Does the state of Minnesota require an air brake endorsment on a 26000 GVW truck?

Answer 1

Only if it is hauling hazardous materials or is designed to transport more than 15 persons (including the driver). In both cases, it would require a minimum of a Class C CDL with necessary endorsements (hazmat or passenger). There is no air brake endorsement, and it's only applicable to CDL holders - if they do not take both the written air brakes test and road test in an air brake equipped vehicle, they get a restriction prohibiting them from operating air brake equipped commercial vehicles. Everyone else operating non-commercial vehicles needs absolutely no training or qualification on air brakes, which is a bit absurd.

Answer 2

There isn't an air brake endorsement. If a CDL driver does not both pass the written air brakes test and perform their road test in a vehicle equipped with air brakes, then they receive a restriction which prohibits them from operating an air brake equipped commercial vehicle. New York state is unique in requiring anyone operating a NY registered commercial vehicle over 18,000 lbs. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating to be operated by someone with a CDL. Thus, a NY registered commercial vehicle from 18,001 to 26,000 lbs. GVWR requires at least a Class C CDL in accordance with NY State law, and the same requirements for certification on air brakes are applicable. It does not, however, apply to non-commercial vehicles (recreational vehicles, rental trucks not used for commercial purposes, etc.).