Navigating HAZMAT Regulations and Training: What Every CDL Driver Should Know

Written by Mary Salatino

Hauling hazardous materials is a big responsibility for commercial drivers. It comes with higher risks and stricter rules — but most importantly, more opportunities.

So what exactly counts as hazardous? Who needs special certification? And how do you remain compliant behind the wheel?

Whether you’re just getting started or looking to level up your commercial driver's license (CDL), we break it all down: definitions, classifications, training, endorsements and real-world requirements. Ready to start? Let’s make this process easier.

What Is HAZMAT?

If you’re a commercial driver, chances are you’ve heard the term HAZMAT at least once. But what exactly does it mean? HAZMAT stands for hazardous materials. These are substances that pose a risk to health, safety or the environment during transportation.

That can include substances like propane, gasoline, pesticides and even large quantities of everyday items such as batteries.

Basically, if the material is flammable, explosive, radioactive or toxic, it likely falls under the HAZMAT category.

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) breaks hazardous materials into nine different classes, including:

  1. Explosives (like ammunition or fireworks)
  2. Gases (think propane or compressed oxygen)
  3. Flammable liquids
  4. (gasoline, diesel or alcohols)
  5. Flammable solids (matches, magnesium)
  6. Oxidizers and organic peroxides (bleach or pool chemicals)
  7. Toxic
  8. and infectious substances (pesticides or medical waste)
  9. Radioactive materials (nuclear medicine, certain tools)
  10. Corrosives (battery acid or hydrochloric acid)
  11. Miscellaneous dangerous goods (dry ice, lithium batteries)

It’s surprising how often workers can encounter hazardous materials. Many CDL drivers transport hazardous materials daily — fuel, chemical drums, aerosol containers and even cleaning supplies can fall into this category.

So, the real question is: Do [JR3] you know what you’re hauling, and does it require a HAZMAT endorsement for legal and safe transportation? Understanding what qualifies as hazardous can help keep yourself and others safe on the road.

Who Needs a HAZMAT Endorsement?

Once a driver understands what qualifies as hazardous materials, the next question is — who actually needs a HAZMAT endorsement? The answer isn’t surprising. Anyone transporting certain quantities or types of hazardous materials that require DOT placards or meet federal regulations needs this training.

  • Here are a few examples of who needs this schooling:
  • Tanker drivers hauling fuel like gasoline or propane
  • Freight drivers delivering bulk chemical products
  • Transporters of pesticides, cleaning agents or industrial gases
  • Delivery drivers handling medical waste or radioactive materials
  • CDL holders moving hazardous goods for manufacturing or lab facilities

Even if a driver only hauls these types of materials occasionally, they still need the endorsement. Why? Because it’s not about frequency — it’s about what’s being transported and how it’s classified under federal law.

It’s worth asking:

  • Does the cargo require placards?
  • Are the materials listed in one of the DOT’s nine hazard classes?
  • Could the shipment pose a risk to people, property or the environment?

If the answer to any of those questions is yes, the driver needs to be properly certified.

For many drivers, a HAZMAT endorsement can open the door to better-paying opportunities and more specialized freight. Employers often prioritize drivers with endorsements because they’ve proven they can handle dangerous loads with care.

Are you serious about growing your career? Adding a HAZMAT endorsement could be a move in the right direction.

HAZMAT Endorsement Requirements and Training

Once a driver decides to pursue a HAZMAT endorsement, there’s a specific process to follow.

Here’s what that looks like:

Apply for a TSA Background Check

Driver’s must complete a Transportation security Administration (TSA) Security Threat Assessment (STA). This includes a background check and fingerprinting. This way, employees are screened for disqualifying criminal offenses and security risks. This can take a few weeks to process.

Schedule and Pass the HAZMAT Knowledge Test

The written test is administered by each state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). It covers how to handle materials, labeling, placards and emergency response. It’s a good idea to study and take any available practice tests before the official one.

Meet State-Specific Requirements

Some states might have additional requirements — it just depends. They may require an in-person appointment, medical certification or additional fees to issue the endorsement. It’s a good idea to double-check with your local DMV to avoid surprises.

Maintain a Valid CDL

Drivers must have a current CDL. You cannot receive an endorsement without one.

In most states, the endorsement needs to be renewed every few years — often alongside CDL renewal — and may require another background check or knowledge test.

Training Options

Not all states require formal training, but it’s definitely something to consider. With so many details and regulatory terms, even experienced drivers can benefit from review.

Self-paced online training can make a big difference in the lives of those with busy schedules. This allows drivers to prepare at their leisure and focus on areas where they need the most help.

Ready to Get Your Endorsement?

Earning a HAZMAT endorsement can open the door to new job opportunities. Our 100% online HAZMAT course helps you get there faster, with clear lessons that provide valuable information to help you pass the exam.

Learn at your own pace from any device. Our training is built by industry experts who know what it takes to succeed in the driving sector.

Enroll in a SafeMotorist course today and take the next step in advancing your career.