CDL Hazmat Endorsement Practice Test 2026: Sample Questions
By Rish P · September 23, 2026 · Updated November 3, 2026
The CDL hazmat knowledge test covers how to recognize, document, and safely handle hazardous materials, and it is usually about 30 questions with an 80% passing score (Alaska DMV). Before you take it you must complete FMCSA-registered hazmat theory training (which can be done online), and before the endorsement is issued you must also pass a TSA security threat assessment (49 CFR 380.609).
What the test covers
Questions focus on the nine hazard classes, when placards and markings are required and which to use, shipping papers and their placement, loading and segregation rules, and what to do in an emergency, spill, or roadside inspection.
Sample questions
- Hazmat placards are used to:
- a) Advertise the carrier
- b) Warn others of the hazard class of the load
- c) Mark the truck's weight
- d) Show the driver's name
- Shipping papers for hazardous materials must be:
- a) Kept in the trunk
- b) Within the driver's reach and clearly identifiable
- c) Mailed to the receiver
- d) Optional
- When do you generally need to placard a load?
- a) Never
- b) Only at night
- c) When carrying certain hazardous materials at or above regulated amounts
- d) Only for gasoline
- In an emergency involving a hazmat spill, your first priority is to:
- a) Keep driving
- b) Protect yourself and others and warn people of the danger
- c) Clean it up yourself
- d) Remove the placards
Answers: 1) b. 2) b. 3) c. 4) b.
How to pass
Complete your hazmat theory training, study the hazardous materials section of your CDL manual, and drill practice tests until you are consistently above 80%. Remember to start your TSA background check early, since it is the slowest step in getting the endorsement.
For a topic-by-topic breakdown, see our hazmat endorsement study guide and our tips on how to pass the hazmat endorsement test. If you still need the required training, RoadCert's Hazmat ELDT theory is $18.99 and fully online, and our hazmat endorsement guide covers every step to getting the H on your license.
Sources
Checked November 2, 2026.
- Alaska DMV: Hazardous Materials Endorsement: The hazmat knowledge test is about 30 questions with an 80% passing score, and ELDT comes first for a first-time endorsement.
- eCFR: 49 CFR 380.609, General entry-level driver training requirements: Hazmat theory training must be completed before the knowledge test for a first hazmat endorsement.
- FMCSA Training Provider Registry: Hazmat theory training must come from a provider registered with FMCSA.
- TSA: Hazmat Endorsement Threat Assessment Program: A TSA security threat assessment is required before the hazmat endorsement is issued.
- eCFR: 49 CFR 172.504, General placarding requirements: Placards are required on vehicles carrying hazardous materials, and the type depends on the hazard class.
- eCFR: 49 CFR 177.817, Shipping papers: Hazmat shipping papers must be clearly distinguished and kept within the driver's immediate reach while driving.
Frequently asked questions
How many questions are on the CDL hazmat test and what score do I need to pass?
The hazmat knowledge test is usually about 30 multiple-choice questions, and you generally need 80% to pass, which is 24 correct out of 30. Exact question counts and passing scores are set by each state, so check your state DMV or CDL manual before test day. Questions come from the hazardous materials section of the CDL manual.
Do I need training before taking the hazmat endorsement test?
Yes, if this is your first hazmat endorsement, you must complete hazmat theory training from a provider listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry before you take the knowledge test. The theory course can be done online, so you can finish it at home and then schedule your test with your state DMV.
Do I need a TSA background check for a hazmat endorsement?
Yes, you must pass a TSA security threat assessment, which includes fingerprinting, before your state can issue the hazmat endorsement. It is separate from the knowledge test, and it is often the slowest step, so apply early while you study and finish your required training.
What is on the CDL hazmat practice test?
The hazmat test covers the nine hazard classes, when placards and markings are required and which to use, shipping papers and where to keep them, loading and segregation rules, and what to do in a spill, emergency, or roadside inspection. Practice these topics until you score consistently above 80%.
Where should hazmat shipping papers be kept in the truck?
Hazmat shipping papers must be within the driver's immediate reach and clearly identifiable, as in sample question 2. While you are driving, they must be within reach with your lap belt fastened and either readily visible or in the driver's door holder. When you leave the cab, put them in the door holder or on the driver's seat.
Ready to knock out your ELDT theory?
Online theory listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry for $18.99, reported the same day.
Training a group? See bulk seats and branded portals for schools and fleets
Related guides
- Do You Need ELDT for a Hazmat Endorsement? (2026)
First-time hazmat (H) endorsement applicants must complete ELDT theory training from a registered provider before the hazmat knowledge test. Here is who it applies to and how it fits in.
- Is the Hazmat Endorsement Worth It? Pay and Demand in 2026
Is the hazmat endorsement worth it in 2026? Compare the roughly $100 to $150 cost with the pay boost, job demand, and career options it opens up.
- Hazmat Endorsement Study Guide: What to Know for the Test
Preparing for the hazmat endorsement means learning hazard classes, placards, shipping papers, and safe handling. Here is a focused study guide for the test.