Have you been considering enhancing your driving skills by acquiring a new endorsement? A Tanker Endorsement might just be what you need to sharpen your skills! This blog will cover everything you need to know about getting a Tanker Endorsement, from the requirements to what you can expect on the knowledge test.
What is a Tanker Endorsement?
A CDL Tanker Endorsement is a certification supplementing a trucker’s commercial driver’s license that permits drivers to transport large loads of liquids and gasses. Drivers with this endorsement must pass their state’s safety and equipment training to be qualified.
There are two kinds:
- N Endorsement, which is legally required for drivers that are hauling over 1,000 gallons of liquids or gas in tanker vehicles
- X Endorsement, which combines the traditional tanker endorsement with a HAZMAT endorsement so truckers can legally haul products such as gasoline
When do you Need a Tanker Endorsement?
You’ll need this endorsement if you want to haul liquid or gas in a cargo tank rated greater than 119 gallons, or a portable tank rated at 1,000 gallons or more. This cargo includes liquid or gas that is more than 119 gallons in capacity.
Do you Need a Tanker Endorsement to Haul Water?
Individually packaged bottles of water, soda, or other liquids that exceed the combined volume of 1,000 gallons do not require a CDL Tanker Endorsement. You will however need an Endorsement to haul any bulk liquid. Any liquid or gas meeting these conditions, including water, MUST be transported by a driver with an Endorsement even if it isn’t hauled in a standard tanker trailer. FMCSA clarified this rule in 2015 for all states.
How to Get a Tanker Endorsement
Before getting this endorsement, you must have a valid CLP/CDL license in your state. To add a CDL Tanker Endorsement to your current CLP/CDL, you must pass a knowledge test.
Most states have a CDL Tanker Vehicle Endorsement Test that consists of 20 questions. You need a passing score of 80%, meaning you must answer at least 16 questions correctly.
There are plenty of online resources that provide you with practice tests. Check out this website for practice tests for your respective state: https://driving-tests.org/
You can expect the test to cover a range of topics from tank vehicle inspection, safe hauling practices, driving safely, combination vehicles, special skills needed for hauling liquid or gas, and more. Acquiring your endorsement does not require a road test.
Tanker Endorsement Requirements
To be eligible to apply you’ll need to meet the following requirements:
- You must be at least 18 years of age
- You must have a valid US passport or residential status
- You must have a valid CDL for your applicable state
- You must pass an eye exam
- You must pay the costs i.e.application fees
- You need to clear the tanker and hazardous material test
- You must hold a Commercial Class B or Class A type license
- You need to pass the HME knowledge test. If you already have an HME, clarify this in the DMV forms
How Much Does a Tanker Endorsement Cost?
The good news is that if you already have your CDL in your applicable state, the cost for the endorsement is small, ranging from $10-$50 depending on the state. Check with your state’s DMV for specific tank endorsement pricing and requirements since the price varies.
Earning your Endorsement opens many new job opportunities that can be both higher-paying and more fulfilling. Ready to find the right tanker job for you? Start at 5th Wheel Hub.
