Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) Endorsement Course
As of January 2022, getting your commercial driver's license (CDL) requires completing Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT). Our FMCSA-approved Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) Endorsement course provides a thorough, effective and efficient way to prepare for your HAZMAT endorsement exam.
The curriculum was designed by experienced CDL instructors and is for individuals looking to apply for their commercial learner's permit (CLP) with a HAZMAT endorsement or add a HAZMAT endorsement to an existing commercial driver's license (CDL).
SafeMotorist is a national provider of approved driver education and safety training. We offer state-approved teen and adult driver's ed, court-mandated traffic school, boater safety training, commercial driving courses and more.
About the HAZMAT Endorsement Course
Our HAZMAT endorsement course, approved by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, is a training program designed for commercial drivers. Focused on the safe handling and transportation of hazardous materials, the course covers key topics such as regulations, identification, packaging and emergency response. The course satisfies federal compliance standards for ELDT under 49 CFR Part 380.
Available online for flexibility, this program ensures drivers are equipped to transport hazardous materials, promoting safety and compliance on the road. Whether you're a seasoned driver or new to the industry, our course provides essential knowledge to obtain your HAZMAT endorsement, opening doors to new opportunities in the transportation sector.
Our course offers:
- FMCSA-approved training
- Online accessibility
- Automatic reporting to FMCSA
- Engaging and interactive course material
- And more
Training with SafeMotorist
SafeMotorist is your trusted partner in professional driver training, offering a range of courses designed to enhance safety, compliance and overall expertise. Here's what sets our training apart:
- Detailed curriculum: From defensive driving techniques to understanding regulations, our curriculum provides you with the knowledge needed for safe and responsible driving.
- Expertly crafted material: Developed by industry experts, our training material is up-to-date, relevant and aligned with the latest industry standards.
- Online convenience: Accessible from anywhere with an internet connection, our online platform provides the flexibility needed to fit training into your schedule. Learn at your own pace, whether you're an experienced driver or just starting your career.
- Knowledge assessment: Our courses include assessments to gauge your understanding of the material, ensuring that you retain crucial information.
- Career advancement opportunities: Whether it's earning endorsements, enhancing safety skills or pursuing career growth, our courses contribute to your professional success.
Choose SafeMotorist for a training experience that goes beyond compliance, focusing on your safety, career progression and overall excellence as a driver.
Course Details
The HAZMAT Endorsement course provides a thorough, effective and efficient way to prepare for your HAZMAT endorsement exam. Our curriculum was designed by professionals in the industry who are experienced CDL instructors. You'll learn key information about safely transporting hazardous materials (HM).
Module 1: Basic Introductory HM Requirements
Topics covered in this module include:
- Overview of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and its role in managing HM
- Establishing an FMCSA compliance program for HM
- Review of FMCSA requirements for shipping HM
- Documenting HM shipments with markings, labels, placards and emergency response information
- Shipping papers
- Training drivers to properly handle HM shipments
- Importance of following regulations when shipping HM
Module 2: Operational HM Requirements
Topics covered in this module include:
- Defining the purpose of the FMCSA HM regulations
- Exploring the types of HM that require FMCSA compliance
- Understanding the requirements for proper labeling and packaging of HM
- Explaining the importance of training drivers and employees about HM transport
- Examining driver qualifications, such as DOT-approved CDLs, for transporting HM
- Overview of the consequences for non-compliance with FMCSA regulations
Module 3: Reporting HM Crashes and Releases
Topics covered in this module include:
- Overview of the FMCSA reporting requirements for HM crashes and releases
- The importance of recording accurate information to ensure compliance with FMCSA regulations
- How to properly document an incident
- What information must be included in an HM crash or release incident report
- Best practices for completing and submitting HM incidents
- Fines and penalties associated with failing to report HM release
Module 4: Tunnels and Railroad (RR) Highway-Grade Crossing Requirements
Topics covered in this module include:
- Overview of FMCSA HM tunnels and RR highway-grade crossing requirements
- Risks when transporting HM through tunnels and RR highway-grade crossings
- HM safety measures for tunnels and RR highway-grade crossings
- Common mistakes made when operating around RR highway-grade crossings
- Penalties for violating tunnel and RR highway-grade crossing regulations
- Avoiding tunnels and RR highway-grade crossings when shipping HM
Module 5: Loading and Unloading HM
Topics covered in this module include:
- Overview of FMCSA regulations regarding loading and unloading HM
- Identifying hazards involved in loading and unloading HM
- Requirements for proper segregation and securement of HM
- Proper loading and unloading procedures for HM cargo
- Prohibitions regarding transporting certain solid and liquid poisons with foodstuffs
- Inspecting for leaks or damage to shipping containers
Module 6: HM on Passenger Vehicles
Topics covered in this module include:
- Overview of FMCSA requirements for vehicles transporting passengers and HM
- Requirements for vehicles transporting passengers and property
- Types and quantities of HM that can and cannot be transported with passengers
- Hours-of-service limits and mandated rest periods applicable to passenger-carrying vehicles
- Safety considerations when transporting passengers
- Requirements for driver qualifications and training specific to carrying passengers and HM
Module 7: Bulk Packages
Topics covered in this module include:
- Requirements for transporting cargo in bulk packages
- Cargo tanks, intermediate bulk containers, bulk cylinders and portable tanks
- Operation of emergency control features
- Vehicle handling characteristics
- Preventing cargo tank rollovers
- Vehicle design and performance, load effects, highway factors and driver factors
Module 8: Operating Emergency Equipment
Topics covered in this module include:
- Overview of HM emergency equipment operation
- Special precautions for fires
- Loading and unloading
- Types and operation of emergency equipment
- Maintenance and inspection best practices
- Shut-off/shut-down
Module 9: Emergency Response Procedures
Topics covered in this module include:
- Overview of FMCSA requirements for HM emergency response plan
- Key elements of an effective emergency response plan
- Post-response operations — what to do in the event of an unintended release of HM
- Hazards of materials released
- Protecting people and property
- Environmental consequences and containment strategies
Module 10: Engine (Fueling)
Topics covered in this module include:
- Overview of FMCSA regulations for fueling of vehicles with HM
- Safety rules and procedures for fueling vehicles with HM
- Precautionary measures for bad weather conditions
- Best practices for designated areas and personnel for fueling vehicles containing HM
- Proper handling of leaks while fueling
- Environmental considerations when fueling vehicles containing HM
Module 11: Tire Check
Topics covered in this module include:
- FMCSA requirements for tire checks
- Best practices for ensuring tire safety
- Minimum tread depth requirements
- Tire inflation requirements
- Importance of pre-trip and post-trip inspection of tires
- The driver's critical role in ensuring proper tire maintenance
Module 12: Routes and Route Planning
Topics covered in this module include:
- Overview of FMCSA HM routes and route planning regulations
- Planning HM routes — factors to consider in the planning process (radioactive vs. nonradioactive)
- Benefits of route planning for HM transport
- Planning an optimal route for transporting HM
- The driver's role after route selection
- Penalties and fines for driving an HM vehicle on unapproved routes
Module 13: Hazardous Materials Safety Permits (HMSP)
Topics covered in this module include:
- Overview of FMCSA HMSP program
- Permit requirements
- Materials included
- Driver's role in the transportation process
- Common HM violations
- Revocation of HMSP for non-compliance
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Hazardous Materials Endorsement course?
The SafeMotorist Hazardous Materials Endorsement course is a specialized training program designed for commercial drivers seeking to obtain a HAZMAT endorsement for their CLP or CDL. Approved by the FMCSA, this course ensures drivers understand how to safely handle and transport hazardous materials.
Who needs to take the SafeMotorist HAZMAT Endorsement course?
Any commercial driver involved in the transportation of hazardous materials, as defined by FMCSA regulations, is required to obtain a HAZMAT endorsement. This includes drivers of large trucks and other vehicles engaged in interstate commerce.
This training is designed for individuals who are looking to apply for their CLP with a HAZMAT endorsement or add a HAZMAT endorsement to an existing CDL.
Individuals who obtained a CDL, commercial learner's permit or HAZMAT endorsement before February 7, 2022, are not required to complete Entry-Level Driver Training. In addition, if an applicant obtained a CDL before their CLP expired, ELDT is not required.
What is Entry-Level Driver Training?
ELDT refers to the mandatory training that individuals must complete before obtaining a commercial driver's license for the first time or upgrading their existing CDL.
Why is ELDT required for commercial drivers?
ELDT is designed to ensure that entry-level commercial drivers have the necessary knowledge and skills to operate commercial motor vehicles safely, promoting overall road safety.
Is ELDT training the same for all types of commercial vehicles?
No, ELDT training is not uniform across all types of commercial vehicles. The training content is tailored to accommodate the diverse classes of commercial vehicles and the specific endorsements associated with each. Here's how ELDT training varies based on the types of licenses:
Class A CDL:
ELDT training for a Class A CDL focuses on the operation of combination vehicles, typically tractor-trailers, where the vehicle being towed has a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of over 10,000 pounds. This includes training on coupling and uncoupling, trailer maneuvering and long-haul driving considerations.
Class B CDL:
ELDT for a Class B CDL is geared toward drivers operating single vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more. This includes straight trucks, buses and other large vehicles. Training emphasizes the unique characteristics of these vehicles, such as air brakes for buses and specific skills needed for effective city driving or passenger transport.
Class C CDL:
ELDT training for a Class C CDL covers vehicles designed to transport hazardous materials or more than 16 passengers. The training includes a focus on specialized endorsements, such as the HAZMAT (H) endorsement or the Passenger (P) endorsement.
Endorsement Specialization:
Endorsements allow drivers to operate specific types of vehicles or transport specific cargo. This requires additional training and testing. For example:
- HAZMAT endorsement: Focuses on the safe handling and transportation of hazardous materials.
- Tank endorsement: Pertains to the operation of vehicles transporting liquid or gas.
- Passenger endorsement: Involves operating buses or vehicles designed for passenger transport.
Are there any prerequisites for enrolling in the SafeMotorist HAZMAT Endorsement course?
Participants should be at least 18 years old. This program is designed for drivers seeking to apply for a commercial learner's permit with a HAZMAT endorsement or add a HAZMAT endorsement to an existing CDL.
What topics are covered in the HAZMAT Endorsement course?
The course covers a range of topics that promote the safe handling and transportation of hazardous materials, including:
- Basic introductory hazardous materials requirements
- Operational hazardous materials requirements
- Reporting hazardous materials crashes and releases
- Tunnels and highway-railroad grade crossing requirements
- Loading and unloading hazardous materials
- Hazardous materials on passenger vehicles
- Bulk packages
- Operating emergency equipment
- Emergency response procedures
- Engine fueling
- Tire check
- Routes and route planning
- Hazardous materials safety permits (HMSP)
What are the testing requirements for this course?
This course does not have a final exam. There is a quiz to complete at the end of each module. Each quiz contains five questions, and you have unlimited attempts to pass with a score of at least 80%.
Is this course compliant with FMCSA regulations?
Yes, the SafeMotorist HAZMAT Endorsement course is fully compliant with FMCSA regulations. It is designed to meet the specific federal requirements outlined by the FMCSA for hazardous materials training, ensuring that drivers receive accurate and current information.
Your state may have additional requirements that exceed federal standards. To learn more about state-specific requirements, please contact your local DMV.
What are the benefits of obtaining a HAZMAT endorsement?
A HAZMAT endorsement opens up additional opportunities for commercial drivers, allowing them to transport a wider range of goods. It can also lead to increased earning potential and job opportunities with carriers involved in the transportation of hazardous materials.
Is the SafeMotorist HAZMAT Endorsement course applicable for all types of commercial vehicles?
Yes, the course is designed to cover HAZMAT regulations and best practices applicable to various types of commercial vehicles.