CDL Endorsements & Classes
Every CDL endorsement, what test you need to pass, and which jobs require it.
Class A — Combination
Tractor-trailers, semis, flatbeds, tankers with trailer. GCWR 26,001+ lbs, towed unit over 10,000 lbs.
Jobs: Long-haul trucker, flatbed driver, tanker driver
Class B — Straight Truck
Dump trucks, box trucks, cement mixers, city buses, delivery vehicles. Single vehicle 26,001+ lbs.
Jobs: Bus driver, dump truck, delivery
Class C — Other
Vehicles 16+ passengers or placarded hazmat not meeting Class A/B.
Jobs: Shuttle driver, hazmat delivery, paratransit
Endorsements
Hazardous Materials
Class ALL
Required to transport hazardous materials requiring placarding. Requires a TSA security threat assessment (background check) in addition to passing the HazMat knowledge test.
Tank Vehicles
Class ALL
Required to drive vehicles with permanently mounted cargo tanks of 1,000 gallons or more, designed to transport liquid or gaseous materials.
Passenger Transport
Class B
Required to drive vehicles designed to carry 16 or more passengers (including the driver), such as buses, charter coaches, and large shuttles.
School Bus
Class B
Required to drive a school bus. Must be obtained in addition to the Passenger (P) endorsement. Covers school bus-specific safety rules and procedures.
Doubles/Triples
Class A
Required to pull double or triple trailers. The knowledge test covers the safe operation and coupling/uncoupling of multiple-trailer combinations.
HazMat + Tanker (Combo)
Class ALL
A combined endorsement for drivers who hold both the H (HazMat) and N (Tanker) endorsements. Required when transporting hazardous liquids or gases in a tanker.
How to Get Your CDL
- Get a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) by passing the General Knowledge test + any needed endorsement tests
- Hold your CLP for at least 14 days
- Pass the CDL skills test: pre-trip inspection, basic controls, and road test
- Pay your state's licensing fee — your CDL is issued