Spent lead acid batteries destined for recycling are still classified as a Hazardous Waste under the EPA, DOT and OSHA regulations. They are however exempt from many of the hazardous waste regulations / requirements if destined for recycling or reclaiming, but not all. For the EPA exemptions see above "EPA Hazardous Waste Requirements for Spent Lead Acid Batteries" and for transport exemptions see "DOT’s Requirements for Transporting / Shipping Used Car Batteries".