Certain materials have been deemed hazardous by the U.S. government, and it has developed a rigorous endorsement process for drivers seeking the HazMat certification. Without the certification, you’re prohibited from hauling these materials, and this entire sector of specialized cargo transport is closed to you. With it, you gain access to these routes and greater earning potential. Adding the Hazardous Materials (Hazmat) endorsement to your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is one of the best ways to unlock higher-paying opportunities and expand your career.
In North Carolina, hazardous materials include Class A and B explosives, compressed gasses, poisons, flammable liquids, radioactive materials, and other substances regulated by the U.S. government. Employers such as Duke Energy in Charlotte, Syngenta in Greensboro (agricultural chemicals), and Clean Harbors (hazardous waste management and cleanup) rely on certified HazMat drivers. With so many industries and organizations dependent upon HazMat-endorsed drivers, obtaining this endorsement is a smart way to set yourself apart.
As you can imagine, the application process for the HazMat endorsement is understandably more difficult due to the extra measures needed to ensure safety and security. The first step is to complete all Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements. Next, you’ll initiate a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) fingerprinting and background check. Since the results can take weeks to arrive, start this step early. While waiting for results, prepare for the third major step: the North Carolina DMV HazMat Knowledge Test. The test consists of 30 questions, and you’ll need a score of 80% (24 correct answers) to pass (North Carolina CDL Handbook 2026).