Commercial driver’s licenses, or CDLs, open the door to a wide range of driving jobs. While CDL-A holders often operate tractor-trailers, CDL-B license holders more commonly drive box trucks, tow trucks, buses, or even fire trucks. The type of truck you can drive with a CDL-B depends on the weight of the vehicle you’re operating.
Read on to learn more about what driving jobs you can get with a CDL-B license. Or, find truck driver training near you to get started!
What’s the Difference Between a CDL-A and a CDL-B?
The key difference lies in the vehicle’s weight and whether it includes a trailer. CDL-A drivers can operate combination vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, towing trailers over 10,000 pounds. CDL-B drivers can operate single vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, but only tow trailers under 10,000 pounds.
Also check out: How to Become a Truck Driver: Responsibilities, Training, and Career Insights
CDL-B Truck Driving Jobs
With the wide variety of vehicles covered under CDL-B, there are many career paths available. Here are some of the most common:
Delivery Driver
These drivers typically operate box or straight trucks to make deliveries from warehouses to businesses like furniture stores, restaurants, and retail outlets. WarehouseGig is one site where you can explore job opportunities like these.
Bus Driver
Driving city buses, tour buses, or school buses requires additional endorsements. A P (Passenger) endorsement is needed for general bus driving, while a school bus driver must also have an S (School Bus) endorsement.
Waste Management Driver
These drivers follow set routes to collect trash or recycling, operating hydraulic lifts and ensuring safe disposal. Attention to safety and proper vehicle inspections is essential in this role.
Dump Truck Driver
Dump truck drivers deliver sand, gravel, dirt, or asphalt to and from construction sites. They must coordinate with site teams, secure their loads, and operate the hydraulic bed to dump materials properly.
Freight Delivery Service Drivers
From Amazon to UPS, these drivers handle local or regional deliveries in box trucks, loading and unloading cargo and often using pallet jacks or liftgates to move freight.
Moving Truck Driver
Helping families or businesses relocate, moving truck drivers transport furniture and personal items, often requiring careful packing, loading, and client communication.
Fire Truck Driver
These emergency response professionals must navigate quickly and safely to fire scenes, operate equipment like hoses and pumps, and inspect their vehicles daily. It’s a high-responsibility, high-impact role.
Utility Services Truck Driver
Utility drivers transport gear and personnel for electric, gas, water, or telecom companies. Their trucks may include specialized machinery like hydraulic lifts or augers. These drivers often assist with emergency repairs and installations.
Abundant Opportunities for CDL-B Drivers
Whether you’re looking to work closely with the community or respond to emergency calls, a CDL-B license unlocks a wide array of meaningful job opportunities. Think about which path resonates most with you—and find a CDL school near you to take the first step.
Already licensed and job hunting? Explore CDL-B driving jobs in your area today.
