Top 11 Local Truck Driver Certifications

Certifications are important for local truck drivers in the job market because they demonstrate a driver's knowledge and skill level. This can give employers assurance that the driver is qualified to operate a commercial vehicle, as well as provide employers with information about the driver’s experience. Certifications also indicate that the driver has taken the time to pursue additional training, which can be beneficial when competing for jobs against other drivers. Furthermore, some certifications may be required by certain employers or even states in order to legally drive a commercial vehicle. Having these certifications on hand can make it easier for local truck drivers to find employment opportunities in their area.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Local Truck Drivers and explain how they can provide a competitive edge in the trucking industry.

What are Local Truck Driver Certifications?

Local truck driver certification is a program that provides truck drivers with specialized instruction and training to ensure they are properly qualified to operate vehicles in their local area. This type of certification teaches the driver how to safely navigate the roads and highways in their specific region, as well as teaching them about relevant state and federal regulations. The program also provides instruction on proper loading, unloading, and securement procedures for cargo. Local truck driver certification is beneficial because it helps drivers become more knowledgeable in their work environment, making them safer and more efficient. It also helps employers protect themselves from liability issues by ensuring that all of their drivers have been trained properly.

Pro Tip: Make sure you are familiar with the local truck driver certification requirements in your area. Familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations for obtaining a local truck driver license, as well as any other special certifications or endorsements that may be required. Additionally, take advantage of any training opportunities available to ensure you stay up-to-date on industry best practices.

Related: What does a Local Truck Driver do?

Top 11 Local Truck Driver Certifications

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

1. Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)

A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is a type of license issued by the state that allows an individual to operate commercial motor vehicles (CMV). It is required for anyone who operates a vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, transports hazardous materials, or transports 16 or more passengers. The CDL also provides additional endorsements for specialized operations such as double/triple trailers, tankers, and passenger transport.

To obtain a CDL license, applicants must pass both a written knowledge test and a skills test. The written knowledge test covers topics such as traffic laws and regulations, safety practices, vehicle inspections, and emergency procedures. The skills test includes an on-road driving portion and an off-road pre-trip inspection portion.

The amount of time it takes to get a CDL depends on the individual's experience level and the number of tests they need to take. For those with no prior experience operating CMVs, it can take up to several months before they are able to obtain their license.

The cost of obtaining a CDL varies from state to state but typically ranges from $50-$100 depending on the endorsements needed. Additional fees may be required for retesting if the applicant fails any portion of the exam.

2. Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME)

Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME) is a special endorsement that must be added to a commercial driver’s license (CDL). It allows the holder to transport hazardous materials in interstate commerce. This endorsement is required by the Department of Transportation and is regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

It typically takes up to three weeks for an applicant to receive their HME. The process includes passing a written test, completing a security threat assessment, and providing fingerprints. Applicants must also pass a physical exam, provide proof of citizenship or legal residency, and have at least two years of verifiable driving experience.

The cost of obtaining an HME varies by state but generally ranges from $50-$100. Some states may require additional fees such as background checks or fingerprinting services. Additionally, applicants may need to pay for any required training courses or tests.

Overall, obtaining an HME is an important step for those who wish to transport hazardous materials in interstate commerce. The process can take several weeks and requires passing multiple tests and providing various documents; however, the cost is relatively low compared to other CDL endorsements.

3. Tanker Endorsement (TK)

Tanker Endorsement (TK) is an endorsement on a commercial driver’s license (CDL) that allows the holder to operate a tank vehicle. Tank vehicles are used to transport hazardous materials and liquids, such as gasoline, diesel fuel, and propane. To obtain a TK endorsement, the applicant must pass a written knowledge test and a skills test. The written knowledge test covers topics such as tanker safety, loading/unloading procedures, pre-trip inspections, emergency response plans, and more. The skills test requires the applicant to demonstrate their ability to safely operate the tanker vehicle in various situations.

The process of obtaining a TK endorsement typically takes several weeks from start to finish. First, applicants must register with their local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or other licensing agency to take the written knowledge test. Once they have passed the test, they can then schedule an appointment for the skills test. After passing both tests successfully, applicants will receive their TK endorsement on their CDL.

The cost of obtaining a TK endorsement varies by state but generally ranges from $50-$100 for both tests combined. In some states there may also be additional fees associated with registering for and taking the tests.

4. Air Brake Endorsement (ABE)

The Air Brake Endorsement (ABE) is a type of endorsement that must be added to a commercial driver’s license (CDL) in order to operate vehicles equipped with air brakes. This endorsement is required for all vehicles that have air brakes, including buses, trucks, and trailers. The ABE test covers the knowledge and skills needed to safely operate a vehicle with air brakes.

How long does it take to get an ABE? It usually takes about two hours to complete the written exam and the practical test. Depending on the state you are applying in, you may also need to pass a vision test or provide proof of medical certification before taking the tests.

How do I get an ABE? You will need to contact your local DMV office or CDL testing center for more information on how to apply for an ABE. You will likely need to provide proof of identification and payment for the tests before being allowed to take them.

How much does it cost? The cost of an ABE varies by state, but typically ranges from $20-$50 per test. Additionally, some states may require additional fees such as application fees or administrative fees.

5. Double/Triple Trailer Endorsement (DTE/TTE)

A Double/Triple Trailer Endorsement (DTE/TTE) is a special endorsement on your commercial driver’s license (CDL) that allows you to operate a vehicle with two or three trailers attached. It requires additional training and testing in order to be approved for the endorsement.

It typically takes about four weeks to complete the process of getting a DTE/TTE endorsement. The first step is to contact your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and request the necessary paperwork. You will need to fill out an application, provide proof of identity, and pass a written test. Once you have completed the paperwork, you will need to take a road test in order to demonstrate your ability to safely handle the larger vehicle with multiple trailers attached.

The cost for obtaining a DTE/TTE endorsement varies by state, but generally ranges from $30-$50. Additionally, there may be fees associated with taking the written and road tests.

Overall, obtaining a DTE/TTE endorsement is essential if you want to drive vehicles with multiple trailers attached. It requires additional training and testing in order to become certified, but it can open up new opportunities for those looking for work as truck drivers or other related positions.

6. Passenger Vehicle Endorsement (PVE)

Passenger Vehicle Endorsement (PVE) is a special endorsement on a driver’s license that allows the holder to drive vehicles carrying passengers for hire. This includes buses, taxis, limousines, and other commercial passenger vehicles.

In order to obtain a PVE, an individual must first meet certain requirements including passing a knowledge test and completing an approved training program. The knowledge test covers topics such as vehicle safety, customer service, and applicable laws and regulations. The training program focuses on teaching the driver how to safely transport passengers in their vehicle.

The process of obtaining a PVE can take up to several weeks depending on the state in which you live. In some states, you may be able to apply online or by mail. Other states require that you visit your local DMV office in person.

The cost of obtaining a PVE varies from state to state but typically ranges from $50-$100. Some states also require applicants to pay additional fees for background checks or fingerprinting services.

7. School Bus Endorsement (SBE)

School Bus Endorsement (SBE) is a special endorsement for commercial drivers who operate school buses. It requires additional training and knowledge beyond the standard Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). This endorsement is required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to ensure that all school bus drivers are properly trained and qualified to transport children safely.

In order to obtain an SBE, applicants must first complete a state-approved school bus driver training course. The length of the course will vary by state, but generally takes between 10 and 20 hours. During the course, applicants will learn about safety procedures, defensive driving techniques, loading/unloading students, and other important topics related to operating a school bus.

Once the training is completed, applicants must pass a written exam in order to receive their SBE. The exam covers topics such as traffic laws, vehicle maintenance, and emergency procedures. After passing the exam, applicants must pass a road test in order to demonstrate their ability to safely operate a school bus.

The cost of obtaining an SBE varies by state but generally ranges from $100-$200 for both the training and testing fees. In some states, there may also be additional fees for background checks or medical exams that are required before receiving an SBE.

8. Combination Vehicle Endorsement (CVE)

A Combination Vehicle Endorsement (CVE) is a type of commercial driver’s license (CDL) endorsement that is required for drivers who operate vehicles with multiple trailers, such as tractor-trailers. Drivers must pass a written knowledge test and a skills test in order to obtain this endorsement.

It typically takes between 3-4 weeks to get your CVE endorsement. To start the process, you will need to fill out an application at your local DMV and provide proof of identity, residency, and other necessary documents. You will also need to pay the applicable fees.

Once you have completed the application process, you can take the written knowledge test at your local DMV or third party testing facility. The written knowledge test covers topics such as vehicle inspection, air brakes, hazardous materials, and driving safety. Once you pass the written knowledge test, you will be able to take the skills test which includes driving on public roads with a combination vehicle.

The cost of obtaining a CVE endorsement varies from state to state but typically ranges from $50-$100 depending on the state's requirements.

9. Cargo Tank Endorsement (CTE)

Cargo Tank Endorsement (CTE) is a special endorsement for commercial drivers who wish to transport hazardous materials in cargo tanks. This endorsement requires additional training and testing beyond what is required for a regular commercial driver’s license (CDL).

The length of time it takes to get the CTE depends on the state you live in, but generally it can take up to six weeks. To get the endorsement, you must first pass a written test and then complete a skills test. The written test covers topics such as hazardous material regulations, loading and unloading procedures, emergency response plans, and tank vehicle inspection requirements. The skills test includes pre-trip inspections, coupling/uncoupling procedures, and driving maneuvers.

The cost of getting the CTE varies by state but typically ranges from $50-$100. You may also need to pay for additional training or testing materials if required by your state.

10. Medical Examiner’s Certificate

A Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC) is a document that verifies that an individual has been medically cleared to perform certain tasks or activities. It is issued by a medical examiner who is certified by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The MEC is required for commercial drivers in order to operate a commercial motor vehicle in interstate commerce. It must be renewed every two years.

To get a MEC, applicants must first pass a physical exam and provide proof of their identity and medical history. The exam includes vision, hearing, and blood pressure tests as well as urine tests for drugs and alcohol. After the exam, the medical examiner will review the results and issue the certificate if all requirements are met.

The cost of getting an MEC varies depending on where you live and what type of exam you need. Generally, it costs around $100-$150 for the initial physical exam and $50-$75 for each subsequent renewal.

It usually takes about one to two weeks to get your MEC after you have completed your physical exam. However, some states may require additional paperwork or tests which can delay this process further.

11. Defensive Driving Course Certificate

A Defensive Driving Course Certificate is a document that proves an individual has successfully completed a defensive driving course. The certificate is typically issued by the organization providing the course and can be used to demonstrate that the individual has been trained in safe driving techniques.

The length of time it takes to get a Defensive Driving Course Certificate will vary depending on the course provider. Generally, it takes between four and eight hours to complete a defensive driving course, although some courses may take longer or shorter depending on their content.

To obtain a Defensive Driving Course Certificate, individuals must register for and complete an approved defensive driving course. Most courses are offered online or in-person at local schools, community centers, or other organizations.

The cost of a Defensive Driving Course Certificate will vary depending on the provider and type of course taken. Generally, online courses cost between $20 and $50 while in-person classes may cost up to $100 or more.

Do You Really Need a Local Truck Driver Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on several factors. First, it is important to consider what kind of truck driving job you are seeking. If you are looking for a job as a local truck driver, then yes, you would need to obtain a local truck driver certificate. This certificate is typically obtained through the state department of motor vehicles or similar agency and is required in order to operate a commercial motor vehicle within the state. Additionally, many employers require applicants to have a valid local truck driver certificate before they can be considered for employment.

It is also important to consider if you have any other relevant qualifications or experience that could help you land the job without having to obtain a local truck driver certificate. For example, if you have prior experience with driving trucks or operating heavy machinery, this could be beneficial in some cases and may be enough for certain employers to hire you without requiring the additional certification.

Ultimately, it is up to each individual person and employer as to whether or not obtaining a local truck driver certificate is necessary in order for someone to get hired as a local truck driver. However, having the certification can help demonstrate competence and professionalism and make one more appealing as an applicant compared with those who do not have such credentials.

Related: Local Truck Driver Resume Examples

FAQs About Local Truck Driver Certifications

1. What is a local truck driver certification?

Answer: A local truck driver certification is a credential that verifies the individual has the necessary knowledge and skills to safely and legally operate a commercial motor vehicle within a specific locality.

2. How long does it take to get certified?

Answer: The duration of the certification process varies depending on the geographical location and type of license, but typically takes between 4-6 weeks.

3. What are the requirements for obtaining a local truck driver certification?

Answer: Requirements vary by state, but generally include passing written tests, providing proof of identity, completing medical exams, and submitting to background checks. Additionally, some states may require additional training or certifications for specialized vehicles or hazardous materials.

4. Is there an age requirement for obtaining a local truck driver certification?

Answer: Generally, applicants must be at least 18 years old to obtain a local truck driver certification; however, some states may have different age requirements based on their regulations.

5. Are there any costs associated with obtaining a local truck driver certification?

Answer: Yes, there are fees associated with obtaining a local truck driver certification which can range from $50-$100 depending on your state’s regulations and licensing requirements.