What are the different CDL endorsements and Classes?

As a truck driver, you have many options available to you. While you can stick to hauling basic freight, accepting other types of cargo can significantly increase your earning potential.

You may be able to receive numerous trucker endorsements depending on the class of your commercial driver’s license (CDL). These CDL endorsements can help you earn more money with less work. With that in mind, we’ll go over the many types of CDL endorsements and CDL endorsement codes so you can get a head start on your career.

How many CDL endorsements are there?

The process of obtaining endorsements varies by state. On a CDL, there are six different endorsements that can be added. More thorough definitions of each endorsement can be found further down this page.

CDL Endorsement List

(P) Passenger Transport Endorsement

(S) School Bus/Passenger Transport Combo Endorsement

(T) Double/Triples Endorsement

(N) Tank Vehicle Endorsement (Tanker)

(H) Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HAZMAT)

(X) Tanker/HAZMAT Combo Endorsement

Requirements for obtaining a CDL endorsement

You should state which endorsements you plan to achieve when applying for your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). With a CLP, certain states may initially limit you to three endorsements. Bypassing additional exam requirements, such as special road abilities or written tests, you can add endorsements to your existing CDL.

You’ll have to pay a small fee and pass additional road skills or written tests to get each CDL endorsement (sometimes both). Beyond the original CDL process, most endorsements do not require an extra road skills test, background check(s), or periodic re-testing.

The Dangerous Materials (HAZMAT) endorsement is an exception, as there are stricter requirements for transporting hazardous materials. More information about the HAZMAT Endorsement can be found below.

(H) Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT)

Hazardous products, such as flammable and combustible liquids, gases, or other explosives, require an H Endorsement.

You’ll need to:

• Take a written knowledge test HME
• Submit an application for a TSA Security Threat Assessment
• Take your fingerprints to a location that is authorized to collect them. Two types of identification are required (driver’s license and DOT medical card).
• You may be required to retake a written test to keep your endorsement in the future.

(N) Tank Vehicle

With an N endorsement, you’ll be able to drive a tank vehicle with a permanent or temporary tank attached to the vehicle. Tank vehicles are built to deliver the liquid or liquefied gaseous materials in a safe manner.

You will be required to take a written knowledge test.

(P) Passenger Transport

A P endorsement allows you to drive a vehicle with a specific number of passengers (i.e. commuter bus)

• You must pass a written knowledge test
• You’ll also be required to pass a road skills exam.

(S) School Bus/Passenger Transport

If you have an S endorsement, you can drive a school bus

• You must pass a written knowledge test
• You will also be required to pass a road skills test in a suitable vehicle
• An S Endorsement necessitates the completion of a specific application form, payment of fees, and background checks
• When you renew your driver’s license or want to advance to a higher-class license in some states, you’ll be re-tested for current knowledge of school bus legislation
• You may be required to pass a periodic physical examination to keep your S Endorsement
• You can also expect a criminal background check, a driver’s license record check, and, in some states, a national criminal background check
• To get an S endorsement, you must first get a P endorsement. For more information, please see the P – Passenger Transport guidelines.
• For more information, contact your state’s DMV.

(T) Double/Triples

• You can tow a double or triple trailer with a T endorsement
• You will be required to take a written knowledge test.

(X) Tanker and Hazardous Materials

• You can transport hazardous goods in a tank vehicle with the combination “X” endorsement
• You must pass a written knowledge test.

Which CDL endorsements should I get?

The more endorsements you have, the better your prospects of earning more money and building a strong foundation for future success. You never know where your next job opportunity will come from, and having more endorsements might help you stand out to recruiters. Having additional endorsements may also allow you to trade up to a higher-paying career if the opportunity arises. Ask about it. It’s difficult to find a veteran driver who regrets getting an endorsement because it led to more work opportunities.

With the exception of HAZMAT, which is a little more difficult, taking an endorsement test may be reasonably inexpensive (about $20, on average). Finally, depending on the endorsement you want, the cost varies per state. When you acquire an endorsement, keep in mind that you’ll need to renew it when you renew your CDL.

CDL Class: A, B, and C License

CDL Class A Certification

First and foremost, you will wonder what endorsements are required for class A CDL. You can have one or more of the following Class A CDL endorsements if you have a Class A license:

(H) Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT)

(N) Tank Vehicle

(P) Passenger Transport

(S) School Bus/Passenger Transport

(T) Double/Triples

(X) Tanker and Hazardous Materials

CDL Class B Certification

You can have one or more of the following Class B CDL endorsements if you have a Class B license:

(H) Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT)

(N) Tank Vehicle

(P) Passenger Transport

(S) School Bus/Passenger Transport

(X) Tanker and Hazardous Materials

CDL Class C Certification

You must have one or more of the following Class C CDL endorsements if you have a Class C license:

(H) Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT)

(P) Passenger Transport

(S) School Bus/Passenger Transport

Where Can I Find the CDL practice test for each CDL Endorsements?

If you are planning to get your CDL Licence, let’s get started with our free CDL practice test pack for all CDL endorsements on this website. Our practice tests are all free and available for all 51 states in the U.S. Let’s start your trucker career with us!

You can gain endorsements when you achieve your Class A, Class B, or Class C commercial driver’s license. CDL Endorsements give you permission to drive specific sorts of commercial vehicles and move certain types of products. Endorsements might be thought of as “additional permissions.”