How to Get Your HazMat Endorsement

If you’re looking to make more money as a truck driver and open yourself up to more driving opportunities, getting a Hazardous Materials “HAZMAT” (H) endorsement is a great way to do that.

What is HazMat certification?

The HazMat endorsement allows holders to haul hazardous materials like gas, chemicals, or oil. You’ll need this endorsement before you can haul hazardous materials that are not in tanker trucks. It is available to Class A, B, and C CDL holders who are at least 21 years old, have a valid DOT medical card, and can provide proof of US citizenship.

Do HazMat loads pay more?

The short answer is yes. HazMat truck drivers earn more because of the specialized training and skills required to transport HazMat loads. Tanker drivers can also earn additional loading and unloading pay for each load.

Although most HazMat loads are hauled via tanker trucks, some materials are transported by other trucks. HazMat certified drivers can earn additional pay for each HazMat load they deliver.

Higher pay isn’t the only benefit of getting your HazMat endorsement. Drivers with the endorsement can transport a wider variety of loads, which means they qualify for more jobs than drivers without it. Additionally, carriers often highly value drivers with HazMat endorsements because they are seen as being adaptable and versatile employees.

Steps to getting your HazMat endorsement

1. Complete the HazMat Application

This application is basically a background check. Please note that if you are a resident of Florida, Kentucky, Maryland, Mississippi, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia or Wisconsin, you will need to go through your local DMV instead.

2. Visit an Application Center

Once you have submitted your application, you’ll need to visit a TSA application center. Most of the application centers accept walk-ins, but it is always better to have an appointment.

Make sure to bring all of your required documentation (CDL, proof of citizenship, current DOT medical card, and a printed copy of your application that you completed online). At the appointment, you will be fingerprinted and pay the fee (less than $100) for the HazMat endorsement which will be valid for five years.

3. Wait

It can take up to a month to hear back if your application was accepted or denied. Keep in mind that you can appeal if your application is denied. Make sure to print out the approval once you get it.

4. Complete Training

You need to complete a certified program before acquiring your endorsement from the DMV. The CDL School offers HazMat training that goes at your own pace.

If you are simply renewing your HazMat endorsement, you can skip this and go directly to the next step.

5. Visit Your Local DMV

Once you have completed your Hazardous materials entry level driver training, make an appointment with your local DMV to take the HazMat endorsement test. It’s a 25-question test that you can study for ahead of time. So with some focus and dedication, passing should be a breeze. Remember to bring all of your documentation and your approved application with you.

Getting your HazMat endorsement allows you to strengthen your career and create more opportunities for getting higher-paying loads. It can be a great way for your superiors at work to notice your hard work and dedication as well as making you more valuable to your employer.