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HazMat Endorsement Test Guide

Considering adding a HazMat endorsement? Use this step-by-step guide to walk you through all actions that you need to take to prepare for the HazMat test to add to a CDL license. We will even cover resources for a HazMat endorsement study guide and where to find an FMCSA-approved ELDT HazMat Theory endorsement class.

Steps to Successfully Complete a HazMat Test:

  1. Obtain proper licensing/documentation
  2. Undergo a TSA background check
  3. Pass a HazMat Theory Training course
  4. Have results sent to the Training Provider Registry (TPR)
  5. Pass a HazMat test at your local licensing office with a score of 80% or higher

To Prepare for your HazMat Endorsement Test, you need to have at least one of the following:

  • Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) or temporary license
  • Employment Authorization Document to earn a hazardous materials endorsement
  • A valid CDL

Basic Requirements:

  • Must be at least 21 years old
  • Have a valid commercial learner’s permit (CLP), CDL, or Employment Authorization Document
  • Pass an FMCSA-approved HazMat course
  • Undergo a TSA Background check

Before You Take a HazMat Test

Before you can test at your local licensing branch, you must complete Hazmat theory training as a mandatory step of the new ELDT (entry-level driver training) mandate. Your Hazmat Theory exam test results must be sent to the Training Provider Registry (TPR) from an FMCSA-approved program.

After completing the HazMat Theory training and exam, you will head to your local licensing office to take the final HazMat endorsement test.

What’s Covered on The HazMat Test

The HazMat test will cover the important safety and operational information that is required knowledge in order to haul hazardous materials. Topics you will see on the HazMat test include:

  • Basic & Operational HazMat Regulations
  • Reporting HazMat Crashes & Releases
  • Railroad (RR) Crossing & Tunnels
  • Loading & Unloading HazMat Freight
  • HazMat on Passenger Vehicles
  • Bulk Packages
  • Operating Emergency Equipment
  • Emergency Response Procedures
  • Engine (Fueling)
  • Tire Check
  • Routes & Route Planning
  • Hazardous Materials Safety Permit (HMSP)

NOTE: The ELDT Hazmat Theory test and HazMat Endorsement Exam at the license branch are not the same and will be made up of different questions. While the material covered will certainly be very similar, it is highly recommended that drivers be aware and knowledgeable on all information pertaining to hauling Hazardous Materials before testing.

HazMat Test Qualifications

Once all prerequisites have been completed and your HazMat Theory results have been submitted to the Training Provider Registry, you will head to your local licensing branch to sit for your HazMat knowledge test. Depending on your state, you must pass the HazMat test with a score of 80 or higher. The test is around 30 questions long, so at least 24 questions need to be answered correctly to pass.

We recommend learning from a study guide during your test prep, which is why we have included a HazMat practice test in our HazMat endorsement course to act as a study guide with practice test questions.

Start preparing to take your Hazardous Materials Test by registering with the C1 HazMat Theory Training Course online here.