If you’re thinking about becoming a truck driver, you’re going to need a Commercial Driver’s License, or CDL for short. There are different types of CDLs, and each one lets you drive different kinds of vehicles. In our blog, we break down the types of CDL licenses and the extra endorsements you can get to drive a wider range of vehicles. Knowing this information can help you make the best decision about where to obtain your CDL training and the types of jobs that could be in your future.

Types of CDL Licenses

There are three main types of CDL licenses: Class A, Class B, and Class C. Each class allows you to drive different types of vehicles.

Class A CDL

A Class A CDL is like the big ticket in the trucking world. With this license, you can drive almost any type of commercial vehicle, including large trucks that weigh over 26,001 pounds. These are the big rigs you pass along the highway, which include tractor-trailers, flatbeds, and tankers. If you’re interested in long-haul trucking, this is the license you’ll want to acquire.

Class B CDL

A Class B CDL is for driving smaller commercial vehicles that also weigh over 26,001 pounds but don’t have a trailer weighing over 10,000 pounds. With this license, you can drive things like dump trucks, delivery trucks, and buses. It’s perfect if you want a job driving locally or regionally without handling the super long trailers.

Class C CDL

A Class C CDL is required if you plan to drive smaller commercial vehicles that carry 16 or more passengers (like a bus) or haul hazardous materials. Even though it’s the smallest of the CDL classes, it’s still important if you’re interested in specialized jobs like driving a school bus.

Types of Endorsements

Now that you know about the different types of CDL licenses, let’s talk about endorsements. Endorsements are like add-ons to your CDL that let you drive more specialized vehicles or carry specific types of cargo. Here are some common endorsements you might consider:

T Endorsement

This endorsement lets you pull double or triple trailers. If you’re aiming to drive a truck with more than one trailer, this is required.

P Endorsement

The “P” stands for passengers. With a P endorsement, you can drive vehicles that carry passengers, like buses or shuttles. If you love working with people and plan to pursue a job in this field, this endorsement is for you.

H Endorsement

H is for hazardous materials, also known as “hazmat.” With this endorsement, you can transport dangerous goods like chemicals or flammable liquids. This endorsement requires extra testing and a background check because of the risks involved, so make sure you plan accordingly for the timing involved to attain such an endorsement prior to applying for a job.

N Endorsement

The N endorsement allows you to drive tank vehicles. These are trucks that carry liquids in large tanks, like milk, gasoline, or chemicals.

X Endorsement

An X endorsement is a combo of the H (hazmat) and N (tanker) endorsements. If you plan on driving a tanker that carries hazardous materials, this is the endorsement for you.

S Endorsement

The S endorsement is specifically for school bus drivers. If you want to drive a school bus, you’ll need this endorsement, which ensures you understand the special rules and responsibilities that come with transporting kids.

Where to Go for Training

Now that you know what type of license you want, it’s time to find the proper truck driving school for you. At ASC Technical Institute, you can complete your Truck Driving CDL in just five weeks, from the first course to graduation. The curriculum includes comprehensive training, log record keeping, hazardous materials procedures, and more. Learn more online.

Getting your CDL opens a world of opportunities in the trucking industry, but knowing which types of CDL licenses and endorsements to get is crucial when it comes time to apply. ASC Technical Institute wants students to have the proper licensure or endorsements in hand, so students have an edge above other job applicants.

Whether you’re aiming for long-haul trucking with a Class A CDL, or you want to drive a school bus with a Class C and an S endorsement, there’s a path that fits your interests. Now that you know the basics, you’re one step closer to hitting the road! Enroll online today.

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