As a truck driver, obtaining a HazMat endorsement has a lot of advantages. It makes you a more desirable driver because you can transport more types of loads, which leads to the potential of earning a bigger paycheck.
Although the steps on how to get a HazMat endorsement may seem hard, the process is truly not very difficult; it’s just a little lengthy.
If you’re a driver who wants to make a little extra money by hauling hazardous loads you previously couldn’t, follow these five steps, which include how to study for the HazMat endorsement test.
How to get a HazMat endorsement
1. Meet the HazMat endorsement requirements.
The first step on how to get a HazMat endorsement is making sure you meet the HazMat endorsement requirements, which include:
- Being at least 21 years-old.
- Having a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) or CDL permit.
- Obtaining proof of identity (a U.S. passport, birth certificate or Certificate of U.S. Citizenship.
- Having a medical examiner’s certificate (MEC) – also called a DOT medical card.
2. Fill out an application.
Complete the online HazMat endorsement application. This application is essentially a background check, so you will need to provide/refer to the above documentation during the application.
If you are a resident of Florida, Kentucky, Maryland, Mississippi, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia or Wisconsin, you need to check with your local DMV about the process of applying for a HazMat endorsement.
3. Visit an application center.
Once you have completed and submitted an application, you will need to go to a Transportation Security Administration application center. Start by looking up application centers near you
by entering your ZIP code or city.
Once you have determined which application center you are going to visit, schedule an appointment at the application center. You can also call 855-347-8371 to schedule your appointment. Walk-ins are welcome but appointments take priority.
At the application center you will:
- Bring with you the required documentation from step one and a hard copy of your application from step two.
- Get fingerprinted.
- Pay a non-refundable fee of about $90, which will be valid for five years.
4. Hear back about your application.
It can take a month or two to hear back about if your application was accepted. You can check the status of your application online. If your application is approved, be sure to print it out.
If your application is rejected, you do have the right to appeal.
5. Visit your local DMV.
If your application is accepted, you will need to go to your local DMV to take the HazMat endorsement test, also known as the CDL HazMat test. Don’t forget to take your required documentation from step one and your approved application from step four with you to the DMV.
You can use the hazardous materials section in your CDL manual to study from for the exam. A vision test may also be required while you are at the DMV.
Schneider's HazMat training
All Schneider drivers complete self-paced online HazMat training during orientation and throughout their career at Schneider. Drivers whose role specifically require a HazMat endorsement on their CDL, can follow the steps above to obtain their endorsement and take advantage of Schneider's HazMat endorsement reimbursement.
