HazMat and Fingerprinting

In order to drive for our carrier of choice, FedEx Custom Critical, we must have a Class B CDL with a HazMat endorsement. So how do you get that?

We took and passed the HazMat endorsement of the written portion of the CDL exam. In oder to get the endorsement eventually added to our CDLs, we have to go through a background check process. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) administers background checks for all drivers wanting to get the HazMat endorsement added to their CDL.

From the TSA website:

QUESTION:What is the HazPrint Program?
ANSWER:This is a program, mandated by TSA and administered by L-1 Identity Solutions, to fingerprint drivers, who hold commercial licenses with hazardous materials endorsements, as part of their threat assesment background checks.  The program employs a network of HazPrint Enrollment Centers in most states across the nation which allows drivers from any participating state to complete their applications in any participating state.

So the process works like this:

1. Pass the written HazMat endorsement section of the CDL exam
2. Go to the HazPrints website, and register. The cost is $89.25
3. Find a location to be fingerprinted
4. Get fingerprinted
5. Wait for your approval letter from the TSA to arrive in the mail. (usually within 30 days)

That's it.

The whole process was painless, although the first woman we encountered at the fingerprinting station must have been having a really bad day. Luckily for us, another lady did the actually fingerprinting. She was very nice, and seemed to take an interest in our stories. People are all different. Some more different than others!

If you take and pass the road portions of the CDL, wait until your approval letter arrives from the TSA before going to the BMV to get the license. If you have not been approved yet, your license will not include the HazMat endorsement, and you'll have to get another CDL once you are approved. In Ohio the CDLs costs $42.00 each time. Better to wait a little than pay twice!