What is required to operate a vehicle equipped with air brakes?

To operate a vehicle equipped with air brakes, it is necessary to hold a Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) that includes an air brake endorsement. This requirement is in place because vehicles with air brake systems operate differently from those with hydraulic brakes. Air brakes are typically found on larger commercial vehicles and require additional knowledge and training to ensure the driver can operate them safely.

The air brake endorsement ensures that the driver has undergone specific testing regarding the operation and maintenance of air brake systems. This includes an understanding of how air brakes function, the safety checks required before starting a journey, and how to respond in various driving situations when using air brakes.

While a standard driver's license or a Class C CDL may allow you to operate certain types of vehicles, they do not encompass the specialized knowledge required for operating air brake-equipped vehicles. Thus, the requirement for the Class A CDL with an air brake endorsement is crucial for ensuring safety and compliance with regulations in commercial driving.