Adding a Tanker Endorsement to Your CDL in Ohio

In the state of Ohio, adding a tanker endorsement to your Commercial Drivers License (CDL) is a necessary step for individuals involved in the transportation of liquid cargos. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you meet all eligibility requirements, study appropriately, and successfully complete the tests required for this endorsement.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for a tanker endorsement, you must meet the following requirements:

Valid Ohio CDL: You must already possess a current CDL issued by the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). Age Requirements: You must be at least 18 years old. However, if you plan to operate a commercial vehicle across state lines, you need to be at least 21 years old.

Study for the Test

Preparing for the tanker endorsement test is crucial for your success. Study the Ohio Commercial Drivers Manual, focusing specifically on the sections related to tanker vehicles. This will help you better understand the unique challenges of operating tank vehicles, such as loading, unloading, and maintaining these types of vehicles safely.

Schedule and Take the Knowledge Test

Once you are confident in your preparation, contact your local Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) office to schedule the tanker endorsement knowledge test. The process may vary depending on your local office; some locations may allow you to take the test online, while others require an in-person visit. Be sure to pass this written test with at least 80% accuracy to move forward in the process.

Complete the Application

After successfully passing the knowledge test, you will need to complete the application for the tanker endorsement. You can do this by visiting your local BMV office or completing the application online. Make sure to provide all requested documentation and pay the required fee.

Pay the Fee

There is a fee associated with adding a tanker endorsement to your CDL. As of the latest updates, the fee can be found on the Ohio BMV website. Ensure you check these fees before visiting the office to avoid any surprises.

Receive Your Updated CDL

After completing all the necessary steps and paying the required fees, you will receive an updated CDL that reflects the tanker endorsement. This endorsement will allow you to operate tanker vehicles in compliance with Ohio laws and regulations.

(Optional) Road Skills Test

Some employers or specific types of tanker vehicles may require a road skills test. This test ensures that you can safely operate a tanker vehicle on public roads. You should check with your employer or the BMV for details about this requirement.

Additional Tips:

Visit the Ohio BMV website or contact them directly for the most current information. Some companies have their own training programs and might recommend specific third-party endorsees. Contact the licensing department to get study materials and recommendations.

For the CDL tanker test, you will need to pass a knowledge test covering the problems posed by large volume liquid cargos. The test consists of 20 questions, and you must correctly answer at least 16 questions (80%) to pass. This test is part of the Ohio CDL tank vehicles test.