is having all 7 endorsements the way to go?

When i went to test for doubles/triples tanker and hazmat, there was also a firefighter endorsement, don't know how you would go about applying for a job with the fire department, but certainly peaked my interest

 

No.

You would need a CDL as well as some other things.

No, completely different animal.

Typically.

No, trucks shift entirely different than what cars do.

Not entirely, part of your property taxes goes towards funding the fire department.

 

Greetings thealfa,

States such as NY allow you to take the HME written test when getting your permit; however, the 'X' or 'H' will not be printed on it & you can't schedule for your fingerprint/background check and DMV HME application (to the NYS DMV HazMat Unit,) until you pass your road test & wait the time needed by DMV for federal processing of your DL#. Other states use the TSA's system-solely; allowing you to get a head-start, by scheduling the Haz prints while you're still in the permit-phase. Some states are more stringent and add State-checks to the FBI/TSA's.


NY: Typical CDL-A written is 3 tests = General + Combo + Air Brakes

Endorsements (typ. for tractor-trailer driver applicants):
1. 'M' Metal Coil
2. 'T' Doubles/Triples
3. 'X' Tank and HazMat
4. 'N' Tank
5. 'H' Hazmat
6. 'W' Tow Truck
7. 'P' Passenger ('N2' Restriction: Adult Seating <=7)

*Note: for $40, one can take the Certified Escort Driver Test - it's not an endorsement, though.

The endorsements can all be taken for free, when taking the CDL written test. After that, they're $5/ea. DMV may allow a driver to take any endorsements & add them for free, when processing the 'X' or 'H' addition.

So, you'll pass your road test, get your CDL, wait for TSA/DMV to screen you & then go into DMV and get a new CDL. The 2nd CDL (for HME) is free, but it has to be applied for, once TSA/DMV HazMat Unit sends the approval letter.

Yes, in some cases, getting them all helps a student get a more serious look from a more desirable company. It may help you start with more of a 'career-ish' company, vice 'starter' company. If anything, it demonstrates initiative and prospective 'train-ability.'

You may also consider adding some of the following to your list:

1. The Michigan Center for Truck Safety's 'Michigan Center for Decision Driving (MCDD)' Course (Eaton Proving Grounds in Marshall, MI)
2. Passport
3. TWIC card (TSA)
4. FAST card (CBP)
5. Smith-System Truck-specific online courses/videos:
• Distracted Driving
• Outside the Box (Truck)
• Compass Maneuvering (Truck)
• Five Keys to Safe Driving - Truck Forward Motion
• Five Keys to Safe Driving - Truck Backing
• Reversing the Trend: 5 Keys to Preventing Backing Collisions (Truck)
• Following Distance: Resolving the Debate (Truck)

The more you go out and get on your own, the further-advanced your starting point may well be.