Tank
This endorsement is required to haul any liquid or gaseous materials in a tank or tanks having a capacity of 1,000 gallons or more that is either permanently or temporarily attached to the vehicle or chassis. To receive this endorsement, applicants must pass a test. The test consists of 20 multiple choice questions. Each question has three or four possible answer choices. To pass, the applicant must answer at least 16 questions correctly. Test questions come from the Alabama Commercial Driver License Manual. Questions come from chapters covering: Driving Safely, Tank Vehicles, Hazardous Materials and Combination Vehicles. The Tank endorsement can be used with the Class A, B or C CDL.
Number of Question
Passing Score
1. When it’s difficult to see, such as at dawn or dusk, a driver can increase their vehicle's visibility by:
Explanation
When driving at dawn, at dusk, or in inclement weather, you should use your headlights on their low beam setting to increase your visibility.
2. A driver must take the HazMat knowledge test:
Explanation
You must take and pass the written English version of the HazMat knowledge test and be cleared through a federal background check before every renewal of your CDL.
3. After connecting the air lines to the trailer while coupling, you should:
Explanation
Correctly following the steps to couple and uncouple trailers is vital to safely operating a combination vehicle. After connecting the air lines to the trailer while coupling, you should supply air to the trailer.
4. Place the trailer air supply control in its "emergency" position to test:
Explanation
Be sure to test the trailer emergency brakes before beginning a trip. After ensuring that the trailer rolls freely, you can test the emergency brakes by pulling out the trailer air supply control, or placing it in the "emergency" position. Pull forward slightly with the tractor and make sure the trailer does not move.
5. If you’re unfamiliar with the area in which you must back up, you should:
Explanation
Backing is always dangerous because you cannot see everything behind your vehicle. Especially if you are unfamiliar with the area, you should get out of your vehicle and familiarize yourself with your path of travel before beginning to back up.
6. The National Response Center must be notified of an incident resulting in any of the following, except:
Explanation
The National Response Center must be notified of any incident that results in death; hospitalization; $50,000 or more in estimated property damage; an evacuation of the general public or closure of a major transportation route/facility for more then one hour; fire, breakage, spillage, or suspected contamination involving radiation, bacteria, or toxins. Additionally, if the carrier judges the situation to be so serious that it should be reported, it should be reported.
7. When driving on a wet road, you should reduce your speed by:
Explanation
Reduce your speed when traveling on surfaces that provide reduced traction. Reduce your speed by about one-third when driving on a wet road.
Frequently Asked Questions
To obtain a CDL Tank endorsement in Alabama, you will need to follow these steps:
1. Obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) from your local Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. You will need to pass a written knowledge test and a driving skills test.
2. Once you have your CDL, you can apply for the Tank endorsement by passing a written knowledge test specific to tank vehicles. You can take the test at any Alabama DPS office.
3. Study for the Tank endorsement test by reviewing the Alabama CDL Driver's Manual and practicing with online practice tests.
4. Schedule an appointment to take the Tank endorsement test at your local Alabama DPS office.
5. Take and pass the Tank endorsement test, which will cover topics such as tank vehicle inspection, loading and unloading procedures, and safe driving practices.
6. Pay the required fee for the Tank endorsement.
Once you have passed the Tank endorsement test and paid the fee, your CDL will be updated to include the Tank endorsement. It is important to note that you must renew your Tank endorsement every 4 years along with your CDL renewal.
1. Obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) from your local Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. You will need to pass a written knowledge test and a driving skills test.
2. Once you have your CDL, you can apply for the Tank endorsement by passing a written knowledge test specific to tank vehicles. You can take the test at any Alabama DPS office.
3. Study for the Tank endorsement test by reviewing the Alabama CDL Driver's Manual and practicing with online practice tests.
4. Schedule an appointment to take the Tank endorsement test at your local Alabama DPS office.
5. Take and pass the Tank endorsement test, which will cover topics such as tank vehicle inspection, loading and unloading procedures, and safe driving practices.
6. Pay the required fee for the Tank endorsement.
Once you have passed the Tank endorsement test and paid the fee, your CDL will be updated to include the Tank endorsement. It is important to note that you must renew your Tank endorsement every 4 years along with your CDL renewal.
To get a CDL Tank license, you must meet several requirements, including:
1. Be at least 21 years old: You must be at least 21 years old to operate a commercial vehicle across state lines or transport hazardous materials.
2. Hold a valid driver's license: You must hold a valid driver's license from the state in which you reside.
3. Obtain a CDL permit: You must obtain a CDL permit by passing a written test specific to the type of commercial vehicle you plan to operate.
4. Pass a driving skills test: You must pass a driving skills test in the type of commercial vehicle you plan to operate with the Tank endorsement.
5. Pass a Tank endorsement knowledge test: You must pass a written knowledge test specific to tank vehicles and their safe operation.
6. Meet medical requirements: You must meet federal and state medical requirements to ensure that you are physically able to operate a commercial vehicle.
7. Have a clean driving record: You must have a clean driving record with no serious traffic violations, such as driving under the influence (DUI) or reckless driving.
8. Complete any required training: Depending on your experience and the type of commercial vehicle you plan to operate, you may be required to complete additional training before obtaining your Tank endorsement.
It is also important to note that once you have obtained your CDL with the Tank endorsement, you will need to renew it every four years along with your medical certification and any other endorsements you may hold.
1. Be at least 21 years old: You must be at least 21 years old to operate a commercial vehicle across state lines or transport hazardous materials.
2. Hold a valid driver's license: You must hold a valid driver's license from the state in which you reside.
3. Obtain a CDL permit: You must obtain a CDL permit by passing a written test specific to the type of commercial vehicle you plan to operate.
4. Pass a driving skills test: You must pass a driving skills test in the type of commercial vehicle you plan to operate with the Tank endorsement.
5. Pass a Tank endorsement knowledge test: You must pass a written knowledge test specific to tank vehicles and their safe operation.
6. Meet medical requirements: You must meet federal and state medical requirements to ensure that you are physically able to operate a commercial vehicle.
7. Have a clean driving record: You must have a clean driving record with no serious traffic violations, such as driving under the influence (DUI) or reckless driving.
8. Complete any required training: Depending on your experience and the type of commercial vehicle you plan to operate, you may be required to complete additional training before obtaining your Tank endorsement.
It is also important to note that once you have obtained your CDL with the Tank endorsement, you will need to renew it every four years along with your medical certification and any other endorsements you may hold.
Yes, you may need specific training or experience to obtain a CDL Tank endorsement, depending on your situation. Here are some requirements to keep in mind:
1. Complete a CDL program: Alabama law requires that you complete a CDL program before obtaining your CDL. This program should include instruction on driving skills, safety procedures, and the specific requirements for obtaining a Tank endorsement.
2. Pass a Tank vehicle knowledge test: You must pass a knowledge test specific to tank vehicles and their safe operation.
3. Pass a driving skills test: You must pass a driving skills test in the type of commercial vehicle you plan to operate with the Tank endorsement.
4. Obtain an HME (Hazardous Materials Endorsement) if necessary: If you plan to transport hazardous materials, you must obtain an HME in addition to your Tank endorsement. This requires passing a separate knowledge test and undergoing a background check.
5. Complete additional training if necessary: If you have not operated a tank vehicle before, you may be required to complete additional training before obtaining your Tank endorsement.
It is important to note that the specific requirements for obtaining a CDL Tank endorsement may vary depending on your situation and the state in which you reside. It is recommended that you check with your local Alabama Department of Public Safety office for more information on the requirements in your area.
1. Complete a CDL program: Alabama law requires that you complete a CDL program before obtaining your CDL. This program should include instruction on driving skills, safety procedures, and the specific requirements for obtaining a Tank endorsement.
2. Pass a Tank vehicle knowledge test: You must pass a knowledge test specific to tank vehicles and their safe operation.
3. Pass a driving skills test: You must pass a driving skills test in the type of commercial vehicle you plan to operate with the Tank endorsement.
4. Obtain an HME (Hazardous Materials Endorsement) if necessary: If you plan to transport hazardous materials, you must obtain an HME in addition to your Tank endorsement. This requires passing a separate knowledge test and undergoing a background check.
5. Complete additional training if necessary: If you have not operated a tank vehicle before, you may be required to complete additional training before obtaining your Tank endorsement.
It is important to note that the specific requirements for obtaining a CDL Tank endorsement may vary depending on your situation and the state in which you reside. It is recommended that you check with your local Alabama Department of Public Safety office for more information on the requirements in your area.
Yes, there is an additional written test or exam that you must pass to obtain a CDL Tank endorsement. In addition to passing the standard CDL written test, you must also pass a Tank Vehicle endorsement written test.
This test is designed to evaluate your knowledge of the safe operation of tank vehicles, including topics such as:
1. Proper loading and unloading procedures
2. Hazardous materials regulations
3. Tank vehicle inspection and maintenance
4. Safe driving practices for tank vehicles
5. Emergency response procedures
The Tank Vehicle endorsement written test will consist of 20-30 multiple-choice questions, and you must answer at least 80% of them correctly to pass. The test is typically administered at your local Alabama Department of Public Safety office.
It is important to note that the specific requirements for obtaining a CDL Tank endorsement may vary depending on your situation and the state in which you reside. It is recommended that you check with your local Alabama Department of Public Safety office for more information on the requirements in your area.
This test is designed to evaluate your knowledge of the safe operation of tank vehicles, including topics such as:
1. Proper loading and unloading procedures
2. Hazardous materials regulations
3. Tank vehicle inspection and maintenance
4. Safe driving practices for tank vehicles
5. Emergency response procedures
The Tank Vehicle endorsement written test will consist of 20-30 multiple-choice questions, and you must answer at least 80% of them correctly to pass. The test is typically administered at your local Alabama Department of Public Safety office.
It is important to note that the specific requirements for obtaining a CDL Tank endorsement may vary depending on your situation and the state in which you reside. It is recommended that you check with your local Alabama Department of Public Safety office for more information on the requirements in your area.
The CDL Tank endorsement written test covers topics related to the safe operation of tank vehicles. Some of the topics that may be covered on the test include:
1. Inspecting tank vehicles: This includes checking for leaks, ensuring that valves are properly secured, and making sure that safety equipment is in place.
2. Loading and unloading tank vehicles: This includes understanding how to properly load and unload cargo, as well as knowing how to handle hazardous materials.
3. Driving a tank vehicle: This includes understanding how to handle a tank vehicle on the road, such as how to navigate turns and curves safely.
4. Safety regulations: This includes understanding federal and state regulations related to tank vehicles, such as weight limits and hours of service requirements.
5. Emergency procedures: This includes knowing what to do in the event of an accident or spill, as well as understanding how to properly use safety equipment such as fire extinguishers.
The exact topics covered in the CDL Tank endorsement written test may vary depending on your location, but these are some of the most common areas that are tested. It is important to study these topics thoroughly before taking the test to ensure that you are prepared to pass.
1. Inspecting tank vehicles: This includes checking for leaks, ensuring that valves are properly secured, and making sure that safety equipment is in place.
2. Loading and unloading tank vehicles: This includes understanding how to properly load and unload cargo, as well as knowing how to handle hazardous materials.
3. Driving a tank vehicle: This includes understanding how to handle a tank vehicle on the road, such as how to navigate turns and curves safely.
4. Safety regulations: This includes understanding federal and state regulations related to tank vehicles, such as weight limits and hours of service requirements.
5. Emergency procedures: This includes knowing what to do in the event of an accident or spill, as well as understanding how to properly use safety equipment such as fire extinguishers.
The exact topics covered in the CDL Tank endorsement written test may vary depending on your location, but these are some of the most common areas that are tested. It is important to study these topics thoroughly before taking the test to ensure that you are prepared to pass.
The CDL Tank endorsement written test is designed to evaluate your knowledge of the safe operation of tank vehicles. There are no specific skills or maneuvers that you need to demonstrate during this test. However, you will need to demonstrate your ability to safely operate a tank vehicle during the skills test portion of the CDL licensing process.
During the skills test, you will be required to demonstrate your ability to perform a pre-trip inspection of the tank vehicle, as well as your ability to safely drive and maneuver the vehicle. You may be asked to perform specific maneuvers such as backing up or turning in tight spaces.
It is important to note that the requirements for obtaining a CDL Tank endorsement may vary depending on your location, so it is recommended that you check with your local Alabama Department of Public Safety office for more information on the specific skills and maneuvers that will be required during the CDL licensing process.
During the skills test, you will be required to demonstrate your ability to perform a pre-trip inspection of the tank vehicle, as well as your ability to safely drive and maneuver the vehicle. You may be asked to perform specific maneuvers such as backing up or turning in tight spaces.
It is important to note that the requirements for obtaining a CDL Tank endorsement may vary depending on your location, so it is recommended that you check with your local Alabama Department of Public Safety office for more information on the specific skills and maneuvers that will be required during the CDL licensing process.
Yes, there are restrictions and limitations for drivers with a CDL Tank endorsement in Alabama. These restrictions are put in place to ensure the safety of the driver, other motorists, and the general public.
One of the most common restrictions for drivers with a CDL Tank endorsement is a limit on the amount of hazardous materials they can transport. This limit is based on the type of endorsement that the driver has. For example, a driver with a Hazmat endorsement may be restricted from transporting certain types or quantities of hazardous materials.
Another common restriction for drivers with a CDL Tank endorsement is a requirement to obtain additional endorsements or certifications before transporting certain types of cargo. For example, a driver may need to obtain an additional endorsement in order to transport liquid propane gas (LPG) or compressed natural gas (CNG).
It is important for drivers with a CDL Tank endorsement to be aware of these restrictions and limitations, as failing to comply with them can result in serious consequences, including fines and loss of driving privileges. Drivers should also stay up-to-date on any changes to these requirements by checking with their local Alabama Department of Public Safety office.
One of the most common restrictions for drivers with a CDL Tank endorsement is a limit on the amount of hazardous materials they can transport. This limit is based on the type of endorsement that the driver has. For example, a driver with a Hazmat endorsement may be restricted from transporting certain types or quantities of hazardous materials.
Another common restriction for drivers with a CDL Tank endorsement is a requirement to obtain additional endorsements or certifications before transporting certain types of cargo. For example, a driver may need to obtain an additional endorsement in order to transport liquid propane gas (LPG) or compressed natural gas (CNG).
It is important for drivers with a CDL Tank endorsement to be aware of these restrictions and limitations, as failing to comply with them can result in serious consequences, including fines and loss of driving privileges. Drivers should also stay up-to-date on any changes to these requirements by checking with their local Alabama Department of Public Safety office.
No, you cannot transport liquid or gas materials without a CDL Tank endorsement in Alabama. According to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations, a driver must have a CDL with a Tank endorsement in order to operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) that is designed to transport liquid or gas materials in bulk.
This means that if you are transporting any type of liquid or gas material that requires a tank vehicle, you must have a CDL Tank endorsement. Examples of these materials include gasoline, diesel fuel, propane, and chemicals.
It is important to note that there are additional requirements for transporting hazardous materials, and drivers must obtain a Hazmat endorsement in addition to their CDL Tank endorsement if they plan to transport hazardous materials.
Failure to comply with these requirements can result in serious consequences, including fines and loss of driving privileges. Therefore, it is important for drivers to ensure that they have the necessary endorsements and certifications before operating any type of commercial motor vehicle.
This means that if you are transporting any type of liquid or gas material that requires a tank vehicle, you must have a CDL Tank endorsement. Examples of these materials include gasoline, diesel fuel, propane, and chemicals.
It is important to note that there are additional requirements for transporting hazardous materials, and drivers must obtain a Hazmat endorsement in addition to their CDL Tank endorsement if they plan to transport hazardous materials.
Failure to comply with these requirements can result in serious consequences, including fines and loss of driving privileges. Therefore, it is important for drivers to ensure that they have the necessary endorsements and certifications before operating any type of commercial motor vehicle.
Yes, you can add the CDL Tank endorsement to your existing CDL license in Alabama. To add the endorsement, you will need to pass the CDL Tank endorsement knowledge test and any applicable skills tests.
You can apply for the CDL Tank endorsement at your local Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. You will need to bring your current CDL license, proof of identification, and payment for any applicable fees.
It is important to note that if you are adding the CDL Tank endorsement to your license, you may also need to obtain additional certifications or endorsements depending on the type of cargo you plan to transport. For example, if you plan to transport hazardous materials, you will need to obtain a Hazmat endorsement in addition to your CDL Tank endorsement.
Once you have passed the necessary tests and obtained any required endorsements or certifications, your CDL license will be updated to reflect the new information.
It is important to ensure that you have all the necessary endorsements and certifications before operating a commercial motor vehicle designed to transport liquid or gas materials in bulk. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in serious consequences, including fines and loss of driving privileges.
You can apply for the CDL Tank endorsement at your local Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. You will need to bring your current CDL license, proof of identification, and payment for any applicable fees.
It is important to note that if you are adding the CDL Tank endorsement to your license, you may also need to obtain additional certifications or endorsements depending on the type of cargo you plan to transport. For example, if you plan to transport hazardous materials, you will need to obtain a Hazmat endorsement in addition to your CDL Tank endorsement.
Once you have passed the necessary tests and obtained any required endorsements or certifications, your CDL license will be updated to reflect the new information.
It is important to ensure that you have all the necessary endorsements and certifications before operating a commercial motor vehicle designed to transport liquid or gas materials in bulk. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in serious consequences, including fines and loss of driving privileges.
Yes, there are specific requirements and regulations for handling hazardous materials with a CDL Tank endorsement in Alabama.
To transport hazardous materials with a CDL Tank endorsement, you must also obtain a Hazmat endorsement, which requires passing an additional knowledge test and undergoing a security threat assessment.
In addition to the Hazmat endorsement, you must also comply with the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These regulations require that drivers carrying hazardous materials:
- Are properly trained in handling hazardous materials
- Follow specific loading and unloading procedures for hazardous materials
- Carry the proper shipping papers and placards for the hazardous materials being transported
- Have the appropriate emergency response information readily available in case of an accident or spill
It is important to note that there are also specific requirements for the design and construction of tanks used to transport hazardous materials. These requirements include:
- Tanks must be designed, constructed, and marked in accordance with the HMR
- Tanks must be inspected and tested on a regular basis to ensure they are in proper working order
- Tanks must be loaded and secured in accordance with the HMR
Failure to comply with these requirements can result in serious consequences, including fines and loss of driving privileges. Therefore, it is important to ensure that you are properly trained and equipped to transport hazardous materials before attempting to do so.
To transport hazardous materials with a CDL Tank endorsement, you must also obtain a Hazmat endorsement, which requires passing an additional knowledge test and undergoing a security threat assessment.
In addition to the Hazmat endorsement, you must also comply with the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These regulations require that drivers carrying hazardous materials:
- Are properly trained in handling hazardous materials
- Follow specific loading and unloading procedures for hazardous materials
- Carry the proper shipping papers and placards for the hazardous materials being transported
- Have the appropriate emergency response information readily available in case of an accident or spill
It is important to note that there are also specific requirements for the design and construction of tanks used to transport hazardous materials. These requirements include:
- Tanks must be designed, constructed, and marked in accordance with the HMR
- Tanks must be inspected and tested on a regular basis to ensure they are in proper working order
- Tanks must be loaded and secured in accordance with the HMR
Failure to comply with these requirements can result in serious consequences, including fines and loss of driving privileges. Therefore, it is important to ensure that you are properly trained and equipped to transport hazardous materials before attempting to do so.
