All CDL Endorsements (and Classes That Can Have Them)

CDL endorsements are additional certifications that allow drivers to operate specific types of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) or to haul particular types of cargo. Each endorsement is associated with a unique letter and requires passing a specialized knowledge test, and in some cases, a skills test.

Here is a list of all CDL endorsements and classes that can have them

CDLs are divided into three classes: Class A, Class B, and Class C.
Here’s a breakdown of the available endorsements and the classes that can get them:

H Endorsement – Hazardous Materials  

Allows drivers to transport hazardous materials in specified quantities, as defined by federal regulations.
Applicable to Class A, B, and C CDL holders.
Learn more about HM Endorsement here.

N Endorsement – Tank Vehicles

Allows drivers to operate tank vehicles designed to transport liquids or gases in bulk.
Applicable to Class A and B CDL holders.

P Endorsement – Passenger Vehicles

Allows drivers to operate vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
Applicable to Class A, B, and C CDL holders.

S Endorsement – School Bus

Allows drivers to operate a school bus designed to transport students to and from school or school-related activities.
Applicable to Class A, B, and C CDL holders.

T Endorsement – Doubles/Triples

Allows drivers to operate a tractor-trailer combination with two or three trailers.
Applicable to Class A CDL holders only.

X Endorsement – Hazardous Materials and Tank Vehicles

Combination of the H and N endorsements, allowing drivers to transport hazardous materials in tank vehicles.
Applicable to Class A and B CDL holders.

Quick List of which CDL class can have which endorsement 

Class A CDL holders have access to the following CDL endorsements:

• H endorsement (Hazardous Materials)
• N endorsement (Tanker Vehicles)
• P endorsement (Passenger Vehicles)
• S endorsement (School Bus Transport)
• T endorsement (Double and Triples) 
• X endorsement (Combination endorsement – Tanker and Hazardous Materials)

Class B CDL holders have access to the following CDL endorsements:

• H endorsement (Hazardous Materials)
• N endorsement (Tanker Vehicles)
• P endorsement (Passenger Vehicles)
• S endorsement (School Bus Transport)
• X endorsement (Tanker and Hazardous Materials)

Class C CDL holders have access to the following CDL endorsements:

• H endorsement (Hazardous Materials)
• P endorsement (Passenger Vehicles)
• S endorsement (School Bus Transport)

Endorsements allow CDL holders to demonstrate their specialized knowledge and skill sets for driving certain types of vehicles or transporting certain types of cargo, broadening their employment opportunities within the trucking industry.

Please note that the requirements and specific endorsements available may vary by state. Always consult your local DMV or other licensing authority for the most accurate and up-to-date information on CDL endorsements and eligibility.
Learn more about DMV here.

Check out all the articles we have about Endorsements.