Hazardous Materials (HazMat) Endorsement

Do the fingerprint and background check requirements of the USA Patriot Act affect any CDL endorsement other than an “H” or “X”?

No.

If I currently have a CDL and want to add the HazMat endorsement, do I need to complete a background check first?

Yes, before an "H" or "X" endorsement will be added to your CDL, you must complete the HazMat written test at a Missouri State Highway Patrol examination station and receive approval of your security threat assessment from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

My current CDL with “H” (or “X”) endorsement does not expire until my next birthday. Do I need to submit an application and fingerprints now?

Ninety days prior to your driver license expiration date, or as determined by TSA, the Department of Revenue (the Department) will send a renewal letter to your last known address to let you know when it is time to complete the background record check process. This will be your only renewal notice. Be sure to notify the the Department if you have a change of address.

How often am I required to complete a background check?

You are required to complete the background check at least every five years.

If my HazMat endorsement is denied or revoked by the TSA, how will I be notified?

If your HazMat endorsement is denied or revoked, the TSA will forward an initial "notice of threat assessment" directly to you. This notice should include possible appeal and waiver information if applicable. Once a final determination is made, the TSA will forward a notice to you and the Department to confirm the denial or revocation of the HazMat endorsement. If you currently hold a HazMat endorsement and TSA revokes the endorsement, you will be required to surrender the current CDL document bearing the HazMat endorsement, and apply and pay for an updated CDL without the endorsement.

If the TSA background check determines I am ineligible for a HazMat endorsement, will that affect my other CDL endorsements or CDL license privilege?

No, it only revokes or denies the HazMat endorsement. If you currently hold a HazMat endorsement and TSA revokes the endorsement, you will be required to surrender the current CDL document bearing the HazMat endorsement and apply and pay for an updated CDL without the endorsement. The CDL class and other endorsements will still be valid.

How and where may I submit my security threat assessment application?

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has contracted with a vendor for information collection. The security threat assessment application and fees must be submitted online or by phone prior to completing the fingerprint collection process at one of the approved vendor collection locations. You may call (855) 347-8371, or submit your security threat assessment application online. The vendor help desk will assist you in completing the application and payment process and direct you to the nearest approved site for fingerprint collection. Proof of identity is require at the time of fingerprinting. The vendor help desk or TSA online resources can assist you with the list of acceptable documents for proof of identity.

Will I always have to be in Missouri to submit my fingerprints and application?

No. You may submit your application and fee to the TSA vendor and get directions to the nearest approved fingerprint collection site by telephone at (855) 347-8371, or online. You may have your fingerprints collected in any state that has opted to use the vendor.

What are the fees associated with the TSA security threat assessment process?

The fee structure is set by the FBI and TSA to cover the operational costs associated with the background check. For the most current fees, you may call (855) 347-8371, or check online.

Do I have to pass the HazMat written test every time I renew my "H" or "X" endorsement?

Yes, every time you renew a HazMat endorsement, you must pass the HazMat written test.

If I already hold a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card, do I have to complete the TSA Security Threat Assessment process?

Yes, all HazMat endorsement applicants must complete the TSA security threat assessment process to add or retain the endorsement. You may qualify for a reduced security threat assessment fee if you currently hold a TWIC card. Refer to the TSA website for more information.

If you still have questions, please visit other Driver Licensing FAQs.