A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is your ticket to a rewarding career in trucking, bus driving, and other commercial driving fields. However, not all CDLs are the same — some drivers may have restrictions placed on their licenses that limit the type of vehicle they can operate or the tasks they can perform. These restrictions may seem like minor details, but they can have a significant impact on your career opportunities, pay scale, and the types of jobs you can pursue.
In this article, we’ll break down the most common CDL restrictions, what they mean for your driving privileges, and how they can affect your career path. We’ll also discuss how to remove restrictions from your CDL if possible, so you can maximize your earning potential and job prospects.
1. What Are CDL Restrictions?
CDL restrictions are specific conditions or limitations placed on a driver’s commercial license that prevent them from operating certain types of vehicles or performing certain tasks. These restrictions are typically the result of:
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Medical conditions
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Inexperienced driving history
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Driver’s age
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Vehicle-specific qualifications
A CDL holder with restrictions is still legally allowed to drive a commercial vehicle, but only under specific circumstances outlined by the restriction. If you want to expand the scope of your CDL and remove or change these restrictions, there are certain steps you can take.
Let’s take a closer look at the most common CDL restrictions and what they mean.
2. Common CDL Restrictions
1. Restriction Code 1: “No Air Brake”
What it means: If you have this restriction, it means you are not allowed to drive vehicles equipped with air brakes.
Why it happens: This restriction is often placed on drivers who have passed the CDL test using a vehicle that does not have air brakes. Since air brake systems are standard in many commercial vehicles, such as semi-trucks, having this restriction can limit your ability to drive larger trucks.
How to remove it: If you want to drive air-braked vehicles, you’ll need to retake the air brake knowledge test and the skills test in a vehicle equipped with air brakes. Once you pass, this restriction will be lifted.
2. Restriction Code 2: “No Manual Transmission”
What it means: This restriction prevents you from operating vehicles with a manual (stick shift) transmission.
Why it happens: Some drivers may be restricted to driving automatic transmission vehicles after passing their CDL test in an automatic vehicle. This restriction is often the result of driving a truck with an automatic transmission during the testing process.
How to remove it: To remove this restriction, you will need to take the skills test in a vehicle with a manual transmission. Once you pass, the restriction will be lifted, allowing you to drive both automatic and manual vehicles.
3. Restriction Code 3: “No Class A”
What it means: A Class A restriction means you are not qualified to drive a vehicle that requires a Class A CDL. This can include large tractor-trailers, buses, and other heavy-duty vehicles.
Why it happens: This restriction is typically placed on drivers who test for their CDL in a Class B or Class C vehicle, which is smaller and does not require a Class A license. This restriction is often given to individuals who have not demonstrated proficiency in handling the large vehicles covered by a Class A CDL.
How to remove it: If you wish to remove the Class A restriction, you will need to retake the CDL test using a Class A vehicle. Once you pass the skills and written tests for the Class A CDL, the restriction will be removed, and you’ll be eligible to drive larger commercial vehicles.
4. Restriction Code 5: “No Passengers”
What it means: A no passengers restriction prevents you from carrying passengers in your commercial vehicle. This can apply to drivers with a Passenger (P) endorsement who may have limitations due to their specific vehicle or experience level.
Why it happens: This restriction can be applied to drivers who have not yet completed the necessary Passenger Endorsement tests or have demonstrated insufficient experience driving passenger vehicles.
How to remove it: To lift this restriction, you’ll need to pass the Passenger Endorsement test, which includes a knowledge and skills test to ensure you can safely transport passengers.
5. Restriction Code 6: “No Hazardous Materials”
What it means: This restriction means that you are not authorized to transport hazardous materials, even if you have a HazMat endorsement on your CDL.
Why it happens: This restriction typically applies to drivers who did not pass the necessary background checks or tests required for carrying hazardous materials. It could also apply to individuals who failed the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) clearance for HazMat certification.
How to remove it: To remove the restriction, you will need to successfully pass the HazMat written test and undergo a background check through the TSA. Once you pass the required checks, your CDL can be updated to allow HazMat transport.
6. Restriction Code 7: “No Tractor-Trailer”
What it means: A tractor-trailer restriction means that the driver cannot operate a combination vehicle, such as a semi-truck or any vehicle that requires a Class A CDL.
Why it happens: This restriction may be given to drivers who have completed their CDL test in a vehicle that doesn’t require a combination (like a straight truck or bus), or it could be due to failure to pass the road test with a combination vehicle.
How to remove it: You can remove the restriction by retaking the skills test in a combination vehicle. After passing, you’ll be authorized to drive combination trucks and trailers.
7. Restriction Code 8: “No Full-Face Mask”
What it means: This restriction is for drivers who have not demonstrated the ability to operate a commercial vehicle while wearing a full-face mask (required for certain jobs, like those operating vehicles with specialized equipment or those working in hazardous conditions).
Why it happens: This restriction is often placed on individuals who haven’t been able to pass a road test under the conditions where the full-face mask is required.
How to remove it: You may need to pass a road test or medical examination to prove that you can operate a vehicle under the required conditions. The restriction may also be removed with additional training and testing.
3. Impact of CDL Restrictions on Your Career
CDL restrictions can affect the types of jobs you are eligible for. Here’s how some common restrictions could limit your career options:
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Restricted to Automatic Transmissions: If you can’t drive manual trucks, you may find it harder to secure high-paying jobs, as many employers require drivers to operate both manual and automatic trucks.
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No HazMat Endorsement: Without the ability to haul hazardous materials, you may miss out on higher-paying routes that require this endorsement.
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No Passengers: If you’re restricted from carrying passengers, you won’t be eligible for jobs that involve transporting people, such as driving a bus or shuttle service.
4. How to Remove or Change Restrictions
If you find that your CDL has restrictions that limit your career potential, here’s what you can do to change them:
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Pass the Necessary Tests: In most cases, you can remove a restriction by retaking the appropriate knowledge or road test.
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Complete Additional Training: If you need more experience or training, you may be required to take a refresher course or participate in additional behind-the-wheel training.
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Consult Your State DMV: Each state has specific rules and regulations for removing CDL restrictions. Be sure to visit your local DMV website for details on how to proceed.
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Schedule an Appointment: Once you’re ready to remove a restriction, you’ll likely need to visit your DMV for a new skills test or document review.
5. Conclusion
CDL restrictions are limitations placed on your commercial driver’s license that can affect the types of vehicles you can operate or cargo you can transport. While these restrictions are common, they can impact your earning potential and career opportunities. If you have restrictions on your CDL, don’t worry! You can take the necessary steps to remove them, whether through additional training, testing, or endorsements.
By understanding the restrictions on your CDL, you can plan your next steps and make informed decisions about your career path. With the right effort and preparation, you can broaden your job opportunities and take your commercial driving career to new heights.