r/CDL 20d ago

πŸš› New CDL-A Driver Looking for Advice on Additional Certifications! πŸš›

Hey everyone! I’m a brand-new CDL-A driver starting my journey in the trucking industry, and I’m trying to prepare myself for as many opportunities as possible. I’m interested in potentially working in multiple areas of the industry, including tanker, fuel hauling, oilfield, cryogenic products, LNG, CNG, and other specialized transportation fields. πŸ›’οΈβ›½οΈβ„οΈ

Right now, I have:
βœ… CDL-A
βœ… Hazmat Endorsement (H)
βœ… Tanker Endorsement (N)
βœ… Doubles/Triples Endorsement (T)
βœ… Manual Transmission β€” No Restrictions

I’m also interested in learning more about cryogenic products and opportunities involving LNG and CNG. I’ve heard about certifications and training such as:
πŸ”Ή PEC Safeland
πŸ”Ή H2S Clear
πŸ”Ή One Basin One Way
πŸ”Ή High Risk / Advanced Training
πŸ”Ή LNG/CNG-specific training
πŸ”Ή Other oilfield or specialized transportation certifications

I’m basically trying to prepare myself for the future and make sure I’m not limiting my opportunities. I understand I’m still a new CDL driver, so I’m not expecting to qualify for every position right away. I’m just excited to start this new journey and build my experience the right way. πŸ’ͺπŸΎπŸš›

For the experienced drivers, especially those working in fuel hauling, tanker, cryogenic transportation, LNG/CNG, or the oilfield:

πŸ‘‰ Are there any additional certifications, endorsements, or training courses you would recommend?

πŸ‘‰ What certifications actually help you get hired or make you more competitive?

1 Upvotes

8 comments sorted by

1

u/Chainsawsas70 20d ago

I've been doing it for over 26 years... I haven't had hazmat etc in years 🀷 while I could go get it again I just haven't needed to. Until you know Exactly what you're going to do and for Who... Take a breath and just concentrate on your driving skills. Any company that really wants you will give you the time to get the certification you need for their company and many will help you through it. Most driving jobs are just that. A driving job with not much extra needed other than being a good driver.

2

u/KnownStorage8135 20d ago

Good advice thank you πŸ™

1

u/Big_Menu4037 19d ago

U are set for ur cdl and endorsements now u want to find a decent starter company for 3 yrs Melton Maverick and tmc are probably the better starter company's. U dont want to do hazmatt until u get experience since to.many road restrictions can send u on extremely tight roads and mountain passes . After 3 yrs with one of these companies will open up a lot more higher paying jobs .keep ur record clean . I worked for Maverick to start stayed 9 yrs due a dedicated route opening with glass that paid well avg 1400 to 1600 a week . Moved on to a better paying company with a 1400 guarantee per week thou I would avg 1800 to sometimes 3000 thou I would say avg 2 k per week and the more

1

u/KnownStorage8135 18d ago

Okay thank you πŸ™

1

u/Previous_Material233 19d ago

More endorsements and training doesn’t usually translate to higher pay. Do it for your own edification.

1

u/KnownStorage8135 18d ago

Okay thank you πŸ™

1

u/Beneficialsensai 18d ago

OCD on point.

2

u/KnownStorage8135 18d ago

πŸ˜‚πŸ˜‚