The Cost of Hazmat and Tanker Endorsements

Hazmat and tanker endorsements are separate add-ons to your commercial driver's license, and each has its own fee. The hazmat endorsement typically costs between $75 and $100 for the written test and background check, though the exact amount depends on your state. The tanker endorsement usually costs $10 to $15 for the written test alone. You can pursue both at the same time or one at a time — they are independent of each other, and getting one does not reduce the cost of the other.

These fees cover only the testing and licensing portion. If you need training before you take the tests, that is a separate cost paid to a private training provider, not to your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. Training programs for hazmat and tanker endorsements range widely depending on where you live and what the provider offers.

Keep in mind that some states bundle fees differently or charge slightly more for expedited processing. A few states include the endorsement fee in your overall CDL renewal cost rather than charging it separately. The best way to know your state's exact fee is to contact your local DMV or check your state's commercial driver's license handbook.

Key Takeaways

  • Hazmat endorsement testing costs between $75 and $100 in most states, while tanker endorsement testing costs $10 to $15.
  • These are state fees for the written test and background check only; training costs are separate and paid to a private provider.
  • You can get both endorsements at the same time, and the fees do not overlap or reduce each other.
  • Your state's DMV website or handbook will show the exact fees for your location, as amounts vary by state.
  • Some states charge endorsement fees as part of your overall CDL renewal rather than as separate line items.

What the Hazmat Endorsement Fee Covers

The hazmat endorsement fee pays for your written test and the federal background check that comes with it. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) runs this background check to make sure you do not have a criminal history or other disqualifying factors that would prevent you from transporting hazardous materials. This check is required by federal law and is why the hazmat endorsement costs more than most other endorsements.

The fee does not include study materials or training. You will need to study the hazmat section of your state's CDL manual on your own, or you can pay a training provider to teach you. Some training schools bundle hazmat instruction into their general CDL program; others offer it as a standalone course. The cost of that training is separate from the state fee.

What the Tanker Endorsement Fee Covers

The tanker endorsement fee covers only the written test. There is no federal background check or additional security screening for tanker endorsement the way there is for hazmat. The test covers how to safely operate a vehicle carrying liquids in bulk — things like weight distribution, braking, and how liquid movement inside the tank affects handling.

Like hazmat, tanker endorsement training is optional and costs extra if you choose to use it. Many drivers study the tanker section of their state's CDL manual without formal instruction. Others take a tanker-specific course from a training provider, which typically costs between $100 and $300 depending on the school and whether it is in-person or online.

When You Need Both Endorsements

Some drivers need both endorsements because their job requires them to haul hazardous liquids in bulk. A tanker truck carrying gasoline, diesel, or other regulated liquids needs both the tanker endorsement (to operate the specialized vehicle) and the hazmat endorsement (to transport the regulated material). If your employer requires both, you will pay both fees and take both written tests.

The tests are separate and can be taken on the same day or different days, depending on your state's DMV procedures. Some states allow you to test for multiple endorsements in one visit; others require separate appointments. Check with your local DMV about scheduling.

Training Costs Beyond the State Fee

If you decide to take a formal training course before testing, costs vary widely. A hazmat training course through a truck driving school typically runs $200 to $500, though some online courses cost less. Tanker training is usually cheaper, ranging from $100 to $300. Some schools offer both endorsements together in a package for $400 to $700.

Training is not required by law — you can study on your own using your state's CDL manual and pass the test without paying for instruction. However, many drivers find that structured training improves their chances of passing on the first attempt, which saves money in the long run since you would otherwise pay the test fee again if you fail.

Some employers cover training costs for their drivers, especially if the endorsement is required for the job. It is worth asking your employer whether they will pay for or reimburse training before you sign up for a course.

How to Find Your State's Exact Fees

The best source for your state's current fees is your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website or your local DMV office. Search for "CDL endorsement fees" plus your state name, or call your local DMV directly. Many states post their fee schedules online in their commercial driver's license handbook or on a dedicated fees page.

When you contact your DMV, ask whether your state charges the hazmat and tanker fees separately or bundles them with other CDL costs. Also ask whether there are any additional fees for the TSA background check that comes with hazmat, or whether that is included in the endorsement fee. Some states charge a small extra fee for the background check processing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the hazmat and tanker tests on the same day?

In most states, yes — you can test for both endorsements in one DMV visit. However, some states require separate appointments or have limits on how many endorsement tests you can take at once. Call your local DMV to ask about their scheduling policy before you show up.

Do I have to pass the hazmat test before I can take the tanker test?

No. The two endorsements are completely separate. You can take them in any order, or take only one if you need only one. Your state's DMV does not require you to pass hazmat first.

What happens if I fail the hazmat or tanker test?

You will have to pay the test fee again to retake it. Most states allow you to retake a failed endorsement test after a waiting period of a few days to a week. Check your state's rules on retesting fees and waiting periods.

Does the hazmat endorsement cost more because of the TSA background check?

Yes. The hazmat fee includes the cost of the federal background check, which is why it is significantly higher than the tanker fee. The TSA requires this check for anyone transporting hazardous materials, and your state passes that cost on to you as part of the endorsement fee.

Will my employer pay for the endorsement fees?

Many employers do pay for endorsement fees if the endorsement is required for the job, but not all. Some cover training costs but not test fees, or vice versa. Ask your employer about their policy before you pay out of pocket.