Hazmat Endorsement: How to Pass the TSA Background Check

The Hazmat (H) endorsement on a CDL is the only endorsement that requires a federal background check. Here is the full process.

Why TSA is involved

The H endorsement allows transport of hazardous materials in placarded quantities. After 9/11, the federal government required the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to vet H endorsement holders for terrorism, criminal, and immigration concerns.

The check is called the Hazardous Materials Endorsement Threat Assessment (HME).

Step-by-step application

1. Pass the H endorsement written test (at your state DMV)

This is the easy part. Study the CDL Hazmat manual — typically 30 questions, 80% passing.

Practice CDL Hazmat tests cover the federal Hazmat Materials Regulations (HMR) including:

• Hazard classes and divisions (Class 1-9)
• Loading and segregation rules
• Placarding and marking requirements
• Driving and parking rules for hazmat loads
• Emergency response

2. Apply for the TSA HME assessment

After passing the written test, apply through TSA's online portal at tsa.gov/hazmat-endorsement.

You'll need:

• US passport or birth certificate + driver license
• $86.50 fee (current as of 2026; subject to change)
• Schedule a fingerprinting appointment at an enrollment center

3. Get fingerprinted

TSA enrollment centers are located at:

• Most CDL training schools
• Some local DMVs (varies by state)
• IdentoGO sites in major cities

Bring 2 forms of ID. The appointment takes 15 minutes.

4. Wait for the threat assessment

TSA processes most applications in 30-60 days. Some take longer if there's anything in your record requiring review.

You can check status at the TSA portal.

5. Receive your endorsement

If approved, TSA notifies your state DMV. You return to the DMV with your TSA letter and they add the H endorsement to your CDL.

What can disqualify you

The TSA looks for these "permanent disqualifying offenses":

• Terrorism-related convictions
• Espionage, treason, sedition
• Murder
• Improper transportation of hazmat (federal violation)

And these "interim disqualifying offenses" (within 7 years):

• Felony assault with deadly weapon
• Robbery / extortion
• Drug trafficking / manufacture
• Bribery
• Smuggling
• Immigration violations
• Distribution of controlled substances

You can request a waiver for some interim offenses by providing rehabilitation documentation. Waiver decisions take 3-6 months.

Renewal

H endorsement is valid for 5 years. Renewal requires:

• New TSA HME assessment ($86.50)
• New fingerprints (or transfer from previous if recent)
• Pass the H written test again at the DMV

Start renewal 90 days before expiration to avoid lapse.

Cost summary

Tips

• Apply for HME before the written test if your state allows. Some states won't schedule the H written test until they see your TSA pending status.
• Don't lose your TSA approval letter. Many state DMVs require the original at the counter.
• If denied, you have 30 days to file a written appeal with TSA.

Other CDL endorsements

If you don't need Hazmat, consider these alternatives:

• N (Tank) — bulk liquids, no TSA check.
• P (Passenger) — buses 16+ pax, no TSA check.
• T (Doubles/Triples) — multi-trailer, no TSA check.

See our CDL vs Regular License guide for the full endorsement breakdown.

Ready to start? Begin with the Hazmat practice test and our CDL Hazmat handbook reference.