How to Get a Class B Commercial Driver's License

What a Class B License Lets You Drive

A Class B commercial driver's license authorizes you to operate single vehicles weighing 26,001 pounds or more, or any vehicle towing a trailer under 10,000 pounds. The key difference from a Class A is that you cannot tow a heavy trailer — if the combination of your vehicle and trailer exceeds certain weight thresholds, you need Class A instead. Class B covers delivery trucks, dump trucks, cement mixers, city buses, and straight trucks used in construction or waste management.

You must hold a Class B to drive these vehicles commercially — meaning for pay or as part of your job. If you drive one without the proper license, you face fines, license suspension, and potential criminal charges depending on your state. The process takes several weeks and involves a written test, a skills test, and a medical examination.

Key Takeaways

A Class B license covers single heavy vehicles and light-duty towing, but not the combination of a heavy truck and heavy trailer.
You must first hold a valid regular driver's license and pass a Department of Transportation medical exam before you can test for Class B.
The written test covers vehicle operation, safety, and road rules specific to commercial driving; the skills test is a hands-on driving evaluation in an actual truck.
The entire process — from medical exam to license issuance — typically takes four to eight weeks, depending on your state's processing time.
You can prepare for the written test using your state's CDL manual and practice tests, many of which are available free online.

Step 1: Get Your Medical Certification

Before you can take either the written or skills test for a Class B license, you must pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical examination. This is not optional — your state will not issue a permit or let you test without proof of medical clearance. The exam checks your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and overall health to confirm you can safely operate a commercial vehicle.

You need to see a certified medical examiner — not your regular doctor. Your state's DMV website lists approved examiners, or you can search the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) National Registry online. The exam costs between $75 and $150 depending on your location. Once you pass, you receive a Medical Certificate, which is valid for two years. Bring this certificate with you when you explore for your permit.

Step 2: explore for a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP)

With your Medical Certificate in hand, visit your state's DMV office and request a Commercial Learner's Permit for Class B. You will need to bring your current driver's license, proof of residency, your Medical Certificate, and any other documents your state requires (check your DMV website for the full list). Some states also require proof of citizenship or legal residency.

At the DMV, you will take the Class B written test. This exam covers the CDL manual for your state and tests your knowledge of vehicle operation, safety rules, braking systems, cargo handling, and road regulations. The test is typically 50 questions, and you must score at least 80 percent to pass. You can take the test on a computer at the DMV office. If you fail, you can usually retake it the same day or within a few days, depending on your state's policy.

Once you pass the written test, the DMV issues your CLP. This permit allows you to practice driving a Class B vehicle, but only with a licensed Class B or Class A driver in the passenger seat. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive at night in most states. Your CLP is valid for 180 days, giving you time to practice and prepare for the skills test.

Step 3: Practice Driving and Prepare for the Skills Test

With your CLP, you can now practice in an actual Class B vehicle. Many people take a CDL training course during this phase — these courses range from one week to several weeks and include both classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training. A training course is not legally required, but it significantly increases your chances of passing the skills test on your first attempt. Courses cost between $3,000 and $7,000 depending on length and location.

If you choose not to take a formal course, you must still practice extensively. You need to become comfortable with the vehicle's size, braking distance, turning radius, and mirror use. Many people arrange practice time with a trucking company, a training facility, or a private instructor. The more hours you log, the more confident you will be during the test.

Step 4: Take the Class B Skills Test

When you feel ready, return to your DMV office or an approved testing site and schedule your Class B skills test. This is a hands-on driving evaluation that takes about 45 minutes to an hour. You will be tested in an actual Class B vehicle — the DMV or testing site provides the truck, or you may bring your own if it meets state specifications.

The skills test has three parts: a pre-trip inspection, a basic control skills test, and a road test. During the pre-trip inspection, you walk around the vehicle and point out safety features, lights, and mechanical components while explaining what you are checking and why. In the basic control skills portion, you perform maneuvers like backing up, parking, and turning in a controlled course. On the road test, you drive in real traffic, following the examiner's directions and demonstrating safe driving practices.

You must pass all three parts to pass the skills test. If you fail any part, you can retake the test, but you may have to wait several days or weeks depending on your state's schedule. Once you pass, the DMV issues your Class B commercial driver's license.

Endorsements and Restrictions You May Need

Depending on what you will be driving, you may need additional endorsements on your Class B license. An endorsement is a notation that allows you to drive a specific type of vehicle or cargo. The most common endorsements are Passenger (P) for buses, Tanker (N) for vehicles carrying liquids, and Hazmat (H) for hazardous materials.

If your job requires an endorsement, you must pass an additional written test for that endorsement before or after you receive your Class B license. Hazmat endorsements also require a federal background check. Your employer can tell you which endorsements you need for your position.

Your license may also carry restrictions — limitations on where or when you can drive. For example, if you failed the air brake portion of the skills test, your license will be restricted to vehicles with manual brakes. Restrictions are noted on your license and must be followed.

Timeline and Costs

The entire process from medical exam to license issuance typically takes four to eight weeks, though this varies by state. Here is a rough breakdown:

Medical exam: 1 to 2 weeks to schedule and complete
CLP process and written test: Same day at the DMV
Practice period: 2 to 6 weeks (longer if you take a training course)
Skills test: Schedule 1 to 4 weeks in advance, depending on demand
License issuance: 1 to 2 weeks after passing the skills test

Total costs vary widely. A medical exam costs $75 to $150. The written test and skills test fees range from $50 to $200 combined, depending on your state. If you take a CDL training course, add $3,000 to $7,000. If you practice on your own, costs are minimal — mainly fuel and vehicle rental or use fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Class B license if I have a regular driver's license suspension or violation?

No. You must have a valid, clean regular driver's license to hold a CDL. If your license is suspended or you have serious violations on your record, you cannot obtain a Class B until your regular license is reinstated and the violations age off your record. The specific rules vary by state.

What happens if I fail the skills test?

You can retake the skills test, but you must wait the time your state requires between attempts — usually 7 to 14 days. Your CLP remains valid during this period. You can take the test as many times as needed, though some states limit retakes within a certain timeframe. Many people who fail the first time take additional training before retesting.

Do I need to take a CDL training course, or can I study on my own?

A training course is not required by law, but it is highly recommended. The skills test is difficult, and most people who pass on their first attempt have had professional instruction. If you choose to study on your own, use your state's CDL manual and practice tests, and arrange extensive practice time in an actual Class B vehicle.

How long is a Class B license valid?

A Class B commercial driver's license is typically valid for four or five years, depending on your state. You must renew it before it expires. Your Medical Certificate must also remain current — if it expires, your CDL becomes invalid until you pass a new medical exam.

Can I upgrade from Class B to Class A later?

Yes. If you already hold a Class B license, you can test for Class A by passing a new written test and skills test. You do not need a new medical exam if your current Medical Certificate is still valid. Many drivers start with Class B and upgrade to Class A after gaining experience.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.