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Lehigh Carbon Community College

PREPARE TO EARN YOUR COMMERCIAL DRIVER’S LICENSE IN JUST FOUR WEEKS.

Request more information about CDL Training at LCCC and we will respond within 24 hours. Just complete the form on this page, or contact Austin Norris at 866-693-4661 ext: 0891 or austin.norris@ancoraeducation.com

Embark on a career driving trucks through one of the Commercial Driver’s License training programs at Lehigh Carbon Community College in partnership with Ancora Training.

Gain the knowledge and skills you need through a combination of classroom, driving range, and on-road training. Experienced instructors will help prepare you to take and pass your state’s Commercial Driver’s License test – all in just four weeks!

Class A: 160 Hours
Tuition: $5,650
LCCC is an official 3rd Party CDL Testing Site

  • Weekday (4 weeks), Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
  • Evening (8 weeks), Monday through Thursday, 5:30-10:30 p.m.
  • Weekend (8 weeks), Saturday and Sunday 7 a.m.- 5:30 p.m.

Training includes: classroom, range (skill development) and road training. The CDL hands on skills test for the Commercial Drivers License will be conducted by state examiners at LCCC

CLASS B: 120 Hours
Tuition: $3,520
LCCC is an official 3rd  Party CDL Testing Site

  • Weekday (3 weeks), Monday through Thursday 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
  • Evening (6 weeks), Monday through Thursday, 5:30-10:30 p.m.
  • Weekend (6 weeks), Saturday and Sunday 7 a.m.- to 5:30 p.m.

Training includes: classroom, range (skill development) and road training. The CDL hands on skills test for the Commercial Drivers License will be conducted by state examiners at LCCC

Remedial course (10 hours) Class A or Class B, tuition $500

GAIN SPECIALIZED SKILLS IN:

  • Shifting/operating transmissions
  • Backing up and docking
  • Space management
  • Vehicle Communications
  • Extreme driving conditions
  • Vehicle maintenance
  • Pre-and post-trip inspections

PASS THE TEST. GET YOUR CDL. GET A JOB.
Once you graduate, pass the test and receive your CDL, you can be qualified to land an entry-level position as a tractor trailer driver with a quality carrier. In addition, we partner with many companies that have in-house training departments to provide additional training to new CDL drivers.

LCCC Professional Driver Training also offers the following:

  • LCCC is an Official Third Party Commercial Driver’s License Skills Testing Site for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
  • Qualified Class A and Class B commercial driver’s license (CDL) testing is available.
  • DOT Compliance
  • Driver Improvement Programs
  • Driver Evaluations
  • Log Book – Hours of Service Training
  • Train the Trainer Programs
  • Customized Training for Your Business

 

CDL Training Info Request Form

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Understanding the Difference Between Class A and Class B CDL Licenses

Choosing between a Class A and Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is a pivotal decision that can shape your career in the trucking industry. Each license type permits the operation of different vehicles and comes with unique training requirements, job opportunities, and lifestyle implications. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide which is best suited for your goals.

What is a Class A CDL?

A Class A CDL is designed for drivers operating combination vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) over 26,001 pounds and towing capacities exceeding 10,000 pounds. Examples of vehicles you can drive include:

• Tractor-trailers (semi-trucks)
• Tanker trucks
• Flatbeds
• Car carriers
• Livestock trailers
• Refrigerated trucks

A Class A CDL offers versatility, allowing holders to operate most vehicles requiring a Class B or Class C CDL, broadening job prospects significantly. Typical roles include long-haul truck drivers or specialized freight operators, which often come with higher salaries.

What is a Class B CDL?

Class B CDL holders are limited to operating single vehicles over 26,001 pounds with towing capacities up to 10,000 pounds. Common vehicles include:

• Straight trucks
• School and passenger buses
• Box trucks
• Dump trucks
• Cement mixers

This license is ideal for drivers seeking local or regional work, often involving daily home time. It suits those interested in specific roles, such as bus driving or local deliveries, where routes are shorter, and schedules are more predictable.

Key Differences Between Class A and Class B CDL

1. Vehicle Types and Weight Limits

  • Class A CDL: Allows operation of large combinations of vehicles and towing over 10,000 pounds.
  • Class B CDL: Limited to single vehicles with lighter towing capacities.

2. Job Opportunities and Career Paths

  • Class A CDL: Broader opportunities in long-haul trucking, freight transportation, and specialized roles.
  • Class B CDL: More localized roles such as bus driving, waste collection, and delivery services.

 

3. Earning Potential

  • Class A CDL: Higher average annual salaries (around $103,742 in the U.S.).
  • Class B CDL: Lower average earnings (around $67,671 annually).

4. Training Requirements

  • Class A CDL: More intensive and costly training programs due to the complexity of larger vehicles.
  • Class B CDL: Easier and quicker to complete, making it suitable for faster workforce entry.

5. Endorsements

  • Class A CDL: Includes endorsements for double/triple trailers, tankers, and hazardous materials (HAZMAT).
  • Class B CDL: Common endorsements include passenger (P) and school bus (S), ideal for specific industries.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Class A CDL

Advantages:

  • Higher salary potential.
  • Broader range of job options.
  • Flexibility to operate diverse vehicles.

Disadvantages:

  • Longer and more costly training.
  • Extended time away from home for long-haul jobs.

Class B CDL

Advantages:

  • Quicker and less expensive training.
  • Suitable for local and short-distance jobs.

Disadvantages:

  • Limited job opportunities and lower earnings compared to Class A CDL.

How to Choose the Right CDL

When deciding between a Class A and Class B CDL, consider these factors:

  • Career Goals: Do you want to drive long distances or stay local? Are you interested in specialized freight or passenger transport?
  • Job Market Demand: Research the demand for Class A and Class B CDL drivers in your region or desired field.
  • Training Availability: Look into CDL programs near you and assess the cost, time, and quality of training.

Key Takeaways

  • Class A CDL: Allows you to drive a wide range of vehicles over 26,001 pounds with towing capacities above 10,000 pounds. This license offers more job opportunities and higher earning potential, making it ideal for long-haul or specialized driving careers.
  • Class B CDL: Permits driving single vehicles over 26,001 pounds with a towing capacity of up to 10,000 pounds. This is suitable for local or short-route jobs, such as driving buses, box trucks, or dump trucks.
  • Considerations: Your career goals, training preferences, and job market demands will play significant roles in determining which license is right for you.

Federal Student Aid funding through the FAFSA is not available for this program. Loans and funding through the Workforce Investment board may be available. Please ask us for details.