If someone already has a Class B CDL and wants more from their trucking job, upgrading to a Class A CDL can open many new doors. This upgrade helps drivers move forward in their career, earn more money, and drive bigger trucks across longer distances.
Class B vs. Class A CDL: What’s the Difference?
A Class B CDL lets drivers operate vehicles like box trucks, school buses, dump trucks, and delivery trucks. These vehicles are big but have a single frame and don’t usually pull trailers.
A Class A CDL, on the other hand, allows drivers to handle much larger vehicles. These include tractor-trailers, big rigs, flatbeds, and tankers. Class A also allows for towing trailers over 10,000 pounds. In short, Class A drivers can do more and often earn more, too.
Why Upgrade to a Class A CDL?
Many CDL drivers with a Class B license eventually want more flexibility and higher pay. That’s where the upgrade comes in.
Here are a few reasons why upgrading to a Class A CDL makes sense:
Higher pay: Class A drivers often earn more because they drive longer routes and carry heavier loads.
More job choices: A Class A CDL license allows you to work in many trucking jobs, including local, regional, and over-the-road (OTR) routes.
Better long-term career growth: With a Class A CDL, drivers can move into advanced roles like team driving or even owning their own truck.
Who Should Consider a CDL Upgrade?
Not everyone needs to upgrade, but for many truck drivers, it’s the smart move.
This includes:
Delivery drivers who want to haul bigger loads
School or city bus drivers looking for more job options
Class B drivers ready to work in long-haul trucking
Drivers interested in higher-paying freight jobs
If someone wants to move up in the industry or try something new, getting a Class A license is the way to do it.
What’s Involved in the Upgrade Process?
Upgrading from Class B to Class A isn’t as hard as it sounds. Many schools offer short CDL upgrade programs that focus on what Class B drivers already know.
Most CDL training schools will:
Review driving safety and trucking laws
Teach how to handle larger trucks and trailers
Help with pre-trip inspections, shifting, and braking
Prepare drivers for the Class A road test and written exam
Training can last a few weeks, depending on how fast the driver learns and how the course is set up. Some schools even offer weekend or evening classes for working drivers.
What You Need Before Starting
Before applying for a Class A upgrade, drivers should:
Have a clean and valid Class B CDL
Pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical
Show proof of residency and identification
Be ready to learn new driving skills, especially for towing large trailers
Some schools may also require a permit (CLP) before starting the full Class A course. This depends on the state and the school.
The Benefits You’ll See After Upgrading
Upgrading to a Class A CDL doesn’t just boost a resume it changes the game. After the upgrade, many drivers enjoy:
More job offers from top trucking companies
Longer hauls, which often come with bonuses
Access to specialized trucking jobs like flatbed or tanker work
Opportunities to become an owner-operator in the future
The best part? The industry is short on drivers right now. That means experienced Class B drivers with a new Class A license are in high demand.
Real Driver Success Stories
Many drivers who upgraded their CDL talk about how it changed their life. They went from short local routes to cross-country trips. Others moved from part-time delivery jobs to full-time careers with full benefits.
One common thing they all say? They wish they had done it sooner.
Now Is the Right Time to Upgrade
The trucking industry needs more qualified drivers, especially those with a Class A CDL license. Companies are offering better pay, sign-on bonuses, and flexible routes to attract new talent.
With the right training with the right truck driving school, Class B drivers can move up fast. There’s no need to start from scratch just build on what they already know.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading from a Class B to a Class A CDL is one of the best choices a truck driver can make. It brings more freedom, more money, and more control over your future. It’s not just a license, it's a path to a better trucking career.
For those ready to take the next step, Starline CDL School offers trusted upgrade training to help drivers reach their full potential.
