How to Get Your Hazmat (CDL) Endorsement in Illinois
Governing body, experience requirements, exam details, and step-by-step instructions for Illinois. Last verified: February 2026.
Quick Facts
Hours Required
No minimum hours
Exam
IL CDL Hazmat Knowledge Test
Fee Range
~$5 endorsement [VERIFY]
Governing Body
IL Secretary of State (SOS)
Requirements
To add a Hazardous Materials (H) endorsement to an Illinois CDL, applicants must hold a valid Illinois CDL, complete the TSA Hazmat Threat Assessment (federal background check via IDEMIA), pass the Illinois SOS Hazmat written knowledge test, and pay the endorsement fee. The endorsement renews with the CDL.
Steps to Apply
- 1
Hold a valid Illinois Commercial Driver License (CDL) Class A, B, or C.
- 2
Complete the TSA Hazmat Threat Assessment at universalenroll.dhs.gov and pay the federal fee (~$86.50).
- 3
Provide fingerprints at an approved location for the TSA background check.
- 4
Receive TSA approval and visit an Illinois SOS CDL facility to take the Hazmat written knowledge test.
- 5
Pay the Illinois SOS endorsement fee (~$5) and receive your updated CDL with the H endorsement.
Exam Details
The Illinois SOS Hazmat knowledge test covers DOT hazardous materials regulations including proper shipping names, placarding, labeling, loading, and emergency response. It is administered at Illinois SOS CDL facilities. [VERIFY current question count and passing score with the IL SOS]
Fees & Costs
Estimated total: ~$5 endorsement [VERIFY]
The TSA Hazmat Threat Assessment fee is approximately $86.50 (federal, paid to IDEMIA). The Illinois SOS CDL endorsement fee is approximately $5 [VERIFY current IL SOS CDL endorsement fee at cyberdriveillinois.com]. Total estimated cost: ~$90–$95.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Illinois Hazmat CDL endorsement last?
The Hazmat endorsement in Illinois renews with your CDL every 4 years. A new TSA Hazmat Threat Assessment background check is required at each renewal.
Where do I take the IL Hazmat CDL knowledge test?
Illinois CDL knowledge tests including the Hazmat test are administered at Illinois Secretary of State CDL facilities. Check cyberdriveillinois.com for facility locations and hours.
What happens if I fail the Illinois Hazmat CDL knowledge test?
Illinois allows retakes of CDL knowledge tests after a waiting period. Check with the IL SOS for current retake policies and any limits on the number of attempts. [VERIFY current IL SOS retake policy]
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CDL Hazmat Prep
Hazmat placarding guide + endorsement test prep
Also Available
Hazmat (CDL) Endorsement in other states
Other licenses in Illinois