How much is a class a license in california

Since 1978, United Truck Driving School has been training California CDL drivers and helping beginners start a successful trucking careers. Our philosophy about CDL training is simple: proper education is the key factor for success as a professional truck driver. At United Truck Driving School, students train to become safety-conscious drivers in the trucking industry. Utilizing a balance of classroom instruction and hands-on, behind-the-wheel training, students will be prepared to pass both the written CDL exams and skills test.

Class A CDL training prepares students to land entry-level jobs as Commercial Truck Drivers both over-the-road (OTR) and locally. During truck driver training, students will learn the skills required by The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to earn a California CDL with endorsements. Endorsements include Airbrakes, Doubles and Triples, Tanker and Hazmat.

Behind-the-wheel training is taught on late-model, industry-standard equipment. Students are taught the skills necessary to safely operate a Freightliner conventional tractor equipped with a manual transmission and a full-sized trailer.

California Truck Driver Training with United Truck Driving School provides students with job placement assistance. We work with a variety of major carriers who are actively seeking out graduates for hire. Learn more about our Job Placement Assistance.

Program Length: 4 weeks / 160 hours

Class Start: CDL Training courses are offered every two weeks.

Campus Locations: United Truck Driving School has two campus locations in California: San Diego and Riverside. Equipment yards are conveniently located only a few miles away from our classrooms.

Tuition: Please contact us for pricing information to learn what payment options may be available to you.

Career Outlook: The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that truck driving jobs are expected to increase by 5% from 2014-2024, that’s nearly 98,800 new jobs! As of 2017, the median pay for truck drivers was $41,340 per year or $19.87 per hour. The top 10% earn more than $63,140 per year. Truck drivers are usually paid by the mile, so the more you drive, the more money you make. Due to the current shortage of truck drivers, professional truck drivers are in high demand.

* United Truck Driving School is an equal opportunity employer and our WIOA Title I financially assisted programs are equal opportunity programs. *

I Drove Solo After Only 1 Week!

“I want to thank United Truck Driving School for providing me with the knowledge and experience I needed to pursue my new career as a Truck Driver. United made it possible for me to obtain my Class A License, including all of the endorsements within four weeks. The day after I got my license I was off to May Trucking Company where I was able to solo out after only a week of driving with my trainer…due to the amazing instructors at United! They are as good as they come! I will continue to recommend this school to anyone who is looking to obtain their Class A License.”

A Class C license is the most common license on the roadways. This license allows you to drive a motor vehicle legally. But there is also a Class A license. There are different requirements to get a Class A license. You should know what a Class A license is for first before you try to get one. 

What is a Class A License?

There are different types of driver’s licenses in California and a Class A license is one of them. But what is it and why would you want it? There are two types of Class A licenses in California. The Class A Commercial license allows you to drive any legal combination of vehicles under Class B and Class C.

The Class A noncommercial license allows you to drive any vehicle under Class C and any housecar over 40 feet but not over 45 feet. If you plan on driving a semi-truck you will need a commercial license. That is really the only reason to get a commercial Class A license.

But if you want to drive a truck with a house trailer you will need a Class A non-commercial license. A trailer home is a trailer that looks like an RV and it attaches to your truck. These licenses are also known as CDL or Commercial Driver’s License. 

How to Know if You Need a CDL

It would be incomplete to tell you that you need a CDL for semi-trucks. There are many different types of semi-trucks and you can tow a number of things that would require a CDL. The best way to determine if you need a CDL is to figure out the weight of the vehicle you are driving or are towing.

The weight is known as the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating or GVWR. If the load being towed is over 10,000 pounds, you will need a Class A. 

How to Apply

Only people who are over the age of 18 may apply for a Class A. But that will only apply to California. You will need to be 21 years old to apply for an interstate license. A ten-year driving record is also mandatory to apply. You must also pass a medical evaluation done by a qualified examiner in order to apply as well.

Everyone will need to pay the application fee. After you have submitted all of your forms, passed the written test, and have been recognized as qualified you will get your permit. You have to complete a few tasks in order to move onto the licensing stage.

You will need an appointment to take the skills test. Be sure to bring the vehicle you plan on driving with your Class A license in order to take the skills test. You will be given a temporary license which is good for 90 days while you wait for your plastic license to arrive.

How long does it take to get a California Class A license?

Program Length: 4 weeks / 160 hours.

How long is a Class A license good for in California?

The CLP is valid for a maximum of 180 days from the date issued. It can be renewed for an additional 180 days if the expiration date is not more than one year from the initial application date.

How do I get my CDL in California 2022?

In addition to the new federal requirements, Class A or B CDL applicants in California must complete a minimum of 15 hours of behind-the-wheel training and submit proof of completion to the DMV. The training certificate can be submitted online at dmv.ca.gov.

What is a Class A driver's license in California?

A Class A license is the most permissive license available and includes all the privileges permitted by Class B and Class C. The holder of a Class A license may operate any vehicle and combination of vehicles licensed in California, as long as they have the required subject endorsement or special certificate.