In a previous article about CDL Endorsements, we talked about what they are and what they mean for your career. During Part 4 of the series Your Guide to Becoming a Truck Driver, we will touch briefly on what having different endorsements can mean for your driving career. Additionally, please refer to this guide for a more in-depth look at CDL Endorsements.
What are CDL Endorsements?
Each of our CDL training programs guides students through their written permit exam, air-brake/pre-trip skills, and road exams at the local DMV to obtain a Class A CDL with endorsements. Endorsements could include: Air brakes, Combinations, Doubles-Triples, Tankers, and Hazardous Materials. Per Federal Regulations, additional criteria must be met to be approved for a Hazmat endorsement, meaning you must pass a written test and background check. While you will need to re-take a written test every two years to maintain your Hazmat endorsement, all other endorsements require an initial written test only.
Which Endorsements Should You Get?
With the opportunities that having many endorsements can bring, it may be a good idea for you to consider testing for each of them. The cost is minimal, and the exams are short and simple. Even the HAZMAT endorsement – which is the most difficult to obtain – is a relatively easy process.
It’s smart to consider having all of the certifications possible for a number of reasons. First, you increase your employability – meaning you’ll be valuable to more companies! Second, you’ll have more flexibility in your job. Third, changing careers will be pretty easy. For example, you would easily be able to switch from truck driver to bus driver.
The down side to obtaining endorsements is simply that you are spending time and money up front. You may not use the endorsements right away, or at all. However, it’s important to remember that employers will see you as a good job candidate because you took the extra time and made the effort to get endorsements.
Ultimately, you are the one who has to decide which endorsements are right for you. If you need help, talk to your instructor to determine your best options.
If you’re ready to take the next step towards a career in the truck driving industry, the right training makes all the difference. Learn how ACI can help you reach your career goals! Fill out the form you see on this page, or give us a call at 1-877-649-9614.
If you’d like more information on the Training Programs available at Advanced Career Institute, please visit www.advanced.edu/programs
Other Articles in This Series: Your Guide to Becoming a Commercial Truck Driver
Part 1: Is Truck Driving Right For Me?
Part 2. Finding the Right School
Part 3. CDL Training
Part 4: CDL Endorsements
