DOT Training Online: HAZMAT General Awareness Course
Our online DOT HAZMAT Training: General Awareness / Function Specific (10 Hours) course is designed for employees who work in industries where hazardous materials are prepared or transported, who need to meet Federal DOT training requirements of 49 CFR 172.704(a)(1) and some of the basic requirements for 49 CFR 172.704(a)(2)(i). The course would be applicable to workers such as drivers, manufacturers, and persons who manufacture, repair or recondition containers used to transport hazardous materials.
This DOT HAZMAT training online course includes in-depth function-specific training, such as Hazard Classification, Marking, Labeling, Placarding, Packaging, Shipping Papers, Security Awareness, Hazmat Table (HMT) Usage, and Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR). In addition, the 10 hour course also covers all the requirements presented in our DOT HAZMAT Training: Basic General Awareness (4 Hours) course. This course can be used as either initial or refresher training, which must be completed at least every three years per DOT requirements.
For information on DOT HAZMAT training requirements or the other DOT HAZMAT courses we offer, visit our DOT HAZMAT Training page.
See the Training in Action
Experience an actual HazMat Student training course.
Course Outline
This DOT HAZMAT training online course consists of 9 modules which include 54 sections that must be completed sequentially. The sections are fully narrated and interactive. Quiz questions within each section help the student retain knowledge that will be needed for the module exams.
| Section | Title |
|---|---|
| Module 1 - Course Introduction | |
| 1 |
Introduction to DOT HAZMAT Training
Training provider | Human error | DOT purpose | Hazardous Material Regulations (HMR) | Key terms.
|
| 2 |
How to Use the HMR
Navigating the HMR | Hazmat Table (HMT) | HMR online.
|
| 3 |
Hazardous Materials
Hazardous materials, hazardous substances, and hazardous wastes | Marine pollutants | Hazardous materials classes and divisions.
|
| Exam 1 | |
| Module 2 - Hazard Classes & Divisions | |
| 4 |
Explosives
Class 1: Explosives | Divisions of explosives | Explosive types | 1.1 Mass explosion hazard | 1.2 Projectile hazard | 1.3 Minor blast/projectile/fire | 1.4 Minor blast | 1.5 Insensitive explosives | 1.6 Very sensitive explosives.
|
| 5 |
Compressed Gases
2.1 Flammable gases | 2.2 Non-flammable compressed gases | 2.3 Poisonous gases by inhalation | Flammable range.
|
| 6 |
Flammable and Combustible Liquids
Flash and fire point | Flammable liquids | Combustible liquids | Reclassifying | Packing groups | Class 3 exceptions.
|
| 7 |
Flammable Solids
Division 4.1 Flammable solids | Wetted Class 1 explosives | Division 4.2 Spontaneously combustible solids | Pyrophoric and self-heating solids | Division 4.3 Dangerous when wet solids.
|
| 8 |
Oxidizers and Organic Peroxides
Division 5.1 Oxidizers and hazards | Division 5.2 Organic peroxides, hazards and types.
|
| 9 |
Toxic Materials
Division 6.1 Poisonous/toxic materials | LD50 and LC50 | Lab testing | Biotoxins | Division 6.2 Infectious substances | Cultures and regulated medical waste | Patient specimens | Category A and B infectious substances | Biological products.
|
| 10 |
Radioactive Materials
Radiation and common sources | Safe dosages | Radiation hazards | Transporting radioactive materials | Class 7 radioactive materials.
|
| 11 |
Corrosive Materials
Class 8 Corrosive materials, uses, and hazards.
|
| 12 |
Miscellaneous Hazardous Materials
Elevated temperature materials | Hazardous substances | Hazardous wastes and lists | Characteristic, universal and mixed hazardous wastes | LLMW, HLW, and MTRU | Marine pollutants.
|
| 13 |
Other Regulated Materials
ORM-A, ORM-B, ORM-C, ORM-D, and ORM-E | Transporting forbidden materials.
|
| Exam 2 | |
| Module 3 - The Hazardous Materials Table | |
| 14 |
What is the HMT?
HMT described | Hazmat table categories | Basic Hazmat descriptions | Special information | HMT appendices.
|
| 15 |
Symbols
|
| 16 |
Proper Shipping Names and Descriptions
Italicized and non-italicized text | Concentration ranges | "Mono" | Liquids and solids | Hazardous wastes | Mixtures and solutions | Poison/poisonous/toxic | Interchangeable abbreviations.
|
| 17 |
Hazard Class or Division
Hazard class and division | Five entry types | Normal entries | Forbidden entries | ORM-D entries | Re-evaluation of data entries | Flammable liquids.
|
| 18 |
ID Numbers and Packing Groups
International and domestic shipments | Packaging group exceptions.
|
| 19 |
Label Codes and Special Provisions
Special information | Label codes | Multiple label codes | Special provisions | Letter codes.
|
| 20 |
Packaging Requirements, Quantity Limitations and Vessel Stowage
Packaging | Reading packaging entries | Solid/liquid table | Quantity limitations | Limits for combined materials | Forbidden quantities | Vessel stowage | 10A and 10B.
|
| 21 |
Appendices A & B
Hazardous substances | Tables 1 and 2 | Marine pollutants.
|
| Exam 3 | |
| Module 4 - Shipping Papers | |
| 22 |
Shipping Papers
What are shipping papers | Exceptions | Hazardous waste manifests | State-designated HWMs | Shipping paper retention.
|
| 23 |
Completing Shipping Papers, Steps 1-3
Filling out shipping papers | X or RQ | Material description | Technical names | Multiple shipments on one paper | Appendices | Quantity.
|
| 24 |
Exemptions and Special Permits
Descriptions requirements | 172.03 topics | DOT exemptions and special permits | Special permits site.
|
| 25 |
Requirements by Mode of Transportation
Transportation by air, rail, highway and water.
|
| 26 |
Technical Names, Exceptions, and Additional Information
Technical names and exceptions | Marine pollutants | Poisonous or toxic materials | Elevated temperature materials | Organic peroxides and self-reactive materials | Empty packaging.
|
| 27 |
Hazardous Substances and Radioactive Materials
Shipping paper requirements for hazardous substances and radioactive materials.
|
| 28 |
Shipper's Certification
Shipper's certification | Certification signature | Types of certification | Exceptions.
|
| 29 |
General Formatting and Emergency Response
Legibility | Codes and abbreviations | Multiple -page shipping papers | Emergency response telephone number | Emergency response information.
|
| Exam 4 | |
| Module 5 - Marking | |
| 30 |
General Marking Requirements
Bulk and non-bulk packages | What is a marking? | Features of markings | Abbreviations | Prohibited markings | Marking hazardous wastes.
|
| 31 |
Non-Bulk Packaging
Non-bulk labeling requirements | Non-odorized liquid petroleum | Orientation | Large quantities of one material | Limited quantities | ORM-D | Marine pollutants | Hazardous substances.
|
| 32 |
Bulk Packaging
Bulk marking requirements | ID number localization | Marking size | Fumigant markings | Marine pollutant markings | Special permit markings.
|
| 33 |
Identification Numbers
Bulk ID number markings | Replacing missing ID number markings.
|
| 34 |
Markings by HAZMAT Type
Radioactive materials | Poisonous materials | Explosive materials | Infectious substances | Biohazards | Elevated temperatures | Keep away from heat.
|
| 35 |
Markings by Bulk Packaging Type
Portable tanks | Cargo tanks | Proper shipping name | ID number | QT and NQT | Emergency shutoff | Tank cars and other multi-unit car tanks | Other types of bulk packaging.
|
| Exam 5 | |
| Module 6 - Labeling | |
| 36 |
General Labeling Requirements
When labels are required | Determining labels | Labeling table | Primary and subsidiary labels | Subsidiary hazard labels table | Display of hazard class or division.
|
| 37 |
Additional Labeling Requirements
Cargo aircraft only | Class 1 explosives | Non-flammable and non-poisonous gases | Poisonous gases by inhalation | Mixed and consolidated packaging | Authorized label modifications.
|
| 38 |
Labels by Class
Class 1: Explosive labels | Class 2: Compressed gas labels | Class 3: Flammable liquid labels | Class 4: Flammable solid labels | Class 5: Organic peroxide and oxidizer labels | Class 6: Toxic materials labels | Class 7: Radioactive materials labels | Class 8: Corrosive materials labels | Class 9 labels | Empty label.
|
| 39 |
Label Specifications
Label specifications | Durability | Design | Size | Form identification | Exceptions.
|
| 40 |
Label Placement
Label placement | Placement of multiple labels | Contrast with background | Duplicate labeling | Visibility.
|
| 41 |
Labeling Exceptions
Exceptions and forbidden labeling | Dewar flasks and cylinders | DoD shipments | Low specific activity | Subsidiary labeling | Poisonous by inhalation | Prohibited labeling and exceptions.
|
| 42 |
Radioactive Materials
General requirements | Radioactive labels | Selecting labels | Label locations | Label entries | Empty and Fissile labels | Overpacks and freight containers.
|
| Exam 6 | |
| Module 7 - Placarding | |
| 43 |
General Placarding Rules
Proper display of placards | Prohibited placarding | Exceptions to prohibited placarding | When HMR placards are not required | Materials that do not require a placard.
|
| 44 |
Placard Types
Placard types and ID numbers.
|
| 45 |
Placard Specifications
Placard specifications | Strength, durability, design | Form identification.
|
| 46 |
Placarding Tables 1 and 2
|
| 47 |
Subsidiary Hazard Placarding
Poison inhalation | Corrosive radioactive materials | Dangerous when wet.
|
| 48 |
Mode of Transportation Placarding
Placarding for highway, rail, air and bulk packagings.
|
| Exam 7 | |
| Module 8 - Packaging | |
| 49 |
General Packaging Requirements
Packaging and packages | General packaging requirements | Packaging exceptions | Special provisions | Limited quantities | UN packagings | Reusable and empty packagings | Package compatibility | Special permits.
|
| 50 |
Air Shipments
Inner containers | Cylinders | Air transport prohibitions.
|
| 51 |
Packaging Exceptions
Small and limited quantity packaging exceptions | Agricultural product packaging exemptions | Materials of trade packaging exemptions | Lab pack packaging exemptions.
|
| 52 |
Leaking or Damaged Packages, Hazardous Waste, and Overpacks
Salvage drums | Packaging solid and semi-solid wastes | Overpacks.
|
| 53 |
Department of Defense Packaging
Reshipping DOD packages | Materials sold by the DOD | DOD certification.
|
| Exam 8 | |
| Module 9 - Security Awareness | |
| 54 |
Security Awareness
Potential targets and threats | En route security | Employer responsibilities | Vulnerability assessments | Security reviews | Facility security | In-depth security plans.
|
| Exam 9 | |
Course Exam
- This course includes 9 exams. One exam must be taken at the completion of each module.
- Each exam consists of 10 questions, which are randomly compiled from a large pool of possible questions.
- A 70% or better score is needed in order to pass each exam. If a student does not pass, they may re-review information in the modules and sections as necessary, and retake the test as many times as needed in order to pass.
Course Format
This is a 100% online, fully narrated course. The training is self-paced and available 24/7 through our state-of-the-art Online Training System (OTS).
This DOT HAZMAT Awareness / Function Specific course, designed by Certified Outreach Trainers, includes up-to-date, high quality training designed with your safety and learning as our top priority. The course features interactive training modules, which combine audio and visual elements for maximum retention. The course is completed entirely online using a computer with an internet connection and is available 24/7. For your convenience, it can be completed over time, and your progress will be saved to the last section completed. Students are given 12 months to complete the course after enrollment. We are so certain you will be satisfied with your experience, that we offer a 100% Money Back Guarantee*.
Once the course is completed, you will immediately be able to download, save or print your Course DOT HAZMAT Certificate of Course Completion which is provided through our Online Training System (OTS) in PDF format. Within 24 hours of course completion, you will also be mailed a PVC credit card style Wallet ID Card with optional photo, showing training course completion.
100% Online
Complete the course using a computer with an internet connection.
Fully Narrated
Audio and visual elements are combined throughout the training.
Self-Paced
Your progress is saved to the last section completed.
Available 24/7
Access the training online according to your own schedule.
Accreditation
This DOT HAZMAT training online course was designed by Certified Outreach Trainers. It is U.S.DOT accepted and meets the requirements for 49 CFR.
DOT HAZMAT Certification
Once you've completed this course, you will immediately be able to download, save or print your DOT HAZMAT Certificate of Course Completion which is provided in PDF format. Within 24 hours of course completion, you will also be mailed a PVC credit card style Wallet ID Card with optional photo, showing training course completion.
DOT Training: HAZMAT General Awareness Objectives
The objective of this DOT HAZMAT awareness training course is to meet the Federal DOT training requirements of 49 CFR 172.704(a)(1) and some of the basic requirements for 49 CFR 172.704(a)(2)(i).
General awareness/familiarization training. Each hazmat employee shall be provided general awareness/familiarization training designed to provide familiarity with the requirements of this subchapter, and to enable the employee to recognize and identify hazardous materials consistent with the hazard communication standards of this subchapter.
Function-specific training. (i) Each hazmat employee must be provided function-specific training on the requirements of this subchapter, or exemptions or special permits issued under subchapter A of this chapter, that are specifically applicable to the functions the employee performs.
Learning Objectives
After completing this DOT HAZMAT course, the student should be able to:
- Identify basic hazmat hazard classes and divisions and understand the hazards associated with each
- Use the hazmat table to find proper shipping names, hazard classes, identification numbers, packaging and labeling requirements, etc.
- Complete hazardous materials shipping papers
- Properly use hazard markings, labels, and placards
- Describe appropriate packaging for specific hazardous materials
The content in this 10 hour course is presented much more in-depth than in our DOT HAZMAT Training Online: Basic General Awareness (4 Hours) course, in order to meet the function-specific training requirements for Marking, Labeling, Placarding, Packaging, Shipping Papers, Hazmat Table Usage, and Hazard Classification.
Why Choose HazMat Student?
Thousands of students and companies have trusted HazMat Student since 2007 for high-quality online hazmat and safety training.
Fully Narrated, High-Quality Training
Professional narration, graphics and interactive content designed for maximum learning.
Self-Paced with Saved Progress
Stop and resume your training anytime without losing your place.
Available 24/7
Access your training whenever it fits your schedule.
Mobile-Friendly
Compatible with desktop computers, tablets and most mobile devices.
Up to 12 Months to Complete
Complete your training according to your own schedule.
Certificate & Wallet ID Card
Receive your Certificate of Course Completion immediately after passing the course and a Wallet ID Card by mail.
Excellent Customer Support
Friendly, knowledgeable assistance whenever you need it.
100% Money-Back Guarantee
Enroll with confidence. Covered by our Money-Back Guarantee Policy.
Training Requirements
Per DOT HAZMAT training requirements, a complete curriculum must include the applicable training components listed below.
General Awareness Training Basic or Advanced
We offer two options for DOT HAZMAT General Awareness training:
Function-Specific and Modal-Specific Training
Function-Specific Training
Function-specific training is required hazardous materials training specific to the functions an employee actually performs.
We offer the following function-specific course options, which may be taken separately or are already included within the DOT HAZMAT General Awareness/Function Specific (10 Hour) course, with the exception of the Shipping Batteries course.
- DOT HAZMAT: Function Specific – Hazard Classes and Divisions
- DOT HAZMAT: Function Specific – Shipping Papers
- DOT HAZMAT: Function Specific – Packaging
- DOT HAZMAT: Function Specific – Marking
- DOT HAZMAT: Function Specific – Labeling
- DOT HAZMAT: Function Specific – Placarding
- DOT HAZMAT: Function Specific – Using the Hazmat Table (HMT)
- DOT HAZMAT: Function Specific – Shipping Batteries This course is not included in the DOT HAZMAT General Awareness/Function Specific 10-Hour course.
Additional function-specific training may be required to prepare you for the specific duties you perform on the job.
Modal-Specific Training
Modal-specific training is specific to the mode of transportation used to transport hazardous materials. We offer eight DOT HAZMAT modal-specific courses:
Security Awareness Training
We offer a 100% online DOT HAZMAT Security Awareness training course.
DOT HAZMAT Security Awareness training is also included within our DOT HAZMAT General Awareness/Function Specific (10 Hour) course and our DOT HAZMAT Basic General Awareness (4 Hour) course.
Safety Awareness Training
DOT Hazmat Safety Awareness training is included within our DOT Hazmat General Awareness/Function Specific (10 Hour) course and our DOT Hazmat Basic General Awareness (4 Hour) course.
We are also working on standalone online DOT Hazmat Safety Awareness course to help workers meet this requirement. Coming soon!
In-Depth Security Training If applicable
When an employer is required by 49 CFR 172.800(b) to have an in-depth security plan, in-depth security training is also required.
This site-specific training covers actions taken by employees according to the employer’s plan. We do not currently offer in-depth security training.
Driver Training for Motor Vehicle Operators If applicable
Motor vehicle drivers who transport hazardous materials must have training on the safe transportation of hazardous materials by highway.
A variety of driver-safety courses may be needed. We do not currently offer driver training.
Employer Training Responsibilities
HAZMAT employers are required to train new HAZMAT employees within 90 days of employment or assuming new related job responsibilities. Direct supervision is required while an employee performs a hazardous materials function until the required training is complete.
DOT requirements specify that HAZMAT employees must be retrained and tested at least once every three years. However, the FAA, under 14 CFR, requires air carrier employees to be trained every two years. DOT and FAA regulations also require employers to maintain training records.
Who is considered a Hazmat Employer?
Per the U.S. Department of Transportation, a Hazmat Employer is a person whose employee or employees perform the following functions:
- Transport hazardous materials in commerce;
- Cause hazardous materials to be transported or shipped in commerce; or
- Represent, mark, certify, sell, offer, recondition, test, repair or modify packagings as qualified for use in the transportation of hazardous materials.
The term “Hazmat Employer” also includes any department, agency or instrumentality of the United States, a state, a political subdivision of a state or an Indian tribe engaged in offering or transporting hazardous materials in commerce.
Who is considered a Hazmat Employee?
Per the U.S. Department of Transportation, a Hazmat Employee is a person who is employed by a hazardous materials employer and directly affects hazardous materials transportation safety.
This includes an owner-operator of a motor vehicle that transports hazardous materials and a person, including a self-employed person, who:
- Loads, unloads or handles hazardous materials;
- Tests, reconditions, repairs, modifies, marks or otherwise represents packagings as qualified for use in the transportation of hazardous materials;
- Prepares hazardous materials for transportation;
- Is responsible for the safety of transporting hazardous materials; or
- Operates a vehicle used to transport hazardous materials.
Additional Training
This online DOT HAZMAT training course is not meant to replace company-specific or function-specific training provided by your employer on equipment use and procedures for your particular work environment.
You must be trained by your employer on the hazards, equipment, engineering and administrative controls, safe work practices and emergency plans specific to your role and workplace. Employers need to evaluate employee needs for additional DOT hazardous materials training and training in the use of personal protective equipment used on the job.
In all situations, employers are required to ensure their employees are adequately trained to perform their jobs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about DOT HAZMAT General Awareness / Function Specific training, course completion and certification.
What is the DOT HazMat General Awareness / Function Specific course, and who needs it?
This 10-hour online training teaches employees how to safely handle, prepare, and ship hazardous materials in transportation. It is designed for workers who need to meet the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) training requirements in 49 CFR 172.704(a)(1) and some of the basic requirements in (a)(2)(i) for General Awareness/Familiarization and Function-Specific training.
You need this course if you’re involved in any part of hazardous materials transportation, such as packaging, labeling, marking, loading, unloading, preparing shipping papers, or operating a vehicle that transports hazmat.
Is this course for initial training, refresher training, or both?
Both. You can take this course to meet your initial DOT HazMat training requirement or as your refresher course. DOT requires all hazmat employees to be retrained and tested at least once every three years.
How is the course delivered and how long do I have to finish it?
The course is 100% online, fully narrated, and self-paced. You can log in and out anytime and progress is automatically saved. You’ll have up to 12 months from your enrollment date to complete it. You can take the course on a computer, tablet, or phone from anywhere with internet access. Larger screens typically provide a better training experience.
How long does DOT HAZMAT General Awareness Advanced Training take to complete?
This course is designed to take approximately ten (10) hours to complete. Actual completion time may vary, as some students may progress more quickly while others may take longer.
This training is intended to be used as part of an overall hazardous materials training program and may be combined with other training completed throughout the year to help meet applicable hour requirements.
What topics are covered in this 10-hour DOT HazMat course?
You’ll learn how to identify, classify, and properly ship hazardous materials according to DOT regulations. Topics include:
- Understanding the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR)
- Hazard classes 1–9
- Using the Hazmat Table (HMT)
- Marking, labeling, and placarding requirements
- Packaging and shipping paper preparation
- Security awareness and transportation safety procedures
- Employer and employee responsibilities for compliance
What certificate will I receive when I finish the course?
When you pass all module exams with a score of 70% or higher and complete the course, you can immediately download, save, or print your completion certificate (PDF). Your wallet-sized PVC ID card will be mailed out within 24 hours of completion.
What are the benefits of taking this course online with HazMat Student?
- Fully narrated, interactive modules with audio, photos, and text
- Mobile-friendly, self-paced access 24/7
- Detailed downloadable student manual
- Instant certificate download
- 100% Money-Back Guarantee
- Up to 12 months to complete the course
You can train at your own speed, review sections as needed, and meet federal DOT training requirements conveniently from home or work.
Does this course cover all of my DOT HazMat training requirements?
This course helps workers satisfy the General Awareness/Familiarization, Security Awareness, and Function-Specific training portions required by 49 CFR 172.704. Depending on your job duties and your employer’s policies, you may need to complete additional DOT training.
How often do I need to take DOT HazMat refresher training?
DOT regulations require hazmat employees to complete refresher training every three years to stay compliant and up to date with regulatory changes.
Who qualifies as a “hazmat employee”?
A “hazmat employee” is anyone who directly affects the safe transportation of hazardous materials in commerce. This includes people who:
- Prepare hazmat packages for shipping
- Mark, label, or placard containers
- Load or unload hazmat vehicles
- Operate vehicles that transport hazmat
- Manufacture, test, or repair hazmat packaging
If your work involves these or other activities directly involved in hazmat transportation, DOT hazmat training is mandatory.
Can I purchase this course for multiple employees or my company?
Yes. Advance purchase volume pricing is available for businesses that need to train multiple employees. Corporate accounts make it easy to track employee progress and manage certificates. Contact us for more information.
