Truck drivers keep our economy, well, trucking! In order to drive safely, professional drivers attain special licenses and endorsements. The first step is to obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL), but once drivers have their CDL, there are various endorsements that further specify the types of vehicles you can drive and the cargo you can carry.
There are six types of CDL endorsements, but these are all specialized authorizations that expand your skill set, making you a more versatile and valuable driver. Not only can these open doors to new job opportunities, but can also ensure compliance with federal and state regulations for specific types of freight or vehicles. Through endorsements, drivers are able to expand their skill sets, apply for different types of jobs and maintain a long career in the trucking industry.
First, let’s take a look at the three classifications of commercial driver’s licenses, and then we’ll dive into the types of endorsements drivers can add to their CDL.
Class A is required to operate vehicles with a combined weight (GVWR) of 26,001+ pounds, including a towed vehicle over 10,000 pounds. Vehicles driven with a Class A CDL include tractor-trailers, truck and trailer combos, tankers, livestock carriers, flatbeds, and most Class B and C vehicles (with proper endorsements).
Class B is required for single vehicles over 26,000 pounds or a towed cargo vehicle under 10,000 pounds. Vehicles driven with a Class B CDL include straight trucks, large buses, segmented buses, box trucks, dump trucks with small trailers, and some Class C vehicles (with endorsements).
Class C is required for vehicles under 26,001 pounds or those towing under 10,000 pounds, or transporting 16+ passengers. Vehicles driven with a Class C CDL include double/triple trailers, buses, tank trucks, and HazMat vehicles.
Now that we know CDL licenses have class A, B and C categories, let’s take a look at the types of CDL endorsements drivers can add to their license. Each endorsement caters to different vehicle types, cargo classifications, and driving scenarios. Below, we’ll explore six key endorsements, the requirements, and opportunities for drives with special endorsements.
The Hazardous Materials (HazMat) endorsement (H) is necessary for drivers transporting hazardous substances, including chemicals, gasses, and flammable liquids. This endorsement ensures that CDL holders are trained and prepared to handle the complexities and safety risks involved in transporting hazardous materials.
To obtain this endorsement, drivers must pass a written exam and undergo a federal background check, including fingerprinting.The endorsement must be renewed every five years (or as required by your state). While it takes some work to gain the endorsement, drivers benefit from higher pay, more job opportunities and increased job security, since specialized HazMat drivers are always in demand.
Hazardous materials are categorized into classes based on the type of risk they pose, such as explosives, gasses, or corrosives. Not only does the Department of Transportation (DOT) set regulations and penalties for noncompliance, but Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) also requires placards and labels identifying hazardous materials to be correctly displayed during the entire transportation route.
Drivers must follow strict safety protocols for loading, unloading, and transporting hazardous cargo to prevent accidents. This includes drivers carrying shipping papers containing the HM Class and ID number, and special reporting requirements for collision reports. It's the job of the person in physical possession (PIP) of the hazardous material to report the incident, and this responsibility often falls to drivers.
With such a serious job comes serious penalties. Non-compliance with hazmat regulations can result in hefty fines, loss of CDL, or even imprisonment. Carriers can face six-figure fines up to $175,000 and drivers may have a misdemeanor conviction and fines to pay of their own.
Drivers must be aware of special routing, emergency procedures, and the use of protective equipment. HazMat drivers are expected to:
Carry personal protective equipment (PPE) and the Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)
Comply with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) hours-of-service rules
Have proper packaging and labeling of materials as required by 49 CFR 172
Be trained in and equipped with a spill response kit for emergencies
This endorsement is applicable to CDL Class A, B, and C drivers. When you combine a HazMat endorsement with a Tanker endorsement, the endorsement is categorized as X.
States vary from the federal requirements for drivers seeking to add a hazardous materials endorsement. In your state, you may run into differences including more extensive testing, different fees and processing times, or more frequent background tests.
For example, California requires a more extensive vision and medical test, while Florida shortens the knowledge test renewal to every four years.
The Tank Vehicle endorsement (N) for commercial drivers allows them to legally operate a commercial vehicle that is designed to transport liquid or gaseous materials in a tank. Transporting such materials poses unique challenges in terms of vehicle stability and cargo management because liquid cargo can shift during transit.
For this endorsement, drivers must pass a written test, an eye exam and pay applicable fees. Then, CDL drivers with the N endorsement will be able to transport liquids or gasses with an individual rated capacity of 1,000 gallons or more. The tank vehicle endorsement is especially valuable for professional drivers working in industries including oil and gas, dairy and beverage, waste management, agriculture and construction.
The Tank (N) and HazMat (H) endorsements are similar, with a distinct difference: for tank, the liquid or gas loads are typically food-grade materials, such as water, juice or vegetable oils. If the liquid or gas falls under the Nine Classes of Hazardous Materials, then the HazMat endorsement is required. Qualifying for both tank and HazMat endorsements is Type X.
To operate trucks with gas or liquid containers, drivers must:
Be adept at managing the movement of liquid cargo, especially during turns and stops.
Be able to handle a “liquid surge” which results from partially filled tanks sloshing.
This liquid surge impacts vehicle stability and can push or pull the vehicle unexpectedly when braking or accelerating.
Tank vehicles have a higher risk of rollover accidents, so drivers must follow strict speed and weight distribution rules. The written test covers these relevant safe driving procedures, including the liquid surge, proper braking, and speed control. For example, the risk of rollover is increased for tank vehicles which often have a higher center of gravity.
Failure to comply with tank vehicle safety standards can lead to penalties and revoked endorsements. In addition, operating a tank vehicle without the proper N endorsement can void certain insurance coverages, putting both the driver and employer at financial risk in the event of an accident.
This endorsement is generally applicable to CDL Class A and B licenses.
Certain states may require additional training or road testing for this endorsement. While many states only require drivers to be 18 years old to obtain the tank endorsement, some states may require drivers to be 21 years of age or older. The number of questions on the written test can vary, but averages between 20 to 25 questions and requires an 80% or higher score to pass.
CDL drivers transporting more than 16 passengers require the Passenger (P) endorsement. This certification ensures the driver is capable of safely handling larger passenger vehicles and is knowledgeable about the unique safety considerations. The P endorsement is particularly important for individuals driving buses, shuttle vans, or other commercial vehicles specifically designed to transport passengers.
Passenger transport requires heightened awareness of passenger safety, proper boarding and unloading procedures, and emergency protocols. Drivers are expected to understand safety requirements that go beyond the rules of the road to include handling difficult passengers, managing onboard emergencies up to and including leading evacuation procedures.
Drivers who violate passenger transport regulations can face significant fines and loss of employment.
This endorsement applies to CDL Class A, B, and C licenses.
For Class A with a P endorsement, drivers can operate vehicles with a towed vehicle over 10,000 pounds. Usually, these vehicles are large freight trucks and tractor-trailers that don’t carry passengers, but the P endorsement enables drivers to have the most comprehensive set of endorsements, which can help with career paths as a professional driver.
For Class B with a P endorsement, drivers can operate buses, including city and tour buses, but they cannot also operate a vehicle towing anything exceeding 10,000 pounds.
States may impose additional qualifications, such as enhanced background checks.
For drivers wishing to transport students, the School Bus (S) endorsement is essential. The first step to adding your S endorsement is to first earn the Passenger (P) endorsement. While the two overlap, the school bus endorsement has additional requirements and responsibilities.
In order to add the S endorsement to your CDL, states require some type of training program. These vary between 20 to 40 hours on average and include classroom and behind-the-wheel training. Continuing education requirements also mean S drivers will need to complete refresher courses either every year or every few years, depending on the state.
Drivers must be trained on specific safety measures for students. These measures include loading and unloading children; proper operation of the stop signs, lights, and other safety systems on the school bus; adherence to school routes; and emergency procedures.
In addition to the severe penalties for driving a commercial vehicle without the proper license or endorsement, for school bus operators, non-compliance can be much more strict, including criminal charges, due to the nature of transporting children. Also, non-compliance for the S endorsement can result in the loss of other endorsements, like the required P endorsement.
This endorsement typically applies to CDL Class A, B, and C licenses with an existing Passenger (P) endorsement. Usually a class B CDL is recommended for school bus drivers.
Requirements for school bus drivers vary state by state and range from the exam process to more stringent background checks and continuing education. California mandates an additional road test specifically designed for school buses, known as the California Special Driving Test for School Bus Drivers, and a special medical examination and fitness certificate.
Illinois and New Jersey require state-level fingerprinting and checks against state-specific databases in addition to national criminal history checks.
The Doubles/Triples (T) endorsement allows drivers to operate trucks with two (doubles) or three (triples) trailers attached. These are typically long-haul trucking operations where the driver needs to pull more than one trailer at a time. Drivers will need to pass a written knowledge test, but skills tests are not typically required.
This type of endorsement is common in freight shipping for increasing cargo capacity without the need for additional drivers or trucks. And, because the T endorsement also requires drivers to hold a Class A CDL, the T endorsement can be a smart career strategy for drivers seeking to earn more and have greater job opportunities, since they are able to deliver the most freight.
These multi-trailer combinations require advanced driving skills and a keen understanding of how the trailers move in relation to one another. Drivers must be well-versed in maneuvering these extended vehicles, which have higher risks for jackknifing and overturning.
This endorsement is applicable to CDL Class A license holders.
Certain states may restrict the number of trailers or impose additional safety regulations, but since the T endorsement doesn’t require a skills test, the requirements are fairly similar between states. The cost of the exam and the number of questions can vary from state to state.
The Combination HazMat and Tanker (X) endorsement is for drivers who transport hazardous materials in liquid or gaseous forms. This endorsement requires the driver to meet the requirements for both the H and N endorsements and pass additional exams.
For drivers hauling dangerous goods or large quantities of liquid substances, such as fuel, chemicals, or gasses, the X endorsement is critical.
Drivers need to pass both the HazMat (H) and Tank (N) written knowledge tests, undergo a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) background check, complete the CDL medical examination, and know their HazMat Security Plan before operating any vehicles.
This endorsement is typically required for CDL Class A and B licenses.
Drivers must follow both HazMat and Tank safety rules, ensuring the highest level of caution and compliance. This includes understanding the proper incident response protocols.
While most states follow federal guidelines for the X endorsement, including the TSA background check and dual knowledge tests, there are additional requirements so always check with your state.
For example, California has stricter emissions and environmental regulations for hazardous materials, while Texas has a specific training program drivers must complete before they attempt the knowledge test (the Hazardous Materials theory training program).
Choosing the right CDL endorsement can significantly impact your career opportunities as a professional driver. Whether you’re just starting or looking to advance, it’s essential to take a strategic approach to align your endorsements with your professional goals and the industry’s needs.
The first step in selecting a CDL endorsement is to think about your long-term career aspirations. Do you see yourself transporting hazardous materials, operating tankers, or driving buses? Each endorsement opens doors to specialized roles.
For instance, if you're passionate about working on long-haul trips with specialized cargo, a HazMat (H) endorsement may align perfectly with your goals. On the other hand, if you prefer local routes and steady schedules, a Passenger (P) endorsement might suit you better.
It’s important to align your endorsement choices with what’s in demand in the industry. Certain endorsements, like the combination Tanker and HazMat (X), are often in higher demand due to the complexity and regulatory requirements involved.
Research industry trends, and talk to fellow drivers or recruiters to identify which endorsements can enhance your job prospects and lead to more lucrative positions. Endorsements like Doubles/Triples (T) are increasingly valuable for drivers in regions with heavy freight transport needs.
Before investing time and money into obtaining an endorsement, check if your target employers require or prefer certain endorsements. For example, some freight companies may require a combination of endorsements, such as both Tanker (N) and HazMat (H) for hauling hazardous liquids.
Understanding the exact requirements of the companies you're interested in will help ensure you don’t waste resources on unnecessary endorsements. Many employers also provide reimbursement for drivers who pursue the qualifications they need.
Not all endorsements are available to all drivers, and certain CDL restrictions may limit your options. For instance, if you take your CDL test in a vehicle with an automatic transmission, you may have a restriction that prevents you from operating manual transmission vehicles.
Similarly, some endorsements have more stringent requirements, such as background checks for School Bus Endorsements (S). Make sure you understand any restrictions on your license to avoid pursuing endorsements that you may not qualify for.
Each endorsement requires additional training, testing, and in some cases, ongoing certification. It’s important to weigh the time commitment against the career benefits. While some endorsements, like the HazMat and Doubles/Triples endorsements, offer access to higher-paying jobs, they can involve more rigorous testing and background checks. Consider how much time you have available to study and prepare for these tests, and whether the long-term career benefits outweigh the initial investment.
Earning multiple endorsements can significantly boost your career, making you a more versatile and sought-after driver. With each endorsement, you gain access to new opportunities and ensure full compliance with industry regulations.
DriverReach helps recruiters, safety and compliance professionals at trucking companies find and hire qualified CDL drivers. Our modern applicant tracking system (ATS) and Customer relationship management (CRM) system makes it simple for fleets to find top talent.
With so many regulations and penalties for non-compliance, DriverReach is designed to make compliance part of your recruiting efforts. This means staying on top of regulations from state to state, alerts for expiring certifications, and a complete driver history is just a few clicks away.
If you’re searching for the best drivers to hire, reach out to DriverReach. Our platform and our services help fleets of all sizes find top talent and stay compliant.
While all endorsements help CDL drivers with additional job opportunities, the X Endorsement commands the highest salaries. The X Endorsement is restricted to only Class A and B license holders and requires passing both the Hazardous Materials (H) and Tank (N) endorsement tests.
Common disqualification reasons include a poor driving record or criminal record, failing a drug or alcohol test, and accident history or safety violations. Some medical conditions can also be a disqualification (including failing the medical examination), but the use of corrective devices, like contact lenses, is allowed.
RSTR stands for “Restriction” on the driver’s privileges. This can include medical reasons and criminal convictions.
The type of license impacts how long it will take, but generally speaking, the fastest is 4 to 6 weeks. You’ll need to study for and pass the written test, get a permit and enroll in a CDL training program before taking a skills test.