Top 11 Tractor Trailer Driver Certifications

Certifications are an important part of a tractor trailer driver's job market. They demonstrate that the driver has taken the time and effort to learn the necessary skills and knowledge to operate a tractor trailer safely and effectively. With certifications, prospective employers know they are getting someone who is qualified to do the job. Certifications also allow drivers to obtain higher-paying positions or promotions within their current place of employment. Finally, certifications provide a sense of pride for truck drivers in knowing that they have achieved a certain level of proficiency in their work.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Tractor Trailer Drivers and explains how they can help to advance a driver's career.

What are Tractor Trailer Driver Certifications?

Tractor trailer driver certification is a type of certification that requires drivers to gain additional training and knowledge in order to operate large commercial trucks. The certification is necessary for any driver who plans on operating a tractor trailer, semi-truck, or other large commercial vehicle. This certification is designed to ensure that drivers are properly trained and qualified to safely handle the responsibility of operating these large vehicles.

The certification includes courses in defensive driving, safety regulations, and accident prevention. It also covers topics such as cargo loading, securement, and basic vehicle operation. In addition to classroom instruction, students must complete behind-the-wheel training and pass a written exam in order to receive the certification.

Having this certification can help drivers in several ways. It can give employers confidence that their drivers are knowledgeable about the legal requirements for operating large vehicles, as well as how to do so safely. It also provides an opportunity for experienced drivers to demonstrate their qualifications and experience with potential employers. Additionally, having this certification may make it easier for individuals looking for work as a tractor trailer driver since many employers require this type of certification before hiring someone for this position. Finally, it can provide peace of mind by ensuring that the driver has received the proper training needed to safely operate these vehicles.

Pro Tip: Make sure to get all of your certifications up to date before applying for a tractor trailer driver job. Many companies require you to have a valid commercial driver’s license, medical certificate, and other certifications in order to be considered for the position.

Related: What does a Tractor Trailer Driver do?

Top 11 Tractor Trailer Driver Certifications

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

1. Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)

A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is a type of driver's license issued by the state in which you reside that is required to operate any type of vehicle that transports goods or passengers for hire. It is also required for vehicles over 26,000 pounds, vehicles designed to carry more than 15 passengers, and any vehicle used to transport hazardous materials.

The process of obtaining a CDL varies from state to state, but typically involves passing a written test and completing a road test with an examiner. Depending on the type of CDL you are seeking, additional tests may be required. For instance, if you are seeking a HazMat endorsement, you will need to pass an additional background check and knowledge test.

In most states it takes approximately 2-4 weeks to obtain a CDL. The cost of obtaining a CDL varies depending on the state in which you reside and the type of license you are seeking. Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $50-$200 for the written exam and $100-$400 for the road test.

2. Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME)

Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME) is a special endorsement required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for any commercial driver’s license (CDL) holder who transports hazardous materials. It is designed to ensure that drivers are properly trained and qualified to transport these materials safely.

It usually takes approximately two weeks to receive an HME after applying for it. To get an HME, you must first complete a Hazardous Materials Training course approved by the FMCSA. This course covers topics such as proper packaging and labeling of hazardous materials, emergency response procedures, and other safety regulations related to transporting hazardous materials. After completing the course, you must pass a written test and submit an application form with your CDL number, proof of training completion, and payment of the applicable fee.

The cost of an HME varies depending on the state in which you live. Generally, it costs between $50-$100 for the application fee and $30-$50 for the training course fee.

3. Air Brake Endorsement

Air Brake Endorsement is an additional certification that must be obtained in order to drive a vehicle equipped with air brakes. Air brakes are used on large trucks, buses, and trailers. To obtain the endorsement, drivers must pass a written knowledge test and a practical skills test. The tests are administered at the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

The written knowledge test covers topics such as: how air brakes work, how to inspect them, how to operate them in different conditions, and the consequences of not following proper procedures when using air brakes. The practical skills test requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to perform an inspection on an air brake system, correctly apply the brakes while driving, and properly adjust the brakes when necessary.

The process of obtaining an Air Brake Endorsement usually takes a few hours depending on the wait time at the DMV. Drivers should arrive early and bring all necessary documents such as proof of identity and residency. Applicants must also pay a fee for taking the tests which varies by state but is typically around $50-$100 USD.

Once both tests have been passed successfully, applicants will receive their Air Brake Endorsement which will be added to their driver’s license or permit. This endorsement will allow them to legally operate vehicles with air brakes on public roads.

4. Tanker Endorsement

Tanker Endorsement is a certification that allows individuals to transport hazardous materials (HAZMAT) in tanks. It is required by the US Department of Transportation and can be obtained from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

To get a Tanker Endorsement, you must first pass the Hazardous Materials Test. This test covers topics such as proper labeling, loading, unloading, and emergency response procedures for HAZMAT transportation. After passing this test, you will need to fill out an application form and submit it to your local FMCSA office. The process usually takes about two weeks to complete.

The cost of obtaining a Tanker Endorsement varies depending on the state where you are applying. Generally, it costs between $50-$100 for the application fee plus any additional fees associated with taking the Hazardous Materials Test.

Overall, obtaining a Tanker Endorsement is an important step for anyone who wants to transport hazardous materials in tanks safely and legally.

5. Doubles/Triples Endorsement

Doubles/Triples Endorsement is an endorsement to a commercial driver’s license (CDL) that allows drivers to operate vehicles with two or more trailers. This endorsement is required for drivers who wish to tow more than one trailer, such as those used in trucking and transportation.

The process of obtaining the Doubles/Triples Endorsement typically takes about two weeks. To obtain this endorsement, applicants must first pass a written test at their local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Once the written test has been passed, applicants must then take and pass a road skills test in order to complete the process.

The cost of obtaining the Doubles/Triples Endorsement varies depending on state and location. Generally, applicants can expect to pay between $50 and $100 for the written test and road skills test. Additionally, some states may require additional fees for background checks or other administrative costs.

6. Passenger Vehicle Endorsement

A Passenger Vehicle Endorsement (PVE) is a special type of driver’s license endorsement that allows you to transport passengers for hire. It is required by law in most states if you want to drive a bus, taxi, limousine, or other commercial vehicle with more than 15 passengers.

The process and requirements vary by state but generally include passing written and road tests, completing an application form, providing proof of identity, paying the applicable fees and having a valid driver’s license. The written test may include questions about traffic laws, safety regulations and driving techniques specific to passenger vehicles. The road test will assess your ability to safely operate the vehicle.

The amount of time it takes to get a PVE depends on the state. In some states it can take up to 6 weeks or longer while in others it can be completed in as little as one day.

To get a PVE you must first contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office to find out what their specific requirements are. You will need to provide proof of identity such as a valid driver’s license or passport and complete an application form. You will also need to pass both the written and road tests before being issued your PVE.

The cost for obtaining a PVE varies depending on the state but usually ranges from $25-$50 USD.

7. Combination Vehicle Endorsement

A Combination Vehicle Endorsement (also known as a “double/triple trailer” endorsement) is an endorsement that allows drivers to operate combination vehicles with more than one trailer. This includes vehicles such as semi-trucks, tractor-trailers, and other large commercial vehicles.

In order to obtain a Combination Vehicle Endorsement, you must first have a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). You will then need to pass the knowledge test for the endorsement, which covers topics such as air brakes, coupling and uncoupling of trailers, and driving safely in combination vehicles. The test typically takes about two hours to complete.

Once you have passed the knowledge test, you will need to take the skills test for the Combination Vehicle Endorsement. This involves demonstrating your ability to safely operate a combination vehicle on public roads. The skills test typically takes about two hours to complete.

The cost of obtaining a Combination Vehicle Endorsement varies by state but generally ranges from $50-$100.

8. School Bus Endorsement

School Bus Endorsement is a special certification that allows a driver to operate a school bus. It is required by most states in order to be able to transport students on a school bus.

In order to get the School Bus Endorsement, you must first have a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) and meet all state requirements for the endorsement. Depending on the state, this may include taking an additional knowledge test or completing additional training.

The process of getting the School Bus Endorsement can take anywhere from two weeks to several months depending on how quickly you can complete all of the necessary steps. In most cases, you will need to submit an application, pass a background check, and attend any necessary training courses before receiving your endorsement.

The cost of getting the School Bus Endorsement varies by state but typically ranges from $50-$100. This cost usually covers the fee for taking the knowledge test as well as any other fees associated with obtaining your endorsement.

9. Cargo Securement Certification

Cargo Securement Certification is a certification program that provides training and education on the proper methods of securing freight in commercial motor vehicles. This includes learning the appropriate techniques for properly securing cargo, understanding the regulations governing securement, and being able to demonstrate the ability to safely secure cargo.

The certification process typically takes about two days and involves completing an online course or attending a classroom-based seminar. The course covers topics such as proper cargo securement principles, applicable regulations, and best practices for securement. Upon completion of the course, a written exam must be taken and passed in order to receive the Cargo Securement Certification.

In order to get certified, individuals must first register with an accredited provider. These providers offer courses that cover all aspects of cargo securement and provide materials needed to take the exam. Fees vary depending on the provider but typically range from $50-$200 USD. Once registered, individuals can take the online or classroom-based course followed by taking and passing the written exam in order to receive their Cargo Securement Certification.

10. Defensive Driving Course Certificate

A Defensive Driving Course Certificate is a certificate that is issued to drivers who have successfully completed a defensive driving course. The purpose of the course is to educate drivers on safe and responsible driving practices. The course typically covers topics such as accident prevention, traffic laws, vehicle handling, and other important aspects of safe driving.

The length of the course varies depending on the provider, but most courses are around six hours long. Some courses may be longer or shorter depending on the provider and state requirements.

To get a Defensive Driving Course Certificate, you must first sign up for a defensive driving course with an approved provider. You will then attend the class either in person or online and complete all required activities. Once you have completed the course, you will receive your certificate from your instructor or online provider.

The cost of a Defensive Driving Course Certificate varies depending on the provider and state requirements. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $20-$50 USD per person for an in-person class or $10-$30 USD per person for an online class.

11. Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Certification

An Electronic Logging Device (ELD) is a type of device that electronically records a driver’s hours of service (HOS). It is designed to ensure compliance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) HOS regulations. The ELD must be certified by the FMCSA in order to be used for commercial motor vehicle operations.

The certification process typically takes between two and four weeks, depending on the complexity of the application. To get an ELD certified, you must submit an application to the FMCSA along with supporting documents such as a system description, user manual, and test results. You will also need to provide proof that your system meets all applicable technical specifications and security requirements.

The cost of getting an ELD certified varies depending on the vendor you choose to purchase from. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $100-$1,000 or more for a complete package including hardware, software, installation, and certification fees.

Do You Really Need a Tractor Trailer Driver Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual and their career goals. If you are looking to become a professional truck driver, then yes, you will need a tractor trailer driver certificate. This certificate is required in order to legally operate large commercial vehicles such as tractor trailers. It is also important to note that the certificate is not just a piece of paper; it requires extensive training and testing in order to obtain it.

The training that comes with obtaining the certificate covers topics such as vehicle maintenance and safety, basic maneuvering, federal regulations, customer service, and more. The tests involved include written exams and driving tests that must be passed in order to receive the certification. With this certification, you will be able to transport goods over long distances safely and efficiently.

In addition to helping you become a professional truck driver, having a tractor trailer driver certificate can also open up other opportunities within the transportation industry. For example, some companies may require their drivers to have this type of certification before they can be hired for certain positions or duties. Additionally, having a certificate can demonstrate your commitment towards getting the job done correctly and safely.

Overall, if you are looking for a career as a truck driver then getting your tractor trailer driver certificate is an essential step towards achieving your goals. It can help ensure that you have the necessary skills and knowledge needed for success in this field.

Related: Tractor Trailer Driver Resume Examples

FAQs About Tractor Trailer Driver Certifications

1. How do I obtain a tractor trailer driver certification?

Answer: You must complete an approved CDL (Commercial Driver's License) training program, pass a written and driving skills test, and obtain a CDL from your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles.

2. What types of tractor trailer driver certifications are available?

Answer: There are three main types: Class A for combination vehicles with two or more trailers, Class B for straight trucks and buses, and Class C for single-unit vehicles such as large vans or pickup trucks with trailers.

3. Is there an age limit to obtain a tractor trailer driver certification?

Answer: Yes, you must be at least 21 years old to drive interstate commercial motor vehicles in the United States.

4. Are there any special requirements to obtain a tractor trailer driver certification?

Answer: Yes, you must have a valid medical certificate issued by an authorized physician in order to operate a commercial motor vehicle. Additionally, some states may require additional training or testing prior to obtaining the certification.

5. How long is a tractor trailer driver certification valid?

Answer: Most certifications are valid for five years before they need to be renewed.