FAQ
Do I need a hazmat endorsement​
A Hazmat endorsement is required when any material designated as hazardous necessitates the transport vehicle to display placards under 49 CFR 172.
This applies to any hazardous material transported in commerce. It also requires a commercial license, even if you are only driving a pickup or stake bed or super duty.
Can an applicant get a Hazardous Materials Endorsement on their commercial driver’s license (CDL) if they hold a valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC®)?
The Security Threat Assessment (STA) for Hazardous materials endorsements does not need to be repeated when applying for TWICs. If you already have an HME, your existing STA remains valid for both endorsements
Do applicants with Hazardous Materials Endorsements have to repeat the Security Threat Assessment (STA) if they are applying for TWICs?
The Security Threat Assessment (STA) for Hazardous materials endorsements does not need to be repeated when applying for TWICs. If you already have an HME, your existing STA remains valid for both endorsements
Does this rule apply to drivers entering the U.S. from Canada and Mexico?
Yes, the rule applies to drivers entering the U.S. from Canada and Mexico. If you transport hazardous materials requiring placarding, you must have an HME regardless of your origin
How do I transfer my Hazardous Materials Endorsement?
To transfer your Hazmat endorsement to another state, visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and follow their specific procedures.
How long does it take for results from the background take to come back?
How do I begin the process of getting a hazmat endorsement?
Start by taking our ELDT mandated course. Then, Complete the online application or you can complete the entire process in person at an application center unless you are from any of the following states:
Florida, Kentucky, Maryland, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia and Wisconsin, in which case, you should visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles for application and fingerprinting information.
Do I need an appointment?
YES. Schedule an appointment online or by calling (855) 347-8371 weekdays, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET. Walk-ins are welcome but appointments take priority.
What documents do I need?
Provide required documentation and fingerprints. Bring your current U.S. passport or a driver’s license and birth certificate. See other acceptable documents.
How much does the background check cost?
Pay a non-refundable fee valid for five years with a credit card, money order, company check or certified/cashier’s check.
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New applicant: $86.50
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New applicant reduced rate: $41.00*
Can I check on the status of my background check?
Yes, You can check your status online at any time.
Who is eligible to hold a Hazardous Materials Endorsement?
A driver must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident; 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.
What Crimes will disqualify a driver
The following criminal convictions are permanent disqualifiers, prompting a “lifetime ban” from holding a HME:
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Terrorism
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Espionage
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Sedition
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Treason
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Murder
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Unlawful use, purchase, receipt, transfer, shipping, transporting, import, export, or storage of an explosive
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A crime involving a severe transportation security incident (i.e., security incident involving a significant loss of life, environmental damage, transportation system disruption, or economic disruption in a particular area)
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RICO violations (if the crime underlying the RICO conviction is on the list of permanently disqualifying crimes)
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Improper transportation of a Hazmat (minor infractions involving transportation of hazardous materials will not disqualify a driver; for instance, no driver will be disqualified for minor roadside infractions or placarding violations)
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Conspiracy or attempt to commit any of these crimes
Are there any other disqualifying crimes?
An individual is disqualified from holding an HME if he or she was convicted or found not guilty by reason of insanity within the past seven years, was released from prison within the past five years, or is wanted or is under indictment, for any of the following crimes:
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Assault with intent to murder
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Kidnapping or hostage taking
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Rape or aggravated sexual abuse
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Extortion
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Robbery
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Arson
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Bribery
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Smuggling
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Immigration violations
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Dishonesty, fraud, or misrepresentation, including identity fraud (e.g. felony-level embezzlement, tax evasion, perjury, and false statements to the Federal government)
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RICO violations (if the crime underlying the RICO conviction is on the list of interim disqualifying crimes)
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Distribution of, possession with intent to distribute, or importation of a controlled substance (“simple possession” of a controlled substance without an intent to distribute is not considered disqualifying)
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Unlawful use, purchase, receipt, transfer, shipping, transporting, import, export, or storage of a firearm
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Conspiracy or attempt to commit any of these crimes
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The crimes listed above are disqualifying, regardless of the jurisdiction (civilian or military). Convicted means any plea of guilty or nolo contendere or any finding of guilt.
After 5 or 7 years have passed, these are no longer disqualifying and you can apply for a hazardous materials endorsement again.
How often must a driver be fingerprinted and qualified under this rule?
Generally, drivers must renew their Hazmat endorsement every five years, although States may require more frequent reviews. The driver will be required to submit new fingerprints at the time of renewal of the endorsement. If a driver has been convicted of a disqualifying criminal offense or no longer meets the standards in the rule after obtaining the Hazmat endorsement, his or her endorsement will be revoked. Drivers are responsible for self-reporting any offense and surrendering their Hazmat endorsement as required under the rule.