CDL classifications, endorsements, and restrictions

Learn the types of commercial license endorsement changes you can make.

CDL classifications, endorsements, and restrictions

Learn the types of commercial license endorsement changes you can make.

Before you get an endorsement

If you apply for a new endorsement, you need to:

If you apply for a public passenger (P) endorsement, or maintain a public passenger endorsement, you need to have a criminal record check. If a criminal record check detects a conviction or arrest that’s considered a serious criminal offense, an endorsement may not be issued or an existing endorsement may be removed.

For specifics on a non-commercial license, please see non-CDL license classification, endorsements and restrictions.

Endorsement details

If you want to drive a certain type of vehicle (e.g., a school bus or semitruck) that’s considered a commercial vehicle with your CDL, you need to get an endorsement from the DMV.

An endorsement is an indication on your CDL that authorizes the driver to operate specific types of vehicles and/or carry a specific kind of cargo, and also confirms that you’ve completed any additional requirements (such as vehicle-specific driver training).

See below for details on specific commercial driving endorsement as well as for restrictions that indicate special circumstances in which you’re authorized to drive.

Note: Additional testing or training may be required to get a commercial endorsement.

CDL classifications, endorsements, and restrictions

CDL classifications, endorsements, and restrictions

CDL classifications, endorsements, and restrictions