CDL Endorsements
Getting A CDL Endorsement
If you’re pursuing a career in truck driving or bus driving, getting your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is the first big step. But if you really want to stand out, unlock better pay and expand the number of job opportunities, you’ll want to consider getting CDL endorsements.
CDL endorsement holders typically earn $15,000-$25,000 more than the average truck driver. The average salary for a truck driver with CDL endorsements is between $90,000 to $150,000 per year.
These special driver certifications can be added to your CDL license, allowing you to operate specific types of vehicles or haul specialized cargo. Let’s break down why CDL endorsements matter, how to get them and how Driving Academy can help you earn yours.
Why Get A CDL Endorsement?
CDL endorsements aren’t just a bonus, they’re a trucking career game changer. Here’s why:
Earn More Money
Drivers with endorsements are in higher demand, so companies are willing to pay more for them. Typically 10-30% more.
More Job Opportunities
Multiple endorsements makes you more versatile and gives you access to a broader range of trucking jobs.
Safer Drivers
Each endorsement needs additional training and testing. So you're a more skilled, responsible and safe driver.
Join the 1000’s of students who got their CDL with endorsements at Driving Academy
Types of CDL Endorsements
There are several types of endorsements you can add to your CDL, each one tailored to a specific vehicle or type of cargo:
H – Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT): Required to transport dangerous goods like chemicals or flammable liquids.
N – Tank Vehicles: For operating trucks that haul liquids or gases in a tank.
X – Combination of Tank & HAZMAT: This combo endorsement covers both categories.
T – Doubles/Triples: Needed for pulling more than one trailer.
P – Passenger Vehicles: Allows you to drive vehicles that carry passengers, such as buses.
S – School Bus: A specialized endorsement for school bus drivers (must already have the “P” endorsement).
How Do You Get A CDL Endorsement?
Here is a brief breakdown of the steps to get a CDL endorsement added to your license.
Step 1
Meet The Requirements
- Be at least 18 years old for in-state driving.
- Be at least 21 years of age for hazardous materials, school bus or passenger endorsements.
- Have a valid driver’s license or commercial driver’s license.
Step 2
Study For Endorsement Exams
Each endorsement has its own written knowledge test. You’ll need to understand safety regulations, handling procedures and vehicle-specific operations. So study, study study!
Driving Academy students can access our in-depth study guides and practice tests to prepare for the endorsement exams
Step 3
Pass the Written Test at the DMV
When you’re ready, schedule the knowledge test at your local DMV. They must be taken there in person. You can take the Endorsement Exams on the same day as your CDL Permit Test or on different days.
Some, but not all states, offer the knowledge tests in other languages like Spanish.
Background Check
In order to get your (H) Hazmat or (S) School Bus endorsement, you’ll need to undergo a background check to ensure you’re trustworthy to handle this precious or volatile cargo.
Testing In A Bus
If you’re getting your Passenger (P) or School Bus (S) endorsement, you will need to take/retake your CDL road test in a bus (specifically a school bus for the (S) endorsement.)
Ready To Add Endorsements To Your CDL?
Adding endorsements to your CDL is one of the smartest moves you can make in the trucking industry. Whether you’re looking for a pay raise, more job security or just want to be the best driver you can be, endorsements will help you get there.
Driving Academy is here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today to start earning the CDL endorsements that will drive your future forward.
Frequently Asked Questions CDL Endorsments
Absolutely! In fact, many drivers choose to get multiple endorsements to increase their flexibility and value in the job market.
Most endorsements remain valid on your license as long as your CDL is active, but some, like HAZMAT, do require periodic renewal and background checks.
Yes! You can return to your local DMV to take additional tests and add endorsements at any time.
In order to get a passenger or school bus endorsement, you will need to retake the road/skills test in a passenger or school bus.
The hardest CDL endorsement to get is probably the HAZMAT (H) endorsement, especially when combined with the Tanker (N) endorsement to get the HAZMAT + Tanker (X) combination endorsement).
The hazardous materials endorsement requires passing a TSA Security Threat Assessment, including fingerprinting and a federal background check, which can disqualify applicants based on criminal history or immigration status.
The written test is also more complex than others, covering hazardous material classifications, emergency procedures, federal regulations and proper warning placards. On top of that, it must be renewed more frequently and carries higher legal responsibility due to the volatile nature of the cargo.
The X endorsement adds the challenge of mastering liquid surge control in tank vehicles, making it even more demanding.
While other endorsements like School Bus (S) or Doubles/Triples (T) have their own difficulties, none require the same level of federal screening, testing and ongoing compliance needed for the HAZMAT endorsement.
The HAZMAT endorsement typically offers the highest pay of any truck driving because it qualifies drivers to haul hazardous materials. These come with greater risk, responsibility and legal regulation. Companies are willing to pay more for drivers who can safely transport dangerous goods like chemicals, fuel, explosives or toxic substances, as these loads require specialized training and strict safety protocols.
In addition, fewer drivers hold the HAZMAT endorsement due to the extra requirements.
The combination of high risk, specialized skill and limited supply drives up wages for HAZMAT-certified CDL holders.
