Commercial Driver Handbook ( PDF ) - California Department of ...

This section has information needed to pass the
CDL knowledge test for driving a tank vehicle.
You should also study Sections 2, 5, and 6. A tank
vehicle is used to carry any liquids or gaseous
materials in tanks.
Before loading, unloading, or driving a tank
vehicle, inspect the vehicle. Make sure that the
vehicle is safe to carry the liquid or gaseous material
and is safe to drive.
Tank Endorsement is needed.
tAnk VehIcle DeFIneD
SectIOn 8: tAnk VehIcleS
This section is for drivers who drive tank vehicles
A tank vehicle includes any commercial vehicle
which has fixed tanks (including collapsible containers,
also called “bladder bags”) or that carry
portable tanks of 1,000 gallons or more capacity
(CVC §15210(k)). Portable tanks are bulk containers
which are not permanently attached to a
vehicle. The product is loaded or unloaded while
the portable tanks are off the vehicle, they are then
loaded on a vehicle for transportation.
A tank vehicle also includes any fixed tank in excess
of 119 gallons mounted on any vehicle or vehicle
combination which requires a CDL or placards.
(Example, a pickup transporting a 120 gallon fixed
tank containing diesel requires a commercial Class
C with Tank/HazMat endorsements. However, no
CDL is needed for a 25,999 GVWR 2-axle truck
with a 3000 gallon water tank pulling a trailer less
than 10,000 lbs. GVWR.)
InSPectIng tAnk VehIcleS
Tank vehicles have special items that you need
to check. Tank vehicles come in many types and
sizes. You need to check the vehicle’s operator’s
manual to make sure you know how to inspect
your tank vehicle.
On all tank vehicles, the most important item to
check for is leaks. Check under and around the
vehicle for signs of any leaking. Don’t carry liquids
or gases in a leaking tank. In general, check the
following:
• The tank’s body or shell for dents or leaks.
• The intake, discharge, and cut-off valves. Make
sure the valves are in the closed position except
when loading or unloading.
• The pipes, connections, and hoses for leaks
especially around joints.
• The manhole covers and vents. Make sure the
covers have gaskets and they close correctly.
Keep the vents clear so they work correctly.
speCial purpose equipment
If your vehicle has any of the following equipment,
make sure it works:
• vapor recovery systems
• grounding and bonding cables
• emergency shut-off systems
• built-in fire extinguisher and/or system
Make sure you know how to operate your special
equipment.
• Check the emergency equipment required for
your vehicle. Find out what equipment you
are required to carry and make sure you have
it and it works.
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