Upgrading CDL Class C to B

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by Jumpman, Aug 11, 2023.

  1. Jumpman

    Jumpman Light Load Member

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    I will killing some time this morning waiting for an appointment and was talking with some cargo van drivers and one of them has a Class C CDL. I was not even aware of such a thing. He was talking about wanting to be able to drive Class B trucks so can any of you guys explain what is needed to upgrade a CDL class C to to class B. He hauls Hazmat cargo currently and wants to do the same with the larger box trucks.
     
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  3. Moose1958

    Moose1958 Road Train Member

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    Most of the time people with a Class C CDL are driving CMV's <26,001 and need hazmat. I know a few people that have them. As to getting an upgrade for all practical purposes you might as well only have a regular DL. I think the only thing different is the general knowledge test.
     
    Last edited: Aug 11, 2023
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  4. CalculatedRisk

    CalculatedRisk Heavy Load Member

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    Honestly, if you’re going to upgrade to your class B, why not upgrade to the class a license just for extra job security? You never know when it will come in handy..
     
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  5. AModelCat

    AModelCat Road Train Member

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    Especially if you're paying out of pocket. I was originally only going to get my Class 3 (Canadian version of the US Class B) but figured I may as well jump up to a Class 1 since the cost difference was minimal.

    Nice to have options, never know when you might need it.
     
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  6. Moose1958

    Moose1958 Road Train Member

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    I'm going to agree with the comments about going on ahead to a Class A. It will cost more, but not as much as you might think. Again let me remind you that there are technical schools all over the US that offer CDL programs. I have been asked this question many times. Unless you are solely doing it to operate a school or a transit bus I recommend getting the A. The only downside though is a Class A can get stale in about 2 years. You will need a refresher.
     
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  7. tscottme

    tscottme Road Train Member


    It seems Google would answer quicker & be more reliable.
     
  8. Moose1958

    Moose1958 Road Train Member

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    The OP got good information. Even better than Google would be to actually make contact with a state DMV and find out right from the horse's mouth.
     
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