What Is CDL A? A Complete Guide for Truck Drivers

If you have your sights set on going into trucking, you have likely heard something about the CDL A. But what exactly is CDL A, and why is it often considered the most powerful license for commercial drivers?

In this guide, we cover the CDL A definition and its requirements, costs, and endorsements, with a look into why it stands highest in earning power among truck drivers.

What Is CDL A?

Commercial Driver’s License Class A is the most versatile class of CDL in the U.S. It permits the driver to operate:

• Combination vehicles (tractor-trailers, semi trucks)
• Gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more
• Vehicles towing in excess of 10,000 pounds

CDL A basically purports to drive the largest trucks and guarantees the smoothest of transition in terms of job types.

Vehicles You Can Drive with CDL A

CDL A vs. CDL B vs. CDL C

Highest earning capacity of CDL A would be because it covers the widest range of commercial vehicles.

CDL A Requirements

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the basic criteria that must be met in order to obtain a CDL A include:

• Minimum Age: 18 for intrastate driving, 21 for interstate driving.
• Valid Driver’s License: The applicant must have a standard driver’s license.
• Medical Certification: Applicants must pass a Department of Transportation physical exam.
• Knowledge and Skills Tests: Applicants must pass written knowledge exams and a road test.
• ELDT Training: Effective from 2022, applicants must comply with Entry-Level Driver Training requirements by completing training from an FMCSA-certified provider.

Endorsements Offered with CDL A

Adding endorsements to your CDL A license can only increase employability and income:

• H – Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT)
• N – Tanker Vehicles
• X – Tanker + HAZMAT Combo
• T – Doubles/Triples
• P – Passenger

Each endorsement requires testing, with HAZMAT further requiring a TSA background check
.

How Much Is CDL A Training?

Depending upon the state you want to study in and the school itself, prices are going to fluctuate, from anything out of $3,000 to $7,000. Some carriers offer free CDL training or tuition reimbursement.

How Much Do CDL A Drivers Make?

In 2025, the average earnings of a CDL A driver would be:

• Entry-level CDL A drivers: $50,000 – $65,000 per annum
• Experienced CDL A drivers: $70,000 – $95,000+
• With special endorsements (X, H): $100,000+

So, what is CDL A?

It is the most demanded commercial driving license with access to the largest varieties of vehicles. It further offers the highest paying jobs that one can achieve through a trucking job.

If you are really interested in starting a trucking career, the CDL A will be the best first step. For official updates, do check the FMCSA website
and your state’s DMV.