What are the different types of hazmat endorsements?

H – Transport Hazardous Material

 An H endorsement allows drivers to transport materials defined as hazardous by the DOT. Drivers with their H endorsement have to pass the TSA’s Security Threat Assessment and a written test.

 X – Transport Hazardous Material in a Tank

 The H endorsement is a prerequisite for an X endorsement. Drivers will need to pass an additional written test to obtain their X.

This endorsement is especially useful for drivers hoping to haul liquid hazardous materials like oil or gas.

Is it worth it to get my hazmat endorsement?

While the process is a bit tedious, the benefits of holding this endorsement far outweigh the inconveniences of the process.

Stand Out

Hazmat drivers are qualified for more jobs than the average Class A CDL holder, so they are more desirable to trucking companies because they can handle a wider variety of loads.

Additionally, having this endorsement shows employers that you went above and beyond to invest in yourself and your career.

Earn More

At Magnum, hazmat endorsed OTR drives earn an extra $0.01 per mile on every load, and an extra $0.05 per mile when hauling hazardous loads. That works out to more than $1,000 extra dollars in your pocket every year — even without ever hauling a hazardous load.

While LTL and Dedicated drivers at Magnum are required to obtain their hazmat endorsement within 30 days of employment, we offer reimbursement for the cost of fingerprinting.

Visit an Application Center

When you arrive at the application center, you will be fingerprinted and charged the TSA’s Security Threat Assessment fee of $86.50 (Fee is reduced to $67 for drivers with a valid TWIC card. Check your eligibility here).

Don’t forget to bring documentation proving your identity and citizenship to your appointment (See list of acceptable documents)!

 Play the Waiting Game

Here comes the easiest step! Once all your paperwork is filed and fees are paid, you will need to wait for the TSA to complete your threat assessment. The TSA’s target is to get back to you within 30 days of receiving your fingerprints, but the process could take up to 60 days.

You can check your status online at any time during this process.

Study

Everything you will need to know for the test can be found in the “Hazardous Materials” section in your state’s CDL handbook. Your HME test will include questions like:

• • If you are hauling hazardous materials and have _______ tires on your vehicle, you must stop and check them every time you park. (A. dual)
  • A “transport index” relates to products that are ______ (A. Radioactive)
  • You should turn off your engine when loading flammable liquid unless… (A. You need the engine to run the pump).

There are also countless resources online to help you study, such as the practice tests on Trucker Country.

Get endorsed!

When test day arrives, make sure to bring your hazmat approval documentation from the TSA to your local DMV.

Once you pass the test, your endorsement will be valid for five years.