Summary: Earning a hazmat endorsement means meeting industry standards for safety, compliance, and professionalism. Every Landstar owner-operator must secure and maintain a hazmat endorsement—regardless of the freight they haul—by completing a rigorous process that includes a valid CDL, passing the hazmat knowledge test, undergoing a TSA background check, and meeting strict medical and legal requirements.  

Here is the process a truck driver must go through to get a hazmat endorsement, and why this standard sets Landstar apart. 

Step-by-Step: How to get a hazmat endorsement  

Requirements may vary by state, so drivers are encouraged to check his/her local DMV for the latest process. 

1. Meet general eligibility requirements

Drivers may apply if they are a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, naturalized citizen or a nonimmigrant alien, asylee or refugee who is in lawful status and have a CDL issued by a U.S. state.  

Remember to check with the state in which your license is issued for additional citizenship or lawful presence requirements stricter than the Transportation Security Administration’s before applying. 

 2. Apply for a Hazmat Endorsement 

Indicate intent to add a hazmat endorsement to your CDL via an online pre-enrollment application or in-person at an application center.   

3. Complete a TSA Background Check 

Submit fingerprints and undergo a thorough background check by the Transportation TSA, screening for criminal history, immigration status, and other security risks. 

4. Meet Medical and Legal Requirements 

Drivers must be medically qualified and free of disqualifying criminal offenses. 

5. Pass the Hazmat Knowledge Test 

A driver must schedule and pass a multiple-choice exam at his/her state’s DMV. The test covers critical topics essential for safe and compliant hazardous materials transport. A passing score is typically 80 percent. Key content areas include: 

• Hazard Classes & Material Classification: Understand the nine DOT hazard classes (explosives, gases, flammable liquids/solids, oxidizers, toxic/infectious, radioactive, corrosives, miscellaneous). 
• Classification Rules: Know proper names, classification rules, and when a material is “forbidden” or has special requirements. 
• Placards & Labels: Identify which placards apply to each hazard class, recognize placard colors, numbers, and shapes, and know where to display placards (e.g., all four sides). 
• Shipping Papers & Documentation: Correct placement of hazardous items on shipping papers; rules for class listings and document handling. 
• Safe Handling, Loading & Unloading: Procedures for monitoring temperature, pressure, and secure loading; spill prevention, proper container handling, and minimizing risk during transfers. 
• Emergency Response: Steps to take during spills, leaks, or emergencies; notification and reporting protocols. 
• Security Awareness: Hazardous materials, security risks and required security measures; procedures to prevent tampering, theft, or sabotage 
• Federal Regulations & Compliance: Knowledge of DOT, FMCSA, and Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR); understanding driver and carrier requirements. 
• Vehicle Inspection & Safety Checks: Conducting pre-trip inspections for leaks, placards, equipment; routine checks during trips to ensure compliance and safety. 

6. Receive Endorsement 

Upon passing the test and background check, each state will add the hazmat endorsement to a driver’s CDL.