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 possible answer choices. To pass, the applicant must answer at least 16 questions correctly. Test questions come from the Maine 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
15. If backing a truck:
Explanation
If you must drive in reverse, you should first walk around your vehicle to look at the path of travel and check for obstacles. Because mirrors have blind spots, you cannot rely exclusively on them. It is recommended to use a helper whenever possible.
16. A person attending a placarded vehicle may be:
Explanation
A person attending a parked placarded vehicle must be either awake inside the vehicle or they must be within 100 feet of it. If not inside the vehicle itself, the person must have a clear view of the vehicle. The person attending may not be inside the sleeper berth.
17. Baffled tanks:
Explanation
Baffled tanks contain holed bulkheads that allow liquid to flow through the tank. This helps to inhibit front-to-back surge, but does not prevent side-to-side surge.
18. When approaching a railroad crossing while transporting chlorine:
Explanation
If transporting any amount of chlorine, a driver must always stop at a railroad crossing 15 to 50 feet from the nearest track, regardless of the presence of a train.
19. While driving, gauges are:
Explanation
While driving, you should watch your vehicle's gauges for signs of trouble. Be sure to inspect your gauges before beginning a trip to ensure that they are in proper working order.
20. Cargo tanks should never be completely full because:
Explanation
Liquids expand as they get warmer and drivers must allow extra space in a tank to accommodate this expansion. Different liquids expand to different degrees, so drivers must be aware of the outage requirements of the specific load they are carrying.
Frequently Asked Questions
To obtain a CDL Tank endorsement in Maine, you will need to follow these steps:
1. Meet the eligibility requirements: You must hold a valid Maine commercial driver's license (CDL) and be at least 21 years old to obtain a Tank endorsement.
2. Study for the Tank endorsement exam: You will need to study the Maine Commercial Driver License Manual, which covers all the information you need to know to pass the Tank endorsement exam. The Tank endorsement exam is a written test that covers specific knowledge related to driving a vehicle carrying liquid or gaseous materials.
3. Schedule and pass the Tank endorsement exam: You must schedule and pass the Tank endorsement exam at a Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) office. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and requires a passing score of at least 80%.
4. Pay the required fee: There is a fee associated with obtaining a Tank endorsement in Maine. Check with your local BMV office for the current fee.
5. Receive your new CDL with Tank endorsement: Once you have passed the Tank endorsement exam and paid the required fee, your new CDL with Tank endorsement will be issued by the Maine BMV.
It's important to note that if you already hold a CDL with other endorsements, such as HazMat or Double/Triple trailer, you may be able to add the Tank endorsement without taking another written test. However, you will still need to pay the required fee and meet any other eligibility requirements.
1. Meet the eligibility requirements: You must hold a valid Maine commercial driver's license (CDL) and be at least 21 years old to obtain a Tank endorsement.
2. Study for the Tank endorsement exam: You will need to study the Maine Commercial Driver License Manual, which covers all the information you need to know to pass the Tank endorsement exam. The Tank endorsement exam is a written test that covers specific knowledge related to driving a vehicle carrying liquid or gaseous materials.
3. Schedule and pass the Tank endorsement exam: You must schedule and pass the Tank endorsement exam at a Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) office. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and requires a passing score of at least 80%.
4. Pay the required fee: There is a fee associated with obtaining a Tank endorsement in Maine. Check with your local BMV office for the current fee.
5. Receive your new CDL with Tank endorsement: Once you have passed the Tank endorsement exam and paid the required fee, your new CDL with Tank endorsement will be issued by the Maine BMV.
It's important to note that if you already hold a CDL with other endorsements, such as HazMat or Double/Triple trailer, you may be able to add the Tank endorsement without taking another written test. However, you will still need to pay the required fee and meet any other eligibility requirements.
To obtain a CDL Tank license, you must meet the following requirements in Maine:
1. Age: You must be at least 21 years old. However, you may be eligible for a CDL Tank license at 18 years old if the vehicle is being used solely within Maine and does not transport hazardous materials.
2. Valid Maine Driver's License: You must hold a valid Maine driver's license.
3. CDL Permit: You must hold a valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL) permit for the class of vehicle you wish to drive with a Tank endorsement.
4. CDL Skills Test: You must pass a CDL skills test in a vehicle that is representative of the type of vehicle you will be driving with the Tank endorsement.
5. Tank Endorsement Exam: You must pass a written Tank endorsement exam that covers specific knowledge related to driving a vehicle carrying liquid or gaseous materials.
6. Medical Certification: You must provide proof of medical certification, indicating that you meet the medical standards set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
7. Background Check: You must pass a background check that includes a review of your driving record and criminal history.
It's important to note that additional requirements may apply for specific types of Tank vehicles, such as those carrying hazardous materials. You should consult with the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) for more information on these requirements.
1. Age: You must be at least 21 years old. However, you may be eligible for a CDL Tank license at 18 years old if the vehicle is being used solely within Maine and does not transport hazardous materials.
2. Valid Maine Driver's License: You must hold a valid Maine driver's license.
3. CDL Permit: You must hold a valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL) permit for the class of vehicle you wish to drive with a Tank endorsement.
4. CDL Skills Test: You must pass a CDL skills test in a vehicle that is representative of the type of vehicle you will be driving with the Tank endorsement.
5. Tank Endorsement Exam: You must pass a written Tank endorsement exam that covers specific knowledge related to driving a vehicle carrying liquid or gaseous materials.
6. Medical Certification: You must provide proof of medical certification, indicating that you meet the medical standards set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
7. Background Check: You must pass a background check that includes a review of your driving record and criminal history.
It's important to note that additional requirements may apply for specific types of Tank vehicles, such as those carrying hazardous materials. You should consult with the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) for more information on these requirements.
In Maine, there is no specific training or experience required to obtain a CDL Tank endorsement. However, it is recommended that you have some experience driving commercial vehicles before attempting to obtain a Tank endorsement. This is because driving a vehicle with a Tank endorsement can be more challenging than driving a regular commercial vehicle due to the increased risk of liquid or gaseous materials shifting during transport.
Additionally, some employers may require Tank vehicle training or certification before hiring you to drive a Tank vehicle. They may also require you to complete specific safety training related to the transportation of hazardous materials.
It's important to note that if you are transporting hazardous materials, you will need to obtain a Hazardous Materials (HazMat) endorsement in addition to the Tank endorsement. To obtain a HazMat endorsement, you will need to complete a TSA background check and pass an additional written exam. You will also need to meet specific training requirements related to transporting hazardous materials.
Additionally, some employers may require Tank vehicle training or certification before hiring you to drive a Tank vehicle. They may also require you to complete specific safety training related to the transportation of hazardous materials.
It's important to note that if you are transporting hazardous materials, you will need to obtain a Hazardous Materials (HazMat) endorsement in addition to the Tank endorsement. To obtain a HazMat endorsement, you will need to complete a TSA background check and pass an additional written exam. You will also need to meet specific training requirements related to transporting hazardous materials.
Yes, in Maine, you will need to pass an additional written exam to obtain a Tank endorsement. The Tank endorsement exam covers specific knowledge related to driving a commercial vehicle with a tank, including:
1. Inspecting and driving Tank vehicles
2. Safe loading and unloading of liquid or gaseous materials
3. Controlling Tank vehicle surge and slosh
4. Handling emergency situations involving Tank vehicles
The Tank endorsement exam is administered as part of the CDL written test and has a separate fee from the standard CDL written test fee. You must pass the Tank endorsement exam with a score of at least 80% to obtain the endorsement.
If you are also applying for a Hazardous Materials (HazMat) endorsement, you will need to pass an additional written exam related to transporting hazardous materials. This exam is administered separately and also has a separate fee. You will need to pass both the Tank endorsement exam and HazMat endorsement exam (if applicable) before you can obtain your CDL with the necessary endorsements.
1. Inspecting and driving Tank vehicles
2. Safe loading and unloading of liquid or gaseous materials
3. Controlling Tank vehicle surge and slosh
4. Handling emergency situations involving Tank vehicles
The Tank endorsement exam is administered as part of the CDL written test and has a separate fee from the standard CDL written test fee. You must pass the Tank endorsement exam with a score of at least 80% to obtain the endorsement.
If you are also applying for a Hazardous Materials (HazMat) endorsement, you will need to pass an additional written exam related to transporting hazardous materials. This exam is administered separately and also has a separate fee. You will need to pass both the Tank endorsement exam and HazMat endorsement exam (if applicable) before you can obtain your CDL with the necessary endorsements.
The CDL Tank endorsement written test covers specific knowledge related to driving a commercial vehicle with a tank, including:
1. Inspecting Tank Vehicles: This includes checking for leaks, inspecting the tank's structural integrity, and verifying that all valves and connections are secure.
2. Driving Tank Vehicles: This covers the unique handling characteristics of Tank vehicles, including how to safely operate them while loaded and how to manage Tank surge and slosh.
3. Loading and Unloading Tank Vehicles: This covers the proper techniques for loading and unloading liquid or gaseous materials, including understanding weight distribution and center of gravity.
4. Hazardous Materials Regulations: This includes knowledge of federal regulations related to the transportation of hazardous materials, such as labeling requirements, placarding requirements, and emergency response procedures.
5. Emergency Procedures: This covers the proper response to an emergency situation involving a Tank vehicle, including how to safely stop the vehicle in an emergency, controlling leaks or spills, and managing fires or explosions.
It's important to study all of these topics thoroughly before taking the CDL Tank endorsement written test as they are all essential for safely operating a Tank vehicle.
1. Inspecting Tank Vehicles: This includes checking for leaks, inspecting the tank's structural integrity, and verifying that all valves and connections are secure.
2. Driving Tank Vehicles: This covers the unique handling characteristics of Tank vehicles, including how to safely operate them while loaded and how to manage Tank surge and slosh.
3. Loading and Unloading Tank Vehicles: This covers the proper techniques for loading and unloading liquid or gaseous materials, including understanding weight distribution and center of gravity.
4. Hazardous Materials Regulations: This includes knowledge of federal regulations related to the transportation of hazardous materials, such as labeling requirements, placarding requirements, and emergency response procedures.
5. Emergency Procedures: This covers the proper response to an emergency situation involving a Tank vehicle, including how to safely stop the vehicle in an emergency, controlling leaks or spills, and managing fires or explosions.
It's important to study all of these topics thoroughly before taking the CDL Tank endorsement written test as they are all essential for safely operating a Tank vehicle.
In Maine, the CDL Tank endorsement test consists of a written exam only. There is no separate skills or maneuvers test specifically for the Tank endorsement. However, if you are obtaining your CDL for the first time or upgrading your existing CDL to a higher class, you will need to pass a skills test that includes a driving test in a commercial vehicle with a tank.
During the skills test, you will be evaluated on your ability to perform various maneuvers safely and effectively while driving a Tank vehicle. These maneuvers may include:
1. Pre-trip inspection: You will need to demonstrate your ability to properly inspect a Tank vehicle before driving it.
2. Basic vehicle control: You will be evaluated on your ability to perform basic maneuvers such as backing, turning, and parking the Tank vehicle.
3. On-road driving: You will need to demonstrate your ability to safely operate the Tank vehicle on public roads under various driving conditions.
4. Emergency procedures: You may need to demonstrate how to properly respond to emergency situations such as brake failure, fires, or accidents.
It's important to note that the skills test is separate from the written exam and has its own requirements and fees. To obtain your CDL with a Tank endorsement, you will need to pass both the written exam and the skills test (if applicable).
During the skills test, you will be evaluated on your ability to perform various maneuvers safely and effectively while driving a Tank vehicle. These maneuvers may include:
1. Pre-trip inspection: You will need to demonstrate your ability to properly inspect a Tank vehicle before driving it.
2. Basic vehicle control: You will be evaluated on your ability to perform basic maneuvers such as backing, turning, and parking the Tank vehicle.
3. On-road driving: You will need to demonstrate your ability to safely operate the Tank vehicle on public roads under various driving conditions.
4. Emergency procedures: You may need to demonstrate how to properly respond to emergency situations such as brake failure, fires, or accidents.
It's important to note that the skills test is separate from the written exam and has its own requirements and fees. To obtain your CDL with a Tank endorsement, you will need to pass both the written exam and the skills test (if applicable).
Yes, there are restrictions and limitations for drivers with a CDL Tank endorsement in Maine. These restrictions and limitations are designed to ensure the safety of the driver, other motorists, and the environment.
1. Tank Size: Drivers with a Tank endorsement are limited to operating Tank vehicles with a maximum capacity of 119 gallons.
2. Hazardous Materials: Drivers with a Tank endorsement are only authorized to transport hazardous materials in Tank vehicles if they have also obtained a Hazardous Materials (HazMat) endorsement.
3. Endorsement Renewal: The Tank endorsement must be renewed every 5 years, along with the CDL license.
4. Training: Drivers must receive specialized training on how to operate Tank vehicles safely before they can obtain a Tank endorsement.
5. Background Check: Drivers must undergo a federal background check before they can obtain a HazMat endorsement, which is required for transporting hazardous materials in Tank vehicles.
It's important for drivers with a CDL Tank endorsement to be aware of these restrictions and limitations and to comply with them at all times while operating a commercial vehicle with a tank.
1. Tank Size: Drivers with a Tank endorsement are limited to operating Tank vehicles with a maximum capacity of 119 gallons.
2. Hazardous Materials: Drivers with a Tank endorsement are only authorized to transport hazardous materials in Tank vehicles if they have also obtained a Hazardous Materials (HazMat) endorsement.
3. Endorsement Renewal: The Tank endorsement must be renewed every 5 years, along with the CDL license.
4. Training: Drivers must receive specialized training on how to operate Tank vehicles safely before they can obtain a Tank endorsement.
5. Background Check: Drivers must undergo a federal background check before they can obtain a HazMat endorsement, which is required for transporting hazardous materials in Tank vehicles.
It's important for drivers with a CDL Tank endorsement to be aware of these restrictions and limitations and to comply with them at all times while operating a commercial vehicle with a tank.
It depends on the amount and type of liquid or gas materials you are transporting. In general, if the liquid or gas material you are transporting is considered a hazardous material or requires a Tank vehicle to transport, you will need a CDL Tank endorsement to transport it.
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), a Tank vehicle is defined as any commercial motor vehicle that is designed to transport any liquid or gaseous material within a tank that is either permanently or temporarily attached to the vehicle or the chassis. A Hazardous Material (HazMat) is defined as any substance or material that has been determined by the Secretary of Transportation to pose an unreasonable risk to health, safety, and property when transported in commerce.
If you are transporting a hazardous material in a tank vehicle, you will need both a CDL Tank endorsement and a HazMat endorsement. If you are transporting a non-hazardous liquid or gas material that does not require a Tank vehicle to transport, such as milk or water, you may not need a CDL Tank endorsement. However, it's important to check with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles or licensing agency to determine the specific requirements for transporting liquid or gas materials in your state.
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), a Tank vehicle is defined as any commercial motor vehicle that is designed to transport any liquid or gaseous material within a tank that is either permanently or temporarily attached to the vehicle or the chassis. A Hazardous Material (HazMat) is defined as any substance or material that has been determined by the Secretary of Transportation to pose an unreasonable risk to health, safety, and property when transported in commerce.
If you are transporting a hazardous material in a tank vehicle, you will need both a CDL Tank endorsement and a HazMat endorsement. If you are transporting a non-hazardous liquid or gas material that does not require a Tank vehicle to transport, such as milk or water, you may not need a CDL Tank endorsement. However, it's important to check with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles or licensing agency to determine the specific requirements for transporting liquid or gas materials in your state.
You can add the CDL Tank endorsement to your existing CDL license by passing the required Tank endorsement knowledge and skills tests and paying the required fees. You do not need to apply for a new CDL license.
To add the Tank endorsement, you will need to:
1. Study for the Tank endorsement knowledge test: You can study for the Tank endorsement knowledge test by reviewing the Maine Commercial Driver License Manual and taking practice tests.
2. Pass the Tank endorsement knowledge test: You must pass a written knowledge test specific to the Tank endorsement.
3. Take a Tank vehicle skills test: You must also pass a skills test in a Tank vehicle. The skills test will evaluate your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle with a tank.
4. Pay the required fees: There may be additional fees associated with adding a Tank endorsement to your CDL license.
Once you have passed both the knowledge and skills tests and paid the required fees, your CDL license will be updated to include the Tank endorsement. It is important to note that you may also need to obtain a HazMat endorsement if you plan to transport hazardous materials in a tank vehicle.
To add the Tank endorsement, you will need to:
1. Study for the Tank endorsement knowledge test: You can study for the Tank endorsement knowledge test by reviewing the Maine Commercial Driver License Manual and taking practice tests.
2. Pass the Tank endorsement knowledge test: You must pass a written knowledge test specific to the Tank endorsement.
3. Take a Tank vehicle skills test: You must also pass a skills test in a Tank vehicle. The skills test will evaluate your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle with a tank.
4. Pay the required fees: There may be additional fees associated with adding a Tank endorsement to your CDL license.
Once you have passed both the knowledge and skills tests and paid the required fees, your CDL license will be updated to include the Tank endorsement. It is important to note that you may also need to obtain a HazMat endorsement if you plan to transport hazardous materials in a tank vehicle.
Yes, there are specific requirements and regulations for handling hazardous materials with a CDL Tank endorsement. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has established regulations for the safe transportation of hazardous materials.
If you have a CDL Tank endorsement and plan to transport hazardous materials, you must:
1. Obtain a HazMat endorsement: You must obtain a HazMat endorsement in addition to your CDL Tank endorsement if you plan to transport hazardous materials.
2. Follow the regulations outlined in the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR): The HMR outlines specific regulations for the safe transportation of hazardous materials. You must follow these regulations when transporting hazardous materials in a tank vehicle.
3. Obtain special permits or licenses as required: Depending on the type and quantity of hazardous materials you are transporting, you may need to obtain special permits or licenses in addition to your CDL Tank and HazMat endorsements.
4. Properly label and mark the tank vehicle: Your tank vehicle must be properly labeled and marked with the appropriate Hazardous Materials Placards and other required markings.
5. Follow proper loading and unloading procedures: You must follow proper loading and unloading procedures when transporting hazardous materials in a tank vehicle.
It is important to note that violations of the HMR can result in serious penalties, including fines, license suspension or revocation, and even criminal charges in some cases. Therefore, it is important to fully understand and comply with all regulations when transporting hazardous materials with a CDL Tank endorsement.
If you have a CDL Tank endorsement and plan to transport hazardous materials, you must:
1. Obtain a HazMat endorsement: You must obtain a HazMat endorsement in addition to your CDL Tank endorsement if you plan to transport hazardous materials.
2. Follow the regulations outlined in the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR): The HMR outlines specific regulations for the safe transportation of hazardous materials. You must follow these regulations when transporting hazardous materials in a tank vehicle.
3. Obtain special permits or licenses as required: Depending on the type and quantity of hazardous materials you are transporting, you may need to obtain special permits or licenses in addition to your CDL Tank and HazMat endorsements.
4. Properly label and mark the tank vehicle: Your tank vehicle must be properly labeled and marked with the appropriate Hazardous Materials Placards and other required markings.
5. Follow proper loading and unloading procedures: You must follow proper loading and unloading procedures when transporting hazardous materials in a tank vehicle.
It is important to note that violations of the HMR can result in serious penalties, including fines, license suspension or revocation, and even criminal charges in some cases. Therefore, it is important to fully understand and comply with all regulations when transporting hazardous materials with a CDL Tank endorsement.
