L Restriction – Air Brakes

What is the L Restriction or Air Brakes Restriction

The L restriction is applied to the CDL of a driver who has taken their skills test in a vehicle not equipped with air brakes. In practical terms, this means the driver is not authorized to operate a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) equipped with air brakes. Below we talk about how to remove l restriction.

Air brakes are a type of brake system that uses compressed air to apply pressure to the brake pads, causing the vehicle to slow or stop. They are commonly used in larger vehicles, such as semi-trucks and buses, due to their power and reliability.

Implications of the Air Brakes Restriction – L Restriction

When a driver has an L restriction on their CDL, it limits the range of vehicles they can legally operate. As many larger commercial vehicles use air brake systems, the restriction can significantly impact a driver’s employment opportunities. For instance, many long-haul trucking jobs and bus driving roles require the ability to operate vehicles with air brakes.

While vehicles not equipped with air brakes, such as those using hydraulic brakes, can still be driven by a driver with an L restriction, these are typically smaller vehicles. They may not be suitable for certain commercial applications, such as hauling large amounts of freight or transporting a significant number of passengers.

Lifting the L Restriction

How to Remove Air Brakes Restriction CDL

The process of removing the L restriction involves the driver successfully passing an air brakes knowledge test and a skills test in a vehicle equipped with air brakes. These tests are designed to ensure that the driver understands the operation and maintenance of air brake systems.

The air brakes knowledge test typically covers topics such as the components of an air brake system, how the system functions, the proper usage of air brakes, and how to identify and fix common problems.

The skills test involves operating a vehicle equipped with air brakes in a controlled environment, demonstrating competence in using the air brake system effectively and safely. This includes showing an understanding of when to use air brakes, how to apply them correctly, and how to monitor and maintain air pressure levels.

Learn more about CDL restrictions here.
Colorado GOV on L restriction.