No Tank Vehicle Endorsement

The Federal Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1987 mandated new requirements for the testing and licensing of commercial motor vehicle operators.  Driving a commercial motor vehicle is a big responsibility.  It requires special skills and knowledge.  Drivers must obtain a special endorsement if they will be driving a truck with a tank.  A tank vehicle is any commercial motor vehicle that is designed to transport any liquid or gaseous materials within a tank that is either permanently or temporarily attached to the vehicle or the chasses.  Such vehicles include, but are not limited to, cargo tanks and portable tanks.  However, this definition does not include portable tanks having a rated capacity less than 1,000 gallons.  Tanker trucks cannot be driven without a Tank Vehicles Endorsement on their CDL.

Fines and Penalties

There are federal and state laws that affect drivers of commercial vehicles.  Violations of these rules can result in both civil and criminal penalties.  The Federal penalty for a driver who violates the CDL requirements is a civil penalty of up to $2,500 or in aggravated cases, a criminal penalty of up to $5,000 and/or up to 90 days in jail.

Traffic Points and Impact on Driving Record / License

The penalty for operating a commercial motor vehicle with an improper class license or endorsement will receive a 60-day suspension of their driving privileges.  Upon a second conviction, a 180-day suspension will be imposed; and upon a third or subsequent conviction occurring within a 5-year period, a 365-day suspension will apply.

Hiring a Lawyer

If you are a commercial truck driver, violating federal and state traffic laws can put your commercial driver’s license at risk.  Your commercial driver’s license is your livelihood and you should do everything you can to protect if.  If you are facing fines, penalties, or license suspension, it would be well worth your while to contact an attorney who specializes in the specific laws pertaining to truck drivers.