If you are a trucking driver looking to increase your income and have increasingly specialized jobs, adding a T endorsement on your CDL license is the perfect choice. T endorsement or doubles and triples endorsement allows you to haul longer combination vehicles (LCVs). But are you qualified for this endorsement? And how to get a T endorsement?
This post will address all your concerns related to T endorsement. At the end of this post, you can understand what exactly T endorsement is, what benefits it entails, how the requirements can be satisfied, and how to add this endorsement. Let’s get started!
What is T endorsement on CDL?
The T endorsement is well known as the doubles and triples endorsement, enabling the CDL holder to pull multiple trailers at one time. In other words, the T endorsement provides drivers a qualification to operate vehicles called Longer combination vehicles – LCVs.
Obtaining a T endorsement on your CDL brings several benefits, specifically:
- Carry more loads: LCVs consist of a single tractor pulling two or even three trailers, permitting drivers to haul larger loads more efficiently.
- Higher-paying jobs: Having a T endorsement opens the door to higher-paying jobs since drivers hauling multiple trailers are usually paid more money per mile than hauling only one.
- Minimal additional equipment: Holders of T endorsement only carry a power unit and a pintle hook, making it economical since there are fewer capital investments in expanding the operation. This pattern also allows the driver to make necessary coupling and uncoupling to move larger loads without huge additional investment in specialized equipment.
The regulations for doubles and triples endorsement vary from state to state. Some states have put a limit on the number of trailers, length, and weight of trailers allowed on their highways. For example, according to Michigan’s law on CDL endorsement, drivers with a T endorsement do not allow the use of triple trailers. It is recommended that you carefully read your state’s laws before pursuing T endorsement to make sure you will be compliant.
Getting the T endorsement is not a warrant that you are always hauling multiple trailers, but it is an option, opening up more job opportunities and increasing your pay.
What are the requirements for a CDL T endorsement?
To apply for a T endorsement, drivers must fulfill certain requirements. According to the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC), here is a breakdown of what a driver needs to pursue a T endorsement:
- Age requirement: Shall be at least 18 years old to drive within one state. If you want to drive interstate or transport hazardous materials, school buses, or passengers, you must be at least 21 years old with at least three years of driving experience.
- Vision requirements:
- Must have 20/40 vision in each eye with or without corrective lenses
- Have 70 degrees of peripheral vision in each eye
- Red, green, and amber colors can be recognized
- Valid CDL: Class A CDL is required for driving vehicles that have more than one trailer. Drivers who do not have CDL should get the license before applying for the T endorsement.
- Written test: You are required to pass a written test for T endorsement to ensure you comprehend knowledge to handle double and triple trailers safely.
How to add T endorsements on CDL?
To add the T endorsement to your CDL, follow our step-by-step guide as follows:
Obtain a valid CDL
As mentioned above, you cannot apply for the T endorsement without a valid CDL. If you are a beginner in trucking, then first get your CDL.
To learn more about how to get a CDL, you can read this post.
Schedule an appointment
Set an appointment with the nearest state’s Department of Motor Vehicles – DMV for any other additional process that you need to go through and schedule a date to take the written test. Some states can have additional requirements to obtain a T endorsement, which includes some paperwork and fees. The fee for a T endorsement varies by state, for example, adding a T endorsement costs $58 in California.
Prepare for the T endorsement written test
The T endorsement written test requires the applicant to answer 20 questions with at least 80% correct answers. It includes topics on coupling/uncoupling procedures, how to inspect the truck and trailer, how to stabilize, and safety for driving under diverse weather conditions.
Take the CDL doubles and triples practice test now!
Carefully review all these contents and practice regularly to pass the written test.
Take the written test
When you are ready, take the written test taken at your nearest DMV or one of their licensed testing centers. After you have passed the test, you will pay to have it placed on your CDL.
Practice driving with multiple trailers
While no practical driving test is required for the T endorsement, it is highly recommended that you practice driving with multiple trailers under guidance when possible. It will build your confidence before you hit the road on your own.
Get your new CDL with the T endorsement
If you pass the written test, your new CDL with the T endorsement included on the license will arrive by email.
FAQs
1. What is double triple in trucking?
Double triple refers to the ability of a trucking driver to haul two or three trailers simultaneously. You are allowed to operate this type of truck if you have a T endorsement on your CDL.
2. What is the letter for CDL doubles and triples endorsement?
The letter “T” on your CDL represents doubles and triples endorsement, qualifying you to haul double or triple trailers.
3. What is the highest-paid CDL endorsement?
The highest-paid CDL endorsement typically depends on the job market. However, endorsements such as N (tanker vehicle), X (tanker and hazardous materials), or H (hazardous materials) mostly have higher salaries since they involve greater risk and responsibility.
4. How many questions are on the triple and double?
The T endorsement test contains 20 questions. To achieve a passing score, you must get at least 80% of the questions correct. Some areas covered are coupling/uncoupling, inspecting the truck and trailers, and techniques for the stabilization of multi-trailers.
Final thought
With a T endorsement on CDL, you can better secure career opportunities within the trucking industry. This would require studying for written tests and learning particular state rules and regulations. However, the better pay and wider job opportunities will make it well worth the time. So, take this endorsement seriously and start your journey to obtain a T endorsement on your CDL today! If you need any assistance, CDL Prep is always willing to help!
