Class A CDL License

A CDL Class A license is a type of commercial driver’s license that allows you to drive as a professional truck driver. Learn more about a Class A CDL license and how it allows you to work for a well-paying carrier and travel across state lines.

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What Is a Class A CDL License?

Professional drivers must have a CDL, and many vehicles require a Class A driver’s license to legally operate. What is a Class A CDL truck license? This license is granted by your state to certify that you have the skills and knowledge you need to operate a Class A commercial motor vehicle.

Both the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and the Department of Transportation require a CDL Class A for safety reasons. Preparing to take a Class A license exam is a competitive career move if you want to work as a truck driver. As a driver, you can expect these benefits:

  • Job Security: Truck drivers with a Class A license are in high demand, so you don’t have to worry about jobs running short in your new industry.
  • Excellent pay: Commercial truck drivers working for high-paying carriers can earn an average of up to $1,193* per year. A Class A CDL is required to travel across state lines for high-paying OTR routes.
  • Travel opportunities: Earning a Class A driver’s license gives you the opportunity to travel the country on trucking routes. See more of America’s stunning landscape as you work and take time off.
  • Innovative technology: Becoming a Class A certified truck driver helps you qualify for competitive positions at trucking companies. Apply to companies like Werner Enterprises to drive a newer truck and enjoy state-of-the-art navigation and collision mitigation technology.
  • Insurance and savings plans: Look for a truck driving career with competitive insurance benefits and savings plans. A 401(k) plan and other savings options help you prepare for your retirement.
  • Pet-friendly workplace: Many trucking companies allow you to bring your pet with you in your truck. See the nation from coast to coast with your favorite co-pilot.

A competitive truck driving school can help prepare your application for a position at a leading carrier. Whether you wish to drive solo or as a team truck driver, the first step is to earn your Class A CDL license.

What Does It Allow You to Do?

A Class A license is required to operate many large or heavy vehicles across state lines. This allows drivers to take on OTR, or over-the-road routes with well-paying carriers like Werner Enterprises. There are additional endorsements you may need to earn in order to drive some commercial vehicles, like tanker trucks, passenger vehicles, or trucks carrying hazardous materials.

Here are some basic types of commercial vehicles you may be able to drive with a Class A commercial driver’s license:

  • Tractor-trailers
  • Flatbeds
  • Truck and trailer combinations
  • Tanker vehicles

You can also legally drive any vehicle that requires a Class B license. As long as you have the right endorsements, you may be certified to drive these vehicles with a Class A license:

  • Dump truck
  • Box truck
  • Bus
Class A CDL license training

What Are the Requirements for a Class A CDL License?

Review the current requirements to find out if you’re ready to enroll in a CDL training program. Before you enroll in a training program and take a Class A driver’s license exam, you’ll need to meet the age requirements and medical requirements.

The minimum age to become eligible for interstate driving employment is 21 years old. There aren’t any regulations on maximum age, so you can continue to drive as long as you pass the medical requirements.

Medical CDL license requirements are met by scheduling a medical examination. Here are some key medical qualifications that may be required to receive your CDL:

  • No impairment or loss of arm, leg, hand, foot, or other features that may impair your ability to operate a commercial vehicle
  • No established history or clinical diagnosis of high blood pressure, myocardial infarction, psychiatric disorders, epilepsy, or related diagnoses
  • Ability to pass hearing and vision tests

These are just a few areas you must pass to become medically qualified to earn a CDL. A Department of Transportation physical will go over all the specific medical issues that may prevent you from safely driving a truck. If you are unable to pass some of these requirements there may be waivers that can be obtained through the FMCSA medical programs division.

How Do You Get a Class A CDL License?

A CDL certification requires you to pass a Class A CDL exam. You can prepare for this test and receive hands-on training in professional truck driving by attending a CDL training program.

At Roadmaster Drivers School, students receive competitive training from experienced instructors. Here are some key features of the Roadmaster Class A CDL training program:

  • Pre-trip inspection training
  • Hands-on driving time
  • Coupling and uncoupling training
  • Trip-planning and map-reading training
  • Preventative maintenance and compliance training

Apply today to Roadmaster Drivers School to learn more about Class A CDL. Take the first step in your truck driving career by enrolling in a program that only takes about a month.