- Why people struggle to upgrade
- Class A vs Class B CDL in plain words
- Big differences you’ll feel day to day
- Pay differences based on 2026 numbers
- How Roehl driver pay compares with national averages
- Advantages of choosing Class A over Class B
- Freight and fleet options for Class A drivers
- Training and compensation programs you might see
- ELDT requirement you can’t skip
- How online ELDT fits the federal rules
- What you learn in the Class B to A upgrade course
- How to upgrade from Class B to Class A in steps
- Submitting proof of ELDT completion to FMCSA
- CDL classes C and restrictions in simple terms
- Minimum age and under-21 restrictions
- Testing process differences
- State-specific requirements and Alabama notes
- Alternatives for experienced drivers with a lot of Class B time
- Financial assistance and grants
- Role of FMCSA in the upgrade
- Quick summary table
- Simple diagram of the path
- One last truth to remember
This guide shows what it really takes to go from Class B to Class A. You’ll learn the process, what tests and training you need, and how ELDT works, including how to submit proof.
Why people struggle to upgrade
Imagine you’ve already driven trucks for years with a Class B license. You know pre-trip checks, you know traffic, and you know how to keep your driving safe. Then you hear that upgrading to Class A now needs extra training rules, plus a full new “combination” focus. It feels confusing:
- Do I need a whole new CDL school course or just part of it?
- What exactly is ELDT and why does it matter?
- Will I be able to take the skills test after I finish training?
- How do I prove it to the FMCSA?
This post breaks it down in plain steps.
Class A vs Class B CDL in plain words
What each license lets you drive
| CDL class | Main idea | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Class B | One big vehicle | buses, straight trucks, dump trucks, cement mixers, delivery trucks |
| Class A | Vehicle combination that can pull heavy loads | tractor-trailers, tanker vehicles, flatbeds, livestock carriers, truck and trailer combinations |
Class A is broader. It includes what Class B can do, and then some—especially the ability to drive tractor-trailers and other combinations.
Big differences you’ll feel day to day
1) Vehicle capability
With Class A, you can operate more combinations—especially when the towed weight is over 10,000 pounds and the combination qualifies under federal rules.
Common Class A equipment types include:
- truck and trailer combinations
- tractor-trailers
- tanker vehicles
- livestock carriers
- flatbeds
2) Driving job options
Because Class A can do more, job listings often include:
- more routes
- more steady work options
- more fleet types (OTR, regional, dedicated, home-daily)
This matters if you want steady work instead of hoping the next Class B spot appears.
Pay differences based on 2026 numbers
Here are the pay numbers reported for January 2026 from ZipRecruiter:
| Driver type | Average annual pay in 2026 |
|---|---|
| Class B truck driver | $48,699 / year |
| Class A truck driver | $79,239 / year |
That’s a big gap. And your exact pay can change based on factors like:
- where you drive
- how much you drive
- what you haul
- how pay is calculated (for example, per mile type or sliding scales)
How Roehl driver pay compares with national averages
Roehl’s published figures (as of December 2025) show drivers averaging higher than national averages.
| Category | National average (from 2026 ZipRecruiter data) | Roehl reported pay |
|---|---|---|
| Class B vs Class A comparison | $48,699 (B) vs $79,239 (A) | Roehl drivers (at least 1 year) average $1,345/week (almost $70,000/year) |
| Top group at Roehl | — | Top 50% average $1,525/week (nearly $80,000/year) |
In short: Roehl’s average driver pay sits near (and sometimes above) what many people expect for Class A national averages, while Class B national averages are much lower.
Advantages of choosing Class A over Class B
People upgrade because Class A opens doors:
- More job opportunities because you can drive more vehicle combinations
- Steady work potential since Class A drivers often find more consistent options
- Higher earning power based on 2026 averages
- More flexibility when choosing freight types and fleet schedules
If you’ve built experience as a Class B driver, upgrading can be a logical next step—because your truck skills already help you.
Freight and fleet options for Class A drivers
At a fleet level, Class A drivers commonly match with options like:
| Fleet type | What it can feel like |
|---|---|
| OTR (over the road) | longer trips, more time away |
| Home weekly regional | more regular home time |
| Dedicated | similar lanes/customers more often |
| Home daily | shorter runs, more frequent home time |
Roehl also describes freight variety that can include temperature controlled, dry van, and flatbed work.
Training and compensation programs you might see
Roehl’s published description highlights compensation and benefit areas such as:
- innovative pay programs
- miles calculated in a driver-friendly way
- rewards for safe driving
- programs for passengers and pets
- health and wellness support
- financial programs including profit sharing
(Details vary by position and experience, but the theme is that the company tries to support drivers with both pay and stability.)
ELDT requirement you can’t skip
What ELDT means
ELDT stands for Entry Level Driver Training. It is required as of February 7, 2022 for drivers who:
- want to obtain a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time
- want to upgrade an existing Class B CDL to Class A
- want certain endorsements for the first time (like H, P, or S)
ELDT sets a uniform federal standard.
What happens after ELDT
In general:
1. Finish an approved ELDT course
2. Schedule a written knowledge test
3. Schedule the in-vehicle skills test
4. Complete paperwork and pay any fees through your state DMV/agency
How online ELDT fits the federal rules
Some providers offer a 100% online ELDT course that is designed to satisfy federal standards.
Key features mentioned for online programs:
- designed for the Class B to Class A upgrade
- helps prepare for the permit exam and skills test
- completes training and then the provider reports completion to the FMCSA automatically
- approved under 49 CFR Part 380
- teaches the additional combination vehicle skills
How to picture the course purpose
Think of it like learning the “missing parts”:
- coupling and uncoupling combination vehicles
- managing speed and space
- handling hazards and emergencies
- understanding vehicle systems and reporting issues
- learning non-driving parts like hours-of-service and fatigue awareness
What you learn in the Class B to A upgrade course
An example course structure includes seven learning modules such as:
- Basic operation
- control systems/dashboard
- pre-trip and post-trip inspections
- Basic operation part 2
- shifting and operating transmissions
- backing and docking
- coupling and uncoupling
- Safe operating procedures
- visual search, communication
- distracted driving
- Safe operating procedures part 2
- speed management and space management
- night operation and extreme driving conditions
- Advanced operating procedures
- hazard perception
- skid control and jackknifing
- railroad-highway crossings
- Vehicle systems and reporting malfunctions
- identify and diagnose malfunctions
- roadside inspections and maintenance
- Non-driving activities
- hours-of-service requirements
- fatigue and wellness awareness
These topics match the reality of driving a combination where mistakes can become more serious.
How to upgrade from Class B to Class A in steps
Here is the practical workflow people usually follow:
1) Start with your Class B CDL
2) Complete ELDT for Class B → Class A
3) Get FMCSA-compliant completion reporting (provider may do this)
4) Schedule written knowledge test
5) Schedule skills test (tractor-trailer combination focus)
6) Pay fees and submit paperwork
7) Receive your Class A CDL
General steps after ELDT completion
Even when training is online, the next phase is usually the same:
- test appointment(s)
- passing written and skills
- finishing DMV paperwork and fees
Submitting proof of ELDT completion to FMCSA
ELDT compliance connects to the federal system through approved training providers. Online programs may include automatic FMCSA reporting, meaning your completion is sent without you manually emailing or uploading records.
If you’re using a provider that does not report automatically, your process may require you to submit completion proof through your state or testing steps. The key point is: FMCSA rules control whether you’re eligible to take the skills test after ELDT.
CDL classes C and restrictions in simple terms
| CDL class | Who it fits | Main rule |
|---|---|---|
| Class A | combinations | the big combination rule with GCWR and towed weight |
| Class B | single vehicles | single vehicle with GVWR 26,001+ (or limited towing) |
| Class C | special cargo/passengers | not A or B, but designed for 16+ passengers or hazardous materials |
Minimum age and under-21 restrictions
- You can earn a CDL at age 18 in all 50 states.
- If you are under 21, you may only drive commercially within your home state.
- You must be 21 to drive in interstate commerce.
So if you’re under 21, plan your training timeline around those rules.
Testing process differences
First-time CDL
Usually includes:
- ELDT
- written knowledge test
- skills test
Upgrade from Class B to Class A
The core change is:
- ELDT is still required
- your skills test focuses on combination operations (for Class A), not just a single vehicle
This is why experienced Class B drivers still need training modules that target coupling, space management, and combination vehicle safety.
State-specific requirements and Alabama notes
Many people searching “how to go from class b to class a cdl” want Alabama details, especially because costs and training expectations can feel different.
Alabama upgrade cost expectations
One community discussion about upgrading in Alabama mentioned:
- a quote around $3,000 for a program when the school requires a full course format
That doesn’t mean every school costs the same, but it shows what upgrades can feel like financially after new ELDT rules.
O restriction warning
Some drivers mention an “O” restriction that affects what kind of equipment you can drive and may require you to redo certain parts using a semi with a fifth wheel to remove it. If your current license has an O restriction, the upgrade plan should match the restriction removal requirements you’re aiming for.
Alternatives for experienced drivers with a lot of Class B time
If you have long experience, don’t assume you’re automatically “done” with training. The federal requirement is still about ELDT and the skills test focus. But you can still plan smarter:
- Choose an ELDT training plan made for Class B to Class A
- Prepare specifically for permit exam and combination skills test areas
- Use practice materials early so your truck time is used for the skills you’re tested on, not just general review
Financial assistance and grants
People often look for financial help because upgrading can be expensive. A trucking forum discussion included the idea to check for grant money that you might qualify for.
Because programs depend on your state, employer, and situation, the best approach is:
- check state workforce programs
- look for trucking training grants
- ask training providers and employers about tuition support options
Role of FMCSA in the upgrade
The FMCSA sets the federal ELDT framework. In plain terms, it:
- creates the national training standard
- requires ELDT before taking the CDL skills test for certain upgrades and first-time CDLs
- regulates compliance under federal rules
Your job is to complete ELDT using an approved training provider, then complete the DMV testing and paperwork process.
Quick summary table
| Topic | What matters most |
|---|---|
| Core goal | Upgrade Class B → Class A |
| Main requirement | ELDT is required for the upgrade |
| What changes | Skills test focuses on combination vehicle operations |
| Why it’s worth it | Higher earning potential and more job options |
| Pay snapshot for 2026 | Class A average $79,239/year vs Class B $48,699/year |
| Roehl comparison | Roehl drivers averaging about $1,345/week (almost $70k/year) as of Dec 2025 |
Simple diagram of the path
flowchart TD
A[Have Class B CDL] --> B[ELDT course for Class B to A]
B --> C[Written knowledge test]
C --> D[Skills test for Class A combination]
D --> E[DMV paperwork + fees]
E --> F[Get Class A CDL]
One last truth to remember
Upgrading from Class B to Class A is not just “driving a different truck.” It’s a structured training + test process where ELDT is required, and the skills test focuses on combination operations like coupling/uncoupling, space and speed management, and hazard safety.