To add a hazardous materials (H) endorsement for the first time, federal rules require Entry-Level Driver Training theory from a provider on FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry. Your state checks the registry before it gives you the Hazmat knowledge test. Hazmat has no behind-the-wheel part, so the whole ELDT requirement can be completed online.
Our Hazmat course takes most drivers about 4 hours, costs $99, and we report your completion within one business day. Enroll in Hazmat theory →
Who needs Hazmat ELDT
You need it if you are adding an H endorsement to your CDL for the first time. The rule has applied since February 7, 2022.
- You don’t need it if you held an H endorsement issued before February 7, 2022.
- You don’t need it to renew an H endorsement or to move it to another state. ELDT is a one-time requirement. See Do you need ELDT to renew a Hazmat endorsement?
- Once you finish, it doesn’t expire. FMCSA says your completion stays valid on the registry indefinitely, and there is no deadline for taking the knowledge test afterward. The one-year window between theory and behind-the-wheel training that applies to Class A and Class B doesn’t apply to Hazmat.
The steps to a Hazmat endorsement
- Complete Hazmat ELDT theory with a registered provider and score at least 80 percent. We submit your completion to the Training Provider Registry.
- Pass your state’s Hazmat knowledge test. The state must confirm your training on the registry before it gives you the test.
- Clear the TSA security threat assessment. You apply with TSA (online or at an enrollment center), give fingerprints and pay TSA’s fee. TSA recommends applying at least 60 days before you need it. Your state adds the endorsement once TSA clears you.
Some states set their own order for the knowledge test and the TSA application. Check your state licensing agency’s Hazmat page before you schedule.
What the course covers
Hazmat theory follows the federal curriculum in Appendix E of 49 CFR Part 380. There is no minimum number of hours, but every topic must be covered:
- Basic hazardous materials requirements: classes, shipping papers, marking, labeling and placarding
- Operating requirements, including attending and parking a loaded vehicle
- Reporting crashes and releases
- Tunnels and railroad-highway grade crossings
- Loading and unloading, and bulk packages such as cargo tanks
- Hazardous materials on passenger vehicles
- Emergency equipment and emergency response procedures
- Fueling, tire checks, routes and route planning
- Hazardous Materials Safety Permits
Lessons use animated scenarios instead of pages of text. Miss a question and the course takes you back through that topic until you have it, so there is no failing grade and no retest fee.
Course details
- Time
- About 4 hours. Stop and pick up where you left off.
- Format
- Online, self-paced, animated lessons
- Passing score
- 80% or higher, with review until you get there
- Reporting
- We submit your completion to the registry within one business day and email your certificate
- Price
- $99 per driver. $89, $84 or $79 a seat in blocks of 5, 10 or 25.
- Not available
- Drivers licensed in Washington State, which requires 16 classroom hours for Hazmat theory
For employers
Hazmat is the one ELDT requirement a driver can finish entirely online, so a single purchase covers it. Fuel and propane distributors, chemical suppliers, waste haulers and agricultural co-ops often buy Hazmat in blocks: pay once, and we email you one seat code per driver to hand out when each one is ready. See seat-block pricing.
Common questions
Can I take Hazmat ELDT theory before I have a CDL?
Yes. You can complete the training at any time, and your completion stays on the registry indefinitely. You will need a CDL before your state adds the H endorsement, since it is an endorsement to a commercial license.
Is online Hazmat ELDT accepted in my state?
ELDT is a federal standard, so theory from a registered provider counts in every state except Washington, which requires 16 classroom hours for Hazmat. If you are unsure about your state, check with its licensing agency before you enroll.
How do I know my training was reported?
We email your certificate when we submit your completion. You can also check your own record at tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov/Check. Your name, date of birth and license number must match your license exactly.