How long does it take to actually recieve hazmat endorsement???

So I FINALLY started CDL class tonight and we were talking about endorsements and I learned that you can't actually get the hazmat endorsement until *after* you fully complete your road test and receive your full license unlike the other endorsements. I'm hoping to drive hazmat-tankers when I finish school so getting this endorsement is a big deal but I've heard it takes a month or so for the processing through DHS, etc? I really don't want to wait an extra month to start driving.

Just curious for anyone who's recently gotten the hazmat or hazmat+tanker endorsement how long it took to process and actually receive the endorsement and if this held up getting employed?

 

Good advice!

Were you already working or did you have an offer contingent on getting the endorsement?

 

It's a good idea to get TWIC asap. I didn't know you could get a TSA background check independent of a specific reason, like needing a hazmat endorsement, but I'll look into it if it will speed the process along.

My instructor who's also an independent tester for the state said specifically you *can't* take the hazmat test until after you pass the road test and get your CDL-A. The other endorsements like tanker and tandems you get w/ just your permit but apparently hazmat has to wait until you're fully licensed. At least in the state of TX apparently.

 

That sounds like a real pita that you couldn't just transfer it over and probably not inexpensive either.

I'm in TX and yeah I got a notice in the mail a month or so ago about switching my class-c over to a "Real ID" by the end of the year. I knew I'd be going for my CDL-A in the next few months so I figured I'd just get it then rather than make an extra trip to stand in line at the DMV.

 

So this is what's on the actual TSA web site:
HAZMAT Endorsement
"You may apply if you are a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, naturalized citizen or a nonimmigrant alien, asylee or refugee who is in lawful status and have a CDL issued by a U.S. state. Remember to check with the state in which your license is issued for additional citizenship or lawful presence requirements stricter than TSA’s before applying."

So apparently you do have to to have a CDL *before* you can even apply for a hazmat endorsement.