The Importance of Running Background Checks on HazMat Drivers

If your transportation company moves hazardous materials, every driver of those vehicles that require placarding must have a HazMat endorsement on their commercial driver’s license (CDL). 

Performing a thorough background check can help you determine in advance whether a driver will qualify for that endorsement, or an upcoming Hazmat Endorsement renewal. This can save you time and resources on the application process.

How long does HazMat background check take?

According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), the background check for a HazMat endorsement application can take from 30 to 45 days to complete. The TSA security threat assessment is an important step in granting a hazardous materials endorsement (HME), and there are several reasons CDL holders would not meet eligibility requirements.

Federal regulations state that applicants for a new HME or a renewal must be US citizens or lawful permanent residents. The driver cannot have a disqualifying criminal offense; cannot be adjudicated as mentally incompetent or involuntarily committed to a mental institution; and must not pose a threat of terrorism or a threat to national or transportation security.

The application process for a new HME includes payment of an application fee, fingerprint collection, background records check, and knowledge test. Additional information regarding the TSA background check can be found on the TSA website.

Can a felon get a HazMat endorsement?

A felony conviction will not automatically prevent someone from getting a HazMat endorsement. It depends on what the crime was. If the CDL holder were convicted of murder, treason, terrorism, or mishandling of explosives, they would not be able to get a HazMat endorsement. However, some lesser crimes will only bar them temporarily. 

How often must a driver be fingerprinted and qualified for a HazMat endorsement?

It depends on the state law, but most HazMat endorsements have an expiration date of five years from the date of issue. Upon renewal, the applicant will be required to submit new fingerprints and undergo a new background check as part of the hazmat application. If the trucker has been convicted of a disqualifying criminal offense or no longer meets the standards for HazMat endorsement after obtaining the HME, his or her endorsement will be revoked by the DMV. Drivers are responsible for self-reporting any offense and surrendering their HME as required.

It is also important to note that drivers who have certain disqualifying criminal offenses may be allowed to reapply for Hazmat endorsements at a later date since many convictions only disqualify them from getting the endorsement for a certain period of time.