Smith and Solomon, headquartered in Linden, NJ, offers comprehensive training for Commercial Driver Licenses (CDL) and additional endorsements, including the CDL passenger endorsement. We provide Class A and B CDL training at our facility and work with students nationwide. Contact our experienced team to find out how to enroll.

Endorsement Information

CDL Classifications and Endorsements

There are three CDL classifications: Class A, B, and C. Each classification specifies the types of vehicles you can operate and the maximum weight you can tow. Class B includes vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more. CDL endorsements, which require separate tests, include:

  • Double and triple-trailer
  • Passenger— required for drivers operating buses or similar vehicles used for transporting people
  • School bus
  • Tank vehicle
  • Hazardous materials
Passenger Endorsement Requirements

According to the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, to qualify for CDL endorsements, students must:

  • Be at least 18 years old for intrastate use
  • Be at least 21 years old with three years of driving experience for interstate use, hazardous materials, school bus, or passenger endorsements
  • Have 20/40 vision in each eye (with or without glasses)
  • Have 70 degrees of peripheral vision in each eye
  • Be able to recognize red, green, and amber colors
Class B CDL Course With Passenger Endorsement

Smith and Solomon offers a Class B CDL course with a Passenger endorsement. The program includes 120 hours of training divided into classroom instruction, yard practice, and field training. Classroom topics cover:

  • NJ Safe Driver Course
  • General CDL information
  • Air brake systems, inspections, and usage
  • Hours of Service Rules
  • Log Books
  • eLogs

Following classroom training, students practice at our onsite bus training yard, learning:

  • Pre-trip and post-trip protocols
  • In-cab inspections
  • Air brake tests
  • 90-degree backing maneuvers
  • Straight-line back and offset back maneuvers
  • Parallel parking (blindside and sight side)

Students then gain road experience with instructors, focusing on:

  • Driving on rural, city, and highway roads
  • Wide turns
  • Railroad track procedures

Upon completing the course, students will be ready to take the CDL written test. We also provide job placement assistance for graduates.

Financial Assistance Options

Smith and Solomon supports students in pursuing careers in transportation and trucking. Financial aid options include:

  • Military veterans can use benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
  • Assistance may be available through One-Stop Career Centers of NJ
  • Partnerships with major carriers to help with education costs
  • Financing plans for students who do not qualify for other options

Why Choose Smith & Solomon

Smith & Solomon has been a leader in truck driver training for over 30 years, making it one of the largest commercial driver training schools in the U.S. with a fleet of 140 pieces of equipment. Renowned for its expertise, Smith & Solomon is frequently consulted on issues related to driver recruitment, retention, and compliance.

Our goal is to deliver top-quality driving courses nationwide. We prioritize safety and responsibility in commercial motor vehicle operation. Our training programs, including defensive driving courses, are designed to produce skilled and conscientious drivers who will carry these competencies throughout their careers.

We are dedicated to helping our graduates start new careers in the transportation industry and addressing the significant national truck driver shortage.

Enroll in a CDL Course Today

If you’re ready for hands-on CDL training to enter a growing industry, Smith and Solomon is the right choice. Our courses prepare students for Class A and B CDL and endorsements. Headquartered in Linden, NJ, we serve students throughout the United States. Contact us today to learn more or to enroll.

What They're Saying

It took me just 2 months to change my life and Smith & Solomon helped me do that. The instructors there are very knowledgeable and helpful and they want to see you succeed. I will always be forever grateful for everyone at Smith & Solomon for helping me reach my goals. You will succeed in this school if you just listen to the instructors and put in the effort! Thank you to all the instructors who helped me get better every day that I went there!

— Kevin Curiel

If you are looking for a driving school, this is the one to go to. I had a complicated schedule because I was still working full-time when attending, and they made it so easy. The women in the office are so understanding, encouraging, and experienced. This place feels like one big family and they welcome you with open arms. The instructors make you laugh all day and do everything they can to ensure you understand what they’re teaching. They really go above and beyond. I’m months out of this school and still keep in touch. I could never repay them for the skills and confidence they gave me while starting this journey. I LOVE YOU GUYS.

— Samantha Rose

Hello everyone, I just graduated from Smith & Solomon today and it was a great experience. I learned every detail I needed to pass the state test. Huge thanks to instructors Mr. Mike, Mr. Well, and Mr. Steve for their guidance both in the yard and on the road. I also want to thank all the ladies in the office—Mrs. Beverly, Mrs. Janette, Mrs. Danielle, and Mrs. Kat—for their incredible support. This school truly has a great team, and I will never forget this experience.

— Arcadio D. Andeliz Jr.

Just graduated from Smith & Solomon Deptford. Great experience. On-road instruction from Will and Mike helped me fix my flaws and pass the state test. Steve’s insights and pre-trip training were invaluable. Ms. Kat made classroom learning engaging. Office staff—Mrs. Beverly, Mrs. Janette, Mrs. Danielle—were all approachable and extremely helpful. Highly recommended for anyone pursuing a CDL-A license.

— Johnny O

Was in and out in 6 weeks. The manager Nick and instructors Taj and Don really take their time to help you prepare for the CDL test. Malcolm in the classroom and Ms. Carolyn in onboarding made the process seamless. Highly recommend this school for anyone looking to get their CDL Class A.

— Brandon Gaston

I had a great experience getting my CDL through Smith & Solomon’s Bordentown campus! Nick, Taj, and Don are extremely knowledgeable and helped me prepare for the test. Carolyn went above and beyond from admission through graduation, making my experience stress-free. I highly recommend this school.

— Nicholas Harris