How do I get a hazardous materials (HazMat) endorsement? 
You must first have a CDL to apply for the HazMat endorsement. A driver with a NY State CDL must have an " H " or an " X " HazMat endorsement to operate commercial motor vehicles that carry hazardous materials. Read the CDL Manual [1] CDL-10, Hazardous Materials Manual pdf [2] CDL-11, and Driver License Class Descriptions pdf [3] MV-500C for more information. 

What requirements do I have to meet to apply for a HazMat endorsement? 
You must be a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident of the U.S. and present proof of citizenship or resident status at the time you apply for the hazardous materials endorsement. See Important Information about the Hazardous Materials Endorsement pdf [4] HAZ-11 for a list of acceptable proof of citizenship or resident status. You must meet the federal medical requirements in 49 CFR Part 391 and have a valid USDOT Medical Examiner's Certificate. See Medical Certification Requirements [5] for more information. You must be fingerprinted for background checks. 

Is there anything that may disqualify me from getting a HazMat endorsement? 
Yes , under federal law , the Federal Transportation Security Administration TSA may disqualify you from being authorized to transport hazardous materials if you have been convicted or found not guilty by reason of insanity of any of the crimes listed on Important Information about the Hazardous Materials Endorsement pdf [4] HAZ-11 during the seven years before the date you apply for the endorsement you have been released from incarceration in any jurisdiction for committing any disqualifying crime during the five years before the date you applied for the endorsement. 

How do I apply for the HazMat endorsement? 
Complete the Application for a Hazardous Materials Endorsement pdf [6] and make a copy of one or more of the legal status documents that are listed on the form. Mail the completed form and a copy of your legal status document to : HazM

user: I've been wondering what happens if I fail the written tests. Can you explain this, please?

assistant: Sure. Have you failed a written test or the background checks?

user: Yes, unfortunately.

assistant: In that case the DMV will issue a CDL that does not have a HazMat endorsement.

user: What do I have to do to pass the test? Can I repeat it?

assistant: You must answer 80 % or more of the questions correctly to pass the test. You can take the test as many times as necessary until you pass the test.

user: How long do background checks usually take?

assistant: It normally takes at least 30 days from the date you submit your fingerprints to complete the background check. However, the time period can be longer than 30 days.

user: That's good to know. And how can I prepare myself for the HazMat test?

assistant: You can study the hazardous materials section of the NYS Commercial Driver License Manual (CDL-10), or study the Hazardous Materials Manual (CDL-11).

user: Will do. I have one final question about fingerprinting though. Can I just come in for fingerprinting or how does it work?

assistant: Fingerprinting is done by appointment only. You must contact Identogo to select a fingerprinting location and schedule an appointment. Visit https://uenroll.identogo.com or by calling 1-877-472-6915.