Hazmat

cat can do · Oct 26, 2003

I would like to say hi to everyone. I am a long time reader first time poster.
I have a B class license with no hazmat, how hard is this to obtain now. The more I read I see that a hazmat and maybe even the A class endorsement are the standard. Looking to hire on with someone in the near future as a driver so what endorsements would make me more valauble.
Thank you!!!!

BIGRIG_787 · Oct 26, 2003

I LIVE IN OHIO ALL YOU HAVE TO DO HERE IS TAKE A WRITEN TEST IT S NOT THAT HARD. I M SURE YOU COULD PASS IT JUST STUDY THE HAZMAT. GOOD LUCK .

Whiterabbit · Oct 26, 2003

In most states its a written test or orally given ,take the study pamphlet home and STUDY it, ( that you get from the sec. of state office ),pay your fee and pass it,and keep the pamphlet in your truck ! as itll give you classifications of matl and i.d. numbers youll need to know out on the road...some chemicals you deffiitely dont want to haul together ! Most larger companys require a hazmat even tho you may not be required to be placarded,( for a van ) ,go figure?!...The more endorsements the merrier ! Best wishes to ya!

Weave · Oct 31, 2003

I have never heard of an oral CDL hazmat endorcement test, but it could be??
Your state DMV will have a CDL book with the hazmat materials to study for the endorcement. Hazmat endorcement, in ALL states and provinces, only lasts 2 years. It is a federal requirement to renew your hazmat endorcement every 2 years by taking the exam at DMV every 2 years. Hazmat is the only CDL endorcement that requires a tested renewal, and for very good reasons- hazmat laws and requirements change frequently. For instance, on the good side, as of last year you no longer have to log the previously required 2 hour tire checks when hauling hazmat due to changes in tire technology.
-Weave-

Whiterabbit · Oct 31, 2003

OOPS my bad,...on page vii of the michigan manual it does state " all cdl knowledge tests are administered in written form . If you have limited reading skills you may request to take the orals test which are available...blah blah blah...BUT anyone applying for the hazardous materials endorsement must pass a WRITTEN hazardous materials knowledge test.".... ( guess it helps to be able to read the materials list your haulin eh ?..LOL...oh dang it my wife was right i aint perfect...;( ...RATS! ) ya know theyre thinkin on having us fingerprinted to haul haz. matls.?

Weave · Oct 31, 2003

That's OK Whiterabbit- There are those who seek pleasure in others mistakes. In my nearly 900 EO postings I have posted many mistakes- I do it on purpose... I try to please everyone;-)
Yes, Hazmat would require one being able to read a bit. I am thankful that government funded trucking schools are now requiring a minimum of a high school diploma or GED to attend. Hiring companies requested that.
-Weave-

Whiterabbit · Oct 31, 2003

Thx Weave...you know what id like ? All states to require a thing called "common sence" ( to bad its so uncommon)...oh oh woke up in one of those moods...

hmmmmm coffee !

cat can do · Oct 31, 2003

Hey guys thanks for all help. I do appreciate the replys. I went today and upgraded my B to the A now I just have to take the road test. I waited at the secretary of the state and wasted a perfect afternoon I sat there for 3 1/2 hours so I just took the combo vehicle test. I will have to go back to take the Hazmat.
Maybe one of you guys know someone who hauls cars on a three place trailer. I hear all of you say that the expedite business is a tough nut to crack, but like so many others I want to believe that it is better than working for someone else. I understand that in expediting you are always working for someone but when you put it in gear and pull away from the dock you are the Boss.
THANKS AGAIN FOR THE HELP
hope to speak to all of you hear soon.
Jay

Crazy Eddie · Nov 6, 2003

Well since all CDL license now go under the same format because of federal laws then all states have basically the same stuff on their tests. While I was studying to get my HazMat endorsement I used study guides from the school I attended and this great site here:

www.roadwars.com

sample testing with a lot of the same questions you get on your CDL HazMat exam try it.:7

Whiterabbit · Nov 6, 2003

CAT>>!!!!...i got a line for you on the three car placement hauling ...got a broker who was ..key word was..as of four weeks ago screaming for owner operators yes even three car trailers were being accepted...e mail me at [email protected] ...ill be in and out for the next week then who the h@ll knows ?...best to ya

RichM · Nov 6, 2003

The Federal DOT folks are now requiring drivers who apply or renew their Haz/Mat certification to get fingerprinted and pass a security background check.You will not qualify if you have a felony conviction or are not a US citizen.

Whiterabbit · Nov 6, 2003

Rich thanks for the update ,so once again rumor becomes "fact" (fingerprinting)...guess its for the best but ...well,never mind just not going to get political today, but maybe tommorrow

Weave · Nov 8, 2003

Humm, I'll bet the fingerprinting started due to that incident with the illegal alien hauling hazmat in Chicago with his fake CDL who got in a big accident. I guess there were 100 or so of these guys caught up in this. They set up a fake driving school somewhere that issued bogus CDL's. I renewed my Haz last April, no fingerprinting yet...
-Weave-