Whether you already have your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) or are thinking about getting one, you may have heard of CDL endorsements. If you’re looking for more information or wondering if it’s a good move to try to get one or more, we’ve got the answers for you.
So what is a CDL endorsement? It’s an addition to your CDL that permits you to increase your earnings and ability to find employment by giving you additional training and allowing you to transport things beyond your current CDL.
Let’s dive into the different types of CDL endorsements.
How Many CDL Endorsements Are There?
While it can vary from state to state, there are six commonly added and used types of CDL endorsements. The more endorsements you have on your CDL, the more you can earn. While all of these endorsements can be used with a Class A CDL (the most common type of CDL), some can also be earned on lower B or C Class licenses.
H Endorsement
The H endorsement permits the holder to transport hazardous materials (HAZMAT). Additional training is required, including learning about the materials you will transport, safety training on potential dangers and security training. The H endorsement also requires passing a written knowledge test and background check, fingerprinting and completing a TSA Security Threat Assessment application. The H endorsement is valid for five years after the SAT application is approved. The cost of getting an H endorsement includes a $15–$30 test fee and TSA background check which costs approximately $86.50 (includes fingerprints and assessment). Learn more about getting your hazmat endorsement through our online ELDT Hazmat Endorsement Course.
N Endorsement
An N endorsement authorizes you to haul a tanker carrying (non-hazardous) liquids or gas. Training includes inspecting the tank and understanding the unique challenges of hauling and transporting liquids, such as movement of the cargo and a higher center of gravity. Afterward, you must pass a written test, and then the endorsement lasts as long as your CDL is valid. An N endorsement will cost approximately $15-$30 in test fees. The cost can vary by state.
P Endorsement
A P endorsement allows you to transport the most precious of cargo… people! The CDL passenger endorsement required for driving passenger vehicles with 16 or more seats (including the driver.) You’ll learn pre- and post-trip vehicle inspection, vehicle load and trip start practices, prohibited practices and use of special equipment unique to transporting passengers. You’ll need to pass both a written and road test. The endorsement is good as long as the CDL is. The cost of a CDL passenger endorsement is approximately $65-$130 depending on your state.
S Endorsement
The S endorsement is similar to a P endorsement but is much more specific for school buses. Training for circumstances and situations unique to transporting children include:
- Use of mirrors
- Understanding danger zones for children
- Emergency procedures
- Railroad crossings
- Managing your student passengers
After training is completed, you will also need to pass a written test, road test and background check. A school bus endorsement can cost between $85-$180. Then the endorsement is good as long as your CDL remains valid.
T Endorsement
The T endorsement allows you to drive double or triple trailers. You’ll undergo special training and learn about the specific skills and risks of hauling multiple trailers, including coupling and uncoupling the trailers, preventing roll-overs, understanding the whip-crack effect and checking air brakes. Once you’ve successfully passed a written exam, you have this endorsement as long as you keep the CDL in good standing. The cost of a T endorsement test is $15-$30 depending on your state.
X Endorsement
The X endorsement on a CDL is a combo endorsement that incorporates both tanker and HAZMAT training. It’s essentially the H and N endorsements (and their requirements) combined into one. Once completed, you’ll be authorized to drive a tanker or other vehicles with hazardous materials. The more restrictive qualifications for an H also apply to the X endorsement. An H endorsement costs between $115-$150.
What Are CDL Restrictions?
Just as endorsements are additions to your CDL, restrictions are subtractions or limitations to your license. This reduces the kinds of vehicles you may operate or what types of loads you may carry. Restrictions are not always a reflection of your ability but may simply be based on your age (i.e. between 18-21), the vehicle type you were tested on or any disqualifying medical conditions. To maximize your opportunities, you may want to consider taking the necessary steps to get the restrictions removed. Common restrictions include:
- E restriction limits you to a commercial vehicle with an automatic transmission. (restricts you from operating a manual).
- L restriction restricts you from driving a vehicle with full air brakes.
- M and N restrictions lower the class of passenger vehicles you may drive with your P or S endorsements down to a B class (an A class CDL with an M restriction) or a C class (a B class CDL with an N restriction).
- O restriction limits the operator to commercial vehicles without a fifth-wheel connection. This is a big one to consider resolving or removing to maximize your potential.
- V restriction is added when the operator has a medical condition that has been reported to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and could be a potential hazard or impairment.
- Z restriction limits you from operating a commercial vehicle with full air brakes if you completed your road test in a vehicle with air over hydraulic brakes.
Choosing the Right Endorsements
Choosing the right CDL endorsement can significantly enhance your trucking career by expanding your job opportunities and increasing your earning potential. To select the best endorsement, consider the following factors:
1. Career Goals
- Long Haul vs. Local: If you prefer local routes and consistent home time, endorsements like P (Passenger) or S (School Bus) may be better suited for you. For long-haul, higher-paying jobs, endorsements like H (Hazmat) and X (Hazmat & Tanker) are in demand.
- Specialized Freight: If you want to haul specialized freight like fuel, chemicals, or liquid goods, a N (Tank Vehicle) or H (Hazmat) endorsement will open doors to these opportunities. Double/Triple trailers (T) can also be valuable for long-distance, high-volume freight jobs.
2. Earning Potential
- Endorsements often lead to higher pay, especially in specialized fields like hazardous materials or oversized loads. X (Hazmat & Tanker) and H (Hazmat) endorsements usually offer a significant wage increase due to the added responsibility and risk. Similarly, P (Passenger) and S (School Bus) drivers may enjoy steady pay and benefits in more stable sectors.
3. Job Market Demand
- Research the demand for different endorsements in your region or desired location. For example, if you’re near industrial or chemical hubs, H (Hazmat) and N (Tanker) endorsements might be highly sought after. If there’s a need for public transportation or school bus drivers, P (Passenger) and S (School Bus) endorsements could offer job stability.
4. Skills and Preferences
- Consider your skills and driving preferences. Hauling hazardous materials (H) requires a higher level of safety knowledge and risk management, while driving double/triple trailers (T) involves more complex maneuvering. If you enjoy transporting passengers and interacting with people, the P (Passenger) or S (School Bus) endorsement could be a great fit.
5. Cost vs. Benefit
- Factor in the costs and requirements of each endorsement. Endorsements like H (Hazmat) and X (Hazmat & Tanker) come with additional expenses, such as background checks and security screenings, but often lead to higher-paying job opportunities. On the other hand, endorsements like T (Double/Triple Trailers) or N (Tank Vehicle) are less expensive to obtain and still expand your job options.
6. Company Requirements
- Some trucking companies may require specific endorsements depending on the type of freight they transport. Research companies you’re interested in working for to determine if they value particular endorsements or offer higher wages for drivers with them.
By aligning your endorsement choices with your career goals, industry demand, and personal preferences, you can maximize your career growth and earning potential in the trucking industry.
How to Get CDL Endorsements?
Driver’s license endorsements can make a significant impact on your flexibility with available jobs and increased earnings. In order to get them, you’ll need to take additional classes and pass either written tests, road tests or both. Some endorsements may require additional considerations, such as a background check. The cost of most endorsement classes is relatively minimal and can easily be made up quickly with the boost in earnings from your ability to transport more unique loads.
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