The X endorsement lets you haul both hazardous materials and passengers in the same commercial vehicle
The X endorsement is a combination endorsement on a commercial driver's license that authorizes you to transport both hazardous materials (HAZMAT) and passengers at the same time. It is the most restrictive endorsement available because it combines two high-risk activities. You cannot get an X endorsement on its own — it only exists as a combination of the H endorsement (HAZMAT) and the P endorsement (passenger). If you need to haul hazmat or carry passengers separately, you would get those endorsements individually instead.
Most drivers never need an X endorsement. School bus drivers, transit bus operators, and hazmat haulers typically work in one category or the other, not both. The X endorsement is mainly for specialized roles like hazmat shuttle services, certain charter bus operations that also transport hazardous materials, or emergency response vehicles that carry both passengers and controlled substances.
Key Takeaways
- The X endorsement combines the H (hazmat) and P (passenger) endorsements, allowing you to transport both hazardous materials and passengers in the same vehicle.
- You must pass separate written tests for both the H and P endorsements to obtain an X endorsement; there is no single X test.
- You need a valid Transportation Security Administration (TSA) hazmat background check to may have access to for the H portion of the X endorsement.
- The X endorsement is rare because most commercial driving jobs require either hazmat transport or passenger transport, not both simultaneously.
- Your state's CDL manual covers the specific rules for transporting hazmat and passengers together, including vehicle placarding and seating restrictions.
How the X endorsement differs from H and P endorsements alone
The H endorsement allows you to transport hazardous materials but not passengers. The P endorsement allows you to transport passengers but not hazardous materials. When you hold an X endorsement, your license shows both H and P, meaning you are authorized for both activities in the same trip.
The practical difference matters because hazmat and passenger transport have conflicting safety rules. A bus carrying passengers cannot normally carry hazmat. A hazmat truck cannot normally carry passengers. The X endorsement exists for the rare situations where both are necessary — for example, a hazmat response team that needs to transport both emergency personnel and controlled substances to a disaster site. Without the X endorsement, you would need two separate vehicles or two separate drivers.
What you must do to get an X endorsement
To obtain an X endorsement, you must first hold a valid CDL. Then you must pass the written test for the H endorsement and the written test for the P endorsement. Your state's CDL testing office administers both tests. You do not take a single "X test" — you take the H test and the P test separately, and passing both qualifies you for the X endorsement.
Before you can take the H test, you must pass a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) hazmat background check. This check screens for criminal history, immigration status, and other security factors. The TSA charges a fee for this check, which varies by state but typically ranges from $75 to $175. The background check is valid for five years. If you fail the TSA check, you cannot take the H test and therefore cannot obtain the X endorsement.
After you pass both written tests, your state's CDL office will issue your license with the X endorsement. Some states require you to pass a skills test (driving test) as well, though many states waive the skills test if you already hold a valid CDL. Check your state's CDL manual or contact your local CDL testing office to confirm the exact requirements in your state.
The TSA background check and what disqualifies you
The TSA hazmat background check is a security screening, not a criminal background check alone. The TSA looks at criminal convictions, immigration status, mental health records (in some cases), and other factors. Certain convictions — including felonies, crimes of violence, drug offenses, and immigration violations — can result in a denial. A DUI or reckless driving conviction does not automatically disqualify you, but it may be reviewed more closely.
If you are denied the TSA hazmat background check, you have the right to appeal. The TSA will provide you with a reason for the denial and instructions on how to request reconsideration. The appeal process can take several weeks or months. If your appeal is denied, you cannot obtain the H endorsement and therefore cannot obtain the X endorsement.
Rules for transporting hazmat and passengers together
If you hold an X endorsement and are transporting both hazmat and passengers, you must follow strict rules about where the hazmat is stored and who can be in the vehicle. Hazmat must be secured in a separate, locked compartment or area of the vehicle that passengers cannot access. Passengers cannot sit near or handle hazmat. The vehicle must be placarded on all four sides to show what hazmat is being transported.
You must also follow all rules for the P endorsement — maintaining passenger safety, following seating capacity limits, and conducting pre-trip inspections of passenger areas. The combination of these two sets of rules makes X endorsement driving more complex than either H or P alone. Your state's CDL manual will detail the specific requirements for your state.
When you might lose your X endorsement
Your X endorsement can be suspended or revoked if you violate hazmat or passenger transport rules, fail a roadside inspection, or commit certain traffic violations. If your TSA hazmat background check is revoked or denied upon renewal, your H endorsement (and therefore your X endorsement) will be removed from your license. You would retain your P endorsement but lose the ability to transport hazmat.
If you are convicted of certain crimes after obtaining your X endorsement, the TSA may revoke your hazmat authorization. This is separate from your CDL suspension or revocation — you could lose your hazmat may be able to access even if your CDL remains valid. If this happens, you would need to reapply for the TSA background check and pass it again before you could restore the H endorsement.
Renewing an X endorsement
When you renew your CDL, you must also renew your X endorsement. This means passing the H and P written tests again (or in some states, just the H test, depending on state rules). You must also pass a new TSA hazmat background check. The TSA check is valid for five years, so if your check is expiring, you must complete a new one before your CDL renewal is approved.
Some states allow you to renew your CDL online or by mail, but hazmat endorsement renewals typically require an in-person visit to the CDL testing office because of the TSA background check requirement. Plan ahead — the TSA check can take several weeks to process, and you cannot legally drive with hazmat or passengers if your endorsement has expired.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an X endorsement if I have a felony conviction?
It depends on the type of felony and how long ago it occurred. The TSA hazmat background check denies applicants with certain felony convictions, including crimes of violence, drug offenses, and immigration crimes. Other felonies may be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Your best option is to contact the TSA or your state's CDL office to ask whether your specific conviction would disqualify you before you pay for the background check.
Do I need an X endorsement if I drive a school bus that carries a first aid kit with hazmat?
No. A first aid kit, fire extinguisher, or other small quantity of hazmat that is part of standard vehicle safety equipment does not require an X endorsement. The X endorsement is for commercial transport of hazmat as cargo. Check your state's CDL manual for the specific threshold — some states exempt small quantities of certain materials.
What happens if I transport hazmat and passengers without an X endorsement?
You can be cited for operating without the proper endorsement, which is a serious violation. You may face fines, points on your license, and potential suspension of your CDL. If an accident occurs, your insurance may deny coverage because you were operating outside your legal authorization.
How long does the TSA hazmat background check take?
The TSA typically completes the background check within two to four weeks, but processing times vary. Some applications take longer if additional review is needed. You cannot take the H test until the TSA approves your background check, so plan ahead when renewing your endorsement.
Can I hold an X endorsement in one state and a different endorsement in another state?
Your CDL is valid in all states, so your X endorsement is recognized everywhere. However, each state has its own rules about what hazmat and passenger combinations are allowed. When you drive in another state, you must follow that state's rules, even if your X endorsement is valid there.