This post is the first, in a two part series that explains the Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME), sometimes called a HAZMAT Endorsement.
What is a Hazardous Material Endorsement (HME)?
Commercial Drivers License (CDL) Endorsements can be added to certain types of CDLs, and allow a CDL holder to legally perform specialized tasks, such as transporting passengers, driving a school bus or hauling hazardous materials. A Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME) specifically allows drivers to haul dangerous items such as flammable or combustible liquids, gases, or explosives. To haul these types of materials, your CDL must have a HAZMAT endorsement.
How do you obtain a Hazardous Materials Endorsement on your (CDL)?
Getting an HME on your CDL involves federal requirements with specific steps that are mandatory, along with any additional requirements from your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Here is a breakdown of the process to obtain your HME:
Federal Requirements:
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Be at least 21 years old.
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Have a valid Commercial Drivers License (CDL).
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Pass a medical examiners certification (MEC) exam administered by a certified medical examiner.
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Complete an approved Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) Hazardous Materials Endorsement (Hazmat) theory training course. Available online at https://fastlanedriversedge.com/courses-archive. FLDE is a certified training provider listed on the Federal Motor Carriers (FMCSA) Training Provider Registry (TPR).
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Complete a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) background check which involves fingerprinting and a security threat assessment. You can apply online or visit an application center in person.
State-Specific Requirements:
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Each state’s DMV may have additional requirements, so it’s important to check with your local DMV for specifics.
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Your local DMV can provide details regarding your state’s application procedures along with any required documents, and state-specific fees.
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We recommend contacting your state’s DMV to get the most up-to-date and accurate information on obtaining a Hazmat endorsement in your area.
Here are additional resources to help you get started:
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Federal Hazardous Materials (Hazmat) Endorsement
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Transportation Safety Administration (TSA)
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American Trucking Association Hazardous Materials Endorsement Guide
https://www.tsa.gov/for-industry/hazmat-endorsement
In part two of this series we’ll cover the TSA threat assessment and federal eligibility/disqualification requirements.
