A Class A CDL opens the door to the highest-paying and most flexible jobs in trucking. If you're ready to start a new career, here's what you can do with a Class A—and what kind of salary you can expect.
| Job Title | Description | Average Salary Range |
| Over-the-Road (OTR) Truck Driver | Hauls freight across state lines, often coast-to-coast, spending extended periods on the road. | $55,000 – $85,000/year |
| Regional Freight Driver | Operates within a multi-state region, offering a balance between mileage pay and more frequent home time. | $50,000 – $75,000/year |
| Local Freight Driver | Transports goods within a specific city or metro area, typically home daily. | $45,000 – $70,000/year |
| Tanker Truck Driver | Transports liquids such as fuel, milk, or chemicals. Hazmat endorsement often required for higher-paying loads. | $65,000 – $100,000/year |
| Heavy Equipment Hauler | Moves oversized loads and construction machinery using specialized trailers. | $60,000 – $90,000/year |
WHAT VEHICLES CAN YOU DRIVE WITH A CLASS A CDL?
Class A CDL holders can operate combination vehicles with a total weight of 26,001 lbs or more, with a towed unit over 10,000 lbs. This includes:
- 18-wheelers (tractor-trailers)
- Flatbeds
- Tankers
- Livestock carriers
- Long-haul freight trucks
COMMON CLASS A CDL JOBS
🚚 Over-the-Road (OTR) Truck Driver
- Travel across the country hauling freight
- Average Salary: $55,000–$85,000/year
🚛 Regional or Local Freight Driver
- Shorter routes, more home time
- Average Salary: $45,000–$70,000/year
🛢️ Tanker Truck Driver (Hazmat recommended)
- Hauls liquids or chemicals
- Average Salary: $65,000–$100,000/year
🚜 Heavy Equipment Hauler
- Transports machinery or oversized loads
- Average Salary: $60,000–$90,000/year
GET STARTED NOW
To qualify for these high-demand jobs, you must first complete FMCSA-approved training. ELDT Nation offers a 100% online, self-paced Class A CDL Theory Course that meets federal requirements and prepares you to pass your exam.
🎓 Ready to earn more and hit the open road? Enroll today and take the first step toward your new career.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Class A CDL?
A Class A CDL is a commercial driver’s license that allows you to operate combination vehicles with a total weight of 26,001 lbs or more, with a towed unit over 10,000 lbs.
How long does it take to get a Class A CDL?
The time varies depending on whether you train full-time or part-time, but most students complete their Class A CDL training in 4–8 weeks.
Which Class A CDL job pays the most?
Specialized tanker truck driving and oversized load hauling are among the highest-paying Class A CDL jobs, with salaries often exceeding $90,000/year.
Do I need endorsements for Class A CDL jobs?
Some jobs require endorsements such as Hazmat, Tanker, or Doubles/Triples to legally transport certain types of freight.
Can I get a Class A CDL online?
You can complete the theory portion online through an FMCSA-approved provider like ELDT Nation. The behind-the-wheel portion must be completed in person.
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