Top 10 CDL Driver Certifications

Certifications for CDL drivers are important in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that a driver is qualified and knowledgeable in their field. A certification shows that a driver has taken the time and effort to gain a higher level of expertise, which can give them an edge when it comes to job opportunities. Additionally, certifications can provide evidence of additional safety training and advanced knowledge, which can be beneficial for employers looking for experienced and reliable drivers. In some cases, certifications may even be required by law or regulation.

The article reviews some of the top certifications for CDL Drivers and explains how they can help advance a CDL Driver's career.

What are CDL Driver Certifications?

CDL Driver Certification is a professional certification program that provides individuals with the necessary training and knowledge to operate commercial motor vehicles safely and efficiently. This certification is required by many states in order to obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The program covers topics such as basic vehicle operation, safety procedures, DOT regulations, pre- and post-trip inspections, defensive driving techniques, hazardous materials handling, cargo securement, air brake systems and more.

By becoming certified as a CDL driver, you prove your commitment to operating commercial motor vehicles responsibly. It also helps you stand out from other potential drivers who may not have the same level of expertise or training. As an employer, having employees who are CDL certified can reduce liability by assuring that their drivers are up to date on all relevant regulations and safety practices. Additionally, it can help improve fleet efficiency and reduce costs associated with accidents or violations due to improper training.

Pro Tip: Before applying for a CDL license, make sure to check the requirements of the state you are in. Each state has different regulations and requirements for CDL drivers, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with your state's specific laws prior to taking the certification test.

Related: What does a CDL Driver do?

Top 10 CDL Driver Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to CDL Drivers today.

1. Class A Commercial Driver’s License

A Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is a type of license issued by the state that allows an individual to operate a commercial motor vehicle with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more. This includes vehicles such as tractor-trailers, semi-trucks, and buses. It also allows the driver to tow another vehicle or trailer with a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or more.

In order to obtain a Class A CDL, applicants must meet certain requirements set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These include being at least 18 years old and having held a valid driver’s license for at least one year in their home state. Applicants must also pass knowledge and skills tests administered by their state's Department of Motor Vehicles.

The process of obtaining a Class A CDL can take anywhere from several weeks to several months depending on the individual's experience level and availability for testing. It typically costs between $50-$100 for the written tests and $150-$200 for the road test. Additionally, some states may require additional fees for background checks or other services related to obtaining a CDL.

2. Class B Commercial Driver’s License

A Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is a license that allows an individual to operate commercial motor vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more. This type of CDL is commonly used to drive large box trucks, dump trucks, and other large vehicles.

In order to obtain a Class B CDL, you must first meet the minimum requirements set by your state. These requirements usually include being at least 18 years old (21 for interstate driving), having a valid driver's license and passing a written knowledge test. You will also need to pass a skills test in order to demonstrate your ability to safely operate the vehicle you plan on driving.

Once you have met all the necessary requirements and passed the tests, you will be issued your Class B CDL. Depending on where you live, it can take anywhere from one day to several weeks for your license to arrive in the mail.

The cost of obtaining a Class B CDL varies depending on where you live and which tests you need to take. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $50-$200 for the written knowledge test and another $100-$300 for the skills test.

3. Tanker Endorsement

Tanker Endorsement is an additional certification that a commercial driver must obtain in order to transport hazardous materials or liquids. It is required by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and is typically obtained through a third-party testing center. The endorsement allows drivers to operate vehicles carrying hazardous materials, such as gasoline, diesel fuel, oil, and other flammable liquids.

The process for obtaining the Tanker Endorsement usually takes about two weeks from start to finish. The first step is to complete a training course that covers all aspects of safely transporting hazardous materials and liquids. After completing the course, applicants must pass a written exam administered by the DOT in order to receive their endorsement.

To get started on the process of obtaining your Tanker Endorsement, you will need to contact a third-party testing center in your area that offers the necessary courses and exams. You can find these centers online or by asking your local DMV office for more information. Once you have found a center, you will need to register for the course and pay any associated fees before taking the exam.

The cost of obtaining a Tanker Endorsement varies depending on where you take the course and exam, but it typically ranges from $50-$100 USD. This fee covers both the training course and the written exam required for certification.

4. Air Brakes Endorsement

An Air Brakes Endorsement is an additional qualification that must be added to your driver’s license if you plan to operate a vehicle with air brakes. Air brakes are used in commercial vehicles, such as buses and trucks, and require special knowledge and skills to operate safely.

To get an Air Brakes Endorsement, you will need to pass a written test at a local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office. The test covers topics such as the types of air brake systems, how they work, and safety procedures for operating them. You may also need to take a road test in order to demonstrate your understanding of the material covered in the written exam.

The amount of time it takes to get an Air Brakes Endorsement depends on how quickly you can complete the required tests. Generally speaking, it should take no more than a few hours from start to finish.

The cost of getting an Air Brakes Endorsement varies by state but typically ranges from $10-$50. You may also have to pay additional fees for taking the written or road tests.

In summary, an Air Brakes Endorsement is necessary if you plan to drive a commercial vehicle with air brakes. It requires passing a written test and possibly a road test at your local DMV office, and typically costs between $10-$50 depending on your state’s requirements.

5. Doubles/Triples Endorsement

Doubles/Triples Endorsement is an endorsement on a commercial driver's license (CDL) that allows the holder to legally drive vehicles with more than one trailer attached. This endorsement is necessary for drivers who wish to operate vehicles that are longer and heavier than standard vehicles, such as those used in long-haul trucking.

It typically takes about two weeks to receive a Doubles/Triples Endorsement after completing the application process. To get this endorsement, you must first pass a written test at your local DMV office. The written test covers knowledge of federal and state laws related to operating a vehicle with multiple trailers. After passing the written test, you will then need to take a road test in order to demonstrate your ability to safely operate the vehicle with multiple trailers.

The cost of obtaining a Doubles/Triples Endorsement varies by state but generally ranges from $20-$50. Additionally, some states may require additional fees or tests depending on the type of vehicle being operated.

6. Hazardous Materials (HazMat) Endorsement

Hazardous Materials (HazMat) Endorsement is a special endorsement that must be added to a commercial driver’s license (CDL) in order to transport hazardous materials. The endorsement is required by the Department of Transportation (DOT) and is regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

In order to obtain a HazMat endorsement, drivers must pass a background check, complete additional training, and pass a written exam. The background check includes fingerprinting and criminal history checks. Drivers must also provide proof of their U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency status.

The additional training covers topics such as hazardous materials identification, emergency response procedures, packaging and loading requirements, and security measures for transporting hazardous materials.

The written exam tests the driver’s knowledge of these topics as well as any applicable state or local laws related to transporting hazardous materials. The test can be taken at any authorized testing center or online through an approved provider.

It typically takes about two weeks for the background check to process and for the endorsement to be issued once all requirements are met. The cost of obtaining a HazMat endorsement varies depending on the state but usually ranges from $50 - $150 USD.

7. Passenger Endorsement

Passenger Endorsement is a type of commercial driver's license (CDL) endorsement that allows drivers to transport passengers in their vehicles. It is required for any driver who operates a vehicle with more than 16 passengers, including the driver, and is necessary for those who drive buses, shuttles, or other passenger vehicles.

The process of obtaining a Passenger Endorsement can vary depending on the state in which you live. Generally speaking, it requires passing both a written and road test administered by the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The written test will cover topics such as traffic laws, vehicle control, and passenger safety. The road test will assess your ability to safely operate a vehicle with passengers on board.

The cost of obtaining a Passenger Endorsement also varies by state but generally ranges from $50-$100. It typically takes between two to four weeks to receive your endorsement after completing all required tests and paperwork.

8. School Bus Endorsement

School Bus Endorsement is an additional endorsement to a commercial driver’s license (CDL) that allows the holder to operate a school bus. The school bus endorsement requires specialized knowledge and training in order to safely transport students.

It typically takes about four weeks to receive the School Bus Endorsement, depending on the state you live in. To get the endorsement, you must first pass a written test administered by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This test covers topics such as student safety, loading and unloading procedures, emergency evacuation plans, and basic vehicle maintenance. After passing the written exam, you will then need to complete a skills test with an examiner from the DMV. This test includes pre-trip inspections of the bus, demonstrating proper control of the vehicle during turns and stops, and performing a backing maneuver.

The cost for obtaining a School Bus Endorsement varies by state; however, it generally ranges between $50-$100. In addition to this fee, some states may require applicants to pay for additional testing or training courses before they can take their exams.

9. Combination Vehicle Endorsement

A Combination Vehicle Endorsement is a special license endorsement that allows drivers to operate combination vehicles, such as tractor-trailers or buses with trailers. This endorsement requires additional knowledge and skills beyond those required for a standard driver’s license.

In order to obtain a Combination Vehicle Endorsement, applicants must first pass the written knowledge test at their local DMV office. The written test covers topics such as vehicle inspection, air brakes, coupling and uncoupling procedures, and combination vehicle operation. Once the written test is passed, applicants must then pass the behind-the-wheel skills test in an appropriate combination vehicle.

The amount of time it takes to get a Combination Vehicle Endorsement depends on the individual state’s requirements and regulations. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from several days to several weeks to complete all of the necessary steps for obtaining this endorsement.

The cost of obtaining a Combination Vehicle Endorsement varies by state but typically ranges between $25-$50. In addition to the fee for taking the written and skills tests, some states may also require applicants to pay other fees such as an application fee or an insurance fee.

10. Tow Truck Operator Certification

Tow Truck Operator Certification is a certification that is required in order to operate a tow truck in many states. The certification is designed to ensure that tow truck operators are knowledgeable and qualified to safely and efficiently tow vehicles.

The length of time it takes to get Tow Truck Operator Certification varies by state, but typically it can take anywhere from two weeks to several months depending on the requirements of the specific state. Generally, applicants must complete an approved training course, pass a written exam, and have a valid driver’s license with no major violations or suspensions.

To get Tow Truck Operator Certification, applicants must first find an approved training program in their state and then register for the course. Depending on the state, courses may be available online or in person at a local college or trade school. After completing the course, applicants must pass a written exam administered by the state licensing board. Once all requirements have been met, applicants will receive their certification card and be able to legally operate a tow truck in their state.

The cost of Tow Truck Operator Certification varies by state and by provider, but typically ranges from $50-$300 depending on the length of the course and other factors.

Do You Really Need a CDL Driver Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your individual situation. If you plan to drive a commercial vehicle, such as a tractor-trailer, bus, or other large vehicle, then it is likely that you will need to obtain a CDL driver certificate in order to legally operate the vehicle. A CDL driver certificate is a special license issued by the government which allows individuals to safely and legally operate commercial vehicles.

In most cases, obtaining a CDL driver certificate requires taking a written test and passing an on-road driving test. The written test covers knowledge of traffic laws and regulations, while the on-road driving test tests your ability to safely maneuver and control the vehicle. Depending on the type of commercial vehicle you plan to drive, additional requirements may apply. For example, if you plan to transport hazardous materials or passengers over long distances, then you may need additional training or endorsements on your CDL driver certificate.

When deciding whether or not you need a CDL driver certificate for the job at hand, it is important to consider all of these factors before making your decision. In some cases, employers may require their drivers to have a valid CDL driver certificate in order to be eligible for employment. Additionally, some states have specific laws regarding who can and cannot operate certain types of vehicles without having an appropriate license. It is best practice to research all applicable laws and regulations before attempting to drive any kind of commercial vehicle without proper certification.

Related: CDL Driver Resume Examples

FAQs About CDL Driver Certifications

Q1: What is a CDL Driver Certification?

A1: A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is a type of driver’s license that is required in the United States to operate any type of vehicle weighing 26,001 pounds or more. It allows the holder to drive commercial motor vehicles such as tractor-trailers and buses.

Q2: How do I obtain a CDL Driver Certification?

A2: In order to obtain a CDL, you must first meet the requirements set by your state. These can include age requirements, background checks, medical exams, and completion of an approved training program. Once all requirements are met, you can apply for a CDL at your local DMV office.

Q3: How much does it cost to get a CDL Driver Certification?

A3: The cost of obtaining a CDL varies from state to state; however, most states require fees for the application process and testing fees. Additionally, some states may require applicants to purchase additional insurance coverage before they can receive their license.

Q4: How long does it take to get a CDL Driver Certification?

A4: The amount of time it takes to receive your CDL depends on several factors including how quickly you complete the necessary paperwork and tests as well as how long it takes for your state's DMV to process your application. Generally speaking, it usually takes between two weeks and two months from start to finish.

Q5: Are there different types of CDL Driver Certifications?

A5: Yes, there are different types of CDLs depending on the type of vehicle being driven and what types of cargo are being transported. Generally speaking there are three classes – A, B and C – with each one having its own set of restrictions and requirements.