Jun 16, 2017 • Carriers

HAZMAT Endorsement

HAZMAT Endorsement

Here are the steps to get your HAZMAT endorsement and potentially earn more.

HAZMAT Endorsement

Hazmat endorsement is required by truck driver’s who have a Commercial Driver’s License and wish to deliver HAZMAT loads containing hazardous materials. Since the materials you’re hauling can have severe health consequences, the Department of Transportation has enlisted specific requirements before a truck driver can haul such loads. There is a risk-reward with hauling hazardous materials as it typically pays more than a typical freight.

1. How to Get HAZMAT Endorsement on CDL

A truck driver with a Class A, B or C CDL can apply for DOT HAZMAT endorsement by completing these five procedures.

Fill out HAZMAT endorsement application through the DMV or TSA
Complete a medical screening
Pass the DMV written exam (varies by state)
Pay fees
Submit a TSA Background Security Screening either online or in-person

The following states require an in-person DMV application for TSA Security Assessment.

Florida
Kentucky
Maryland
Mississippi
New York
Pennsylvania
Texas
Virginia
Wisconsin

2. Carriers HAZMAT Responsibilities

Truck drivers who have a HAZMAT endorsement typically earn a higher salary than standard drivers with a CDL. When hauling hazardous materials truck drivers are subject to specific responsibilities that go beyond standard requirements set by the DOT.

Shipping Paper

Placard and Mark Vehicle

Loading and Unloading

Compatibility

Blocking and Bracing

Incident Report

Security Plan

Employee Training

3. HAZMAT Classifications

Class 1 – Explosives
Class 2 – Gases
Class 3 – Flammable Liquid
Class 4 – Flammable Solids
Class 5 – Oxidizing Substances / Organic Peroxides
Class 6 – Poisonous (Toxic) and Infectious Substances
Class 7 – Radioactive Material
Class 8 – Corrosives
Class 9 – Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods: environmentally hazardous substances, elevated temperature material, hazardous wastes, marine pollutants

4. Have a Copy of the HAZMAT Table in Your Truck

The HAZMAT Table displays the classifications of hazardous materials and breaks them down by division, as well as by specific material. Having the HAZMAT Table with you at all times will allow you to correctly fill out any shipping papers or packages and comply with Hazardous Material Requirements (HMR) and avoid a violation. The most common DOT HAZMAT violation is not having a copy of USDOT hazardous materials registration number.

TagsOwner Operators

Trucker Spotlight - Hope Zvara <em>The Trucker Spotlight series explores the lives of truckers and their journey to make a difference in their industry. We interview different people in the trucking industry to understand some life lessons that make them who they are today. We also learn more about their motivations, and the problems that they encounter on the job. We also tackle how Trucker Path's solutions helped them with what they do. The information that they provide helps inform other people who are looking to delve into the trucking world.</em> <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/07/Lark20200727-210833.jpeg" alt=""] <h2></h2> Today we are putting the spotlight on <strong>Hope</strong>, who is a Yoga instructor and founder of Mother Trucker Yoga, whose advocacy is to teach yoga and wellness to truckers. She has been featured in a lot of trucking websites, magazines, and also maintains a podcast on Chrome and Steel Radio. Let's get to know more about Hope and how she mixed yoga with trucking. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/07/Lark20200727-210801.jpeg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>Tell us a short story about you. Any trivia?</strong></h3> I had no idea what I wanted to be when I was in high school. I knew I wanted to help people but was lost among many other things. At age 20 I decided I wanted to do mission work and began to look into being in the Peace Corps. But as a college drop out, that wasn’t an option. So I found a program and a few short months later I found myself on a plane to Nigeria to live for nearly a year. That trip changed my life in a way that helped me to see that I could do anything. As someone who had struggled with addiction and a slew of other issues, a trip like that gave me a deep dose of perspective. That perspective still drives me today to help others gain perspective on their health, happiness, and life’s direction. Trivia? I am a middle child. I Have been to 7 different countries before the age of 30. I love alternative rock. I love dark chocolate and mojitos. And love love love to travel! <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What made you decide to delve into the trucking industry?</strong></h3> Well trucking just fell into my lap. For about 5 years prior I knew I was a transition in my career and was ready to do something different, something more. I had owned a yoga studio for more than a decade and knew owning a studio wasn’t my end game. Then at a local business mixer in my hometown of Hartford, Wisconsin, I started chatting it up with someone I had never met before, who is now my former business partner. I was trying to pitch him corporate yoga for his trucking company office employees and he looked at me and said, “do you have anything for drivers, like in the cab of their truck?” Without skipping a beat I looked at him, threw my arms up, and said “Mother Trucker Yoga”. He loved the idea and the next day I and a perfect stranger were building a company from scratch merging yoga and trucking. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/07/Lark20200727-210808.jpeg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are the significant changes that you've noticed in the trucking industry?</strong></h3> I’ve seen a lot of changes in the last three years. Many drivers I’m sure will comment on the increased regulations. But I want to talk about increasing awareness and action around trucker health. More and more drivers and companies are taking notice of the necessity of taking care of our drivers’ health and well-being. I ask companies all the time are your drivers an asset or a liability? This pertains directly to the health of the driver. Every month I am seeing more and more drivers take an interest in cooking on the truck, drinking more water, trying to exercise or at least for the first time admitting it is something to pay attention to and work to improve. Secondly are mandatory 30-minute breaks and 34-hour resets. Now I am not a truck driver and never claim to be. And as much as these breaks can be a pain in the butt when a load has a deadline. I want to encourage you to see these times outside the driver’s seat as opportunities to take better care of you. Get out and walk, exercise, get to the grocery store or order groceries to be delivered to your truck, or meal prep. See that time as a blessing to help improve your health. You have to take it so you might as well do something positive with it. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What came first, trucks or yoga?</strong></h3> Great question. Yoga came first. As a teen, I struggled with depression, anxiety, and addiction and yoga saved my life. Now I know that might seem heavy, but the reality is that many struggle with mental health and yoga is as much physical fitness as it is about mental and emotional fitness. I went from a young teen practicing yoga as a lifeline to teaching yoga to others, teaching teachers, and then teaching yoga to truck drivers just like you. And I have to say, working with truck drivers has been one of my favorite parts of the road I've been traveling (hehe- get it). <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/07/Lark20200727-210823.jpeg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>Ever tried driving a truck?</strong></h3> I've driven a lot of things, a skid steer, a forklift, a truck and trailer backward up a winding driveway- yes; but an eighteen-wheeler, not yet. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/07/h1.jpeg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are your trucking industry pet peeves?</strong></h3> Complaining. Now people in every area, every walk of life, every industry complain. And sharing our concerns, or dislikes, and frustrations when done correctly can be an effective way to make a change. But when people leave comments complaining about what they don't like in a negative tone without any suggestions on how to make it better and when people attack and never for a second consider all that the other has done or has to go through to make X happen, is so frustrating. I believe the key is perspective. And when we gain perspective our tone often changes. We see life differently. The second is people saying it is impossible to be healthy or exercise when you are a truck driver. I promise you with 100% confidence that there are things that you can do as a truck driver to improve your health, fitness, and wellness that you can implement today. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/07/Lark20200727-210828.jpeg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are the common habits that a truck driver should change?</strong></h3> #1 thing a truck driver should change today is drinking more water. Our bodies are made up primarily of water and many of our health concerns can often be tied back to dehydration: grogginess, muscle pain, cramps, fatigue, mental fog, and digestive issues. Drinking more water, ideally, 1/2 your body weight in ounces can dramatically change your health. Secondly is to move more. I'm not telling you to exercise, what I'm saying is with all that sitting you need to move more so you don't end up as stiff as a board. Simple things like small movements or stretches while driving. Walking laps around your rig while filling up with fuel. Or a yoga stretch here and there in those moments where you are waiting to load, unload, on your break, on your reset. It all adds up. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/07/Lark20200727-210818.jpeg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are the benefits of yoga for truck drivers?</strong></h3> There are endless benefits to practicing yoga. And being a truck driver you aren't exempt to those benefits. Here are13 of my top benefits to truck drivers practicing yoga: <ul> <li>Improves flexibility and mobility.</li> <li>Strengthens muscles, which can help with arthritis and back pain.</li> <li>Aids in realigning the spine to help distribute weight evenly.</li> <li>Helps keep spinal disks supple.</li> <li>Offers a natural weight-bearing exercise, increasing bone density.</li> <li>Gets your blood flowing, providing more oxygen to your cells and helps boost hemoglobin and red blood cells.l</li> <li>Assists in increasing the drainage of the lymph, helping to destroy and fight cancerous cells.</li> <li>Gets your heart rate up, lowering the risk of heart disease.</li> <li>Gets you breathing.</li> <li>Lowers blood pressure.</li> <li>Lowers cortisol levels, helping with long term memory, and fighting depression.</li> <li>Improves coordination, reaction time, memory.</li> <li>Helps you to relax</li> </ul> <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/07/Lark20200727-210813.jpeg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What is the best truck stop food for truckers?</strong></h3> There are dozens of diets and eating guidelines that people follow-truckers included. And I think the better question to ask is what should drivers look for each day at the truck stop to eat? And the answer to that is simple. Look for foods that are fresh, look for foods that are preservative, additive-free. Look for foods that have some sort of nutritional value. So many drivers (and Americans) are eating empty calories: chips, fast food, candy, soda. And sometimes it is hard and there are minimal options so ask yourself what is “good, better, best” for me to eat today. Dried nuts are good, a container of raw carrots, pretzels and hummus is better, or a burger without the bun and a salad with a hard-boiled egg and tons of veggies on top is probably the best. Sometimes the best option is not available. So what is good or better? When we bucket the foods in front of us this way we take some of the stress out of it and stop thinking in the form of “good diet” or “bad diet” and start thinking along the lines of good, better, best. And remember you don't’ always need to be the best! <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/07/Lark20200727-210838.jpeg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are some wellness tips that you would like to share for truckers?</strong></h3> What we do each day is often dictated by what is sitting between our two ears. Mental health is critical as a truck driver. When you add up being away from family and loved ones for weeks on end coupled with isolation, erratic schedules, and deadlines, you need to take time for you. This does not include mindlessly scrolling Facebook or Instagram. This is you listening to a positive audiobook, or upbeat music, calling a friend, and not complaining but sharing your wins for the day. But don’t be fooled, simple things like drinking more water, and getting your butt moving (sorry to be so blunt) WILL and does positively impact your overall wellness every single day. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/07/h2.jpeg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>How can truckers subscribe to your yoga classes?</strong></h3> Drivers can easily subscribe and join our Mother Trucker Yoga family as easy as a click of a button. By going to <a href="http://www.MotherTruckerYoga.com">MotherTruckerYoga.com</a> and go to our “Subscribe” page. Don’t worry it’s not $100 a month to join our family and receive our amazing content. Subscribe for just $7.99 a month and get new content dripped to you each month. <h2></h2> <h2></h2> <h2></h2> <h4>By Aldous Aldwin</h4> <h3></h3> <h3></h3>

Jul 27, 2020 • Carriers

Trucker Spotlight - Kristy Mathews <em>The Trucker Spotlight series explores the lives of truckers and their journey to make a difference in their industry. We interview different truck drivers to understand some life lessons that make them who they are today. We also learn more about their motivations, and the problems that they encounter on the job. We also tackle how Trucker Path's solutions helped them with what they do. The information that they provide helps inform other people who are looking to delve into the trucking world.</em> <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/tp-sp-blog-kristy-3.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> Today we are putting the spotlight on <strong>Kristy Mathews</strong>, who's one of the three recently crowned Queens of the Road by <a href="http://www.realwomenintrucking.com/">Real Women In Trucking</a>. She's a 36yr-old, born and raised Minnesotan trucking influencer, who isn't scared to take on any job. Big or small she's done it all. Let's get to know more about Kristy and how it's like to be Queen of the road. <h2></h2> <h3></h3> <h3><strong>What made you decide to be a trucker?</strong></h3> I always had a fascination with the big trucks and machinery we used in the family companies. From the 1st time I got to ride in the truck, I knew that's what i wanted to. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What were some challenges that you faced when you started out trucking? </strong></h3> When I first started driving, I definitely was looked at like I couldn't do it. I was an 18yr old 90lb woman fresh out of high school, but I showed them I had what it would take. I've been looked at as an underdog and its a daily reminder of all the things I was told I couldn't do and I've prevailed through thick and thin. This is my dream and I'll do whatever it takes to succeed. Especially if it's empowering more women to do something they thought they could never do. Positive vibes and strides to the ultimate goal. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/tp-sp-blog-kristy-2.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>In the years that you've been driving, what are the significant changes that you've noticed in the trucking industry?</strong></h3> Biggest noticeable changes I've noticed in the industry is lack of common sense and respect for others. We are all in this together like a family once upon a time and now it's all about your 15 seconds of fame on bashing others. I hate what its come to and I always try to instill that brotherhood/sisterhood as much as possible. We need that back, we need to have each other's back. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>Any times when you get lonely while driving? How do you deal with it?</strong></h3> I don't have times of loneliness because I'm an introvert. I love the isolation in my truck and all the time to myself. That's also how I think of my next big move in life. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are your trucking pet peeves</strong></h3> I have a lot of trucking peeves but I would like to think of the positives and not get set back by something I can't change. <h2></h2> <h3><strong> Being Queen of the Road, how would you want to change or improve on the current situation of the trucking industry?</strong></h3> If I could change or improve current situations in the industry, it would have to be getting our voices heard across the board from big things like rules regulations and HOS, to increasing truck parking so drivers can have a restful sleep and safe havens. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/tp-sp-blog-kristy-5.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What keeps you busy nowadays? How did the current Covid-19 situation affect your trucking life?</strong></h3> Work keeps me plenty busy. I work hard so I can play harder. I love taking vacations. It is something I never grew up doing with my family so now I'm living my best life. Covid-19 hasn't really affected me all that much. I've been to every hot spot delivering medical supplies. If anything, it was humbling in the beginning knowing I'm doing something to help and these loads were needed, but it's honestly no different than any other day. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are your future career plans? Would you continue to be a trucker? Any plans on being an instructor?</strong></h3> Looking into my future, it's my goal to get my non-profit initiative started. Breast cancer screening is a big deal (has deep meaning to me) and I want to be able to help females in the trucking industry get the screenings they need more conveniently, more affordable options for preventative care, mastectomies, and down time since we all know if the wheels aren't turning you ain't earning. Also part of it, I'd like to help females wanting to come into the industry with grants to get them schooling they need to succeed, and graduating high school students scholarships to anyone wanting to go into the medical field. I have some big dreams and goals I plan to achieve. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>Favorite truck model?</strong></h3> I'd love to own, restore, and drive a 1957 Mack B61 twin stick. If i had time and a lot of extra money, that would be my dream right there. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are your must haves or the things that you bring with you when on the road?</strong></h3> My best must haves are an atlas, <a href="http://www.truckerpath.com">Trucker Path app</a>, and my phone. I like to keep it simple. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/tp-sp-blog-kristy-4.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are some tips that you would like to share for aspiring women truckers?</strong></h3> Women wanting to delve into this industry should not come in with an "I am woman hear me roar" BS attitude. We are all in this together, doing this together. The best way to succeed is to be humble, strong, thick skinned, and help others asking for help. <h2></h2> <h2></h2> <em>Got a cool story to share? Send us message at community@truckerpath.com to be featured!</em> <h2></h2> <h2></h2> <h4>By Aldous Aldwin</h4> <h3></h3> <h3></h3>

Sep 04, 2020 • Carriers

Trucker Path's Bobblehead Photo Contest [p]PHOTO CONTEST: Our Trucker Path Bobblehead “Johnny” will be making his way around America. Here's how you can join the fun by participated in the contest and win![/p] [h2]Here's Johnny![/h2] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2017/05/bobblehead-Johnny-1-e.png" alt=""] [h2]Photo Contest Rules – Be on the look out for Johnny[/h2] [p]If [b]Johnny[/b] is passed to you by a fellow driver please do the following:[/p] [ol][li][b]Take photos of Johnny[/b] the bobblehead as you travel along your route. Sunsets, flowing riverbank, views from your truck cab for Johnny to take in. You decide![/li] [li][b]Send your photos of Johnny[/b] to us through a direct [a href="https://business.facebook.com/TruckerPath/"]Facebook Message[/a] or email [a href="mailto:press@truckerpath.com"]press@truckerpath.com[/a].[/li] [li][b]Pass Johnny[/b] to a fellow driver you come across on the road or at a stop the following day.[/li] [/ol] [p]We'll post your photos on our Facebook Page – ones with the most likes WIN![/p] [h2]Where Will I Find Johnny?[/h2] [p][b]Johnny's route begins in America's Heartland near Cincinnati, Ohio[/b] – where he will be bobbing his head to the smooth moves of Big John – [a href="http://bigjohnsdancefitness.com/"]The Dancing Trucker[/a].[/p] [p]Let's show everyone how the trucking community is connected nationwide, hauling freight and delivering the things we all desire.[/p] [h2]Johnny at the Roebling's Bridge[/h2] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2017/05/Bobblehead-small-e.png" alt=""] [p]Big John will pass Johnny along to a fellow truck driver he meets on his delivery route in April. Could be at a truck stop waiting in line to buy a coffee or maybe at a diesel pump while filling up. We don't know where Johnny will be or when and that's the point – it's up to you, our community![/p] [h2]Oh, the Places He Will Go[/h2] [p]From horses galloping freely through the fields of Kentucky bluegrass to the lively streets of Austin and the [i]Texas State Capitol[/i]. "The Gateway Arch" in St. Louis, MO. leading west, to the majestic Pacific coast of California – Johnny's Tour Across America has endless destination possibilities. Where will you take him?[/p] [p]The dedicated network of drivers in the trucking community travels over 432 billion miles annually. See how they can lead our eager Johnny across this great nation. 100 days to see all that can be seen![/p] [h2]Sweet Peach, Johnny's in Georgia[/h2] [p]Traveling along with with the Road Queen, [a href="https://www.facebook.com/sherri.mckinney.16?pnref=story"]Sherri McKinney[/a], Johnny has made his way to Georgia now. Keep truckin' along![/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2017/05/Little-Johnny-in-Georgia.jpg" alt=""] [h2]Johnny Stopping By at a Truck Stop in Kansas[/h2] [p]There's no place like home! Well, Johnny clicked his heels three times and has since landed in Kansas for a quick bite to eat. Where to next?[/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2017/05/johnny-eating-e.png" alt=""]

May 01, 2017