Part 1 of this series introduced the Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME) and discussed the basic requirements. In part 2 we’ll delve into the federal requirements, including the required TSA threat assessment and disqualification criteria.
Federal Threat Assessement Eligibility Requirements
The Hazardous Materials Endorsement Threat Assessment Program conducts a threat assessment for any driver seeking to obtain, renew and transfer a hazardous materials endorsement on a state-issued commercial driver’s license. You should apply if you have a state issued CDL and you are required to transport materials that require placarding under the Department of Transportation hazardous materials regulations.
Important Notice:
FLDE and TSA recommends that all applicants enroll for the HME Security Threat Assessment (including renewals) a minimum of 60 days before applicants require an eligibility determination. TSA is experiencing increased demand for HME assessments, and the processing times for some applicants may exceed 45 days.
How to apply for the Hazardous Materials Endorsement Threat Assessment Program?
- 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 — in which case, you should visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles for application and fingerprinting information.
- Florida
- Kentucky
- Maryland
- New York
- Pennsylvania
- Texas
- Virginia
- Wisconsin
- 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.
- Visit an application center to:
- Provide required documentation and fingerprints. Bring your current U.S. passport or a driver’s license and birth certificate. See other acceptable documents.
- Pay a non-refundable fee valid for five years with a credit card, money order, company check or certified/cashier’s check.
- New applicant: $86.50
- New applicant reduced rate: $41.00 — (Reduced rate applicant must already possess a valid TWIC card and be licensed in a state that accepts the TWIC threat assessment in place of the one for the HAZMAT endorsement.)
- Check your status online at any time.
Click on this link to apply online, or find an Application Center to schedule an appointment: https://www.tsa.gov/for-industry/hazmat-endorsement
