CDL Endorsements Guide: H, N, P, S, T, X Explained

What Are CDL Endorsements?

Endorsements are additional qualifications added to your CDL that authorize you to operate specific types of vehicles or carry certain kinds of cargo. Each endorsement requires passing an additional knowledge test, and some require a skills test or background check.

You can add endorsements at any time after receiving your CDL. The tests are taken at your state DMV, and fees are typically $10 to $25 per endorsement. Most drivers find the tests manageable with a few days of studying the relevant sections of the CDL manual.

H - Hazardous Materials (Hazmat)

The Hazmat endorsement authorizes you to transport hazardous materials that require placarding under federal regulations. This includes chemicals, explosives, flammable liquids, gases, and radioactive materials.

Requirements

• Pass the Hazmat knowledge test at the DMV
• Pass a TSA security threat assessment (background check and fingerprinting)
• Complete ELDT Hazmat training from a registered provider
• Be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
• Renewal required every 5 years (with new TSA check)

The TSA background check takes 4 to 6 weeks and costs around $86. Plan ahead because you cannot haul hazmat loads until the check clears and the endorsement is printed on your license.

N - Tanker Endorsement

The Tanker endorsement is required when hauling any liquid or gaseous material in a tank or tanks having an individual rated capacity of more than 119 gallons and an aggregate rated capacity of 1,000 gallons or more.

Requirements

• Pass the Tanker knowledge test at the DMV
• No additional background check or skills test needed

The tanker test covers liquid surge, proper loading, weight distribution, and emergency procedures. Tanker drivers need to understand how liquid movement affects vehicle handling, especially during braking and turning. Browse tanker jobs to see current openings.

X - Hazmat + Tanker Combination

The X endorsement is simply the combination of both the H (Hazmat) and N (Tanker) endorsements. You need it to haul hazardous materials in a tanker vehicle, such as fuel tankers carrying gasoline or diesel.

To earn the X endorsement, you must pass both the Hazmat and Tanker knowledge tests and complete the TSA background check. Fuel hauling is one of the highest-paying segments in trucking, and the X endorsement is your entry ticket.

P - Passenger Endorsement

The Passenger endorsement allows you to operate vehicles designed to carry 16 or more passengers, including the driver. This covers city transit buses, charter buses, and airport shuttles.

Requirements

• Pass the Passenger knowledge test at the DMV
• Pass a passenger vehicle skills test (driving a bus)
• Complete ELDT Passenger training from a registered provider

Bus driving positions often provide excellent benefits, union representation, and predictable schedules. Transit agencies in major cities consistently need qualified drivers.

S - School Bus Endorsement

The School Bus endorsement authorizes you to drive a school bus. You must also hold the P (Passenger) endorsement to get the S endorsement.

Requirements

• Hold the P (Passenger) endorsement
• Pass the School Bus knowledge test
• Pass a school bus skills test
• Complete ELDT School Bus training from a registered provider
• Additional state background check (varies by state)

School bus drivers enjoy split shifts (morning and afternoon), summers off, and the satisfaction of serving their community. Districts across the country face chronic driver shortages, so demand is strong.

T - Double/Triple Trailers

The T endorsement authorizes you to pull double or triple trailers. This is only available with a Class A CDL since you need to be licensed for combination vehicles.

Requirements

• Hold a Class A CDL
• Pass the Doubles/Triples knowledge test at the DMV
• No additional skills test required

Double and triple trailer operations are common with LTL (less-than-truckload) carriers like FedEx Freight, XPO, and Old Dominion. These jobs often pay well and operate on consistent schedules, typically overnight runs between terminals.

How Endorsements Boost Your Pay

Endorsements increase your value because they expand the types of freight you can legally haul. Fewer drivers have endorsements, which means less competition and higher pay for those who do.

Our recommendation: if you already have your CDL, the Hazmat endorsement offers the best return on investment. The background check takes time, so start the process now while you are driving. Adding the Tanker endorsement at the same time to get the X combo is a smart move since the additional test is straightforward.

Sources: FMCSA CDL & Endorsements · TSA Hazmat Endorsement Program

Frequently Asked Questions