Cdl on Resume

Should You List Cdl on Resume

In the United States, if you possess a Commercial Driver's License (CDL), it is crucial to include this information on your resume as it is directly related to many job opportunities, particularly in the trucking and transportation industries. However, outside of North America, the relevance of listing CDL may vary depending on the country's infrastructure, industry practices, and regulations.

Why to List Cdl on Resume

• Professional Qualification: A CDL signifies that you have the necessary qualifications to operate large vehicles, making it a valuable asset for employers in transportation roles.
• Specific Job Requirement: Many job listings explicitly state that a CDL is required for the position. Listing this skill ensures your application aligns with the job requirements.
• Competitive Advantage: In a competitive job market, having a CDL can provide you with an edge over other candidates who do not possess this qualification.

Where to List Cdl on Resume

• Summary/Objective: Briefly mention your CDL as part of your career objective or summary if relevant. For example: "Highly motivated and experienced Class A CDL driver seeking a challenging position in long-haul transportation."
• Skills Section: List your CDL alongside other relevant skills, such as air brake certification, hazmat endorsement, etc.
• Experience Section: Include the CDL information under each relevant job experience where it applies. For example: "Obtained Class A CDL and have been operating heavy trucks for over 10 years."

Examples of How to List Cdl on Resume

Example 1 - Summary/Objective

• Summary: Experienced Class A CDL driver with a proven track record in long-haul transportation. Seeking a challenging position that leverages my skills and offers opportunities for career advancement.

Example 2 - Skills Section

• Skills:
• Class A CDL (current)
• Air brake certification
• Hazmat endorsement
• Tanker endorsement
• Safe driver with clean driving record

Example 3 - Experience Section

• Experience: Truck Driver, XYZ Transportation Co., City, State (MM/YYYY - Present)
• Operate Class A tractor-trailers to deliver goods safely and on time.
• Maintain accurate records of driving hours, fuel usage, and vehicle inspections.
• Obtain Class A CDL upon hire and have been driving for over 10 years.

What to Avoid While Listing Cdl on Resume

• Omitting Additional Endorsements: If you have endorsements for hazardous materials, tanker vehicles, or other specialties, be sure to include them as they are essential qualifications in many trucking positions.
• Inaccuracies: Always ensure that your CDL information is up-to-date and accurate. Incorrect information could lead potential employers to question the reliability of your application.
• Leaving Out Expiration Dates: List the expiration date for your CDL, as some employers may require you to renew your license before employment begins.
• Not Mentioning Any Additional Skills or Qualifications: In addition to your CDL, list any other related skills or qualifications that may set you apart from other candidates, such as experience with specific types of vehicles or technology used in the transportation industry.

How to List Special Skills or Equipment on Resume

Best Practices:

• Highlight Relevant Skills: Include only the skills that are directly related to the CDL position you're applying for. For example, if the job requires a specific type of CDL (e.g., HazMat), make sure to mention it.

  Example: - Holder of Class A CDL with Hazardous Materials (HazMat) endorsement

• Specify Equipment Proficiency: If you have experience operating or maintaining specific types of vehicles, make sure to list them. This could include trucks, cranes, forklifts, or other heavy machinery.

  Example: - Operational proficiency with various types of trucks including flatbeds, tankers, and reefer trailers

• Detail Additional Skills: If you have any additional skills that are relevant to the job, such as GPS navigation systems or defensive driving techniques, be sure to include them.

  Example: - Proficient in using electronic logging devices (ELDs) and Global Positioning Systems (GPS)

• Mention Any Certifications: If you have any certifications related to your CDL skills, such as TWIC or PSP, list them under this section.

  Example: - Possess Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) and Pre-Employment Screening Program (PSP) reports

• Use Action Verbs: Start each bullet point with a strong action verb to make your skills section more engaging and easy to read.

  Example: - Demonstrated ability to perform pre-trip inspections, following DOT regulations

Example 1: Special Skills or Equipment on Cdl Resume

In the context of a truck driver applying for a position requiring a Class A CDL and experience with refrigerated trailers (reefers), the skills section might look like this:

• Holder of Class A CDL with reefer trailer endorsement
• Operational proficiency with various types of trucks, including flatbeds, tankers, and reefers
• Proficient in using electronic logging devices (ELDs) and Global Positioning Systems (GPS)
• Demonstrated ability to perform pre-trip inspections, following DOT regulations

Example 2: Special Skills or Equipment in Cdl Context

For a position requiring a CDL with HazMat endorsement for handling hazardous materials, the skills section might look like this:

• Holder of Class A CDL with Hazardous Materials (HazMat) and tanker endorsements
• Operational proficiency with various types of tankers, including double-bottom and multi-compartment tanks
• Proficient in hazardous materials handling, following DOT regulations
• Skilled in using electronic weigh stations and submitting HazMat shipping papers (bills of lading)

How to List Certifications and Training Programs on Resume

Listing your certifications and training programs effectively can significantly enhance your resume's appeal to potential employers. Here are some best practices for this subcategory, especially when focusing on CDL (Commercial Driver's License) qualifications:

1. Highlight Relevant Certifications

Start by listing your most pertinent certifications related to the CDL. For example, if you have a HAZMAT (Hazardous Materials) endorsement or a tanker endorsement, make sure to mention these as they are highly sought after in the transportation industry.

• Mention the certification name and the issuing authority (e.g., Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration).
• Include the year you obtained the certification if it's recent or relevant.

2. Emphasize Completion of Training Programs

Similarly, draw attention to any comprehensive training programs that have equipped you with specialized skills in your field. For instance, you might have completed a CDL driver training program or a defensive driving course.

• Briefly explain the purpose and objectives of each program.
• Include any recognition or achievements you received during these programs.

3. Detail Ongoing or Upcoming Certifications

If you are currently enrolled in, or planning to pursue, additional certifications or training programs, include this information as well. This shows your commitment to personal and professional growth.

• Clearly state that the certification is ongoing or forthcoming, along with its expected completion date.
• Describe the key aspects of the program that align with the job requirements you are applying for.

4. Customize Content for Each Position

Tailor your certifications and training programs list based on the specific job posting. Research the desired skills and qualifications for the role, then emphasize those that best match what employers are looking for.

• Focus on the most relevant or valuable certifications for each position you apply to.
• If possible, use industry-specific language from the job description when describing your qualifications.

5. Use Clear and Concise Language

Ensure that your list of certifications and training programs is easy to read and understand.

• Use bullet points for clarity.
• Keep descriptions brief and focused on the most important details.

Example 1: Certifications and Training Programs on Cdl Resume

• Commercial Driver's License (CDL) - Department of Motor Vehicles, [State], Issued [Year]
  • HAZMAT (Hazardous Materials) Endorsement - Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, [Year]
  • Tanker Endorsement - Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, [Year]
• Defensive Driving Course - [Name of Training Provider], [City, State], Completed [Year]
• CDL Driver Training Program - [Name of Training Provider], [City, State], Completed [Year]

Example 2: Certifications and Training Programs in Cdl Context

• CDL (Commercial Driver's License) - Department of Motor Vehicles, [State], Issued [Year]
  • Currently enrolled in a TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential) program - [Name of Program Provider], Expected Completion [Month/Year]
  • Completed a Refresher Safety Course for CDL Holders - [Name of Training Provider], [City, State], Completed [Year]
• Previous participation in a specialized truck driving course focused on fuel efficiency and eco-friendly driving practices - [Name of Training Provider], [City, State], Completed [Year]

How to List Driving Experience and Mileage on Resume (with CDL Focus)

Best Practices:

• Quantify Your Experience: Clearly state the number of years you've been driving with a CDL, as well as the total mileage accrued during this period. This provides hiring managers with an immediate understanding of your experience level.

  Example: "10+ years of commercial driving experience with over 2 million miles logged."

• Specify Your Endorsements: If you hold multiple CDL endorsements, such as hazardous materials or tanker, make sure to list them explicitly so that potential employers can easily identify your qualifications for their specific job requirements.

  Example: "CDL Class A driver with HazMat and Tanker endorsements."

• Highlight Relevant Skills: Include any specialized skills or techniques you've mastered, such as manual or automated transmission operation, defensive driving, or GPS navigation systems. This helps demonstrate your adaptability to various working environments.

  Example: "Proficient in operating both manual and automated transmissions, with extensive experience in defensive driving and GPS navigation."

• Detail Your Equipment Knowledge: List any specific equipment you are familiar with using, such as truck makes, models, or types of trailers. Emphasize your ability to perform routine maintenance checks, troubleshoot issues, and adhere to safety guidelines.

  Example: "Extensive experience operating Peterbilt and Freightliner trucks, with a strong understanding of pre-trip inspections, daily maintenance, and DOT compliance."

• Mention Any Awards or Achievements: If applicable, highlight any awards, safety recognitions, or exceptional performance metrics that demonstrate your dedication to the profession and attention to detail.

  Example: "Recipient of the Safe Driver Award for three consecutive years and consistently meet or exceed fleet fuel efficiency targets."

Example 1: Driving Experience and Mileage on Cdl Resume

CDL Class A Driver

• 12+ years of commercial driving experience with over 3 million miles logged
• Endorsements: HazMat, Tanker, Double/Triple Trailers
• Proficient in operating both manual and automated transmissions, with extensive experience in defensive driving and GPS navigation
• Extensive experience operating Peterbilt, Freightliner, and Kenworth trucks, as well as various types of trailers
• Recipient of the Safe Driver Award for five consecutive years, consistently meet or exceed fleet fuel efficiency targets

Example 2: Driving Experience and Mileage in Cdl Context

CDL Class B Driver

• 5 years of commercial driving experience with over 1.5 million miles logged
• Endorsements: School Bus, Passenger Transport
• Skilled in using GPS navigation systems and performing routine vehicle maintenance checks
• Experience operating Thomas Built Buses and Blue Bird Corporation vehicles
• Maintained excellent safety records throughout career, including no accidents or traffic violations in the past 3 years.

How to List Endorsements and Restrictions on Resume (CDL Focus)

Best Practices:

• Specificity: Clearly state the endorsement or restriction in relation to your CDL classification. For example, if you have an HAZMAT (Hazardous Materials) endorsement, specify that it's for Class A or B CDL.

  • Example: "CDL Class A with Endorsements: HAZMAT (Hazardous Materials), Tanker"

• Relevance: Include only relevant endorsements and restrictions. If a restriction may be perceived as a disadvantage, it's optional but can be addressed in the cover letter or interview.

• Contextualization: Provide context for each endorsement or restriction. For example, explain how you obtained a particular endorsement or when a restriction was imposed.

• Chronological Order: List endorsements and restrictions in chronological order, with the most recent first. This helps recruiters understand the timeline of your CDL-related qualifications.

• Consistent Formatting: Maintain consistent formatting throughout your resume for easy readability. Use bullet points or short phrases to list endorsements and restrictions under a separate section.

Example 1: Endorsements and Restrictions on Cdl Resume

Here's an example of how you might list CDL endorsements and restrictions in a resume:

CDL Endorsements & Restrictions

• CDL Class A with Endorsements: Doubles/Triples, Tanker, HAZMAT (Hazardous Materials)
• Air Brake Restriction: Removed in 2018
• No Medical Restriction: Current and Valid

Example 2: Endorsements and Restrictions in Cdl Context

In this example, we've included context for a restriction:

CDL Endorsements & Restrictions

• CDL Class B with Endorsement: Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT)
• Temporary Medical Restriction: Limited to 60 hours per week and 70 hours on duty per week due to diabetes management. Current and Valid until annual review in June 2023.

How to List Commercial Vehicle Types on Resume

Best Practices

• Specify the Type and Size: Clearly state the types of commercial vehicles you have experience operating, such as tractor-trailers, flatbeds, tanker trucks, etc., along with their sizes (e.g., Class 7 or Class 8). This provides potential employers with a clear understanding of your skills.

• Operate various commercial vehicles including tractor-trailers and flatbeds, with a focus on Class 7 and Class 8 trucks.

• Highlight Relevant CDL Endorsements: If you have endorsements for specialized vehicle types (e.g., hazardous materials, tanker, doubles/triples), include them to demonstrate your versatility and expertise.

• Possess CDL with endorsements for hazardous materials, tanker, and doubles/triples operations.

• Detail Mileage Experience: Include the total number of miles you have driven professionally to give employers an idea of your experience level and reliability.

• Have driven over 1 million miles in commercial vehicles during my career.

• Emphasize Safe Driving Record: A clean driving record is crucial for the transportation industry. Highlight any awards, recognition, or safety achievements you have received to show your commitment to safe driving practices.

• Maintain a clean driving record with no accidents or violations over the past 10 years. Recipient of multiple Safe Driver Awards throughout my career.

• Include Key Skills and Responsibilities: Briefly mention any relevant skills, such as loading/unloading cargo, conducting vehicle inspections, adhering to DOT regulations, or working with GPS systems. This helps employers understand the scope of your job responsibilities and abilities.

• Proficient in performing pre-trip vehicle inspections, loading/unloading cargo, and operating GPS navigation systems.

Example 1: Commercial Vehicle Types on Cdl Resume

Consider this example for a truck driver with extensive experience driving various types of commercial vehicles and multiple endorsements on their CDL.

Work Experience

Truck Driver (CDL A) | XYZ Transportation Co. | City, State | MM/YYYY - Present

• Operate tractor-trailers, flatbeds, and tanker trucks with a focus on Class 7 and Class 8 vehicles.
• Possess CDL with endorsements for hazardous materials, tanker, doubles/triples operations.
• Have driven over 1 million miles in commercial vehicles during my career.
• Maintain a clean driving record with no accidents or violations over the past 10 years. Recipient of multiple Safe Driver Awards throughout my career.
• Proficient in performing pre-trip vehicle inspections, loading/unloading cargo, and operating GPS navigation systems.

Example 2: Commercial Vehicle Types in Cdl Context

Here is a brief example for an entry-level truck driver who has recently earned their CDL and is seeking to operate specific types of commercial vehicles.

Work Experience

Entry-Level Truck Driver (CDL A) | ABC Freight Co. | City, State | MM/YYYY - Present

• Eager to obtain experience operating various commercial vehicles, including tractor-trailers and flatbeds.
• Recently obtained CDL with a focus on Class 7 and Class 8 trucks.
• Open to working towards endorsements for hazardous materials, tanker, and doubles/triples operations.
• Aiming for a safe driving record and seeking opportunities to learn and grow in the transportation industry.