Commercial Driver License (CDL) Class B Training

Pass your Class B CDL written exam with confidence using our online course. Covers inspections, speed management, hazards, and more. Enroll today!

For Individuals Seeking Class B CDL
100% Online, on Any Device
Complete Training in as Few as 2 Hours
Automatic Reporting to FMCSA

Duration: 3 Hour(s) Language: English

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About

Learn how to safely operate Class B vehicles with this interactive, comprehensive online program. Our course is designed to align with federal Commercial Driver License (CDL) Class B standards, ensuring you understand important course concepts covered in the written portion of the CDL B exam. This training will also teach you the S.P.I.D.E.R. Method™, a step-by-step approach to identifying and reacting to driving dangers.

Test your knowledge through practice quizzes, engaging videos, and interactive course content. After completing the course, you will receive a certificate to present at the DMV, and your completion status will be reported to the FMCSA by the next business day. This process will help you get ready to apply for your learner's permit.

This course is delivered through a partnership between 360training and IMPROV® Learning.

Outline

Topics Covered

Introduction to the S.P.I.D.E.R. Approach 
Welcome to S.P.I.D.E.R. Mania: Unmasking the Basics 
- Dashboards and Deciphering Control Systems 
- Pre and Post Trip Inspection 
- Basics of Control: Turning and Positioning 
- Shifting gears 
- Backing and Docking 
S.P.I.D.E.R. Senses Tingling: The Safe Operating Show (Halt and Delve) 
- Mastering visual search techniques, mirrors, and intersections 
S.P.I.D.E.R. – Safe Operating Procedures 
- Warding off distractions 
- Mastering space and speed management  
- Night operations and extreme driving conditions 
S.P.I.D.E.R. in Action: From Zero to Hero in Advanced Operation Procedures 
- Spotting hazards and mastering skid control 
- Railroad-highway grade crossings 
S.P.I.D.E.R. 4.0 – When Malfunctions Attack 
- Diagnosing and reporting malfunctions 
- Roadside inspections and vehicle maintenance 
S.P.I.D.E.R. Unplugged: When CDL Meets Non-driving Activities 
- Handling and documenting cargo 
- Environmental compliance issues 
- Hours of service requirements 
- Fatigue and wellness awareness 
S.P.I.D.E.R. – Non-driving Activities 
- External communications 
- Whistleblower 
- Trip planning 
- CDL Drugs & Alcohol 
- Medical Requirements 
Final Exam

What You’ll Learn

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

Understand the purpose and importance of CDL training.
Recognize the various controls and indicators on the vehicle dashboard.
Perform comprehensive pre-trip and post-trip inspections.
Execute fundamental vehicle control techniques.
Demonstrate proper shifting techniques for manual and automatic transmissions.
Perform safe and accurate backing and docking maneuvers.
Use effective visual scanning techniques.
Utilize communication tools and signals effectively.
Recognize and avoid distracted driving.
Maintain appropriate speeds.
Manage space around the vehicle.
Implement safe night driving practices.
Adapt to extreme driving conditions.
Anticipate and recognize potential hazards.
Control and recover from skids, prevent jackknifing.
Follow safety procedures for crossing railroad-highway grades.
Identify and diagnose vehicle malfunctions.
Prepare for and pass roadside inspections.
Perform routine maintenance tasks.
Handle and document cargo safely.
Comply with environmental regulations.
Adhere to hours-of-service regulations.
Maintain wellness and avoid fatigue.
Follow post-crash procedures correctly.
Communicate effectively with relevant parties.
Understand whistleblower protections.
Plan trips effectively.
Recognize effects of drugs/alcohol and adhere to regulations.
Meet all medical requirements for CDL certification.

FAQs

What is a Class B CDL?

A Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) authorizes you to operate a single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more. This includes large trucks, buses, and some heavy equipment.

Who needs a Class B CDL?

Professionals in various industries require a Class B CDL. Common roles include bus drivers, delivery truck drivers, garbage truck operators, and those who operate large utility service vehicles. If you operate a vehicle exceeding the weight limit for a standard driver's license, a Class B CDL is necessary.

What is the difference between Class A CDL and Class B CDL?

A Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is needed to drive combination vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, where the towed vehicle is over 10,000 pounds. This license is required for the professional operation of large vehicles, including tractor-trailers, tank trucks, and flatbeds.

A Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is required to operate single vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, or any such vehicle towing another vehicle that does not exceed 10,000 pounds. This includes vehicles such as straight trucks, large buses, and dump trucks.

How can I obtain a Class B CDL?

To earn a Class A CDL, you typically need to follow these steps:

Satisfy the age requirement: In most states, you must be at least 21 years old for interstate driving, though driving within the state may be allowed at 18.
Carry an up-to-date driver’s license.
Successfully complete a medical exam: This verifies that you meet the physical standards necessary for commercial driving.
Acquire a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP): A CLP permits you to practice driving commercial vehicles on public roads under the supervision of a qualified CDL holder.
Complete the Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) program: This training, mandated by the FMCSA, includes both theoretical and behind-the-wheel instruction from an approved provider.
Pass the CDL skills exam: This involves a vehicle inspection test, a basic controls test, and a road test.