How to Get Your CDL Hazmat Endorsement (H) in Texas
Governing body, experience requirements, exam details, and step-by-step instructions for Texas. Last verified: February 2026.
Quick Facts
Hours Required
No minimum training hours required
Exam
Texas CDL Hazardous Materials Knowledge Test
Fee Range
$11–$25 [VERIFY]
Governing Body
Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) — Driver License Division
Requirements
The CDL Hazmat endorsement (H) is regulated by both federal law (49 CFR) and Texas DPS. To qualify, you must hold a valid Texas Commercial Driver's License (CDL) or Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP), complete a federal TSA threat assessment (background check + fingerprinting), and pass the 30-question Hazardous Materials Knowledge Test at a Texas DPS driver license office. No minimum training hours are required by law, though most candidates study the Texas CDL Handbook's Hazardous Materials section and the 49 CFR regulations.
Steps to Apply
- 1
Obtain a valid Texas Commercial Driver's License (CDL) or Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) if you don't already have one.
- 2
Visit a TSA-approved fingerprint enrollment center (such as IdentoGO) to submit your biometric data for the federal threat assessment background check.
- 3
Wait for TSA clearance — the background check typically takes 2–4 weeks. You cannot add the Hazmat endorsement until clearance is received.
- 4
Study the Hazardous Materials section of the Texas CDL Handbook and relevant 49 CFR regulations using practice questions.
- 5
Visit a Texas DPS driver license office with your TSA clearance letter and pass the 30-question Hazardous Materials Knowledge Test (80% required).
- 6
Pay the endorsement addition fee and receive your updated Texas CDL with the 'H' endorsement printed on it.
Exam Details
The Texas CDL Hazardous Materials Knowledge Test is administered by Texas DPS at driver license offices statewide. The test consists of 30 multiple-choice questions drawn from 49 CFR Parts 171–180 and the Texas CDL Handbook. Topics include hazard classes and divisions, placards, shipping paper requirements, emergency response procedures, loading and segregation rules, and bulk packaging. You must answer at least 24 of 30 questions correctly (80% passing score) to pass.
Fees & Costs
Estimated total: $11–$25 [VERIFY]
TSA fingerprint enrollment center fee: approximately $10–$15 (varies by provider). CDL Hazmat endorsement addition fee at Texas DPS: approximately $11–$25 [VERIFY exact current fee at dps.texas.gov]. There is no separate fee for the knowledge test — it is administered by DPS as part of the CDL process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the TSA background check take for the Texas CDL Hazmat endorsement?
The TSA threat assessment typically takes 2–4 weeks after fingerprint submission. Federal law prohibits adding the Hazmat endorsement until TSA clearance is received.
What is the passing score for the Texas CDL Hazmat test?
You must correctly answer at least 24 of 30 questions (80% passing score). If you fail, you can retake the test, but Texas DPS may impose a waiting period between attempts. [VERIFY retake waiting period]
How often does the CDL Hazmat endorsement need to be renewed in Texas?
The Hazmat endorsement must be renewed every time you renew your CDL (typically every 1–5 years depending on license class). Federal law requires a new TSA background check at each renewal.
Can I take the CDL Hazmat knowledge test before completing the TSA background check?
No. Federal law requires TSA threat assessment clearance before the Hazmat endorsement can be added. You must receive TSA clearance before visiting DPS to take the knowledge test.
Start Studying Now
CDL Hazmat Prep
Hazmat placarding guide + endorsement test prep
Also Available
CDL Hazmat Endorsement (H) in other states