CDL · General

What additional requirement applies to obtaining a hazardous materials endorsement on a CDL?

Correct answer

A security threat assessment (background check) conducted by the TSA, including fingerprinting — required due to security concerns

  1. A Just a vision test
  2. B A security threat assessment (background check) conducted by the TSA, including fingerprinting — required due to security concerns
  3. C Only a road test
  4. D No special requirements

Why this is the answer

To obtain a HAZMAT ENDORSEMENT (H or X) on a CDL, the driver must pass a SECURITY THREAT ASSESSMENT (background check) conducted by the TSA (Transportation Security Administration), including FINGERPRINTING. CDL hazmat. This is required because hazardous materials could be used as weapons (security concern after 9/11). The assessment checks criminal history, immigration status, and terrorism watch lists; certain disqualifying offenses bar the endorsement. The driver also must pass the hazmat knowledge test. SECURITY TRAINING is part of hazmat driver requirements. Knowing the TSA security threat assessment/background check requirement for the hazmat endorsement is commonly tested.
Source: FMCSA CDL Manual — Hazmat, Security Threat Assessment

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