What is the difference between Table 1 and Table 2 materials for HazMat placarding?

Table 1 materials are the most dangerous hazardous materials — including certain explosives, poison gases, and radioactive materials — and they require placards on all four sides of the vehicle regardless of the quantity being transported. Table 2 materials require placards only when the total gross weight of all hazardous materials in a single vehicle reaches or exceeds 1,001 pounds. Knowing which table a material falls under is one of the most commonly tested concepts on the HazMat endorsement written exam.

What are the required entries on a HazMat shipping paper?

A HazMat shipping paper (bill of lading) must include the proper shipping name of the material, the hazard class or division number, the identification number (UN or NA number), the packing group (I, II, or III where applicable), the total quantity, and a 24-hour emergency response telephone number. The HazMat description must appear first, or be highlighted or in a contrasting color, so it stands out from non-hazardous entries. Missing or incomplete shipping papers can result in serious violations during a roadside inspection.

Do I need a TSA clearance to get a HazMat CDL endorsement?

Yes. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires a security threat assessment for any CDL holder who wants a HazMat endorsement. You must submit fingerprints, provide personal information, and pass a federal background check before the endorsement can be added to your license. The process typically takes 30 to 60 days. The HazMat endorsement must be renewed every five years, and a new TSA security threat assessment is required at each renewal.

What should a HazMat driver do if a fire is discovered in the cargo area?

If you discover a fire or smoke in or near the cargo area, you must not attempt to fight the fire yourself if it involves hazardous materials. Stop the vehicle as far off the road as possible, notify emergency responders immediately, and provide them with the shipping papers so they can identify the materials involved. Use the Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG) to determine the initial isolation and protective action distances for the specific hazard class. Keep bystanders away and stay upwind and uphill from the vehicle.

How many questions do you need to get right to pass the HazMat endorsement test?

You must answer at least 80% of the questions correctly. Federal rule 49 CFR 383.135 sets the same 80% passing score for every CDL knowledge test, including the hazardous materials endorsement test. The number of questions is set by each state licensing agency, so check your state CDL manual or DMV website for the exact count. Use practice tests until you score well above 80% every time.

How much does a HazMat endorsement cost?

The TSA security threat assessment costs $85.25 for new and renewing applicants (effective January 1, 2025), or $41.00 for eligible applicants who already hold a valid TWIC card. You pay this fee when you enroll and give fingerprints, and it is non-refundable. Your state also charges its own fees for the knowledge test and the updated CDL, and these vary by state. Check your DMV for the exact amounts.

Do I need training before taking the HazMat endorsement test?

Yes, if this is your first time getting the endorsement. Since February 7, 2022, FMCSA entry-level driver training rules (49 CFR 380.609) require first-time hazardous materials (H) endorsement applicants to finish hazmat theory training from a provider listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry. Your provider reports completion to the registry, and you need that record before your state lets you take the hazmat knowledge test.

How far must a placarded hazmat vehicle stop from railroad tracks?

A vehicle carrying placarded hazardous materials must stop no closer than 15 feet and no farther than 50 feet from the nearest rail of a railroad crossing. The driver then looks and listens both ways for a train and crosses only when it is safe, in a gear that lets the vehicle cross without shifting. This rule comes from 49 CFR 392.10 and is a common hazmat test question.

What score do you need to pass the HazMat exam?

The HazMat endorsement knowledge test requires at least 80 percent correct answers under federal CDL testing standards.

HazMat Endorsement CDL Practice Test PDF (Free Printable 2026)

Free HazMat Endorsement CDL practice test with questions and answer explanations. Prepare for the 2026 exam with instant scoring.

HazMat - Hazardous Materials EndorsementOct 17, 20267 min readFacts verified Oct 19, 2026 against State driver licensing agencies, under Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) standards, with Transportatio

HazMat Endorsement CDL Practice Test PDF

The HazMat (Hazardous Materials) endorsement is required on a Commercial Driver License to transport hazardous materials in quantities that require placarding under 49 CFR. Before you can add the endorsement to your CDL, you must pass a written knowledge test and complete a TSA security threat assessment — including fingerprinting and a federal background check.

This free HazMat PDF covers the core topic areas tested on the written exam: hazard classification, shipping papers, labels and placards, loading and unloading rules, transportation requirements, and security procedures. Download it, print it, and study anywhere before sitting for the real test at your DMV or licensing office.

The HazMat endorsement knowledge test requires at least 80 percent correct answers under federal CDL testing standards. (State driver licensing agencies, under Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) standards, with Transportatio)
First-time HazMat endorsement applicants must complete the required entry-level driver training with a registered provider before taking the knowledge test. (State driver licensing agencies, under Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) standards, with Transportatio)

Facts verified Oct 19, 2026 against State driver licensing agencies, under Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) standards, with Transportatio. Dates that have passed are removed automatically.

HazMat Endorsement CDL Practice Test PDF (Free Printable 2026)

📄Free HazMat Practice Test PDF

What the HazMat Endorsement Exam Covers

The written knowledge test is based on the FMCSA HazMat regulations and the DOT Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG). Here is a breakdown of the major topic areas.

Hazardous Materials Classification

You must know all nine DOT hazard classes: Class 1 Explosives (divisions 1.1 through 1.6), Class 2 Gases (2.1 flammable, 2.2 non-flammable, 2.3 toxic), Class 3 Flammable Liquids, Class 4 Flammable Solids, Class 5 Oxidizers and Organic Peroxides, Class 6 Toxic and Infectious Substances, Class 7 Radioactive Materials, Class 8 Corrosive Materials, Class 9 Miscellaneous Hazardous Materials, and ORM-D Other Regulated Materials. Knowing which class a material falls into determines labeling, placarding, and segregation requirements.

Shipping Papers

Bills of lading for hazmat must include specific required entries: the proper shipping name, hazard class or division, identification number (UN or NA), packing group, total quantity, and a 24-hour emergency response phone number. Hazmat shipping papers must be tabbed or placed on top of any other papers, kept within the driver's reach (with the seat belt on) while driving, and left on the driver's seat or in the driver's door pouch when the driver is out of the vehicle. The ERG (Emergency Response Guidebook) must also be on the vehicle and accessible.

Labels and Placards

Packages of hazmat must carry labels that match the hazard class. Vehicles must display placards on all four sides when transporting Table 1 materials (which always require placarding regardless of quantity) or more than 1,001 pounds of Table 2 materials. You must know placard shapes, colors, and class numbers, and understand the rules for damaged or missing placards.

Loading, Unloading, and Segregation

Certain hazardous materials cannot be loaded together — the segregation and separation table in 49 CFR governs incompatible materials. Special rules apply to fueling vehicles carrying hazmat, using cargo heaters near certain classes, using electrical devices near Class 1 explosives, and attending vehicles during loading and unloading operations.

Transportation Rules and Emergency Procedures

HazMat drivers must know route restrictions (tunnels, posted routes), the 300-foot rule for parking near bridges and structures, and smoking prohibitions. If a fire is discovered in the cargo area, the driver must stop at a safe distance and notify authorities before taking any action. Tires must be inspected at each stop when carrying hazardous materials.

HazMat Security

Carriers transporting select agents must have a written security plan. En-route security includes checking for tampering at stops and parking in well-lit, secure locations. Theft or loss of hazmat shipments must be reported immediately to the National Response Center. Drivers are trained to recognize and report improvised explosive device (IED) indicators.

✓Memorize all 9 DOT hazard classes and their division numbers (especially Class 1 and Class 2)
✓Know the required entries on a HazMat shipping paper (bill of lading)
✓Understand the difference between Table 1 materials (always placard) and Table 2 materials (placard over 1,001 lbs)
✓Learn placard shapes, colors, and class numbers for each hazard class
✓Study the segregation and separation table for incompatible materials
✓Know the 300-foot parking rule near bridges, tunnels, and buildings
✓Understand cargo heater restrictions and electrical device rules near Class 1 explosives
✓Know the steps to take if you discover a fire in the cargo area while transporting hazmat
✓Understand the TSA security threat assessment process and renewal timeline
✓Study the en-route security requirements: tamper checks, secure parking, theft reporting

Free HazMat Practice Tests Online

Once you have reviewed the PDF, test your knowledge with scored online practice. Our HazMat practice test delivers timed quizzes with instant answer feedback and detailed explanations for every question — helping you identify exactly which topic areas need more review before your DMV appointment.

A Comprehensive Guide to HazMat Training

Hazardous Materials (HazMat) Endorsement 2026

✅Pros

+Validates your knowledge and skills objectively
+Increases job market competitiveness
+Provides structured learning goals
+Networking opportunities with other certified professionals

❌Cons

−Study materials can be expensive
−Exam anxiety can affect performance
−Requires dedicated preparation time
−Retake fees apply if you don't pass

🔢

🔢 How many hazard classes are on the HazMat endorsement test?

DOT groups hazardous materials into nine hazard classes, from Class 1 Explosives to Class 9 Miscellaneous. Several classes are split into divisions, such as 1.1-1.6 for explosives and 2.1-2.3 for gases, and the class number appears at the bottom of every placard.

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⚖️

⚖️ When do Table 2 hazmat materials need placards?

Table 2 materials need placards when the vehicle carries 1,001 pounds or more aggregate gross weight of them. Table 1 materials, such as Division 1.1-1.3 explosives and poison gas (2.3), must be placarded in any amount.

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📄

📄 Where must hazmat shipping papers be kept while driving?

At the controls, shipping papers must be within reach while you wear your seat belt and either clearly visible or in a holder on the inside of the driver's door. When you leave the vehicle, put them on the driver's seat or in that door pouch (49 CFR 177.817).

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🚬

🚬 How close can you smoke to a vehicle carrying hazmat?

No smoking or lit cigarette, cigar or pipe within 25 feet of a vehicle carrying Class 1 explosives, Class 5 oxidizers, or flammables in Division 2.1, Class 3, or Divisions 4.1 and 4.2. The rule also covers empty tank vehicles that hauled flammable liquids or gases.

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🛤️

🛤️ Do hazmat trucks have to stop at railroad crossings?

Yes. Placarded vehicles must stop no closer than 15 feet and no farther than 50 feet from the nearest rail, look and listen both ways, then cross without shifting gears. Federal rule 49 CFR 392.10 sets these distances.

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🅿️

🅿️ What are the parking rules for a truck carrying explosives?

A vehicle with Division 1.1, 1.2 or 1.3 explosives must not park on or within 5 feet of the traveled road, or within 300 feet of a bridge, tunnel, dwelling, or place where people gather, except briefly when operations require it. Other hazmat must not park within 5 feet of the road.

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⛽

⛽ What are the fueling rules for a hazmat vehicle?

The engine must be off while you fuel a vehicle carrying hazardous materials. A person must also be in control of the fueling at the point where the fuel tank is filled (49 CFR 397.15).

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🛞

🛞 How often must a hazmat driver check the tires?

You must examine every tire at the start of each trip and each time you park. A flat, leaking or underinflated tire must be fixed before you drive on, except to reach the nearest safe place. An overheated tire must be removed and placed a safe distance from the vehicle.

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✅

✅ What score do you need to pass the HazMat endorsement test?

Federal rule 49 CFR 383.135 requires at least 80% correct on every CDL knowledge test, and that includes the hazmat endorsement test. The number of questions depends on your state, so check your state CDL manual before test day.

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🪪

🪪 How much does the TSA hazmat background check cost?

TSA charges $85.25 for new and renewing hazmat endorsement applicants (effective January 1, 2025), or $41.00 for eligible TWIC holders. You give fingerprints at an enrollment center, and the threat assessment is valid for five years.

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Official Resources

TSA Hazmat Endorsement Threat Assessment Program: TSA's official page for enrolling, fingerprinting, fees and checking your background check status.
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA): the federal agency that sets CDL testing standards, entry-level driver training rules and hazmat driving rules.
Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA): the DOT agency behind the Hazardous Materials Regulations and the Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG).

How this page was made: written with AI tools and published by Nathan Beja, founder of Practice Test Geeks, who is responsible for its content. Exam facts are checked against the official sources listed below. Not reviewed by a subject-matter expert. Editorial policy

Sources & references

Exam facts on this page (fees, format, dates, passing scores) are checked against these official sources; the date is our last check. Editorial policy

dmv.ny.gov — Fees, renewal, retake policy, score validity · verified Nov 2026
michigan.gov — Exam format, test delivery · verified Nov 2026
pa.gov — Exam format, fees, test delivery · verified Oct 2026
fmcsa.dot.gov — Passing score, eligibility · verified Oct 2026
ilsos.gov — Renewal · verified Oct 2026
dps.texas.gov — Eligibility, score validity · verified Oct 2026