Pros and Cons of Getting a HazMat Endorsement
Pros and Cons of Getting a HazMat Endorsement
Thinking about getting your HazMat Endorsement in 2023?
Trying to decide if it's worth the time and money?
There are definitely some things to consider before making the decision to get a HazMat Endorsement. To help you out, we've created this pros and cons list so you may weigh options and make an informed decision on adding a HazMat endorsement to your CDL license.
Our HazMat Endorsement Pros and Cons Guide will:
Help you learn pros and cons of adding a HazMat Endorsement
Provide all steps on how to add a HazMat Endorsement
Enable you to make the best, informed decision on how to proceed
So, let's jump into the pros and cons of getting a HazMat Endorsement in 2023.
Pros
More Jobs
You may qualify for more jobs with a Hazardous Materials Endorsement. Adding a HazMat endorsement not only opens up more job opportunities, but it also increases your favorability in a candidate search. A HazMat endorsement can show companies that safety is a top priority to you. Additionally, it will so potential employers that you are willing to invest time and money into furthering your career. And lastly, it's a differentiating factor that not every driver is going to have…meaning you will stand out among the rest!
More Money
Transporting hazardous materials comes with increased risks, which is why HazMat drivers earn more than non-hazmat drivers. The average salary for a truck driver in the United States with no endorsements is $46,673, and the average salary for a HazMat Tanker driver is $66,555, according to (salary.com). That is a substantial difference, which means you can provide greater financial resources to your family.
The hazard levels of the materials that you haul also have an impact on your earnings. The higher the hazard level, the more risk that comes with the job and higher pay.
Other Endorsement Opportunities
Other endorsements like X require you to have a HazMat endorsement first. Having a Hazmat (H) endorsement and an endorsement to transport Hazardous materials in a tank (X) will also increase job opportunities and earning power.
Cons
Maintenance
You will have to keep up on any endorsements that you add to your CDL. A HazMat Endorsement (H) will need to be renewed every five years, sometimes more frequently, depending on your state. Some states may also require a retest for renewal. In other words, it will require you to maintain a current status on the endorsement in order to take advantage of the Pros.
Cost
Obtaining a HazMat endorsement does mean making an upfront financial investment. You will have to pay for TSA screening costs, the price to test at your local licensing branch, and the cost of a HazMat ELDT Theory training course. You may also have to pay to renew your CDL. But don't get overwhelmed; these upfront costs will seem minimal with the new earning power that you will gain from obtaining your HazMat endorsement.
New Testing Requirements
Learning about the mandatory steps to take to gain a HazMat endorsement can be challenging with outdated information out there. Be sure always to read current information as it pertains to HazMat endorsement test requirements. Find the most recent HazMat endorsement requirements for your state INSERT LINK HERE.
A HazMat endorsement is not for everyone, but the rewards are substantial if you are willing to put in the extra work that it takes to pass the test and keep it updated.
Is a HazMat endorsement right for you? Click Here to get started with the C1 HazMat Endorsement class.