pre-trip inspection
  • Backing maneuvers
  • Various mechanical instruction

During week three, you’ll apply your knowledge on the road with other drivers. You’ll learn some more advanced techniques as well as get comfortable with night driving.

Congratulations! You’ve completed your Class B CDL training. Soon after your third week, you’ll be able to take the final test and leave TDI with a Class B commercial driving license.

Class B CDL Training–The TDI difference

Apart from unparalleled instruction and an impressive history of student satisfaction, TDI offers much more than simple Class B CDL training.

TDI is very proud to offer a job placement program with a success rate of over 80%. That’s right—although TDI’s main specialization is on the Class A CDL, our graduates find great success in their respective fields.

Not only will you learn the ins-and-outs of truck operation and road safety, but you’ll also receive expert guidance from our seasoned trucking veterans to help you along in your job search. This involves:

    • A pre-hire job screening that allows carriers and other industry leaders to look your application over and make sure you’re qualified to work in the industry. Many students receive job offers before they’ve even graduated!
    • TDI’s job placement during training involves one-on-one instruction from a job placement specialist. They will help you identify the best employer for your situation and career goals, thus helping you create a detailed and tailor-made career plan before you leave our facility.
    • We also offer CDL job placement for graduates. This means we work with you after your graduation date to ensure you find the job you’re looking for and assist if you wish to make a career change or switch carriers.
    • TDI’s carrier partners show that we produce the best new CDL drivers. They include some of the nation’s leading carriers and companies, and they trust TDI to train their drivers properly and thoroughly. That’s why TDI graduates are sought out by the best companies nationwide.

Where Can I Begin My Class B CDL Training?

Are you ready to get started? TDI has 10 campuses conveniently located around the Southeast and the Midwest. Many of our campuses include comfortable lodging for students who don’t live in the area. That way, you don’t have to tackle a long commute every day during your time with us.

Our truck driving school locations are in Atlanta, Birmingham, Gulfport, Indianapolis, Nashville, Orlando, Pensacola, Columbia, South Bend, and Tupelo. Contact the nearest to you to find out what you need to do to begin your Class B CDL training at TDI.

TDI takes great pride in the difference we make in people’s lives every day. With proper Class A and Class B CDL training, you can confidently enter a new and lucrative career no matter what your background is. With TDI CDL training, you’re automatically qualified to work with companies that provide competitive salaries, retirement plans, and healthcare benefits.

Whether you have a poor driving record, criminal convictions, or even a DUI, a CDL is the perfect way to get back on track.

Need financial aid? Apply today to see if you qualify for a scholarship, grant, or military*/GI Bill ®. It’s also common for carriers to reimburse a student’s tuition to help pay for their training if they qualify, but this is specific from carrier to carrier and individual results may vary.

Now that you know how easy it is to receive life-changing Class B CDL training, take your first steps and contact TDI today.

To inquire, get started here, or give us a call at 800-848-7364.To stay up-to-date with everything CDL or learn more about TDI, check our blog out to find out how we can help you advance your career as soon as possible.

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It’s time to get stated in an exciting, new career. We look forward to speaking with you!

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*For Post 9/11 GI Bill® (Ch 33) students and VA Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (Ch 31) students, our tuition policy complies with 38 USC 3679(e) which means Post 9/11 and Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment students will not be charged or otherwise penalized due to a delay in VA tuition and fee payments.  For eligibility consideration, a Post 9/11 GI Bill® student must submit a VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE) and a Vocational Rehabilitation Student must provide a VAF 28-1905 form. Students must provide school with a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) prior to beginning class, but not later than the first day of training. A print screen of Statement of Benefits page will be accepted in lieu of COE and verification of benefits will be required.  Please see 38 USC 3679(e) for complete details. GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).  More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.