How to Get Your CDL Hazmat Endorsement (H) in Florida
Governing body, experience requirements, exam details, and step-by-step instructions for Florida. Last verified: February 2026.
Quick Facts
Hours Required
No minimum training hours required
Exam
Florida CDL Hazardous Materials Knowledge Test
Fee Range
$19 endorsement fee + TSA enrollment cost [VERIFY]
Governing Body
Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV)
Requirements
The Florida CDL Hazmat endorsement is governed by both federal law (49 CFR) and FLHSMV. To qualify, you must hold a valid Florida Commercial Driver's License (CDL) or a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP), complete a federal TSA threat assessment (background check with fingerprinting), and pass the 30-question Hazardous Materials Knowledge Test at a Florida FLHSMV service center. No minimum training hours are required, though applicants should thoroughly study the Florida CDL Handbook's Hazardous Materials section.
Steps to Apply
- 1
Hold a valid Florida CDL or Commercial Learner's Permit. The CDL must be issued in Florida (your state of domicile).
- 2
Visit a TSA-approved fingerprint enrollment center (IdentoGO) to submit biometric data for the federal background check.
- 3
Wait for TSA clearance — typically 2–4 weeks. You cannot proceed until clearance is received.
- 4
Study the Hazardous Materials chapter of the Florida CDL Handbook and review 49 CFR regulations using the VoltExam Hazmat Prep app.
- 5
Visit a Florida FLHSMV service center with your TSA clearance and pass the 30-question knowledge test (80% required).
- 6
Pay the $19 endorsement fee and receive your updated Florida CDL with the 'H' endorsement.
Exam Details
The Florida CDL Hazardous Materials Knowledge Test is administered by FLHSMV at driver license service centers. The test consists of 30 multiple-choice questions covering 49 CFR Parts 171–180 and the Florida CDL Handbook. Topics include hazard classes and divisions, DOT placards, shipping paper requirements, emergency response, loading and segregation rules. An 80% passing score (24/30 correct) is required.
Fees & Costs
Estimated total: $19 endorsement fee + TSA enrollment cost [VERIFY]
TSA fingerprint enrollment fee: approximately $10–$15 (varies by provider). Florida CDL Hazmat endorsement fee: approximately $19 at FLHSMV. [VERIFY current FLHSMV fee schedule at flhsmv.gov] No separate knowledge test fee — administered by FLHSMV as part of the CDL endorsement process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the TSA background check take for the Florida CDL Hazmat endorsement?
The TSA threat assessment typically takes 2–4 weeks after fingerprint submission. Federal law requires TSA clearance before FLHSMV can add the Hazmat endorsement to your CDL.
What is the passing score for the Florida CDL Hazmat test?
You must correctly answer at least 24 of 30 questions — an 80% passing score. If you fail, FLHSMV imposes a waiting period before you can retake the test. [VERIFY current retake policy]
How long is the Florida CDL Hazmat endorsement valid?
The Hazmat endorsement is valid for the same period as your Florida CDL — typically 8 years. However, the TSA background check must be renewed at each CDL renewal. [VERIFY current Florida CDL renewal period at flhsmv.gov]
I already have a CDL from another state. Can I transfer my Hazmat endorsement to Florida?
You can transfer your CDL to Florida, but the Hazmat endorsement requires a new TSA background check in your state of domicile. Transfer your CDL to Florida first, then initiate the TSA process for the Florida-issued endorsement.
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CDL Hazmat Prep
Hazmat placarding guide + endorsement test prep
Also Available
CDL Hazmat Endorsement (H) in other states