You'll need to obtain a commercial driver's licence (CDL) if you want to become a trucker. There are various kinds of CDLs that allow you to drive a specific type of vehicles.
Class B is a popular type of CDL that permits drivers to drive vehicles that weigh 26,001 pounds or more and to haul trailers up to 10,000 pounds. Drivers can also earn endorsements to improve their abilities.
What is a Class B+ License?
A Class B+ driving license is a type of driving licence that allows you to drive larger trailers and vehicles than what is possible with an ordinary car (category B) licence. This is because drivers with category B+ licences have passed a further test and been "given" the higher B+E limit. The towing limit you have is based on the date your B+E licence was issued by the government. Look below under "Licence towing limits".
A Category B+ license is comparable to the Commercial Driver's License (CDL). A Class A CDL permits you to drive multiple types of tractor trailers, trucks and large single vehicles. However the Class B CDL only allows you to drive large single vehicles that have a GVWR greater than 26,000 pounds, and a towed vehicle that weighs less than 10,000 pounds. This licence is perfect for drivers who are looking to join the trucking business but aren't quite old enough to be eligible for an A Class CDL.
The UK is one of one or two countries around the world that allows you to obtain a category B+ driving licence which is why it's worth looking into this option if you are thinking of moving to the UK and becoming truck driver. The British government has changed the way they issue the category B+ license, so you should check the gov.uk website for more details. The changes make it more difficult to get a category B+ license. However, you can still tow your trailer to the maximum limit as long as you pass your B+E examination before 19th January 2020. After this date, you are able to only tow your trailer up to the maximum weight of 3,500kg.
What are the requirements to obtain a Class B+ license?
To obtain a class-B+ license you must satisfy the requirements of your state. These requirements differ by state, but typically include having a non-commercial driver's licence and meeting your state's age requirement. You may have to pass a physical examination and an alcohol test. In addition, you might need to pass a written test and a driving skills test.
If you are a holder of a category B driver's license with the code 96 or BE you can drive a vehicle-trailer combination of up to 3,500kg MAM. MAM is the maximum amount a trailer and vehicle could weigh. Check the MAM of your car and your trailer by looking at Section 5 "Classification" on the registration certificate of your vehicle. If you have a category B licence with no code 96 or BE, you are able to only transport a trailer of up to 750kg MAM.
Towing limitations for drivers who passed the test for category B+E prior the 19th January 2013: For UK licence holders the maximum weight of a trailer which can be driven on the category B or BE licence is limited to 3,500kg MAM and the MAM shared by the trailer and car must not exceed 7,000kg. Only when the trailer and vehicle is registered in Norway or in a different EEA state, and if the vehicles are specifically excluded by an amendment to the registration certificate of the vehicle or the category E licence certificate (which is available from the DVLA) is this exemption to be applicable.
You cannot get a full Category B+ licence without passing the test for a medium-sized lorry that has trailers (category C1+E). This includes passenger vans as well as small HAZMAT vehicles that have been equipped with the required equipment to transport hazardous materials. Visit your local DVLA or look up the driving licence information on the DVLA website for more information. You might also be able to undergo practical driver training to prepare you for this test. This could be done through an approved driver training school or privately undertaken by you.
How much is the cost of a Class B+ license?
A Class B+ license is an excellent career move for anyone looking to enter the trucking industry. However, it's important to remember that training programs can add up to a substantial amount of money, and that there are fees for tests and licenses that differ by state. You can lessen the financial burden by enrolling in a CDL program that provides tuition assistance or financial aid.
Another way to reduce costs is by completing the ELDT course online prior to starting training, which can help reduce the amount of time spent at a truck driving school. This can lower the cost of lodging near the school and stop new drivers from incurring additional expenses. C1 Truck Driver Training offers the ELDT as part of their program fee. The course can be completed online before arriving, which will save the student from a week of classroom instruction.
A Class B+ is a fantastic way to start your career and gain valuable work experience before applying for full time jobs. It is important to remember that the vehicle must have a GVWR over 26,001 pounds and it is not permitted to be tethered to a trailer. These vehicles are easy to drive for drivers who have a Category A driving license. This makes them an excellent alternative for those looking to spend more time at home and less on the road.
Where can I get a Class B+ driver's license?
A class B+ license can be obtained at your local DMV. If you are looking to purchase a new RV that is advertised as a class B+, be sure to consult the DMV online to determine what kind of vehicle it will be registered as (ie: Class A or Class kup prawo jazdy kat b+ (https://prawo-jazdy-wyszkow.pl/), or Class C). It could require additional paperwork due to the increased weight of the RV. You will need to provide proof of your financial ability to pay EUR 75,000 as a security.
