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 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.
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.
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. Shipping papers must be kept within the driver's reach while driving and on top of other papers when the driver is out of the vehicle. The ERG (Emergency Response Guidebook) must also be on the vehicle and accessible.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.