CDL Endorsements That Advance Your Truck Driving Career

If your CDL helps you start a new career, endorsements help you take it to the next level by opening access to new jobs, routes, and higher-paying opportunities.

What are CDL Endorsements?

An endorsement to your Commercial Driver’s License allows you to haul regulated freight. That means you are qualified to haul cargo requiring specialized training to transport safely.

Earning an endorsement often requires passing a written knowledge exam. Some, however, require an additional assessment. But they all can add significant value to your trucking career.

There are six main endorsement types. Each requires at least an additional test beyond your standard CDL exam, and some require background checks or a skills test.

Types of Endorsements

H – Hazardous Materials

The Hazmat endorsement lets you haul toxic chemicals, fuels, nuclear waste, and flammable gases. Note that the Hazmat endorsement requires a TSA background check.

N – Tank Vehicles

Tank endorsement qualifies you for hauling liquid or gaseous materials in containers over 119 gallons or a combined capacity exceeding 1,000 gallons.

X – Hazmat + Tanker Combo

The X endorsement automatically appears when you hold both H and N endorsements. This combination opens the highest-paying positions hauling liquid hazardous materials like gasoline and chemical products.

T – Double/Triple Trailers

Doubles/Triples endorsement allows CDL A holders to pull multiple trailers at the same time.

P – Passenger Vehicles

Bus and shuttle operators need a Passenger endorsement, which qualifies you to operate vehicles carrying 16 or more people.

S – School Bus

Similar to the Passenger endorsement, but the School Bus endorsement requires a background check, since they often transport children.

Which Endorsements Can I Get?

Your CDL class determines your options:

• Class A drivers can get all endorsements
• Class B holders qualify for all except Double/Triple Trailers
• Class C operators can pursue Hazmat, Passenger, and School Bus endorsements only

Of the endorsements you’re eligible for, you can pursue any or all, depending on which routes you’d like to drive. Every endorsement is not necessary for every driver, but the more you have, the more jobs you can apply for.

How to Earn Commercial License Endorsements

The process of obtaining endorsements varies by endorsement type and your state’s regulations; most only require an additional written test.

Written and Skills Test Requirements

Federal standards require CDL knowledge tests to contain at least 30 questions, and you need 80% correct answers to pass. Your testing requirements depend on which endorsement you’re pursuing:

Knowledge test only:

• Hazmat
• Tank
• Double/Triple Trailers

Knowledge and skills tests:

• Passenger Vehicles
• School Bus

TSA Background Checks for Hazmat

Hazmat endorsement applicants must complete a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security threat assessment (a background check). You’ll need to complete:

• Fingerprinting at an authorized enrollment center
• Proof of citizenship or lawful permanent residency
• Required documentation with exact name matches

In Kansas, you can expect to pay approximately $86.50 for the standard fee, though drivers with a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) qualify for a reduced rate of $41.00. Background check results typically take 30-60 days.

When Should I Get my Endorsements?

Many drivers get their endorsements while they’re completing the initial CDL training program. Those drivers can take care of all their training at the same time and be fully ready to launch their career after graduation.

Others may want to establish themselves as drivers before learning the additional skills and taking the evaluations. It’s a personal choice for each driver to make.

Conclusion

Your endorsement choices influence your trucking career path. Drivers who possess certifications that command a premium in today’s competitive market.

According to the ATA, the trucking industry moves 71% of America’s freight yet faces a critical shortage of 51,000 qualified drivers—projected to hit 170,000 by 2026. Without endorsements, your CDL allows you to find a solid job with stable, competitive pay.

Consider your endorsement strategy an investment in career security. The trucking industry’s ongoing driver shortage means qualified, endorsed professionals will continue commanding top positions and premium pay. Choose endorsements that align with your career goals—your future earning potential depends on the decisions you make today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are CDL endorsements worth it?

Absolutely. Endorsements cost relatively little to obtain and require skills most drivers can learn while they train for their CDL. Having endorsements gives you access to many better, higher-paying jobs, potentially adding thousands of dollars to your income annually.

Which endorsements are most in demand?

Three endorsements employers seem to be looking for: X (Tanker + Hazmat) for fuel and chemical transport, T (Doubles/Triples) for less-than-truckload efficiency, and N (Tanker) for growing bulk liquid demand.

Will I need to renew my endorsements?

Some endorsements are permanent, others require renewal.

• Hazmat: Every 5 years
• Tanker: Renews with your CDL
• Doubles/Triples: Renews with your CDL