Yes. Air brakes have absolutely zero to do with determining what type of license a vehicle requires.
You need a valid drivers license. Air brakes don't affect what type of license you need.
To get a CDL Class B drivers license, you must pass a General Knowledge Exam, Air Brakes Exam, Pre-Trip inspection test. In addition, you must have the Basic skills to operate a vehicle. There are some states that require additional exams for desired endorsements.
Whether a vehicle has air, hydraulic, or air-over-hydraulic brakes has zero determination on the class of license required to operate it.
In the US, unless you have a Commercial Drivers Licence (CDL), you don't need any additional endorsements to operate a non-commercial vehicle with air brakes. If you're going for a CDL, then you need to take and pass the written test for air brakes, as well as road test on a vehicle equipped with air brakes.
In the US, the type of brake system has no role in determining what class of license is required to operate a vehicle.
Class 1
Whether a vehicle has air or hydraulic brakes has no impact on what kind of license is required to operate it in the US.
A Q endorsement on a driver's license indicates that the holder is authorized to operate a commercial vehicle equipped with air brakes. This endorsement is required because air brakes function differently from hydraulic brakes, necessitating special training and knowledge of their operation. To obtain a Q endorsement, drivers typically must pass a written test and may also need to demonstrate their skills in a practical driving test.
In New Jersey, an endorsement on a driver's license indicates that the driver has received special permission to operate certain types of vehicles or carry specific loads. For example, endorsements may be required for operating commercial vehicles, motorcycles, or vehicles equipped with air brakes. To obtain an endorsement, drivers often need to pass additional tests or meet specific requirements. These endorsements ensure that the driver has the necessary skills and knowledge to operate the specialized vehicle safely.
In Illinois, a Class C drivers license requires a license in good standing. A written test must be taken involving three areas, large vehicle, air brakes and passenger endorsements. Then a road test in the appropriate vehicle is taken. At times a training certificate from a certified school is considered in lieu of the tests.
You have to take and pass the written portion of the air brakes test, as well as be road tested on a vehicle with air brakes. There is no actual air brake endorsement - if you do not meet the criteria to be eligible to operate an air brake equipped vehicle, you get a restriction on your licence - L.
Operating abs brakes are easy. The anit-breaks are there for hen your other brakes go out.