Wanderlust World Wanderlust World According to the TSA, any driver wishing to renew an HME on a CDL must do so no later than 30 days prior to its expiration. Locate your the nearest Department of Motor Vehicles office in the same state as your HME and inform the staffer you wish to renew your endorsement. Provide the staffer with your CDL permit, proof of U.S. citizenship or right of residence, proof of your identity, your regular driver's license and a Department of Transportation medical form signed by your physician. Finally, complete an HME application form.
You can also complete the HazMat knowledge test during your initial visit to the DMV. At the time of publication, taking the test costs $5 in the state of New York and, according the dmvanswers.com, you can retake the exam right away if you fail the first time, provided you pay another $5. Those not wishing to take the exam immediately should study their state's CDL manual and return to take the exam at a later date.
Find your nearest Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services office and provide them with fingerprints from both of your hands. These are then used by the TSA to perform a criminal background check, which, at the time of publication, in the state of Maryland costs $93. Wait between four to six weeks before receiving a letter from the TSA with the outcome of your background check, which will also be sent to the DMV.
Return to the DMV and collect your new HME, which is valid for a maximum of five years. Make sure you carry your HME along with your CDL whenever you are driving your commercial motor vehicle.