Want to Do Even More with Your CDL? CDL Classes and Endorsements

Getting a commercial driver license (CDL) is similar to getting a regular driver license. Sure, the process is a little more involved, but overall there’s requirements, studying, permits, testing, and, well, more testing to consider.

Also similar to a regular driver license, a CDL offers different classes and endorsements. These help drivers broaden their employment opportunities, but they don’t come cheap. You have to do your research (and your studying and testing) to get exactly what you need.

Your state’s commercial driver handbook fully explains CDL classes and endorsements and the kinds of testing and other requirements you must meet to obtain them.

For now, use the lists below to get you started.

The 3 CDL Classes

Thanks to the Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1986, every state has the same three CDL classes:

• Class A: You can operate any combination of vehicles with a GCWR of 26,001 if the vehicle you’re towing weighs more than 10,000 pounds.
• Class B: You can operate a single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 or more pounds; you can operate any such vehicle towing another vehicle weighing fewer than 10,000 GVWR.
• Class C: You can operate a Class C vehicle that transports hazardous materials and requires a placard; with endorsements and employment, you can operate a 16-passenger van (including yourself).

Add Endorsements to Your CDL

It might seem like the three CDL classes above have it covered, but you can actually broaden your scope with additional CDL endorsements.

Each of the following CDL drivers license endorsements requires additional testing, as noted.

• T: Double/Triple Trailers (requires a knowledge test).
• P: Passenger Vehicles (requires both a knowledge and a skills test).
• N: Tank Vehicles (requires a knowledge test).
• H: Hazardous Materials (requires a knowledge test and the TSA Threat Assessment).
• X: Tank Vehicle/Hazardous Materials Combination (same requirements).
• S: School Buss (requires both a knowledge and a skills test).

Commercial Driver License Employment

Getting the commercial driving gig you want means obtaining a commercial driver license with the proper CDL classes and endorsements.

Do you drive a commercial vehicle? What class is your CDL? What endorsements do you have?