What is a CDL-B?

A CDL-B is a type of commercial driver's license that authorizes the holder to operate vehicles weighing more than 26,000 pounds, or transport 24 passengers or more. It is typically required for driving school buses, city buses, delivery trucks, dump trucks, garbage trucks, and other similar vehicles.

Training Requirements

Before you can obtain a CDL-B license, there are certain training requirements you must fulfill. These vary by state, but typically include:

• Age requirement: You must be at least 18 years old to drive within state lines and at least 21 years old to drive cross-country or transport hazardous materials.

• Physical fitness: You must pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical examination every two years.

• Written exam: You must pass a written exam that covers road rules and regulations.

• Skills test: You must pass a three-part skills test, which includes a pre-trip vehicle inspection, a basic vehicle controls test, and a road test.

What to Look for a Class

When choosing a CDL-B class in Milwaukee, consider these factors:

• Curriculum: The curriculum should cover all the necessary topics for the written and skills tests, including pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic vehicle controls, and road rules and regulations.

• Instructors: Look for experienced instructors who can provide real-world insights and hands-on training.

• Class size: Smaller classes can provide more personalized instruction and feedback.

• Location: The class should be conveniently located near you or offer online options.

What to Expect from the Day-to-Day Class

During your CDL-B classes, you can expect a mix of classroom instruction and practical training. You will learn about road rules and regulations, vehicle inspection procedures, basic vehicle controls, and safe driving techniques. You will also get hands-on experience driving a commercial vehicle under the supervision of experienced instructors.

What Does the Certification Process Look Like?

To obtain your CDL-B license, you must pass the written exam and skills test. After completing your training, you will take these tests at a state-approved testing facility. Once you pass, you will receive your CDL-B license and can start working as a professional driver.

How to Find Related Jobs

Once you have your CDL-B license, you can start looking for jobs. You might consider positions such as school bus driver, city bus driver, delivery truck driver, or dump truck driver. Employers often post these jobs on online job boards, company websites, and job fairs. Networking can also be an effective way to find job opportunities.

What Other Classes Someone Can Take After Becoming a CDL-B?

After becoming a CDL-B, you might consider taking additional classes to broaden your skills and job opportunities. For example, you could pursue a CDL-A license, which allows you to drive any type of commercial vehicle. You might also consider taking classes in defensive driving, hazardous materials transportation, or passenger transportation.

Additional Benefits of Having a CDL-B

Having a CDL-B opens up a wide range of employment opportunities, and not just in driving jobs. Here are some additional benefits you might consider:

• Versatility: With a CDL-B, you can operate a wide range of vehicles, making you more versatile and employable in the transportation industry.

• Job security: There is always a demand for professional drivers, providing a level of job security.

• Travel opportunities: As a professional driver, you may have opportunities to travel and see different parts of the country.

Understanding Endorsements

In addition to your CDL-B, you might consider obtaining endorsements that allow you to drive specific types of vehicles or transport certain types of cargo. These include:

• Passenger (P) endorsement: Allows you to transport passengers.

• School Bus (S) endorsement: Allows you to drive a school bus.

• Hazardous Materials (H) endorsement: Allows you to transport hazardous materials.

• Air Brake (L) endorsement: Allows you to operate vehicles with air brakes.

Wisconsin's Commercial Driving Regulations

Like all states, Wisconsin has specific regulations for commercial drivers. It's important to understand these regulations before you start your training. For more information, you can refer to the Wisconsin Commercial Driver's Manual.

Final Thoughts

Obtaining your CDL-B license is a significant step towards a rewarding career in the transportation industry. By choosing the right class and dedicating yourself to the training, you can set yourself up for success. Whether you're interested in driving a school bus, delivery truck, or city bus, a CDL-B license can open up a wide range of job opportunities. As always, Dreambound is here to help you find the perfect class and navigate your vocational training journey.

For more related information, you can also read the articles on how to become a truck driver in Wisconsin and how to become a HVAC technician in Wisconsin which also require professional licenses similar to CDL-B.

Dreambound has a bunch of guides about starting in this field, with specific ones for different cities. If you're not in this city or are thinking about moving, check out some other guides below:

• How to Become a School Bus Driver in Connecticut
• How to Become a School Bus Driver in Iowa
• How to Become a School Bus Driver in Michigan
• How to Become a School Bus Driver in Rhode Island
• How to Become a School Bus Driver in South Dakota

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