Hazmat Endorsement Requirement Removed in New FMCSA Rule

FMCSA Final Rule Updates Hazmat Endorsement Rules for Ag Aviation

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has issued a final rule that changes hazmat endorsement requirements for some commercial drivers. The rule is scheduled to be published in the Federal Register on January 9, 2026.

The update gives states the option to waive the endorsement for certain fuel transport tied to agricultural aviation. FMCSA said the change is meant to improve efficiency while keeping safety rules in place.

What the Rule Allows

Under the final rule, states may allow some Class A CDL holders to operate without a hazmat endorsement. This applies only when drivers transport jet fuel for agricultural aircraft operations.

The fuel limit is set at 1,000 gallons or less. The transport must support activities such as aerial crop spraying or fertilizer application.

The waiver is optional. Each state must decide whether to adopt it. Drivers may only use the waiver in their home state or another state that has adopted the same exemption.

If a driver enters a state that has not adopted the waiver, a hazmat endorsement is still required.

Why FMCSA Changed the Hazmat Endorsement Requirement

FMCSA said the rule addresses long-standing challenges in agricultural aviation. Many operations rely on aircraft to treat crops during short seasonal windows. These operations often take place far from permanent fueling facilities.

Jet fuel is often delivered to small or temporary airstrips. FMCSA says finding drivers with a Class A CDL and a hazmat endorsement has been difficult, especially in rural areas.

FMCSA noted that a similar waiver already exists for diesel fuel in certain agricultural industries. The agency said jet fuel has similar handling traits. This allowed FMCSA to extend the same flexibility to agricultural aviation.

Limits on Fuel Type and Volume

The waiver applies only to aviation-grade turbine engine fuel, commonly known as Jet A. Other fuels, such as aviation gasoline, are not included.

The fuel limit remains capped at 1,000 gallons. FMCSA declined requests to raise that amount. The agency said higher volumes could increase safety risks.

The rule applies only to Class A CDL holders. FMCSA declined to expand the hazmat endorsement waiver to Class B CDL drivers or non-CDL drivers.

Safety Rules Still Apply Without a Hazmat Endorsement

The rule does not remove other hazardous materials safety rules. Drivers must still follow federal hazardous materials regulations.

Placarding rules remain in effect. Employer-provided training is still required. Drivers must also pass hazardous materials testing under existing federal standards.

FMCSA stressed that drivers operating without a hazmat endorsement under this rule must still hold a valid Class A CDL. Drug and alcohol testing rules also remain unchanged.

The agency said the rule is not expected to reduce safety. FMCSA pointed to decades of experience with diesel fuel waivers that have not led to higher crash rates.

Hazmat Endorsement Savings for Drivers and Operators

FMCSA estimates that drivers could save about $260 by not needing a hazmat endorsement. This includes avoided costs for training, testing, background checks, and state fees.

Agricultural aircraft operators may also benefit. Fuel trucks can support satellite airstrips more easily. This reduces the need for aircraft to return to base for refueling.

Industry groups told FMCSA that limited access to qualified drivers has reduced productivity during peak seasons.

State Decisions on Hazmat Endorsement Waivers

States are not required to adopt the waiver. FMCSA expects adoption to be strongest in agriculture-heavy states.

State licensing agencies that adopt the rule may need to update guidance materials. Enforcement officers may also need additional training.

Drivers will need to stay aware of which states allow the waiver and which do not.

When the Rule Takes Effect

The rule will take effect 60 days after publication in the Federal Register. Petitions for reconsideration must be filed within 30 days of publication.

FMCSA said the final rule balances flexibility with safety. The agency believes the updated rules will support agricultural aviation while maintaining existing protections.