
Maine HazMat CDL Practice Test
Practice for your HazMat CDL exam with questions based on the official Maine CDL handbook
Updated: August 2026
What's on the Maine HazMat CDL test
Answering from memory beats re-reading — retrieval practice roughly doubles what you remember a week later. These free questions are modeled on the official HazMat CDL knowledge test.
- Questions
- 30
- To pass
- 24/30 correct (80%)
- Updated
- June 2026
- 100% free
The Maine CDL HazMat test follows the AAMVA standard used by most states: 30 questions, with 24 correct answers (80%) needed to pass. Permit fees in Maine vary — see the Maine Secretary of State, Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) fee schedule (June 2026).
Start the practice testMaine HazMat CDL Practice Test
The shippers package hazardous materials, they must certify that this was done according to the regulations. The only exception is when:
- The driver is given a sealed cargo compartment
- The shipper is a private carrier carrying his or her own product
- The shipment is a hazardous waste
When companies send out dangerous goods, they must follow rules to pack them safely. The only time they don't have to is if the company is moving its own products and not selling the service.
How many hazard classes are there?
- 3
- 9
- 10
There are 9 different types of dangers or hazard classes that truck drivers need to know about when they are carrying goods. These classes help them understand what kind of special care or rules they need to follow to keep the roads safe.
Apart from the shipping papers and the packages, what other two locations must display the hazardous material identification number?
- on the front bumper and on the inside of the cab door.
- on the exhaust system and on a decal on the dashboard.
- on the driver’s door and on the steering column.
- on all bulk packaging and on the cargo tanks.
Beyond shipping papers and packages, the hazardous material identification number is also required to be shown on cargo tanks and on all bulk packaging.
A driver places placards on their vehicle in order to:
- to show the vehicle’s maximum legal weight.
- to advertise the company hauling the load.
- to communicate risk.
- to indicate the driver’s route and destination.
Placards are exterior signs on a vehicle that alert others to the presence of hazardous materials and indicate the hazard class of the load.
Why is the shipper required to sign the shipping paper?
- To confirm the carrier has inspected and approved the shipment for transport
- To certify that it has prepared the shipment in accordance with regulations
- To confirm the carrier has received payment for transporting the shipment
The shipping paper has to contain the shipper’s certification, signed by the shipper, confirming the shipment was prepared in compliance with the applicable regulations.
Carriers must provide each driver who hauls Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3 materials with:
- a written list of emergency response phone numbers for local fire departments.
- a copy of FMCSR Part 397.
- a copy of the shipper’s facility address and receiving hours.
Carriers are required to give drivers transporting explosives a copy of 49 CFR 397, “Transportation of Hazardous Materials; Driving and Parking Rules.” This part includes rules on hazardous materials routing, including factors to consider when selecting an appropriate route.
Hazardous material identification numbers must be shown on portable tanks, cargo tanks, and other bulk packages. Regulations require black ______ numbers.
- 75 mm
- 125 mm
- 100 mm
Hazardous material identification numbers must appear on portable tanks, cargo tanks, and other bulk packaging. The rules specify black 100 mm (3.9 inch) numbers on orange panels, placards, or on a white diamond-shaped background when placards are not required.
Helium is classified as a Class ____ hazardous material.
- 2
- 9
- 1
A hazardous material’s class indicates the type of risk it presents. There are nine hazard classes in total. Class 2 covers gases, including flammable gases (2.1) like propane, non-flammable gases (2.2) like helium, and toxic gases (2.3) such as compressed fluorine.
Who must select the safest route when transporting placarded radioactive materials?
- The state highway department
- The receiver/consignee
- The carrier
If placarded radioactive materials have to be transported, the carrier is responsible for choosing the safest route. Once the route is selected, the carrier must inform the driver about the radioactive materials and provide the driver with the planned route.
With most hazardous materials, you may park within 5 feet of the road briefly. If your work requires it. The materials that are the exception and do not allow parking this close to the road are?
- Acids and poisons
- Corrosives and oxidizers
- Explosives 1.1 thru 1.3
When it comes to parking near the road with hazardous materials, you usually can if it's quick and needed for work. But, don't do this with very explosive materials (like fireworks or dynamite), flammable stuff (like gasoline or propane), because it's too dangerous.
A truck as hazardous material, when can it be moved without the placards on the truck?
- Never
- When the shipper says it's ok
- To protect life or property
If a truck is carrying dangerous materials, it usually must have special signs (placards) on it to show that it is hazardous. However, there is one exception to this rule. The truck can be moved without these signs only if it is necessary to protect people's lives or to prevent property from being damaged. This means safety is the top priority, and in an emergency situation, the truck can be moved even without the placards.
Which option lists a required criterion for a package to qualify as non-bulk packaging?
- A water capacity of 454 kg (1,000 pounds) or less if it is used as a receptacle for a gas
- A maximum net mass of 400 kg (882 pounds) or less and a maximum capacity of 450 L (119 gallons) or less if it is used as a receptacle for a solid
- A maximum capacity of 450 L (119 gallons) or less if it is used as a receptacle for a liquid
- All of the above
Non-bulk packaging must meet defined limits when used as a container for solids, liquids, or gases. It qualifies as non-bulk if it is: 450 L (119 gallons) or less for liquids; 400 kg (882 pounds) or less and 450 L (119 gallons) or less for solids; and 454 kg (1,000 pounds) or less for gases.
If you are transporting Division 1.2 or 1.3 materials, what is the minimum distance you must park from a bridge, tunnel, or building?
- 300 feet
- 150 feet
- 250 feet
- 50 feet
With a load of Division 1.2 or 1.3 explosives, you are required to park no closer than 300 feet from any bridge, tunnel, or other structure.
Under what circumstances may a shipper shorten (abbreviate) the proper shipping name or hazardous material identification number on a shipping paper?
- Only if regulations specifically authorize the shipper to do it
- Only when the shipment is moving by highway within the same state
- Only when the material is non-flammable and low hazard
A shipper is not allowed to abbreviate a hazardous material’s identification number, hazard class, or proper shipping name unless the regulations explicitly permit that abbreviation. Abbreviations can interfere with correct identification and create safety risks.
You must stop before a railroad crossing if your vehicle is transporting _______ of chlorine.
- at least 100 gallons
- any amount
- more than 110 gallons
If you are transporting any quantity of chlorine gas, you are required to stop at every railroad crossing and use extra caution before crossing. A train collision could cause a chlorine release, which is very dangerous because chlorine gas is poisonous. (If chlorine is being hauled in cargo tanks, a gas mask must be available in the cab.) Chlorine is also a strong oxidizer and can react with flammables to start fires, which may spread corrosive or toxic gases.
You may allow another person to watch your vehicle only when it is…
- parked at a public rest area while you take a break.
- being watched by any licensed driver.
- on the property of the shipper, carrier, or receiver.
You may let someone else watch your vehicle only when you are on the property of the shipper, carrier, or consignee/receiver, since those parties understand the hazards and how to handle them.
Which hazard class covers both flammable gases and non-flammable gases?
- 2
- 4
- 9
A material’s hazard class indicates the type of risk it presents. There are nine hazard classes. Hazard Class 2 is for gases, including flammable gases (2.1) like propane, non-flammable gases (2.2) like helium, and toxic gases (2.3) such as compressed fluorine.
If you think there may be a cargo fire in your trailer and the cargo doors feel hot, what should you do?
- crack the doors slightly to let heat and smoke escape.
- leave the doors closed.
- swing the doors fully open to ventilate the trailer.
Hot cargo doors make it more likely a fire is burning inside. Opening the doors would add oxygen and can intensify the fire. Keeping the doors shut limits oxygen, so the fire may only smolder until firefighters arrive.
By law, how regularly must employees involved in transporting hazardous materials be tested?
- Within 90 days of hire and then every 3 years
- Within 90 days of hire and then every 6 months
- At least every 5 years
People who transport dangerous stuff must be tested within 90 days of starting their job and then every 3 years to make sure they know how to handle these materials safely.
Symbol column, the letter "G" stands for?
- Identifies the proper shipping name for which one or more technical names of the hazardous material must be entered in parentheses, along with the basic description
- Identifies the proper shipping name
- Gases
The letter "G" means you need to write the hazardous material's specific name next to its general name when shipping it.
Other Maine CDL Practice Tests
HazMat Practice Tests in Nearby States
More free CDL practice tests
About the HazMat Test in Maine
The HazMat endorsement test is required in Maine for drivers who transport hazardous materials. It covers placarding, labeling, loading procedures, emergency response, and compliance with federal hazmat regulations. A TSA background check is also required.
The HazMat test is part of the CDL written exam administered by the Maine Department of Motor Vehicles. You must pass this test along with the other required written tests to receive your Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) in Maine.
Our practice questions are built from the official Maine CDL handbook and federal FMCSA regulations. Each question includes a detailed explanation to help you understand the material, not just memorize answers.
Maine HazMat endorsement facts
| Fact | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Endorsement examination fee | $20Charged for each endorsement (H, N, P, S, T, X) | maine.gov |
| Endorsement re-examination fee | $20The same $20 covers renewing a hazardous materials endorsement | legislature.maine.gov |
| Missed testing appointment | An extra $70 before you can be rescheduledWaived if you cancel at least 48 hours ahead (29-A M.R.S. §1307(4)) | legislature.maine.gov |
| Licensing agency | Maine Secretary of State, Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV)CDL Examination Section, 207-624-9000 ext. 52122 | maine.gov |
| Who to call about a CDL | CDL Examination Section, 207-624-9000 ext. 52122 | maine.gov |
| Minimum age | 16 to operate a commercial motor vehicle; 21 for a bus or to carry hazardous materialsFederal rules still limit interstate driving to 21+ | maine.gov |
| Prior licence required | You must already hold a Maine noncommercial Class C driver’s licence | maine.gov |
| Identification required | Two forms of ID at application and again at testing — one showing date of birth, one bearing your signatureBirth certificate with an embossed seal or stamp for applicants under 23; notarized copies are not accepted | maine.gov |
| Vision standard | 20/40 with the best eye and a field of vision of at least 110 degreesScreened at the written examination; a doctor referral form is required if you do not meet it | maine.gov |
| Self-certification | Every CDL holder must complete the BMV self-certification form | maine.gov |
| DOT medical certificate | Non-excepted interstate and non-excepted intrastate drivers must give the BMV a copy and keep it currentMail, fax, email or drop it at a branch — BMV CDL Compliance Unit, 29 State House Station, Augusta | maine.gov |
| How the medical certificate reaches the BMV | A medical examiner must submit a valid certificate digitally before the application is processedApplication form MVE-64T, revised 06/25 | maine.gov |
| Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse query | The BMV queries the FMCSA clearinghouse before issuing, upgrading, renewing or transferring a CDL or CLP, and denies the transaction if you are prohibited | legislature.maine.gov |
| Entry-Level Driver Training | Required for a first Class A or Class B CDL, a Class B → Class A upgrade, and a first S, P or H endorsementTraining must come from an FMCSA Training Provider Registry provider | maine.gov |
| Who is exempt from ELDT | Drivers holding a valid CDL, or an S, P or H endorsement, issued before February 7, 2022effective February 7, 2022 | maine.gov |
| Non-domiciled CDL and CLP applicants | The BMV points applicants to FMCSA’s February 13, 2026 final rule (91 Fed. Reg. 7044), effective March 16, 2026BMV CDL unit: 207-624-9000 x52122effective March 16, 2026 | maine.gov |
| Endorsements on a learner’s permit | None — Maine adds endorsements only to a CDL, once the CDL has been obtained | maine.gov |
| Application form | One form (MVE-64T) covers CDL Class A, B or C learner’s permits, licences and waivers; mail it with the fees to the CDL Examination Section in Augusta | maine.gov |
| Test appointments | Scheduled by the BMV main office in Augusta, which mails you a notice with the place, date and time | maine.gov |
| Knowledge test format | Multiple-choice questions drawn from the Commercial Driver License ManualThe BMV does not publish a question count or pass mark | maine.gov |
| Interpreters at the CDL test | Not permitted; American Sign Language translators are allowedASL interpreters are provided on advance request | maine.gov |
| Maine endorsement codes | H hazardous materials, N tank vehicle, P passenger bus, S school bus (over 15 passengers), T double/triple trailer, X combined tank + hazmat, 3 school bus 15 or fewer | maine.gov |
| BMV branch offices | Thirteen branch offices, open Monday–Friday from 8 a.m.; you can book a branch appointment online to skip the lineCDL knowledge and skills tests themselves are scheduled by the Augusta main office | maine.gov |
| Order of the hazmat steps | Pass the hazardous materials written examination first, then begin the TSA fingerprint/background records check | maine.gov |
| TSA clearance gate | No CDL with a hazmat endorsement may be issued until the security threat assessment is completed and cleared | maine.gov |
| Hazmat renewal lead time | File the renewal application no later than 30 days before the licence expires | maine.gov |
| Hazmat re-examination at renewal | Maine law requires the hazardous materials written test to be retaken to keep the endorsement at every licence renewal | legislature.maine.gov |
| HazMat endorsement prerequisites | Be 21, meet the FMCSR Part 391 physical qualifications, hold a valid medical card, and pass TSA fingerprinting and background check | maine.gov |
| HazMat citizenship / status | U.S. citizen who has not renounced citizenship, lawful permanent resident, or a lawful nonimmigrant, refugee or asylee holding valid unrestricted employment authorization | maine.gov |
| Placarded vehicles at the road test | Vehicles placarded for hazardous materials may not be used for road testing | maine.gov |
| TSA security threat assessment fee (federal) | $85.25Non-refundable; paid to TSA, not the stateeffective January 1, 2025 | tsa.gov |
| TSA reduced fee (valid TWIC holders, where the state accepts it) | $41 | tsa.gov |
| TSA clearance validity | 5 years | tsa.gov |
| When to enroll with TSA | At least 60 days before you need the endorsementTSA says some applications take more than 45 days | tsa.gov |
| Endorsements awarded on the knowledge test alone | N, H, X and T — no additional skills test; P and S require the full test including skills | maine.gov |
How to add the HazMat endorsement in Maine
- Check you qualify: the H endorsement requires you to be 21, to meet the FMCSR Part 391 physical qualifications and hold a valid medical card, and to pass a TSA fingerprint and background check. Source
- Complete Entry-Level Driver Training first if this is your first hazardous materials endorsement — drivers who already held an H endorsement issued before February 7, 2022 are exempt. Source
- Pay the $20 endorsement examination fee and pass the hazardous materials written examination at your scheduled BMV appointment. Source
- Only after you pass the hazmat written examination do you start the TSA fingerprint and background records check — Maine runs the knowledge test first. Source
- Wait for TSA clearance: Maine may not issue a CDL carrying a hazmat endorsement until the security threat assessment is complete and cleared. Source
- At every renewal, file the renewal application at least 30 days before the licence expires and retake the hazardous materials written test — Maine statute requires the re-examination to keep the endorsement. Source
Official Maine Secretary of State, Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) links
- Maine BMV: Commercial Drivers License
- Maine BMV: Drivers License and Examination Fees
- Maine BMV: Commercial Drivers License Exam
- Maine Commercial Driver License Manual, Revised 7/24 (PDF)
- Maine Commercial Driver License Application MVE-64T (PDF)
- Maine BMV: Entry-Level Driver Training
- Maine BMV: Find Your Local Branch
- Maine BMV: License Endorsement and Restriction Codes
- Maine BMV: Forms and Applications
- 29-A M.R.S. §1307 — Examination fees
- 29-A M.R.S. §1253 — Commercial licenses
As of September 2, 2026, verified against Maine Secretary of State, Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).
Maine CDL questions
- How do I book the Maine CDL knowledge and skills tests?
- You do not walk in. Mail the completed CDL application with the fees to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles, CDL Examination Section, State House Station 29, Augusta, and the main office schedules you — an appointment notice comes back with the place, date and time for the knowledge test. After you pass, you get a skills test request card, which you mail back to Augusta to be scheduled for the skills and road test. Cancel a test less than 48 hours ahead and an extra $70 is charged before you can be rescheduled. Branch offices are open Monday–Friday from 8 a.m. and take online appointments for other business. Source
- What does Maine require for a hazmat (H) endorsement?
- You must be 21, meet the FMCSR Part 391 physical qualifications and hold a valid medical card. Maine runs the written test first: once you pass the hazardous materials written examination ($20 endorsement fee) you begin the TSA fingerprint and background records check, and no CDL with a hazmat endorsement may be issued until TSA clears you. Renewals must be filed at least 30 days before the licence expires, and 29-A M.R.S. §1253(3) requires you to retake the hazmat written test at every renewal to keep the endorsement. Source
- Can I add endorsements to my Maine commercial learner’s permit?
- No. The Maine CDL Manual is explicit that endorsements can only be added to a Commercial Driver’s License — if you do not yet hold a CDL, the endorsement is not awarded until you do. Maine grants the N, H, X and T endorsements on the knowledge examination alone; P and S also require the skills and road test. Source
- How old do you have to be to get a CDL in Maine?
- The Maine CDL Manual sets 16 as the minimum age to operate a commercial motor vehicle and 21 to drive a bus or carry hazardous materials; the application form repeats 21 for the H, P and S endorsements, and adds that a school bus applicant must have held a valid licence for one full year. Federal rules separately limit interstate driving to drivers 21 and over, which is why an intrastate-only CDL carries the Maine “K” restriction. Source
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