how to add haz mat?

[brklyncounselor]

Do you have to get hazmat endorsement when you get your CDL originally? or can you get the CDL, realize you want hazmat later and THEN get the hazmat endorsement?
how much does it cost to get hazmat endorsement? do you need any training prior to getting it? anyone know a schedule of the hazmat testing?
i am most interested in regulations that apply to NY state, but i am guessing there must be some national standards (officially or unofficially) to make interstate routes possible.

thanks so much.

[colroy]

I KNOW IN MY STATE OF MISOURI YOU JUST HAVE TO GO TAKE THE WRITTEN TEST FOR HAZ MAT. THEN TO ADD IT TO YOUR CDL IT IS THE SAME PRICE AS YOU PAID FOR YOUR ORIGINAL CDL. HOPE THIS HELPS