As a commercial driver, getting an X endorsement on CDL can be the ticket to enter an advanced career. The X endorsement combines both the H (Hazmat) and N (Tanker) endorsements that will legally enable you to carry hazardous materials in a tanker truck. This will bring high-paying opportunities and position you as a specialized driver in very high demand. In this guide, we’re going to take you step by step through the entire process involved in getting an X endorsement on your CDL and set you on the path to success.
What is X endorsement on CDL?
X endorsement on the CDL certifies a driver to operate a commercial vehicle carrying hazardous materials in a tanker. Putting it simply, the X endorsement is the hybrid of two separate endorsements, which are:
- N Endorsement: in the case of drivers operating tank vehicles used for carrying liquid or gaseous materials.
- H Endorsement: Required to transport hazardous materials as defined by federal regulations.
X endorsement allows drivers to drive a vehicle with bulk quantities of hazardous materials – liquids that can be flammable, other similar types of chemicals, or gases. This endorsement also takes up drivers with goals to increase their earnings and scope.
CDL X endorsement requirements
For an application of X endorsement, you must have a valid Commercial Driver’s License; this is the basic one that makes you eligible to attach any special endorsement. A CDL proves your qualification in the fact that you have passed all the necessary skills and knowledge tests showing the capability to safely drive commercial vehicles in a responsible manner.
Here is what holding a valid CDL involves and why it is important with regard to the X endorsement:
- Demonstrated driving ability: A CDL verifies that you have undergone training and testing to operate commercial vehicles, including driving, safety, and comprehensive operational skills.
- State compliance and good standing: Your CDL must be in good standing without current suspensions, disqualification, or serious convictions for traffic offenses. If your CDL has certain infractions in the past, it will affect your eligibility for the X endorsement.
Therefore, holding a valid CDL is the first and foremost criteria. You can explore from A to Z about how to get a CDL by following our guide here.
Besides having a valid CDL, you also have to take 2 more knowledge tests which are Tank endorsement and Hazmat endorsement to complete your X endorsement addition on your CDL.
How to obtain an X endorsement on CDL?
Once holding a valid CDL, the next mission is to pass both the N and H endorsement tests. The step by step way to successfully ace these tests is guided below:
Pass the N endorsement knowledge test
The X endorsement is added to your CDL one part by passing the N endorsement knowledge test, which is also known as the Tank Vehicle Endorsement Test. It is required in cases where you would be driving tank vehicles with a capacity of at least 1,000 gallons used for transporting hazardous or liquid materials in bulk. Hence, the format of the test and the key topics to help you get ready for the test are discussed below:
Test format
The test for the N endorsement consists of 20 multiple-choice questions. Every state may have their slight modification of the test; nevertheless, the central content of this test stays the same: about special problems and safety peculiarities of driving a tank vehicle. You will mostly need to get at least 80% of the questions right to pass. The test is mostly computer-based and can normally be taken at your local Department of Motor Vehicles or licensing office.
Key topics covered
The N endorsement test is designed to test your knowledge about the operation and safety of tank vehicles. Key topics you will find under examination include:
- Vehicle dynamics and load control: Tanker trucks transport liquids, so their dynamics are much different from other commercial vehicles. This test covers the impact of the liquid’s motion on driving: terms like slosh and surge, which affect the way it will stop, turn, and maneuver.
- Safe loading and unloading: The topic underpinning ways to safely load and discharge liquid cargo without spillage, contamination, or hazardous chemical reactions. You also need to know the best practices for ensuring secure cargo transfer; recognizing and minimizing hazards.
- Specialized tank equipment: Most of the tankers are equipped with special equipment, including baffles for liquid motion control, hoses, and valves. The test checks your knowledge of such features and how they help in the safe transportation of liquid cargo.
- Emergency procedures and accident procedures: Part of tanker driving is knowing how to handle the rig in an emergency. You will be required to show how to handle various emergencies that might arise like spills, leaks, or rollovers by responding quickly and safely to eliminate further risks.
- Environmental and regulatory compliance: You should also be conversant with the key federal and state regulations that surround the operation of tank vehicles, including those by the DOT on the safe transportation of hazardous materials.
Take the N endorsement practice test right now!
Passing the N endorsement means you partly complete your X endorsement.
Pass the H endorsement knowledge test
Besides taking the N endorsement test, acquiring the X endorsement on your CDL requires that you pass the H endorsement knowledge test on hazardous material transportation. Commonly known as the Hazmat endorsement test, it is designed to ensure that you realize the very strict safety protocols and regulations regarding the handling, transportation, and response to hazardous material situations. Specific details on test format and key topics for preparation include:
Test format
The H endorsement knowledge test generally consists of 30 multiple-choice questions. Requirements for the number of questions and passing scores differ by states, but typically you’ll need to score 80% or above to pass the test. Computer-administered at DMV or licensing offices, the test is time-limited to assure that drivers are able to make safe, well-informed decisions under pressure. Also, you will be required to clear a federal background check through the Transportation Security Administration, or TSA, before you can sit for the test.
Key concepts covered
The H endorsement test will cover a broad range of topics related to hauling Hazmat. These questions help you demonstrate that you can handle potentially hazardous cargo safely. Following are the major areas you should focus your studying on:
- Hazardous material identification and classification: You have to identify and classify hazardous materials correctly according to regulations set forth by the DOT. This includes knowledge of classes of hazards: explosives, flammable liquids, corrosives, and other classes of hazardous materials.
- Labeling, marking, and placarding: Proper labeling and placarding of Hazmat materials are crucial to ensure safety and compliance. The test covers topics related to the proper display of correct labels and placards on tankers to ensure that proper identification by emergency responders and the public of any associated risks is accomplished.
- Handling and securing hazardous materials: The safe handling and securement of hazardous materials are most important for transportation. Some questions of the test cover procedures to prevent cargo shifts, leaks, or spills during transportation of any Hazmat materials, and how those materials are properly secured to minimize all risks.
- Loading/unloading procedures: There are some precautions to be followed during the loading and unloading of dangerous goods to avoid hazardous situations. You will be taught protocols and safety measures to be enforced for ensuring the safety of cargo transfer, equipment checks, and monitoring techniques.
- Emergency response procedures: The test deals with the preparedness for rapid and proper responses in the event of an accident or spill. It covers various emergency procedures from area isolation to the use of spill containment equipment through notifications to authorities as set by federal guidelines.
- Regulatory compliance and recordkeeping: Safety in carrying hazardous materials requires being complacent with State and federal regulations. Test questions include legal requirements for transporting Hazmat, including how to keep shipping papers, records of inspections, and proper documentation.
Take the H endorsement practice test here!
Since adding an X endorsement on CDL does not require a skill test, once you pass the Hazmat test combined with the Tanker test, your mission of adding the letter “X” on your CDL is completed!
FAQs
1. Do I need to take extra tests rather than N and H to obtain an X endorsement?
No, besides the N (Tanker) and H (Hazmat) endorsements to get an X endorsement, you are not required to take any other extra test. X endorsement is a combination of the N and H endorsement that allows the transportation of hazardous material in a tank vehicle.
2. How much does the X endorsement test cost?
All states have a different charge for the X endorsement, but it’s anything between $30 and $100. It will pay for a TSA background check and for the endorsement test.
Final thoughts
Adding an X endorsement on CDL is a good career investment for a commercial driver, as it opens opportunities not only for specialty hauling but also increases earning potential and job security. If you are interested in getting an X endorsement on your commercial driver’s license, this guide will help you take a detailed look at the CDL X endorsement requirements and ways through which you could pass these tests with flying colors. Take some time to study, meet the qualifications, and in no time you’ll be driving hazardous materials in those tankers with ease!
