CDL Endorsements Available in D.C. and How to Get Them

In Washington, D.C., obtaining specific endorsements on your Commercial Driver's License (CDL) allows you to operate specialized commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) and perform particular transportation tasks. Each endorsement requires additional testing and qualifications beyond the standard CDL requirements.

Available CDL Endorsements in D.C.

The District of Columbia offers the following CDL endorsements:

• P – Passenger Transport: Required to operate vehicles designed to carry 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
• S – School Bus: Necessary for driving school buses; requires both the Passenger (P) endorsement and additional testing.
• H – Hazardous Materials (HazMat): Needed to transport hazardous materials; involves a background check and TSA clearance.
• N – Tank Vehicle: For operating tank vehicles that transport liquids or gases.
• X – Combination of Tank Vehicle and Hazardous Materials: Covers both tank vehicles and hazardous materials transport.
• T – Double/Triple Trailers: Required to pull double or triple trailers.

Each endorsement has specific testing requirements:

• P and S Endorsements: Require both a knowledge test and a skills (road) test.
• H, N, X, and T Endorsements: Require a knowledge test only.

Note: The H and N endorsements cannot be obtained before the issuance of the appropriate DC DMV REAL ID CDL (Class A, B, or C) [^1].

Steps to Obtain a CDL Endorsement in D.C.

1. Determine Eligibility:

   • Be at least 21 years old for interstate commerce or 18 years old for intrastate commerce.
   • Hold a valid non-commercial driver's license (NCDL).
   • Provide proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency.
   • Submit a 10-year driving history report [^2].

2. Obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP):

   • Pass the general knowledge test and any additional tests required for the desired endorsement(s).
   • Submit a Medical Examiner's Certificate (DOT physical).
   • Pay applicable fees.

3. Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT):

   • Mandatory for first-time applicants of Class A or B CDLs and for those seeking P, S, or H endorsements.
   • Training must be completed through a provider listed on the FMCSA's Training Provider Registry [^3].

4. Pass Required Tests:

   • Knowledge Test: Specific to the endorsement.
   • Skills Test: Required for P and S endorsements; includes pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and on-road driving.

5. Submit to Background Checks:

   • HazMat Endorsement: Requires a TSA background check and fingerprinting.

6. Apply for the Endorsement:

   • Visit the DC DMV with all required documentation.
   • Pay the endorsement fee.

Fees Associated with CDL Endorsements

• CDL Knowledge Test: $10 per test
• CDL Road Skills Test: $10
• CDL Endorsement: $20
• CDL Learner's Permit: $39
• CDL License (First-Time and Renewal): $117

Note: Fees are subject to change; always verify with the DC DMV [^4].

Additional Resources

For more detailed information on obtaining a CDL and endorsements in Washington, D.C., consider reviewing the following resources:

• Applying for a Commercial Driver's License in D.C.
• Obtaining a CDL Learner's Permit in D.C.
• Medical Requirements for CDL Holders in D.C.