Class B CDL Training in Oregon

Elite Truck School offers Class B CDL training in Oregon at its Hillsboro campus. The program covers 80 hours of training over two weeks, including hands-on time behind the wheel of real manual transmission trucks with air brakes. New classes start every four weeks.

What is a Class B CDL?

A Class B CDL allows a driver to operate a single heavy vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) over 26,000 pounds, as long as any trailer attached weighs less than 10,000 pounds. Common Class B vehicles include:

• Box trucks
• Straight trucks
• Dump trucks
• Utility trucks

Most drivers operating these vehicles for work in Oregon are required to hold a Class B CDL.

Oregon also issues Class A and Class C CDLs for drivers operating combination vehicles or passenger-carrying vehicles.

About the Class B CDL Training Program

Elite Truck School’s Class B CDL training program meets FMCSA Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements, the federal training standards that took effect in 2022. The school is listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry, which is required for any CDL training program serving first-time license holders.

The program runs full-time, Monday through Friday from 6:00 am to 2:30 pm, over two weeks for a total of 80 hours. Classes are kept small so each student gets direct time with instructors, both in the yard and on the road. Air brakes training is included in the program.

What Students Learn

Truck Orientation and Pre-Trip Inspections

• Pre-trip safety inspection procedures
• Class B truck controls, systems, and air brakes
• Identifying mechanical issues before getting on the road

Backing and Yard Maneuvers

• Straight-line backing, offset backing, and alley dock
• Skills required to pass the Oregon CDL skills test

On-Road Driving

• Operating a manual transmission truck in real traffic conditions
• Driving in the Portland metro area, including urban routes and work zones
• Preparing for the Oregon state CDL road test

How to Get Started

To enroll in the Class B CDL program, students need to:

1. Meet the Oregon CDL eligibility requirements, including minimum age (18 for intrastate, 21 for interstate), a valid Oregon driver’s license, and a DOT physical
2. Obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) from the Oregon DMV
3. Select a start date at the Hillsboro campus from the class schedule
4. Complete the admissions process through Elite Truck School

Tuition costs and financial assistance options vary by student. Visit the tuition assistance page for an overview of available options, or call 503-615-8465 to talk through program costs and next steps with the admissions team directly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Class B CDL Training in Oregon

Do I need experience to enroll in Class B CDL training?

No prior commercial driving experience is required. The program is built to take students from no CDL experience to test-ready within two weeks.

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

A Class A CDL covers combination vehicles like semi-trucks pulling heavy trailers. A Class B CDL covers single heavy vehicles, such as box trucks and dump trucks, where any attached trailer weighs less than 10,000 pounds.

Can I work locally with a Class B CDL?

Yes. Most Class B positions, such as box truck delivery, dump truck work, and city service vehicles, are local and home-daily. Learn more about job placement support for Elite Truck School graduates.

Can I get a Class B CDL with a bad driving record?

It depends on the nature and history of the violations. Certain disqualifying offenses, such as a DUI or reckless driving conviction, can affect CDL eligibility under federal and Oregon state rules. The best step is to contact the admissions team directly at 503-615-8465 to talk through the situation before applying.