The Hazardous Materials (Hazmat) endorsement, when added to your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), is one of the fastest ways to expand your career opportunities and boost your income. Drivers with this certification are cleared to transport federally-regulated materials like explosives, fuel, industrial chemicals, radioactives, and infectious substances. Employers often pay more for this added endorsement and skill set. In Florida, industries such as chemical manufacturing, agriculture, oil and gas, construction, and healthcare depend on Hazmat-certified drivers to move these materials safely.
Safety is at the heart of the multi-step HazMat endorsement process. Federal regulations and endorsement steps are in place to prioritize your well-being and that of the public and environment. To qualify, you must be at least 21 years of age, pass a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) fingerprinting and background check, complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) for Hazardous Materials Endorsement, and lastly pass the Florida DMV Knowledge Test. Note that you cannot take the test until you have passed all the TSA and ELDT requirements. The knowledge test covers federal regulations, safe handling procedures, packaging, and the transport configurations required for various hazard classes and quantities. In Florida, the exam contains 30 questions, and you’ll need at least 80% (24 correct answers) to pass.