What are CDL endorsements?

• Class A

• Class B

• Class C

Trailer gross weight rating restrictions separate Class A and Class B. Class A license allows you to drive tractor-trailers, while a Class B license clears you to drive straight trucks, box trucks, and large passenger buses.

A Class C license allows you to drive smaller vehicles, like passenger vans and certain delivery trucks. Most local truck driving positions require a CDL license. There are different kinds of trucks and trailers to handle different types of loads.

Trucks and other commercial vehicles come in different classes:

• Class 3 medium-duty trucks have a weight limit of 10,001-14,000 pounds. Mainly contractors and last-mile delivery drivers use this class

• Class 4 medium-duty trucks have a weight limit of 14,001-16,000 pounds. These are heavier trucks, but they're still classified as non-commercial

• Class 5 medium-duty trucks have a weight limit of 16,001-19,500 pounds. Many of the lightest commercial trucks are categorized as Class 5

Once you have obtained a CDL, you can then seek to obtain endorsements. There are six different types of CDL endorsements:

• T Endorsement

  T endorsements are for CDL drivers that want the legal ability to pull two to three trailers behind their commercial vehicle. The T endorsement can be obtained by passing a written test.

• P endorsement

  P endorsements are for CDL holders that drive vehicles with passengers of 16 or more people. This mostly applies to different types of buses, like metro buses and school buses, but can also apply to shuttles. The process for obtaining this endorsement includes a skills test and a knowledge test.

• N endorsement

  N endorsement is for CDL holders that drive vehicles with tanks that hold gas or liquid. It is normally available for all classes of CDL and requires passing a written test.

• H endorsement

  The H endorsement is one that enables CDL holders to drive vehicles that transport hazardous waste and materials. A knowledge test must be passed to gain this endorsement.

• X endorsement

  The X endorsement is a mixture, or hybrid, of the N endorsement and the H endorsement. This enables you to haul hazardous liquids or gasses in a truck. You must pass a knowledge-based test to obtain the X endorsement.

• S endorsement

  The S endorsement is strictly for CDL holders that are school bus drivers. This endorsement is for anyone who transports students to and from school. This also includes other functions, like field trips. A background check, knowledge, and skills test are required.