Already have your CDL but limited to automatic transmission vehicles? Diamond 7 CDL Academy can help you remove that restriction — opening the door to more job opportunities, higher pay, and greater flexibility in your commercial driving career.
What Is a Restriction Lift?
When a CDL holder obtains their license in an automatic transmission vehicle, an “E restriction” is added to their license — limiting them to automatic transmission trucks only. Many carriers operate manual transmission vehicles, which means this restriction can significantly limit your job options and earning potential.
Removing this restriction requires passing a driving skills test in a manual transmission commercial motor vehicle. Diamond 7’s Restriction Lift program gives you the focused training you need to pass that test with confidence.
How the Process Works
To lift a CDL manual transmission restriction (E restriction), you must pass a driving skills test in a manual transmission commercial motor vehicle
. This requires
taking a short, specialized training course at a CDL school
to gain proficiency, obtaining a new CLP (permit), and passing a road test, often in a bobtail or Class B vehicle.
What You’ll Learn
- Manual transmission operation and gear shifting techniques
- Pre-trip inspection on manual transmission commercial vehicles
- Range and road driving in a manual transmission bobtail or Class B vehicle
- CDL skills test preparation for restriction removal
Eligibility Requirements
- Must hold a current CDL with an E restriction (automatic transmission only)
- Valid driver’s license required
- Must obtain a new CLP (Commercial Learner’s Permit) prior to road test
- Must pass a DOT physical and drug screen
- Must complete an admissions interview with a school-authorized representative
Why Remove Your Restriction?
- Access a wider range of job opportunities with carriers that operate manual vehicles
- Increase your earning potential
- Greater flexibility in the types of loads and routes you can take
- Demonstrates versatility and skill to potential employers
Tuition & Costs
The Restriction Lift is a short, focused program. Contact our admissions team for current tuition information and to find out how quickly you can get scheduled.
- Accepted payments: cash, check, credit/debit card, third-party financing
- Financial aid and workforce funding options may be available for eligible students
Ready to Remove Your Restriction?
Don’t let a restriction limit your career. Contact us today and we’ll get you scheduled as quickly as possible.