Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Endorsements

CDL endorsements are special permits that allow CDL holders to operate certain types of commercial motor vehicles or haul certain types of freight. These are added to the CDL after you pass additional testing. Here’s a list of common CDL endorsements in the US and what they allow you to operate or haul:

1. H Endorsement (Hazardous Materials): Allows you to haul hazardous materials that require placarding under DOT regulations. You must pass a TSA background check in addition to the written test to get this endorsement.
2. N Endorsement (Tank Vehicles): Allows you to operate tank vehicles, which are designed to haul any liquid or gaseous materials in a tank that is either permanently or temporarily attached to the chassis. The tank must have a capacity of 1,000 gallons or more.
3. X Endorsement: Is a combination of the H (Hazardous Materials) and N (Tank Vehicles) endorsements. Allows you to haul hazardous materials in tank vehicles.
4. T Endorsement (Double/Triple Trailers): Allows you to tow double or triple trailers. A special knowledge test is required to test your knowledge of how to safely operate multiple trailers.
5. P Endorsement (Passenger): Required for drivers who will be hauling passengers, such as bus or shuttle drivers. This endorsement requires you to pass a knowledge test and a skills test in a passenger vehicle.
6. S Endorsement (School Bus): Allows you to operate a school bus. To get this endorsement you must first have the P (Passenger) endorsement and then pass additional tests, both written and driving, specific to school bus operation. A background check and a check against the national sex offender registry are also required.
7. F Endorsement (Air Brake): Not an endorsement in all states, but a restriction if you don’t pass the air brake portion of the general knowledge test. If your CDL is not restricted, it means you are qualified to operate vehicles with air brakes.

Note: Requirements for these endorsements can vary by state and there may be state specific endorsements available. Drivers seeking endorsements should check with their state’s DMV or similar agency for the most current requirements, testing and fees.