Who this course is for
You need hazmat ELDT if you're getting the hazardous materials (H) endorsement for the first time on or after February 7, 2022. That includes new Class A or Class B drivers adding H, and experienced CDL holders adding it for the first time.
- Tanker, fuel and chemical haulers moving placarded loads
- LTL and regional drivers whose carrier wants every driver hazmat-qualified
- Experienced drivers adding H to qualify for better-paying freight
Hauling bulk liquids? The tank vehicle (N) endorsement is separate and isn't part of federal ELDT. Your state tests it with its own knowledge test.
What the hazmat theory course covers
FMCSA sets the hazmat theory curriculum in 49 CFR Part 380, Appendix E. Every registered provider has to teach all 13 units.
| Unit | What it prepares you for |
|---|---|
| Basic introductory HM requirements | How hazmat rules work and how materials are classified |
| Operational HM requirements | Shipping papers, placards, markings and labels |
| Reporting HM crashes and releases | Who to notify and what to document after an incident |
| Tunnels and railroad-highway grade crossings | Route limits and the stopping rules at rail crossings |
| Loading and unloading HM | Securing, segregating and attending loads |
| HM on passenger vehicles | What can and can't ride with passengers |
| Bulk packages | Cargo tanks, portable tanks and their special handling |
| Operating emergency equipment | Fire extinguishers and other on-board equipment |
| Emergency response procedures | What to do first when something goes wrong |
| Engine (fueling) | Safe fueling practices with hazmat aboard |
| Tire check | Inspection requirements during the trip |
| Routes and route planning | Designated routes and restricted areas |
| Hazardous materials safety permits | Which materials need a permit and what it involves |
There's no federal minimum number of hours for hazmat theory. You pass by covering every unit and scoring at least 80% on the assessment. Then the provider reports your completion to FMCSA's Training Provider Registry, by midnight of the second business day after you finish.
Your path to the H endorsement
Hazmat ELDT has no driving portion, so the path is short. It still has three separate pieces, and the TSA step usually takes the longest.
Hazmat ELDT theory (this course)
Online and self-paced. Your completion goes to the Training Provider Registry, where your state can see it.
TSA security threat assessment
Apply online or in person, then visit an enrollment center to give fingerprints and show your documents. In some states you apply through the DMV instead.
State hazmat knowledge test
Your state confirms your ELDT in the registry before it gives the test. Pass it, clear the TSA check, and the H endorsement is added to your CDL.
Start the TSA step early
TSA recommends enrolling at least 60 days before you need a decision. Its standard new-applicant fee is $86.50 (checked October 30, 2026). Hazmat endorsements are generally renewed every five years. Your state's citizenship or lawful-presence rules may be stricter than TSA's, so check them before you apply. Details are on TSA's hazmat endorsement page.
Adding hazmat alongside Class A or Class B
Many drivers take hazmat theory at the same time as their Class A or Class B theory, so everything is reported before testing day. The one-year window between theory and behind-the-wheel applies to Class A and B training. It doesn't apply to hazmat. Pairing them is a planning choice, not a requirement.
Taking both? Enroll in each course separately. For example, buy Class A theory and Hazmat theory. Each completion is reported to the registry on its own. Companies training several hazmat drivers can request group enrollment.
Compare all three courses
| Class A | Class B | Hazmat | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | First-time Class A CDL applicants: tractor-trailer, flatbed, tanker and other combination-vehicle drivers. | First-time Class B CDL applicants: box trucks, dump trucks, refuse, concrete mixers, and large buses (passenger and school bus endorsements need separate training). | Drivers adding the hazardous materials (H) endorsement to a CDL for the first time. |
| Federal curriculum | Class A theory (49 CFR Part 380, Appendix A) | Class B theory (Appendix B) | Hazmat theory (Appendix E) |
| Behind-the-wheel also required? | Yes, range and public-road training with a registered BTW provider. | Yes, range and public-road training with a registered BTW provider. | No. Hazmat ELDT is theory only. |
| Must be done before | Your CDL skills test | Your CDL skills test | Your state's hazmat knowledge test |
| Price | $199 | $199 | $199 |
| Enroll | Enroll in Class A | Enroll in Class B | Enroll in Hazmat |
Hazmat questions
Does hazmat ELDT include behind-the-wheel training?
No. FMCSA's training table lists the H endorsement as theory only. Once your provider reports your completion, you're ready for your state's hazmat knowledge test.
Do I need a CDL before I take hazmat ELDT?
The H endorsement goes on a CDL, so you'll hold one or be getting one at the same time. Many drivers add hazmat while finishing Class A or B. Check your state's rules on when it gives the hazmat knowledge test.
How long does hazmat ELDT take?
There's no federal minimum number of hours. You move at your own pace through all 13 required units and pass the assessment with at least 80%. See full timelines, including the TSA wait.
Is the TSA background check part of this course?
No. The TSA security threat assessment is a separate federal step that you apply for yourself. Start it early, because TSA recommends enrolling at least 60 days before you need a decision.
I already had hazmat before February 7, 2022. Do I need this?
No. ELDT doesn't apply to an H endorsement issued before February 7, 2022. If yours lapsed, ask your state licensing agency what it needs to restore it.