If you hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), you may be familiar with the “O” restriction. This restriction is placed on your license if you took your skills test in a Class A vehicle that had a pintle hook or other non-fifth wheel connection. This restriction limits you from operating any Class A vehicle with a fifth wheel connection. In this blog post, we will explain how to remove the “O” restriction on your CDL and expand your driving capabilities.
What is an “O” restriction on a CDL?
The “O” restriction on a CDL indicates that the license holder is not authorized to operate a Class A vehicle with a fifth wheel connection. This restriction is placed on your CDL if you took your skills test in a Class A vehicle that had a pintle hook or other non-fifth wheel connection. It is important to note that this restriction does not limit your ability to operate a Class B vehicle or any other type of vehicle.
What is a Fifth Wheel?
A fifth wheel is a device used to connect the tractor and the trailer of a Class A vehicle. It is a circular plate with a locking mechanism that connects to the kingpin on the trailer. The fifth wheel allows for the trailer to pivot on the tractor and provides stability during transportation. Having the ability to operate a Class A vehicle with a fifth wheel connection expands your driving capabilities and increases your job opportunities.
How to remove the “O” restriction on your CDL?
If you want to remove the “O” restriction from your CDL, you will need to retake the skills test in a Class A vehicle that has a fifth wheel connection. You will need to schedule an appointment with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and provide a Class A vehicle with a fifth wheel connection for the test. The skills test will include a pre-trip inspection, a basic control skills test, and an on-road driving test. If you successfully pass the skills test, the “O” restriction will be removed from your CDL.
It is important to note that removing the “O” restriction from your CDL does not require you to take any additional training or courses. You only need to retake the skills test in a Class A vehicle with a fifth wheel connection.
Why Remove the CDL O Restriction?
Expanding your driving capabilities to include driving a Class A vehicle with a fifth wheel connection can significantly increase your job opportunities as a commercial truck driver. Many truck driving jobs require drivers to have experience driving a fifth wheel, as it is a common type of connection for tractor-trailers. Here are some of the types of truck driving jobs that require drivers to be able to drive a fifth wheel:
OTR (Over-the-Road) Trucking: OTR trucking involves driving long distances across the country, usually hauling freight between distribution centers or warehouses. Most OTR trucks are Class A vehicles with a fifth wheel connection.
LTL (Less-than-Truckload) Trucking: LTL trucking involves transporting smaller loads of freight that don’t require a full trailer. LTL trucks are typically Class A vehicles with a fifth wheel connection.
Flatbed Trucking: Flatbed trucking involves hauling oversized or irregularly shaped loads that cannot fit in a standard trailer. Flatbed trailers are usually connected to a Class A vehicle with a fifth wheel connection.
Tanker Trucking: Tanker trucking involves hauling liquids or gases, such as gasoline, oil, or chemicals. Tanker trailers are usually connected to a Class A vehicle with a fifth wheel connection.
Refrigerated Trucking: Refrigerated trucking involves hauling temperature-sensitive goods, such as food or pharmaceuticals. Most refrigerated trucks are Class A vehicles with a fifth wheel connection.
Intermodal Trucking: Intermodal trucking involves transporting shipping containers between ports, rail yards, and distribution centers.