What Is Hazmat Endorsement (H) in Trucking?
Also called: HAZMAT Endorsement, H Endorsement, HME, Hazardous Materials Endorsement
A hazmat endorsement, or H endorsement, is a CDL add-on that lets a driver haul hazardous materials that must be placarded. The driver passes a knowledge test and a TSA security threat assessment. A State may issue or renew it only after TSA clears the driver. It must be renewed every 5 years or less.
Last reviewed September 23, 2026 · Facts checked October 21, 2026
Key Points
- A driver needs the H endorsement to operate a CMV of any size that carries placarded hazardous materials, or a select agent or toxin (49 CFR 383.5 and 383.93(b))
- The test is a knowledge test (49 CFR 383.93(c)(4)). It covers the hazardous materials rules, handling and emergency response (383.121)
- Only the passenger (P), school bus (S) and tank vehicle (N) endorsements are allowed on a CLP. You cannot add an H to a permit (383.93(a)(2))
- A first-time H endorsement needs training from a provider on the Training Provider Registry (49 CFR 380.609(b))
- A State may not issue, renew, upgrade or transfer an H unless TSA finds the driver is not a security risk. A valid TWIC also works (49 CFR 383.141(b))
- TSA's fee is $85.25 for new and renewing applicants. TWIC holders pay a reduced $41.00. The fee is valid for five years (TSA, from January 1, 2025). State fees are separate
- States must renew the H every 5 years or less (49 CFR 383.141(d))
- A CLASS 9 placard is not required for domestic transport. Table 2 loads under 1,001 pounds need no placard (49 CFR 172.504)
What is a hazmat endorsement on a CDL?
It is the H endorsement on your commercial driver's license. It shows that you passed the hazmat knowledge test. It also shows that TSA cleared you in a security threat assessment. It is not a separate license. If a CDL also has the tank vehicle endorsement, the code on the license is X for both (49 CFR 383.153).
Who needs a hazmat endorsement?
A driver needs it to operate a commercial motor vehicle that carries placarded hazardous materials. The vehicle can be of any size (49 CFR 383.5). A truck of any size with a placarded load is a CMV, so its driver needs a CDL with the H. Not every load needs a placard. Table 2 materials under 1,001 pounds total need none. A CLASS 9 placard is not required for domestic transport (49 CFR 172.504). Class 9 alone does not trigger the H.
How do you get a hazmat endorsement?
First hold a CDL, not just a permit. First-time applicants then complete hazmat training from a provider on the Training Provider Registry (49 CFR 380.609(b)). Next apply to TSA. You can pre-enroll online and finish at an enrollment center. In Florida, Kentucky, Maryland, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia and Wisconsin you go through the DMV instead. Then pass the knowledge test with your State. The TSA fee is $85.25. TWIC holders pay a reduced $41.00. It lasts five years. State fees and test sites vary, so ask your State's licensing agency.
What disqualifies you from a hazmat endorsement?
TSA denies an H in four cases. The applicant has a disqualifying crime. Or the applicant does not meet the immigration status rules. Or TSA finds a security threat. Or the applicant was adjudicated as lacking mental capacity or committed to a mental health facility (49 CFR 1572.5). Permanent offenses include espionage, treason, terrorism, murder, unlawful dealing in explosives and improper transport of a hazardous material. Other felonies disqualify for a set time. That is a conviction within 7 years of the application, or release from prison within 5 years. They include firearms offenses, extortion, fraud, bribery, smuggling, immigration violations, drug distribution, arson, kidnapping, rape, assault with intent to kill and robbery (49 CFR 1572.103). A felony not on the list does not disqualify you by itself. You may ask TSA for a waiver of some standards (1572.5(d)).
How long does a hazmat endorsement last, and how do you renew it?
States must renew it every 5 years or less (49 CFR 383.141(d)). The State must warn you at least 60 days before it expires (383.141(c)). Then you need a new security threat assessment. TSA asks you to enroll at least 60 days before you need an answer. Some cases take more than 45 days. A State may extend an H by 90 days if TSA has not answered in time (49 CFR 1572.13(c)). If you move to another State, the new State need not repeat the assessment until your renewal date, up to five years (1572.13(e)).
Does a TWIC card count for the hazmat security check?
Yes. A State may issue an H to a driver who holds a valid TWIC, because the TWIC includes a TSA security check (49 CFR 383.141(b)). The State must verify the TWIC the way TSA says. TSA also says eligible H holders can use TSA PreCheck lanes. They enter the two-letter State code and CDL number as the known traveler number.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a hazmat endorsement?+
A CDL endorsement (H) that lets a driver operate a CMV carrying placarded hazardous materials. It needs a knowledge test and a TSA security threat assessment (49 CFR 383.93 and 383.141).
Who needs a hazmat endorsement?+
A driver who operates a CMV of any size that carries placarded hazardous materials, or a select agent or toxin (49 CFR 383.5).
Do you need a hazmat endorsement for Class 9?+
Usually not. A CLASS 9 placard is not required for domestic transportation (49 CFR 172.504(f)(9)). The H applies when the load must be placarded. Check your load against the hazardous materials rules.
Can felons get a hazmat endorsement?+
A felony does not bar you by itself. TSA's list names the crimes that disqualify, some for life and some for a set time (49 CFR 1572.103). You may ask TSA for a waiver of some standards.
How long is a hazmat endorsement good for?+
States must renew it every 5 years or less (49 CFR 383.141(d)). The TSA fee is valid for five years.
Can you get a hazmat endorsement with a CDL permit?+
No. Only the passenger, school bus and tank vehicle endorsements are allowed on a CLP (49 CFR 383.93(a)(2)).
How much does a hazmat endorsement cost?+
TSA charges $85.25 for new and renewing applicants. TWIC holders pay a reduced $41.00. The fee is valid for five years. Your State adds its own fees and test costs.
Does a hazmat endorsement work as TSA PreCheck?+
TSA says eligible H holders may use TSA PreCheck lanes. They enter the two-letter State code and CDL number as the known traveler number when they book.
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