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Create ResumeIf you're building a Class A CDL driver resume, the most important certifications to include are your valid Class A CDL license, DOT medical card, and any endorsements like Hazmat (H), Tanker (N), or Doubles/Triples (T). These are mandatory or highly valued by employers and directly impact your ability to qualify for specific driving jobs. Additional certifications like defensive driving, load securement, and OSHA training can significantly strengthen your resume and help you stand out.
This guide breaks down exactly which certifications matter, how to list them correctly, and which ones give you a competitive edge in the U.S. trucking job market.
Hiring managers in the U.S. trucking industry scan resumes quickly for compliance and capability. Certifications are not optional—they are screening criteria.
At minimum, your resume must clearly show:
Active Class A CDL license
Valid DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate
Completion of ELDT (Entry-Level Driver Training, if applicable)
Without these, your application will likely be rejected automatically by ATS systems or recruiters.
These certifications are essential for legal operation and employment eligibility in the U.S.
This is the foundation of your career. It allows you to operate:
Tractor-trailers
Combination vehicles over 26,001 lbs
Most heavy commercial vehicles
Resume Tip: Always include issuing state and expiration date.
Required by the Department of Transportation to confirm you are physically qualified to drive.
Must be renewed every 1–2 years
Employers check validity before hiring
Endorsements expand the types of freight you can haul—and increase your earning potential.
Allows you to transport hazardous materials.
Requires TSA background check
Requires additional written test
High demand, higher pay roles
Required for transporting liquids in bulk.
Combination endorsement for hazardous liquids.
Allows operation of multiple trailers.
Common mistake: Not including expiration date—this raises red flags.
Mandatory for drivers who obtained their CDL after February 7, 2022.
Covers safety, vehicle operation, and regulations
Required for CDL issuance and certain endorsements
Required for port and intermodal driving.
Safety certifications are one of the strongest differentiators on a CDL resume.
Shows proactive risk management skills.
Reduces accident risk
Preferred by insurance-conscious employers
Industry-recognized defensive driving system.
Demonstrates workplace safety awareness.
Not required, but highly valued.
These certifications directly relate to job performance and cargo handling.
Critical for flatbed and open-deck drivers.
Prevents cargo shifting
Required by many carriers
Specific to flatbed trucking.
Important for local delivery and warehouse-integrated roles.
Shows compliance with federal driving limits.
Essential for avoiding violations
Highly relevant for OTR drivers
Required for handling dangerous materials.
Important for food-grade freight.
These certifications are not required but can significantly boost employability.
Shows ability to handle extreme conditions.
Relevant for warehouse and distribution center roles.
Different CDL roles require different certifications. Tailor your resume accordingly.
ELDT
Defensive driving
HOS / ELD training
Forklift certification
Customer delivery training
Pallet jack operation
Load securement
Tarping
Oversize load training
Tanker endorsement
Hazmat endorsement
Liquid surge training
Hazmat endorsement
Security awareness training
Placarding knowledge
TWIC card
Port safety training
Sanitary transportation training
Refrigerated trailer (reefer) training
List CDL certifications in a dedicated section titled “Certifications”, including the certification name, issuing authority (if relevant), and expiration date. Place this section near the top if certifications are critical for the role.
Certifications
Class A CDL – Texas (Expires: 08/2027)
DOT Medical Card (Expires: 03/2026)
Hazmat Endorsement (H) – Active
Tanker Endorsement (N) – Active
Defensive Driving Certification
Forklift Certification
Certifications
CDL
Safety training
Why it's weak:
Too vague
Missing details
No proof of validity
Placement depends on your experience level.
Place certifications at the top, right after your summary.
Why: You lack experience—certifications prove readiness.
Place certifications after your experience section.
Why: Your work history carries more weight.
Avoid these errors—they cost interviews.
Not listing endorsements clearly
Missing expiration dates
Including expired certifications
Listing irrelevant certifications
Using vague descriptions
Mixing certifications with skills
From a recruiter’s perspective, these are the most impactful:
CDL + active endorsements
DOT Medical Card (current)
Safety certifications (defensive driving, OSHA)
Freight-specific training (flatbed, tanker, hazmat)
Compliance training (HOS, ELD)
These directly reduce hiring risk.
Hiring managers in trucking are focused on:
Compliance – Can you legally drive?
Risk – Are you safe and reliable?
Flexibility – Can you handle different freight types?
Certifications answer all three instantly.
A candidate with multiple endorsements and safety training is often chosen over someone with more experience but fewer credentials.
Make sure your certifications section:
Includes all required licenses
Lists endorsements clearly
Shows expiration dates
Matches the job requirements
Is easy to scan in 5 seconds
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