An endorsement on a CDL license is a permission granted to a driver, authorizing him/her to operate certain types of commercial motor vehicles, and handle any goods these vehicles may carry.
Processes for obtaining these endorsements vary, but typically drivers will at least need to pass a written knowledge exam, undergo training specific to the endorsement, and pay a fee to their state’s DMV. Other endorsements may require a background check, an additional road skills test, or a combination with another endorsement.
List of CDL Endorsements
There are 6 types of endorsements drivers can receive with their CDL.
P Endorsement - The P endorsement is otherwise known as a Passenger endorsement. The P endorsement allows drivers to operate a vehicle with 15 passengers or more. To obtain your P endorsement, you usually need to pass a written knowledge exam and a skills test.
P endorsements allow you to operate buses/service buses, limousines, airport shuttles, vans, livery vehicles, cabs, etc. Driving a vehicle large enough to seat numerous people can be difficult in and of itself. It also requires communication, interpersonal skills, and good judgment.
S Endorsement - An S endorsement, or the School Bus endorsement, allows drivers to operate a school bus. Drivers with an S endorsement will also need their P endorsement allowing for passengers. After obtaining the P endorsement, drivers will be required to pass a written knowledge test, as well as a skills test, a background check, and a driver’s license record check.
You may also need to re-test your knowledge of updated school bus regulations upon renewal of your driver's license. Driving a bus full of students can be hectic, but rewarding for the skilled driver who enjoys working with children.
T Endorsement - A T endorsement allows a driver to tow a double or triple trailer. With the ability to operate a double/triple, you may be seen as more marketable to future carriers. To receive the T endorsement, you will need to pass a written doubles and triples knowledge test.
Depending on the state, drivers may only be permitted to drive a double, since triples are not permitted in some states. Regardless, it is a good endorsement to have since you can haul more cargo and it strengthens your skill set.
N Endorsement - An N endorsement authorizes one to operate a tanker vehicle. Tankers transport liquid and even gases from one location to the next. In order to operate a tanker truck, you will need to pass a written knowledge tanker test, and receive training to operate a tanker.
An N endorsement allows drivers to operate trucks that either have a permanently mounted tank, or a portable one designed to hold 1,000 gallons or more. With an N endorsement, you are not able to transport Hazmat materials and would need an additional H endorsement if you wanted to do so.
H Endorsement - An H endorsement, or Hazmat endorsement, is required for drivers who wish to transport hazardous materials like flammable or otherwise dangerous liquids and gases. To receive an H endorsement, you will need to pass a written knowledge test, complete a TSA security threat assessment, and need to be fingerprinted. You also must be trained to operate a tanker truck, and may be required to retest your written knowledge for future license renewal.
Since Hazmat drivers handle hazardous materials daily, it is important for them to be familiar with standard procedures, and to have proper driving skills that lead to the safe transportation of these goods.
X Endorsement - The X endorsement is a combination of the HAZMAT (H) and Tanker (N) endorsement. It authorizes drivers to operate a tanker truck transporting hazardous materials. To receive the X endorsement, drivers need to pass a written knowledge HAZMAT test, and undergo training to operate a tanker truck.
While there are some hazardous materials not transported in a tanker, most Hazmat drivers seek out the X endorsement because of its versatility. Being able to haul large amounts of hazardous goods, like gasoline, is a specialized skill that is needed and valued in the industry.
What Other Requirements do I Need to Get CDL Endorsements?
Again, requirements for CDL endorsements vary depending on the one you seek. Aside from taking the necessary written knowledge and skills tests, it is important to also understand that you need to meet the requirements for a valid CDL.
Generally, you can receive a CDL at the age of 18, but will not be authorized to cross state lines until you are at least 21 years of age. This is usually the case even if you possess certain endorsements. In addition to age requirements, you will likely be expected to have a high school diploma, or a GED equivalent.
Endorsements make drivers more marketable, giving them the experience and knowledge needed to hold certain trucking positions. You can learn more about endorsements and license restrictions with this further reading. Or, if you’re looking for your next trucking position, explore trucking jobs near you today!