I'm trying to figure out the difference between the CDL B and C, as far as the tests go. I know what each test will allow you to be able to drive. I just can't figure out the differences in the testing? I'm in the process of deciding which way I want to go, B or just a C.
What is the difference between the CDL B and CLD C?
- Thread starter zanico
- Start date
spongebox1
Expert Expediter
Go for the class-b. Less worries and you can drive anything short of a tractor trailer, make sure you get your air brake endorsement as well.
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runrunner
Veteran Expediter
Last edited:
The written tests for the General Knowledge will be the same for A, B or C. The only differences in any of the written tests will be in the endorsements. If you go for a C, you'll need either a HAZMAT or a Passenger endorsement (can't get a C without one or the other). For a B, as was noted, you'll want to get the Air Brakes endorsement, so you can drive whatever whatever kind of straight you may end up with.
As for the road test, you will have to take one for a cargo van. They'll want you to note bridge clearances (to show that you're aware, even if it's not really applicable in a cargo van), stop at RR tracks, how to test the brakes before moving, and likely will have you pull over on the shoulder of the road and pretend to be broken down so you can tell the examiner where the triangles will go.
Obviously, if you're going to drive a cargo van but want a Class B CDL, you'll have to take the road test in a Class B vehicle, not a cargo van.
OK, thanks everyone. I understand now. I just couldn't seem to find the answer anywhere, or maybe I just wasn't looking in the right place. As always, EO members have the answers. I will probably just go ahead and get the class B like Spongebox1 said, then I can drive anything but a TT.
Yeah, on the face of it, it seems a little silly to have to take a road test in a cargo van, since you've already done that when you got your regular driver's license. Driving a van with a CDL instead of a regular license isn't really any different. But it's the endorsement that makes the difference. If you haul passengers or HAZMAT, you have to do things differently than you do in a regular car or van.
If you are carrying passengers (enough that require the endorsement) or HAZMAT which requires placarding (but not Class 9 and a few others), you need to know that you must stop the vehicle (van, bus or truck) within 50 feet of, and not closer than 15 feet to, the railroad tracks. The examiner wants to know that you know to do that not just on the test but in practice. You'll need to perform a pre-trip, and talk it out as you do it. While a pre-trip isn't that big a deal in a cargo van, it definitely is when you're placarded or carrying passengers, the same as it is when you're driving a heavy truck or bus. You'll be asked if you know what the bridge height clearance was for that overpass you just went under, even though most of them are 14 feet and don't apply to a cargo van. You'll have to get out of the van and look before you back up, just like in a big truck. You'll have to explain exactly where triangles go if you break down, just like in a big truck.
About the only thing different with a cargo van road test versus a big truck road test is you don't have to have a CDL licensed driver with you when you take the test, despite you only having a CDL learner's permit, since at the time you take the test you aren't technically a CMV (unless you take the test loaded with passengers or placarded HAZMAT). The purpose of the cargo van road test it to determine that you really do know what you're doing at those times in which you are, in fact, a CMV.