What is the difference between an H endorsement and an X endorsement?

The H endorsement permits hauling placarded hazardous materials in non-tank trailers. The X endorsement combines the H (hazmat) and T (tanker) endorsements and is required for any position that involves hauling hazardous materials in a tank vehicle, including fuel, chemical, and liquid cargo jobs. Most petroleum and chemical tanker positions require the X endorsement, not the H alone

How long does it take to get a hazmat CDL endorsement?

The realistic range is 30 to 90 days. The ELDT hazmat course can be completed quickly online or in person. The TSA Security Threat Assessment is the timeline variable. TSA currently recommends applying at least 60 days before you need the endorsement, as processing times for some applicants exceed 45 days.

What disqualifies a driver from getting a hazmat endorsement?

Under 49 CFR 1572, certain criminal convictions permanently bar an applicant. These include terrorism-related offenses, espionage, sedition, and improper transportation of a hazardous material. A separate set of interim disqualifiers, including felony convictions for arson, robbery, or other serious offenses within the last seven years, create a temporary bar. TSA publishes the complete list of disqualifying offenses, and drivers with prior convictions should review it before investing time and money in the endorsement process.

Does a hazmat endorsement need to be renewed?

Yes, on two different cycles. The CDL endorsement itself expires when the CDL expires. The TSA Security Threat Assessment underlying the endorsement expires after five years, at which point the full fingerprinting and background check process must be repeated regardless of CDL renewal status.

Do employers pay for the hazmat endorsement?

Many carriers that specifically recruit hazmat drivers will reimburse the endorsement cost, particularly fuel and chemical carriers that have difficulty filling qualified driver seats. It is worth asking directly during the interview process. Schneider, for example, publicly advertises hazmat endorsement reimbursement for drivers who obtain the H or X after hire.

Can a driver with a CDL hold hazmat without the tanker endorsement?

Yes. The H endorsement alone qualifies a driver to haul placarded hazardous materials that do not require a tank vehicle. Dry van, flatbed, and some box truck loads carry hazmat designations that require only the H endorsement. The tanker endorsement (T) is a separate requirement for cargo tank vehicles and bulk liquid transport.

Hazmat CDL Jobs: Endorsement, Pay, and Who's Hiring