NJ MVC | Hazardous Material (HAZMAT) Endorsem*nts (HME) (2024)

EFFECTIVE 2/7/22: Any applicant for a HAZMAT endorsem*nt must complete the required Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from a provider listed on FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry prior to taking their knowledge test.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) fingerprints and conducts background checks on all CDL holders that are applying for, renewing or transferring a HME.

To get a HME, you must complete an application from TSA and submit your fingerprints.
To renew your HME, you must be fingerprinted at least 45 days before your license expires.
Drivers who do not intend to transport HAZMAT do not need this endorsem*nt.
The USA Patriot Act requires background checks for all commercial drivers who apply for, renew or transfer a HME.
Drivers who surrender an endorsem*nt will not be subject to a background check. TSA developed this plan to protect against the threat posed by terrorists transporting HAZMAT.
TSA will notify New Jersey with the results of the background checks and New Jersey will either issue or deny a HME based on that information.
A driver must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident to hold a HME.
Those receiving a HME in New Jersey must also comply with the MVC's 6 Points of ID requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions About HAZMAT

What is considered a HAZMAT?

Hazardous materials include:

What if I am denied a HME?

You may appeal on the grounds of mistaken identity or other information, such as a reversed conviction.

You may also apply for a waiver in cases where you:

Acknowledge conviction or were found not guilty by reason of insanity of a disqualifying criminal offense.
Acknowledge being adjudicated mentally incompetent.
Were involuntarily committed to a mental institution.

TSA must respond to an appeal or waiver application within 30 days of receipt. At the end of that period, if no appeal or waiver is granted, TSA will contact you and notify the State that you remain disqualified.

If a waiver is granted, TSA will contact you and notify the State that the endorsem*nt will be issued.

How long is my HME valid?

In New Jersey, the endorsem*nt is valid for four years.

What are the costs associated with obtaining a background check for HME with TSA?

It will cost $86.50 for the entire process.

Where can I find more information on endorsem*nts?

Visit TSA at www.tsa.gov/.

What are the reasons I will be denied a HME?

A driver is disqualified if he or she was convicted (any plea of guilty or a no lo contendre or any findings of guilt) or found not guilty by reason of insanity within the previous seven years, was released from prison within the previous five years, or is wanted or under indictment for any of the following crimes:

Assault
Kidnapping or hostage taking
Arson
Rape or aggravated sexual abuse
Extortion
Robbery
Bribery
Smuggling
Immigration violations
RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization Act) violations
Distribution of, intent to distribute or importation of a controlled substance.
Dishonesty, fraud or misrepresentation, including identity fraud (felony-level embezzlement, tax evasion, perjury and false statements to the federal government).
Possession of a firearm or other weapon.
Conspiracy or attempt to commit any of these crimes.

A driver will be permanently disqualified from holding a HME if he or she was ever convicted or found not guilty by reason of insanity of any of the following crimes:

Terrorism
Espionage
Sedition
Murder
Treason
Unlawful possession, use, sale, distribution or manufacture of an explosive.
A crime involving a severe transportation security incident (involving significant loss of life, environmental damage, transportation system disruption or economic disruption in a particular area).
Improper transportation of a hazardous material (minor roadside or placard infractions are not automatic disqualifiers).
Conspiracy or attempt to commit any of these offenses.

What is the HAZMAT background check?

In addition to running your fingerprints through various FBI, Interpol, and terrorist databases to determine if you should be disqualified, various mental health and immigration checks are also performed.

How do I submit my fingerprints?

You must submit your fingerprints no less than 45 days before your current CDL expiration. Contact TSA’s contracted fingerprint vendor MorphoTrust USA at (855) 347-8371. You will pay your fingerprinting fees directly to MorphoTrust USA.

NOTE: Act as early as possible to meet these new guidelines. Although you have been given a 90-day notice, the HME should be completed no less than 45 days from your current expiration.