Connecticut CDL Endorsements and Restrictions Explained

In Connecticut, a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is more than just a license to operate a large vehicle—it’s a specialized credential that may include various endorsements or restrictions depending on the driver’s qualifications and intended vehicle use. Understanding these endorsements and restrictions is crucial for compliance with both state and federal regulations.

What Are CDL Endorsements?

CDL endorsements are special authorizations that allow drivers to operate specific types of vehicles or carry certain kinds of cargo. These endorsements require additional knowledge and, in some cases, skills testing.

Common CDL Endorsements in Connecticut

H (Hazardous Materials): Required for transporting hazardous materials. Applicants must pass the HazMat knowledge test and undergo a TSA background check.
N (Tank Vehicles): Required for vehicles designed to transport liquid or gaseous materials in tanks.
X (Combination of Tank and HazMat): Combines H and N endorsements for drivers handling hazardous materials in tank vehicles.
T (Double/Triple Trailers): Needed to tow more than one trailer. Only available for Class A CDLs.
P (Passenger Transport): Required to drive a vehicle designed to carry 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
S (School Bus): Required in addition to the P endorsement to operate a school bus. Includes a background check, skills test, and specialized training.

How to Add an Endorsement to Your CDL

To add an endorsement in Connecticut, you must:

Pass the applicable knowledge test(s) at a Connecticut DMV office.
Schedule and pass a skills test if required (e.g., for P or S endorsements).
Meet any additional requirements such as federal background checks (for HazMat).
Pay the applicable endorsement fees.

More information is available on the Connecticut DMV's CDL Endorsements page.

CDL Restrictions in Connecticut

Restrictions are codes placed on a CDL to indicate limitations on the driver’s license. They are typically due to lack of qualifications or the vehicle used during the skills test.

Common CDL Restrictions

E Restriction: Prohibits the driver from operating a manual transmission. Added if the skills test is taken in a vehicle with automatic transmission.
L Restriction: No air brake-equipped CMV. Applies if the driver fails the air brakes knowledge test or does not test in an air brake-equipped vehicle.
M Restriction: Prohibits Class A CDL holders from operating Class B passenger vehicles.
N Restriction: Prohibits Class A and B CDL holders from operating Class A or B passenger vehicles, respectively.
K Restriction: Indicates intrastate only operation. The driver is restricted to driving within Connecticut.

It’s crucial to understand and adhere to these restrictions to avoid penalties and ensure safe operation.

Removing a CDL Restriction

To remove a restriction, a driver must:

Retake the appropriate knowledge or skills tests with a compliant vehicle.
Submit documentation and pass a vision screening.
Pay any associated fees at the DMV.

Keeping Your CDL Compliant

CDL holders in Connecticut are subject to medical certification requirements. Failure to maintain a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate can result in license downgrade or disqualification. Learn more from the FMCSA Medical Requirements page.

For more about driving and license rules in Connecticut, see:

Always check with the Connecticut DMV for the most up-to-date requirements and procedures related to CDLs.

Connecticut CDL Endorsements and Restrictions Explained

What Are CDL Endorsements?

Common CDL Endorsements in Connecticut

H (Hazardous Materials): Required for transporting hazardous materials. Applicants must pass the HazMat knowledge test and undergo a TSA background check.

N (Tank Vehicles): Required for vehicles designed to transport liquid or gaseous materials in tanks.

X (Combination of Tank and HazMat): Combines H and N endorsements for drivers handling hazardous materials in tank vehicles.

T (Double/Triple Trailers): Needed to tow more than one trailer. Only available for Class A CDLs.

P (Passenger Transport): Required to drive a vehicle designed to carry 16 or more passengers, including the driver.

S (School Bus): Required in addition to the P endorsement to operate a school bus. Includes a background check, skills test, and specialized training.

How to Add an Endorsement to Your CDL

To add an endorsement in Connecticut, you must:

Pass the applicable knowledge test(s) at a Connecticut DMV office.

Schedule and pass a skills test if required (e.g., for P or S endorsements).

Meet any additional requirements such as federal background checks (for HazMat).

Pay the applicable endorsement fees.

CDL Restrictions in Connecticut

Restrictions are codes placed on a CDL to indicate limitations on the driver’s license. They are typically due to lack of qualifications or the vehicle used during the skills test.

Common CDL Restrictions

E Restriction: Prohibits the driver from operating a manual transmission. Added if the skills test is taken in a vehicle with automatic transmission.

L Restriction: No air brake-equipped CMV. Applies if the driver fails the air brakes knowledge test or does not test in an air brake-equipped vehicle.

M Restriction: Prohibits Class A CDL holders from operating Class B passenger vehicles.

N Restriction: Prohibits Class A and B CDL holders from operating Class A or B passenger vehicles, respectively.

K Restriction: Indicates intrastate only operation. The driver is restricted to driving within Connecticut.

It’s crucial to understand and adhere to these restrictions to avoid penalties and ensure safe operation.

Keeping Your CDL Compliant

For more about driving and license rules in Connecticut, see:

Always check with the Connecticut DMV for the most up-to-date requirements and procedures related to CDLs.