There are THREE types (classifications) of California CDL (Commercial Drivers License)
If you possess a Class B CDL, you may also drive Class C vehicles if you have the appropriate endorsements (but not Class A).
See detailed differences between the
California CDL Classification Codes.
California Class B CDL (Commercial Drivers License) Requirements
Any single vehicle which has a gross vehicle weight rating or gross vehicle
weight of 11,794 or more kilograms (26,001 pounds or more), or any such vehicle
towing a vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating or gross vehicle weight
that does not exceed 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds).
How to get a California Class B CDL (Commercial Drivers License)
- Provide documentation and pay fees
- Provide Medical Certificate
- Pass applicable written test(s) to obtain a California CDL B permit (General
Knowledge and Air Brakes*) *Air Brakes Test not needed if you will NEVER
drive a vehicle with air brakes.
- Pass additional "endorsement" written tests (if necessary) based upon the type of "loads" you will carry.
- Pass skills tests in a "representative" type vehicle
For more detailed information, go to
how to get your California CDL.
If you need help . . .
determining what Class of CDL you need based upon the type
of vehicle you will drive (A, B or C) or are not sure which CDL
Endorsements you need based upon the type of loads you will carry; use the
free CDL Selector Tool . . .
California
Go to CDL Selector Tool
Not sure which CA CDL Tests you need to pass? Use this tool to determine what Class of CDL and which CDL Endorsements you require.
California Class B Exam Requirements
To operate straight trucks and buses 26,001 lbs or more, then a California Class B
license is needed. The following tests are required:
- General Knowledge test
- Air Brakes (if applicable)
- Pre-Trip
- Basic Skills
- CDL Road Test
- Applicable exams for desired endorsements
You can normally take the required California CDL written tests and obtain your
your California CDL permit without having to make an appointment. You will need
to make an appointment to take the California CDL Skills Tests. Check your specific
California CDL Information for details.
Are YOU ready to get YOUR California CDL?
Prepare for YOUR California CDL Tests NOW . . .
In addition to the California CDL (commercial driver's license) information found in our website covering the California CDL and in the free California CDL Handbook (which is quite boring and a bit confusing - and doesn't have a single multiple-choice question in it that is asked on the actual tests), the complete online
California CDL Practice Test prep program will prepare you to easily pass your
California CDL written exams to get your California CDL permit. The skills test modules are invaluable to give you a head start before doing your
behind the wheel work, possibly saving you a lot of money. The California CDL test prep program includes the following features . . .
- Covers ALL Eight California CDL written tests.
- In separate study modules - you won't need all of them - don't waste time on what you don't require.
- Covers ALL Three California CDL skills tests.
- In separate study modules - you won't need all of them - don't waste time on what you don't require.
- 670 practice California CDL test questions with actual answers.
- Access to CDL videos covering written and skills tests.
- CDL study guide in both text and audio - listen as you read along.
- CDL study Quick Reviews.
- Interactive online CDL Quizzes.
- and much more!
May your new CAREER be prosperous!!!
Michael Hamilton
Director
"Just as described on your web site. It made my study easy, fast and interesting. I appreciated having many study options. I passed very confidently.
" - C. D., Toledo, OH
"A little thank you note. I normally hate studying for tests. Not this time! It was interesting, straight forward and had TONS of different study and practice options. Keep up the good work!
" - P.A., Bloomington, MN
"I went back and forth between the text and diagram study material, narrated audio, videos, interactive quizzes, etc. Kept me from getting bored. I found the tests easy after studying your CDL course. 'Telling my friends.
" - A.M., Charlotte, NC
"Just what I needed. Prepared me for my Class B CDL. It was fast and efficient. I passed my CDL written tests on my first try. Helped me get a handle on the skills tests so that it went much easier.
" - A.H., Des Moines, IA