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: Is it all possible for me to get a temporary HazMat endorsement before the background checks are completed?

assistant: On a good note the DMV will provide a CDL with the HazMat endorsement that is valid for 90 days; but we cannot issue one until the background checks are completed and approved.

user: When will I be notified of the results of my background check?

assistant: The Federal Transportation and Security Admininstration or TSA will notify you by mail with the results of the background check.

user: How will I know if my application has been approved or disapproved?

assistant: We will mail you your approval along with how to go to the DMV office and obtain a CDL with the HazMat endorsement and your CDL will display the expiration date of your HazMat endorsement.

user: Where would I mail the completed form and a copy of legal status?

assistant: You can mail your form and legal status to HazMat UnitNYS DMV6 Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12228, NY 12228.

user: What happens if I am not able to pass the written test or the background checks?

assistant: Did you pass the written test and background checks?

user: Yes, I passed the written test and background checks.

assistant: That is great because if you didn't the DMV would issue your CDL without the HazMat endorsement.