Why and How Should I Upgrade to a Class A CDL?

Imagine being able to give yourself a promotion and a raise. That may sound crazy… unless you’re in the world of commercial driving. We’re talking about upgrading to a Class A CDL. It doesn’t matter if you’ve held your Class B or C CDL for just 10 months or 10 years, it’s never too early or too late to kick it up a notch! Making this move can open the door to even more job opportunities, higher pay, and the ability to drive larger and more versatile vehicles, like tractor-trailers and long-haul rigs. If you currently hold a Class B or C CDL, we suggest you keep reading!

At New Sound CDL School based in Fife, WA, we help drivers take the next step in their careers. This guide will go over everything you need to know about upgrading to a Class A CDL in Washington State. We’ll keep it simple and straightforward, so you can focus on what matters—your future.

Step 1: Understand the Benefits of a Class A CDL

Upgrading your current CDL to Class A isn’t just about learning to drive bigger trucks—it’s about opening doors to new opportunities, higher earnings, and long-term career stability. Let’s break down the key reasons why making the jump is worth your time and effort.

Drive Bigger, More Versatile Vehicles

A Class A CDL is like the ultimate key that unlocks the ability to operate some of the largest and most versatile vehicles on the road. With Class A, you can legally drive large combination vehicles, putting nearly everything within your reach, including:

• Semi-Trucks/Tractor-Trailers: The backbone of long-haul freight transportation, you’ll be able to move large quantities of goods across the country.
• Flatbed Trucks: These open the door to all sorts of industries, typically hauling construction materials, machinery, and even prefab homes.
• Tankers: Used for transporting liquids like fuel, chemicals, or food-grade products, these would require a specialized endorsement.
• Double/Triple Trailers: With a T endorsement, you can haul multiple trailers at once and increase your earning potential.

By upgrading, you’re no longer limited to smaller vehicles. The ability to operate these larger vehicles will make you a more versatile and valuable driver across various industries.

Higher Pay

One of the biggest draws of a Class A CDL is the potential for significantly higher earnings. Whether you’re a company driver, local hauler, or owner-operator, handling larger, more specialized vehicles with a far greater hauling capacity raises the ceiling for what you can expect to make. For example, income data from job postings on ZipRecruiter have the average starting salary of a Fife, Washington Class B driver at $51,184, in contrast to $84,361 for a Class A driver. It’s simple math! This average goes up the closer you are to the Seattle area. Upgrading positions you for higher-paying roles, giving you more financial security and freedom.

More Job Opportunities

A Class A CDL doesn’t just increase the size of the vehicles you can drive—it also expands your career options. Here’s a look at some of the industries and roles that open up with an upgrade:

• Long-Haul Trucking: Transport goods across state lines and even coast-to-coast. These jobs often come with mileage bonuses and incentives for timely deliveries.
• Specialized Freight: From tanker trucks carrying liquid goods to flatbeds hauling construction equipment, specialized roles require the versatility of a Class A CDL.
• Intermodal Transport: Move containers between ports, rail yards, and warehouses, offering consistent work in logistics hubs across the Pacific Northwest.
• Regional and Local Delivery: For those who prefer shorter routes, Class A still provides opportunities for higher pay in local or regional delivery roles.

By upgrading, you’ll have access to a wider range of industries, including retail, construction, agriculture, logistics, and manufacturing.

Stay Competitive in a Growing Industry

The trucking industry is changing fast, with employers looking for drivers who can adapt to their demands. Holding a Class A CDL keeps you ahead of the curve in several ways:

• Versatility: Many employers prefer hiring drivers with a Class A CDL because of the flexibility it offers. This license ensures that you can handle all kinds of vehicles and cargo types.
• Increased Demand for Drivers: The trucking industry is facing a nationwide driver shortage, with thousands of openings each year. Employers are willing to pay more and offer better benefits to attract Class A CDL holders who are ready to fill these roles.

Greater Job Security and Career Growth

A Class A CDL not only makes you more employable but also ensures long-term career stability. As e-commerce and freight transportation continue to grow, the demand for professional drivers is expected to remain strong for years to come.

Plus, upgrading your license creates a pathway for career growth. For example, you could:

• Move from being a company driver to an owner-operator.
• Transition into specialized fields like hazardous materials transport.
• Take on training or supervisory roles, helping new drivers enter the industry.
• Whether you’re looking for immediate financial rewards or a career with growth potential, a Class A CDL sets you up for success.

Step 2: Meet the Basic Requirements

To upgrade from a Class B or C to a Class A CDL in Washington State, you’ll need to meet these basic requirements:

1. Hold a Valid Class B or C CDL: You must already have your Class B or C license and be in good standing (no suspensions or major violations).
2. Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old to drive within Washington State or 21 years old to drive across state lines or transport hazardous materials.
3. Medical Certification: You’ll need a current DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate to prove you’re physically fit to drive a commercial vehicle.

Step 3: Get Your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

Even though you already have a Class B or C CDL, you’ll need a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) for the Class A vehicles you’ll be training on. Here’s how to get it:

1. Study for the Knowledge Test: You’ll need to take and pass the written test for combination vehicles.
2. Visit Your Local Licensing Office: Bring your current CDL, proof of identity, residency, and your medical certification.
3. Pass the Written Test: Once you pass, you’ll receive your CLP, which you’ll need to hold for at least 14 days before taking the Class A Skills Test.

If you need assistance with this portion, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

Step 4: Enroll in a CDL Upgrade Training Program

Here’s where New Sound comes in! A professional training program is required for you to take the Class A CDL exam. Our school provides the best support for success statewide with high passing percentages and fully-equipped classrooms, training grounds, and equipment. Washington state requires at least 80 hours of training that we typically offer as two weeks, full-time, but we can also accommodate those who can only train part-time. Enroll today, or reach out to us for more information.

Step 5: Pass the Class A CDL Skills Test

The Skills Test is the final hurdle to upgrading your license. It’s broken into three parts:

1. Pre-Trip Inspection: You’ll demonstrate your ability to inspect the vehicle, checking components like brakes, lights, tires, and trailer connections.
2. Basic Control Skills: This includes backing up, parking, and navigating tight spaces.
3. On-Road Driving Test: You’ll show the examiner that you can safely and confidently handle a Class A vehicle in real-world traffic conditions.

When you train at New Sound CDL, we’ll make sure you’re fully prepared for all three parts.

Step 6: Upgrade Your CDL

Once you’ve passed the Skills Test and any endorsement exams, head back to the DOL office to officially upgrade your CDL. Bring the following:

• Proof that you passed the Skills Test.
• Your CLP and current Class B or C CDL.

You’ll leave with your upgraded Class A CDL and be ready to take on new opportunities!

Maximize Your Potential with New Sound CDL School

Upgrading your CDL isn’t just a step forward—it’s a leap toward more opportunities, better pay, and long-term career growth in the trucking industry. Whether you’ve been driving with a Class B or C CDL for months or years, making the upgrade puts you in the driver’s seat of some of the most lucrative and in-demand roles out there.

Our team is committed to making the process smooth, straightforward, and successful. Our comprehensive training program provides:

• Hands-On Experience: Practice with real Class A vehicles to master essential skills like coupling/uncoupling trailers and tight maneuvering.
• Expert Instructors: Our experienced team will be with you every step of the way, offering guidance, feedback, and support.
• Confidence-Building Training: Operating larger, more complex vehicles can feel intimidating at first, but we’ll make sure you’re fully prepared to tackle any challenge.
• High Success Rates: Our proven curriculum ensures you’ll be ready to pass your Skills Test the first time and hit the road as a confident Class A CDL driver.

Your future in commercial driving starts here. If you’re ready to take your career to the next level, contact New Sound CDL School today to enroll or learn more about our Class A CDL upgrade program. With the right training, tools, and support, there’s no limit to how far you can go!