CDL Permit vs. Full CDL: What’s the Difference and How Do You Get Both?

If you’re thinking about a career driving a commercial motor vehicle, understanding the difference between a commercial learner’s permit (CLP) and a full commercial driver’s license (CDL) is your first step. Whether you want to operate tractor trailers, school buses, or vehicles carrying hazardous materials, knowing the CDL process helps you stay on the road legally—and safely. Let’s break down what makes these two licenses different and how you can get both.

What Is a CDL Permit?

A commercial learner’s permit (CLP) is like a practice license for driving a commercial vehicle. It allows you to get behind the wheel with a qualified CDL holder in the passenger seat. You must have this permit before you can take the skills test needed to earn your full CDL.

To get your CLP, you must pass written knowledge tests on topics like general driving rules, air brakes, and any endorsements you want, such as for hazardous materials or school buses. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires that you hold the permit for at least 14 days before applying for the full CDL.

What Is a Full CDL?

A commercial driver’s license (CDL) allows you to legally operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) on your own. Once you’ve passed the skills test, which includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and an on-the-road driving portion, you’ll be eligible for a CDL.

There are different types of CDLs depending on what you’ll be driving:

  1. Class A CDL: Needed for driving tractor trailers or combination vehicles.
  2. Class B CDL: For operating straight trucks, large buses, and other single vehicles over 26,001 pounds.
  3. Class C CDL: For smaller vehicles that carry passengers or hazardous materials.

How Do You Get Both?

Here’s a basic outline of how to go from permit to full license:

  1. Meet state CDL requirements. In Arizona, you must be at least 18 for intrastate and 21 for interstate driving. You also need a valid Arizona driver’s license and at least one year of driving experience.
  2. Pass a DOT physical exam.
  3. Apply for your CLP. This involves passing written tests at the DMV.
  4. Complete entry-level driver training from an FMCSA-approved school like Yuma Truck Driving School.
  5. Hold the permit for at least 14 days.
  6. Take the skills test to earn your full CDL.

Make sure you can read and speak English well enough to understand road signs and fill out necessary reports—this is part of the motor carrier safety administration requirements

Why CDL Training Matters

Entry-level driver training isn’t just a box to check—it prepares you for the real-world responsibilities of driving a commercial vehicle. Training also helps you pass the CDL skills test with confidence and prepares you to meet federal and state driver’s licensing (CDL) rules.

At Yuma Truck Driving School, we offer hands-on training and flexible programs that get you road-ready fast.

Ready to Get Started? Let’s Roll!

If you’re serious about obtaining a CDL, Yuma Truck Driving School can help you go from learner’s permit to full CDL with expert training and support every step of the way. Whether you’re aiming for a Class A or Class B CDL, we’re here to help you launch your career in driving a commercial vehicle.

Call (888) 647-3239 today to learn more about our admissions process and how you can start your journey behind the wheel.

Why Arizona is a Great Place to Start a Truck Driving Career

If you’re considering a truck driving career, Arizona is one of the best places to start. With its strong trucking industry, high demand for truck drivers, and excellent CDL training options, the Grand Canyon State offers great opportunities for company drivers and independent operators alike. Whether you want to drive long haul, transport oversized loads, or work in a specialized type of truck, Arizona is a prime location to launch your career.

High Demand for Truck Drivers in Arizona

Arizona plays a key role in the U.S. economy, making it a hot spot for trucking companies. As a growing state with major highways connecting it to California, Texas, and beyond, Arizona has a constant need for skilled truck drivers. Many businesses rely on commercial trucks to transport goods, and that demand creates a steady flow of driving jobs.

The trucking industry in Arizona continues to expand, offering many job openings for company drivers and independent contractors. If you’re looking for a good career with job security, truck driving is a great choice.

Ideal Work Environment and Road Conditions

Arizona’s work environment for truckers is another reason it stands out. The state has plenty of wide-open roads, fewer extreme weather conditions compared to other states, and a strong infrastructure for trucking. With major interstates like I-10 and I-40 running through the state, it’s easy to access some of the biggest freight hubs in the country.

Unlike colder states where snow and ice can create dangerous driving conditions, Arizona’s climate is mostly dry and sunny. This makes life on the road much safer and less stressful, especially for those just starting their driving career.

A Variety of Trucking Jobs

Another benefit of starting your driving career in Arizona is the variety of available jobs. Whether you want to drive long haul, handle oversized loads, or operate a tractor-trailer, there’s an opportunity for you. Some truckers prefer regional routes that allow them to be home frequently, while others take on cross-country hauls for higher pay.

Additionally, Arizona has plenty of specialized trucking companies looking for drivers with the right skills. From fuel transportation to refrigerated goods and heavy equipment hauling, the state offers a wide range of career paths.

Quality CDL Training in Arizona

To start your career as a truck driver, you need a commercial driver’s license (CDL), and Arizona has top-notch CDL training programs. A good truck driving school will prepare you for every aspect of the job, from operating different types of trucks to maintaining a clean driving record.

A solid training program teaches students the essentials of safety, vehicle operation, and industry regulations. With experienced instructors and hands-on learning, Arizona’s CDL training programs help future drivers get the skills they need for a successful driving job.

Start Your Truck Driving Career with Yuma Truck Driving School

Arizona’s strong trucking industry, excellent work environment, and quality training programs make it an ideal place to launch your career. If you’re ready to hit the road, Yuma Truck Driving School can help you earn your commercial driver’s license and land a great driving job. Start your journey today—contact us to learn more about our CDL training and take the first step toward a good career in trucking.

Call us at (888) 647-3239 to get started.

The Hidden Costs of Trucking: Budgeting Tips for New Drivers

Starting a trucking career can be exciting, but new drivers must understand the financial side of the job. While trucking offers steady pay, it also comes with many expenses. From fuel costs to insurance premiums, these expenses add up quickly. Knowing how to budget and reduce costs can help new truckers manage their finances effectively.

Understanding the Operational Costs of Trucking

Trucking is more than just getting behind the wheel. The American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) tracks industry costs and reports that the total marginal cost of trucking has reached a new high in recent years. These costs include fuel, insurance, maintenance, and driver pay. Whether you’re an owner-operator or working for a motor carrier, understanding your expenses is key.

Here are some of the major trucking expenses to consider:

  • Fuel Costs: One of the most significant expenses in trucking. Fuel prices fluctuate; even a slight increase can affect your bottom line. Using a fuel card can help drivers access discounts and track spending.
  • Maintenance and Repair: Regular vehicle upkeep is crucial. Unexpected repairs can be costly, so budgeting for routine maintenance and repair is essential.
  • Insurance Premiums: Insurance is mandatory for truck owners, whether leasing or owning. Comparing different policies can help you find the best coverage at a reasonable price.
  • Driver Pay and Operational Costs: If you’re an owner-operator, your paycheck comes after covering trucking expenses. Understanding your costs per mile ensures you’re earning enough to stay profitable.

Budgeting Tips to Reduce Costs

Managing the marginal costs of trucking takes strategy. 

Here are some budgeting tips to help new drivers save money:

1. Track Every Expense

Knowing where your money goes helps you find areas to cut back. Use an app or spreadsheet to monitor fuel, repairs, and other expenses.

2. Reduce Fuel Consumption

Even small changes can reduce fuel costs. Driving at constant speeds, minimizing idling, and keeping tires properly inflated all help improve fuel efficiency.

3. Use a Fuel Card

Fuel cards offer discounts and tracking features. Many truck stops and fuel providers have programs that help lower costs.

4. Plan Routes Wisely

Longer routes with traffic or poor road conditions can waste fuel and time. Using GPS systems designed for truckers can help avoid costly delays.

5. Preventative Maintenance Saves Money

Regular truck checkups prevent expensive breakdowns. Sticking to a maintenance schedule can save thousands in unexpected repairs.

6. Compare Insurance Plans

Not all policies are the same. Shopping around for insurance premiums can help you get the best deal without sacrificing coverage.

Start Your Trucking Career with Smart Financial Planning

Trucking is a rewarding career, but understanding its financial side is essential. The total marginal cost of trucking has reached a new high, making it more important than ever to budget wisely. By tracking expenses, reducing fuel costs, and maintaining your truck properly, you can improve your earnings and long-term success.

If you’re ready to start a trucking career, Yuma Truck Driving School can help you earn your CDL. Our programs provide the training and skills needed to succeed in this industry. 

Call us at (888) 647-3239 to apply today.

Truck Driving Myths: Separating Fact from Fiction

The trucking industry is often misunderstood, thanks to persistent myths that misrepresent the realities of life on the road. These trucking myths can deter people from pursuing a career in truck driving, so it’s time to set the record straight. Below, we’ll tackle common misconceptions about truck driving and uncover the truth behind them.

Myth 1: Truck Driving Is Only for Men

One of the oldest myths in the trucking industry is that it’s a male-dominated field where only men can succeed. While it’s true that men have historically made up a large portion of the workforce, this is changing fast. Women are breaking barriers and excelling as professional truck drivers. With supportive programs and industry-wide encouragement, gender diversity is on the rise. Don’t let outdated assumptions hold you back—truck driving is for anyone willing to put in the work, regardless of gender.

Myth 2: Truck Drivers Spend Long Hours Alone

A common misconception is that truck drivers spend all their time isolated in their cabs. While long-haul routes do require independent stretches, the idea of being completely alone is exaggerated. Truckers don’t just sit in silence; they use technology to stay connected with friends, family, and colleagues. Plus, many drivers form strong bonds with other truckers at stops and terminals. Team driving and opportunities to meet new people on the road add variety to the experience.

Myth 3: Truck Drivers Must Be Owner-Operators

Some believe the only way to make money as a truck driver is to own your own truck. While owner-operators play an important role in the trucking industry, this path isn’t for everyone. Many drivers work for companies that provide vehicles and cover expenses like maintenance and insurance. At Yuma Truck Driving School, we prepare students for both company and owner-operator roles, depending on their goals.

Myth 4: Long Hours Are Unsafe

The trucking industry prioritizes safety, and regulations ensure drivers aren’t overworked. The Hours of Service (HOS) rules set limits on how many hours truck drivers can work before taking a break. This helps truckers avoid burnout and ensures safer roads for everyone. Proper training, like what we provide at Yuma Truck Driving School, equips drivers to manage their schedules effectively.

Myth 5: Trucking Isn’t a Stable Career

Contrary to the myth that trucking is an unstable or short-term job, the demand for drivers is at an all-time high. Trucking is one of the most recession-proof careers, thanks to the consistent need for goods to be transported. Whether you choose long-haul routes or regional driving, this profession offers steady income and job security.

Set the Record Straight With Yuma Truck Driving School

If trucking myths have kept you from pursuing a career in truck driving, it’s time to reconsider. At Yuma Truck Driving School, we offer comprehensive CDL programs designed to help you succeed in this thriving industry. Our accredited training ensures that you gain the skills and confidence needed to hit the road safely and professionally. Whether you want to drive a bus or a tractor-trailer, we’re here to help you achieve your goals. 

Set the record straight for yourself and discover the truth about truck driving by enrolling at Yuma Truck Driving School today. Call us at (888) 647-3239 to get started.

Top 5 Reasons to Pursue a CDL in the New Year

The new year is the perfect time to set new goals and explore fresh opportunities. If you’re ready to take charge of your future, earning a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) might be your best move. Truck driving offers a stable, rewarding career path, and there’s no better time to start than now. Here are the top five reasons to pursue a CDL in the new year.

High Demand for Truck Drivers

Truck drivers are the backbone of the supply chain, and the demand for CDL holders continues to rise. With a nationwide shortage of drivers, trucking companies are eager to hire qualified professionals. By earning your CDL, you’ll gain access to a wide variety of job opportunities. From local delivery routes to cross-country hauls, there’s a driving job to match your goals and lifestyle.

Competitive Salaries

Truck driving is one of the few careers that don’t require a college degree and offer a competitive salary. New drivers often start with earnings well above minimum wage, and experienced drivers can bring home six-figure salaries. Specialized roles, such as hauling hazardous materials or oversized loads, come with even higher pay. With a CDL, your earning potential grows as you gain experience and explore new opportunities.

Flexibility and Independence

Do you dream of hitting the open road? A CDL gives you the freedom to choose the type of driving job that works best for you. Many trucking companies allow drivers to customize their schedules, whether you prefer long-haul routes across the country or shorter trips that keep you closer to home. This flexibility allows you to balance work with personal commitments, giving you more control over your life.

Recession-Proof Career

One of the greatest benefits of earning a CDL is the job security it provides. Trucking is an essential industry that keeps goods moving across the country, even during economic downturns. From food and medical supplies to consumer goods, truck drivers ensure these items reach their destinations. When you become a CDL holder, you’re stepping into a career that’s both resilient and reliable, no matter the state of the economy.

Opportunities for Advancement

A CDL isn’t just a license to drive—it’s a gateway to long-term career growth. Start as a company driver and work your way up to owning your own truck or managing a fleet. Many drivers choose to earn additional endorsements, such as those for tankers or hazardous materials, which open the door to specialized, higher-paying roles. The trucking industry offers countless opportunities to advance and build a career you’re proud of.

Start Your New Year Strong with Yuma Truck Driving School

The new year is the perfect time to invest in your future, and earning your CDL is a step in the right direction. Yuma Truck Driving School offers expert CDL training to help you gain the skills and confidence you need to succeed in the trucking industry. Don’t wait to take control of your career. 

Call Yuma Truck Driving School today at (888) 647-3239 to learn more about our programs and get started on the road to success.

5 Arizona-Friendly Foods to Pack for a Long Haul Truck Route

When you’re on the road, having healthy and satisfying snacks can make all the difference in keeping you energized. For truck drivers in Arizona, finding foods that can withstand high temperatures, don’t need refrigeration, and are nutritious is key. Here are five Arizona-friendly foods to pack for a long-haul route that check all the boxes for convenience, durability, and taste.

1. Jerky: A Protein-Packed Staple

Jerky is a top choice for long-haul truckers. With an impressive shelf life and high protein content, jerky provides energy and helps stave off hunger on those long stretches between stops. Arizona offers some unique varieties, including spicy green chile jerky or mesquite-smoked beef, giving drivers a local taste on the go. Packed in a resealable bag, it’s perfect for munching without needing a cooler.

2. Nuts and Seeds: Easy, Heart-Healthy Snacks

Nuts and seeds like almonds, pecans, and pumpkin seeds are not only rich in healthy fats but also packed with fiber and protein. These snacks are ideal for truckers because they’re lightweight, don’t take up much space, and stay fresh in any climate. Look for local Arizona brands that offer varieties with unique Southwestern flavors, such as chili-lime pistachios or roasted cactus seeds. Mix a few types in a bag for a convenient snack that you can enjoy while keeping your eyes on the road.

3. Dried Fruits: A Sweet Taste of the Southwest

For a quick, natural sugar boost, dried fruits like apricots, dates, and prickly pear slices offer Arizona flavors with no refrigeration needed. Dried fruits are easy to pack and contain essential vitamins to keep your energy up. Prickly pear, a popular Arizona flavor, can even be found in snack form and gives a unique twist to traditional dried fruit. Just be sure to portion out your servings, as dried fruits can be high in natural sugars.

4. Whole Grain Tortillas: A Versatile Base

Whole grain tortillas are a versatile food that can serve as a base for various meals, whether you fill them with nut butter or eat them plain. Tortillas don’t require refrigeration, take up minimal space, and are more resilient than traditional bread. Opt for locally made corn or flour tortillas, which are often available with minimal preservatives. They’re an excellent source of complex carbs and can be a great option for a quick, easy-to-make meal on the go.

5. Nut Butter Packs: Creamy and Satisfying

Single-serve nut butter packs, like peanut or almond butter, are ideal for long hauls because they’re easy to store, calorie-dense, and packed with protein and healthy fats. These packs pair perfectly with tortillas or even straight from the packet. Look for Arizona-made options or try unique flavors like honey-roasted or spicy peanut butter to add a little kick to your snacks.

Drive Healthy, Drive Happy

Packing the right foods can help Arizona truckers stay alert and fueled, making their trips smoother and more enjoyable. Yuma Truck Driving School doesn’t just train drivers on the road; we help you prepare for every aspect of the job, including how to stay healthy on long routes. If you’re ready to start a rewarding career on the open road, sign up for our CDL training program today and hit the highway fully prepared. 

Get started with Yuma Truck Driving School now by calling (888) 647-3239. 

Managing Truck Driving Stress

Between heavy traffic, tight deadlines, and long hours behind the wheel, truck driving can be a stressful career. If not properly managed, that stress can lead to health problems that affect your body physically and mentally. Learning how to cope with the stress that comes with trucking can help you improve your daily life and wellbeing. 

Follow these five tips to manage truck driving stress:

1. Listen to Music, Audiobooks, or Podcasts

A great way to take your mind off stressors, both driving-related and not, is listening to something while you drive. Whether it’s music, audiobooks, or podcasts, having audio to focus on rather than ruminating on your thoughts helps clear your mind. You should always stay focused on the road, but having something stimulating to listen to will keep your mind from wandering. 

2. Get Out and Stretch

With all trucking jobs, you will spend most of your day in the driver’s seat, so it is a good idea to step outside and move when possible. Each time you stop at a gas station, rest area, or truck stop, stretch for three to five minutes. Moving your body for short intervals during the day will work wonders to clear your mind. Not only will it relax any muscles that might be tense, but it will also prepare you for the remainder of your route.

3. Practice Meditation and Breathing Techniques 

Mindfulness techniques like meditation and breathing exercises are another way to help you remain calm when stressful situations arise while driving. Before you start your engine, take a moment to be mindful to start your day with a clear head. Practicing these techniques during breaks from driving or after your shift ends will also relax your muscles and alleviate any tension you’re holding in your body. 

4. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

When you feel good, you can better manage stress levels. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle starts with what you put into your body. Although fast-food restaurants are convenient while you’re on the road, they are not the best choice for your health or wellbeing. Make modifications to your eating habits like packing healthy meals and storing them in a mini-fridge or a cooler in your truck, and if you decide to stop to eat, make nutritious choices.

Exercise is another crucial aspect of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Many truck stops and rest areas have walking paths to get in a mile walk on your lunch break. Cardio gets your heart working and blood pumping, putting you in the right mindset to deal with the stressors of being on the road.

5. Plan Your Trips

Another way to reduce stress is to prepare for each trip you take. Worrying about whether or not you will make it to your next stop on time may cause you to rush, skip safety checks, or drive irresponsibly. Planning your trips can help you feel better prepared for when you encounter stressful situations. Before you hit the road, take the time to look over your route, pack meals, and inspect your truck.

A Trucking Driving School That Cares

When you attend Yuma Truck Driving School, we prepare drivers for a rewarding career where health comes first. We pride ourselves on graduating drivers that are thoroughly prepared to excel at life on the road. We also help ease the stressful transition from training to driving with our job placement program with local and national carriers. 

Get in touch with us to start training for your CDL today.

Why Most Truckers Start With OTR

Once you earn your commercial driver’s license (CDL), there are many different types of trucking jobs you can pursue. However, most drivers start their career with an over-the-road (OTR) position, even if they switch later on. Experienced drivers typically advise rookies to take this path, and you’ll also notice that the majority of entry-level CDL jobs are OTR.

Here are some of the reasons for this:

1. Exposure to New Situations

OTR truckers are exposed to a variety of different situations and driving conditions as they drive across the country. For example, long-haul drivers often get experience with icy roads, traffic jams, mountain driving, sudden changes in weather, and more, just during the course of their first year. Whether you plan to transition into a different type of trucking job or continue with OTR, this first year is a great opportunity to build your driving skills as you overcome these types of challenges.

2. Space Out Challenges

Although OTR does expose you to a variety of challenging driving conditions, these times are spaced out over various hauls, and much of your time will be spent on the highway. You’ll be able to focus on learning new skills and although this isn’t without its challenges, it’s less stressful than constantly doing the most difficult tasks every day.

By contrast, local jobs (and many regional jobs) often involve backing into loading docks several times a day and driving on crowded city streets. OTR still exposes you to these challenges, but you don’t have to do them all day every working day.

3. Better Pay

It’s worth noting that your specific rate of pay will vary depending on the company you work for, and will change as you gain experience. That being said, OTR typically offers the highest-paying job options for new trucking school graduates due to the high demand for these types of drivers. In addition, many motor carriers offer tuition reimbursement to help you pay off the cost of trucking school.

4. Insurance Purposes

The above reasons are related to why OTR is typically the best job to start with from the point of view of drivers. In addition to this, it’s helpful to also realize why there are fewer entry-level local or regional jobs from the point of view of trucking companies. Insurance is one of the major reasons for this.

Insurance is a significant expense for motor carriers, and new CDL holders cost more to insure than those with experience. Additionally, since local and regional jobs have more challenging conditions on a daily basis, there are additional risks associated with insuring new drivers in those positions. This is why most local or regional routes require six months to a year of previous trucking experience. Conversely, since OTR drivers are more in-demand, entry-level positions driving long haul are more accessible for new graduates.

Earn Your CDL and Start Driving

At Yuma Truck Driving School, you can earn your CDL in as little as four weeks and our job placement assistance team will help you find entry-level positions that match your needs, goals, and desires.

To learn more about our trucking school in Yuma, AZ, contact us today.

How to Get The Most Out Of Your CDL Training

The first step toward a rewarding career in truck driving is earning your commercial driver’s license (CDL). The best way to receive quality training is through a professional truck driving school. To get the most out of the experience, you should adopt the right mindset that will help you excel. 

Five tips to help you succeed during CDL training are:

1. Be Willing To Learn

Being coachable is one of the most important factors that lead to success during CDL training. Thinking you already have the material mastered will not only hinder your own progress but disrupt the learning of your fellow students as well. Remaining open to instruction is the key. After all, your instructors are drivers with real-world experience and they are a valuable asset to you during training.

2. Stay Optimistic

Throughout your CDL driver training, a lot of new information and skills will be thrown your way, and it is easy to get frustrated when you don’t pick up on some topics as easily as others. Staying optimistic and reminding yourself of the goals you are working toward will help you have the best experience possible. It is also important to try not to compare your progress to those around you. Everyone learns at their own pace.

3. Don’t Be Afraid To Ask Questions

Despite what students often think, asking questions does not make you look incompetent. If you have a question about the material, chances are that other students are wondering the same thing. You are in charge of your own learning and if you don’t understand something, it is up to you to get it clarified. Asking your instructors about their personal driving experiences is another way to get the most out of your CDL training. Showing them you care about your training will help you go further than if you are just going through the motions.

4. Be Observant

A good portion of your time in driving school will be spent on hands-on training, which includes observing other students’ driving. Instead of checking out, pay attention to your classmates while they practice. Make mental notes of their mistakes and learn from their techniques if they are doing especially well. This way, you can make the most of your time even when you aren’t driving.

5. Study, Study, Study

What you get out of the CDL training program depends on how much effort you put in. Paying attention and asking questions during class is a good start, but to retain the information, you also have to study. While the skills on the driving portion of the test require instructor supervision, you can practice pre-trip inspection and study for the written portion of the test on your own time. Getting together with your classmates for a study group is a great way to review the material you learned in class.

The Road to a New Trucking Career

While the above five tips can help you improve your experience, the quality of your CDL training also depends on the program you attend. At Yuma Truck Driving School, our instructors teach students about both technical knowledge and personal skills that are vital to employment in the truck driving industry. We also offer financial assistance, job placement after graduation, and paid externships for those who qualify.

Contact Yuma Truck Driving School to start earning your CDL today.

What to Know About the Tanker Endorsement

To become a certified truck driver, the first step is to earn your commercial driver’s license (CDL). Then, you can take additional endorsement tests that demonstrate your knowledge and broaden your truck driving expertise. One of the available endorsements is for tanker vehicles. 

 

More information about what a tanker endorsement is, what vehicles require it, and how to earn one for yourself:

What is a Tanker Endorsement?

A tanker endorsement, also known as an N endorsement, is a type of certification that is used in combination with a trucker’s CDL. It signifies that they are qualified to transport liquid and gas in bulk. This widens the range of job opportunities available to truckers earning their licenses.

Many jobs require an X endorsement instead of just a tanker endorsement alone. The X endorsement combines the tanker and hazardous materials (hazmat) endorsements to allow drivers to haul hazardous materials such as gasoline. 

Vehicles That Require a Tanker Endorsement

Truck drivers need a tanker endorsement to operate a tank vehicle.

 

To determine if your load will require a tanker endorsement, check to see if these three facts apply:

 

  • Your cargo includes individual containers of liquid or gas with a capacity of over 119 gallons.
  • The containers are loaded on your vehicle and not empty.
  • The combined volume of all of the liquid and gaseous materials in the load exceeds 1,000 gallons.

 

If all three apply to your load, then you will need a tanker endorsement to haul it. These guidelines are outlined in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) in section 383.119 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

How to Earn a Tanker Endorsement

In order to earn your tanker endorsement, you will have to pass the tanker endorsement knowledge test. This written test contains around 25 multiple-choice questions and allows up to five mistakes. Once you have paid for and passed the test, you have the N endorsement on your CDL.

Obtaining an X endorsement is a bit more complicated. In addition to paying for and passing your tanker endorsement knowledge test, you must also pass a hazmat knowledge test and Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) background check. This process can take up to six weeks to complete.

Important information to familiarize yourself with before taking the endorsement exam includes how liquids and gasses move compared to other types of freight and how to prepare for a surge. There are also additional requirements that need to be met in order to pass your tanker endorsement exam. 

 

A few additional requirements are:

 

  • You must be 18 years of age or older.
  • You must have a valid United States passport.
  • You must pass an eye exam.

Earn Your Tanker Endorsement at Yuma Truck Driving School

At Yuma Truck Driving School, you have the opportunity to take the first step toward becoming a certified trucker by enrolling in our CDL program. We have helped hundreds of students not only pass their exams but become the type of professional drivers that companies rely on. Our program includes three endorsements: hazmat, tanker, and doubles/triples.

Contact Yuma Truck Driving School today for more information.

All About the Doubles/Triples Endorsement

When you take your commercial driver’s license (CDL) written test, you will also have the opportunity to take endorsement tests. If you pass, you will earn additional certifications that allow you to drive different types of vehicles beyond a standard semi-truck, or to haul different types of freight. 

One of these endorsements is the doubles/triples endorsement, which allows you to drive a commercial vehicle with more than one trailer. Such vehicles can also be referred to as long combination vehicles (LCVs).

Here’s more information about the LCV endorsement:

Why Earn the LCV Endorsement

Semi-trucks with two or three trailers can transport more freight at once. This means that trucking companies are able to pay more for drivers who drive these vehicles. Although you may think you’ll never need to want to use a doubles/triples endorsement in your trucking career, it’s still beneficial because it opens up more job opportunities if you ever wish to explore them.

How to Earn the Doubles/Triples Endorsement

Earning the LCV endorsement requires you to pass a multiple-choice written exam which covers material from Section 7 of the CDL manual. This section contains multiple subsections that you can study to help you prepare.

These are:

Pulling Multiple Trailers

There are various concerns you’ll need to be aware of if you are pulling two or three trailers. Some of these include preventing roll-overs and additional precautions you’ll need to take if there are adverse driving conditions. Vehicles with double or triple trailers also take up more space than other types of commercial vehicles, which presents additional challenges for space management and for parking.

Coupling and Uncoupling

It’s important to know how to couple and uncouple trailers correctly for any type of combination vehicle. When there are twin or triple trailers involved, this becomes more complicated. This section gives step-by-step instructions for how to do this, but you should keep in mind that it doesn’t cover every possible combination and that more on-the-job training may be necessary.

Inspecting LCVs

Vehicles with two or three trailers have more parts to inspect compared to a standard semi-truck. It’s important to fully expect every trailer and the coupling system and to know what additional parts to be aware of.

Air Brakes

Before hitting the road in a vehicle with an air brake system, you’ll need to perform an air brake inspection. For doubles/triples, you’ll need to ensure the air goes to all trailers, and will also need to test the service brakes, emergency brakes, and trailer protection valve.

Earn Your Doubles/Triples Endorsement

At Yuma Truck Driving School, we can help you earn your CDL and three endorsements (hazard materials, tanker, and doubles/triples) in as little as four weeks. Our experienced instructors will teach you the skills you need to succeed as a truck driver.

To learn more about earning your CDL in Yuma, AZ, contact us today.

 

Understanding the Hazmat Endorsement

Earning your commercial driver’s license (CDL) is the first step toward becoming a truck driver. For certain vehicles or types of freight, you will need more than just the standard commercial license. Endorsements are additional certifications that you can earn by passing written exams. At Yuma Truck Driving School, we help our students earn three endorsements: hazardous materials (hazmat), tanker, and doubles/triples. The hazmat endorsement allows you to transport sensitive freight and can increase your earning potential.

More information about the CDL hazmat endorsement:

X Endorsement

One thing to be aware of is that hazmat is often in a liquid or gaseous form and needs to be transported using a tank vehicle. As a result, you will also need the tanker endorsement for many hazmat jobs. The combination of these two is known as the “X” endorsement. Our program allows you to earn both.

Studying for the Hazmat CDL Test

To prepare for the written hazmat test, you should read Section 9 of the CDL manual. This covers the material that you will need to know to answer the multiple-choice questions on exam day. It is broken down into several subsections.

Keep in mind, however, that the manual does not necessarily cover everything you will need to know on the job. If you choose to pursue a career as a hazmat trucker, you may need additional training from your employer and should always prioritize safety.

The subsections you will need to study for the CDL hazmat test are:

The Intent of the Regulations

Hazmat regulations are intended to contain the material, communicate the risk, and assure safe drivers and equipment. You should know how these regulations accomplish those three goals.

Who Does What

The shipper, the carrier, and the driver all have specific responsibilities when transporting hazmat. You will need to know what these are.

Communication Rules

If there is an accident involving hazmat, the driver may not be able to communicate the hazards of the material they are transporting. To make it easier for emergency response personnel to identify and address any spills or accidents, hazmat must be properly labeled. You will need to know the different hazmat classes, placard requirements, and shipping paper requirements.

Loading and Unloading

You need to be cautious when loading and unloading hazmat. This subsection of the CDL manual goes over specific regulations based on the material’s class as well as general rules to follow.

Bulk Packaging, Marking, Loading, and Unloading

There are additional requirements for bulk packaging that you need to be aware of and follow.

Driving and Parking Rules

Certain classes of hazmat have restrictions for parking and driving that you’ll need to be aware of. Route restrictions can also vary by state and county, so if you take a job hauling hazmat, you’ll need to ask your dispatcher about these requirements for the specific route you are taking.

Emergencies

This subsection includes general guidance for handling emergencies that could arise when transporting hazmat. It also gives more specific information based on material class.

Earn Your CDL and Hazmat Endorsement

The hazmat section of the CDL manual can be confusing, and you may find it difficult to study for the written exam on your own. Yuma Truck Driving School can help. Our program covers the information you need to know to earn your CDL with the hazmat endorsement, as well as endorsements for tankers and doubles/triples. We can help you get on the road and earning in as little as four weeks.

Contact us today to learn more about earning your CDL in Yuma, AZ.