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January 7, 2022

Effective HAZMAT Training for Safer Transport Compliance

If you are in the transportation business and specialize in transporting hazardous materials (hazmat), your employees need to undergo the HAZMAT Transportation Training. Why is training important? The training will help reduce or (if possible) prevent hazmat incidents influenced by human errors. As long as you deal in transporting hazmat and operate in the United States, undergoing this training is not negotiable and is held in high regard by the relevant authorities.

When it comes to lives, properties, and our immediate environment, the US Department of Transportation and FMCSA have placed strict measures for protection. Therefore, for the transportation of hazardous materials, there are federal transportation laws that govern the concerned entities and one of such laws is the Hazmat Transportation Training.

How DOT Compliance Group Assists Motor Carriers In Getting The Necessary Training

DOT Compliance Group LLC was founded years ago with the primary aim of rendering professional services to the trucking industry. From USDOT number registration, Drug & Alcohol Testing Program, Biennial Update (MCS-150), to HAZMAT Registration, Hazmat Training, and Hazmat Permit. We have been helping hundreds of carriers over the years and our exceptional services speak for themselves.

One of the ways we assist motor carriers is by sending out reminders to employers and owner-operators informing them of what needs to be done. So far, the testimonials we have gotten from the reminder notifications we send out are amazing. Some of our customers have testified of how our support team saved them from failing to comply with the USDOT rules and regulations.

As for HAZMAT Transportation Training, the reminder notifications we send out contain everything a carrier needs to know about Hazmat training. We let the concerned entities know what the training is all about and also inform them of the consequences of not adhering to the rules and regulations laid down by FMCSA. To even make it worthwhile, we have a team of professionals that handle anything that has to do with Hazmat – Hazmat Registration, Hazmat Permit, and Hazmat Training.

Training Requirements For Hazmat Transportation Company

If you operate a Hazmat transportation business, you need to test and train all the employees under your watch. Also, you must ensure that your employees’ training is certified and documented for future reference. Failure to do this means you are operating your business illegally and there are civil penalties that await you. At DOT Compliance Group, we care about motor carriers and we want them to remain compliant all the time.

According to the United States Department of Transportation and FMCSA, Hazmat Transportation Training must include the following:

  • Security awareness
  • General awareness and familiarization
  • In-depth security training, peradventure a security plan is needed
  • Safety
  • Function Specific
  • Driver Training – This training is specific to any Hazmat employee who will be in charge of driving and supplying hazmat to different locations across the country.

These are the training needed by employees of a hazmat transportation company that is registered in the US. DOT Compliance Group is legally approved to offer this training to employees of hazmat transportation companies. We have been training and certifying employees of hazmat transportation companies, and so far, we have one of the best teams that offer exceptional training.

Frequency Of Training

For a new employee who just got a job in a hazmat transportation company or one who changes job functions, you need to complete the hazmat training within 90 days of getting the job or changing your job function. A new employee may take hazmat job functions before the completion of his training as long as the employee is under strict supervision from a well-trained employee that is knowledgeable about Hazmat requirements.

According to the rules of the USDOT, one hazmat training is not enough. Recurrent training needs to be carried out once every 3 years. The 3-year period begins to count from the date of completion of your training. If you are moving to another hazmat transportation company and your training status is still valid, you may use your training to satisfy your requirements in your current job provided your training records are documented and can be obtained from the previous source.

Expired Hazmat Training – What Happens Next?

In a case where your hazmat training has expired and you haven’t retaken the hazmat training before the expiry date, you will not be able to carry out jobs that have to do with hazardous materials in compliance with the laid down rules and regulations. It is advisable to take the training before your previous training expires so that you can remain compliant with the rules. Before your training expires and you haven’t deemed it fit to retake the hazmat training before the expiry date, it would be left to your employer to decide whether your initial training will be enough to keep you on the job.

Keeping Training Record

Hazmat employers have to document every training record of their employees. Below are the details of what records are to be kept:

  • The name of the employee that took the hazmat training
  • The completion date of the most recent hazmat training. This is essential in case an employee moves to another company. His records can be used in the new company as long as the training status is still valid.
  • The address and name of the company in charge of training your employees
  • Materials used for training (copy, description, or venue)
  • The personal address and name of the individual responsible for training your employees
  • Certificate to prove that an employee has been trained and approved.

All hazmat employers must ensure they keep this record for all their employees for at 3 three years from the day the training was conducted, and for 90 days before the employee leaves the company.

DOT Compliance Group LLC Will Help You Stay Compliant Always

At Dot Compliance Group, it is our pride to assist hazmat transportation companies to stay compliant with the regulations set out by the Department of Transportation. For this reason, we send out reminder notifications to create awareness of what needs to be done at the right time. We have helped countless businesses to maintain their operations by helping them with any compliant issues. As a Hazmat transportation company, we will be glad to offer all the services needed to keep your trucks on the road. Whether you are looking for Hazmat registration, Hazmat training, or Hazmat permit, we have a competent team that will take the burden off you.

Our support team is to help you improve your business by staying compliant all the time!

FAQ

What Happens If You Fail a DOT Inspection?

If the vehicle or driver is deemed unsafe, they may be placed out of service, meaning the vehicle cannot operate until all violations are properly corrected.

Who decides which level of inspection to perform?

Both the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration have a part in DOT inspection levels. The CVSA develops the criteria and sets the procedures for every inspection level. The FMCSA establishes overall regulations and determines which vehicles must be inspected.

How often do DOT inspections happen?

DOT inspections can happen at any time. They most commonly happen during roadside stops and weigh stations. Carriers with higher risk, poor safety records, or hazardous material may be inspected more frequently.

What documents are required during an inspection?

Documents required during an inspection include but may not be limited to:

  • State driver’s license or commercial driver’s license
  • Medical examiner’s certificate
  • Record of duty status
  • Vehicle registrations
  • Periodic inspections document for all vehicles being operated
  • Shipping papers or bills of lading
  • Information for hazardous materials being transported
  • Proof of insurance

What are common DOT inspection violations?

According to the FMCSA, the 5 most cited roadside violations are:

  1. False Report of Driver’s Record of Duty Status: log falsification providing inaccurate or intentionally altered duty-status information.
  2. No Record of Duty Status (ELD Required): using a commercial vehicle without the required electronic logging device or valid time records.
  3. Inoperable Required Lamp: crucial lights (headlights, brake lights, turn signals, etc.) are not functioning properly.
  4. Operating a Commercial Motor Vehicle Without a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
  5. Operating a Commercial Motor Vehicle Without Proof of a Periodic Inspection: failure to meet FMCSA the maintenance standards of a required annual inspection.

Why is updating VMT important for compliance?

VMT is tracked to determine fuel tax obligations (Vehicle Miles Traveled Tax) used for road maintenance and improvements. Trucking companies must keep accurate records of VMT to ensure they pay the correct amount of taxes.

How often should VMT be updated?

For motor carriers VMT must be updated every two years along with the MCS-150 form for the Biennial Update.

Can VMT be tracked automatically with technology?

Yes, Electronic Legging Devices (ELDs), Fleet Management Apps, and Mileage Tracking Software are all technological advancements that can simplify the process of VMT tracking.

How does VMT affect taxes and fuel reporting?

Accurate VMT records help document mileage for business-related tax deductions, ensuring compliance with IRS regulations. It also supports fuel tax reporting by tracking the miles each vehicle travels in different jurisdictions, which is essential for state and federal fuel tax calculations. Proper tracking reduces errors, prevents penalties, and provides a clear record of operational costs.

How do I know when my Biennial Update is due?

  • Your filing schedule depends on the last two digits of your USDOT number. The last digit corresponds with what month the form needs to be filed in. January is 1, February is 2, March is 3, etc. The next to last digit determines the year (odd-numbered year or even numbered year). For example, DOT number 1234567 files their biennial update in July (7) of every even year (6). Contact us today to see if you’re due.

Does the Biennial Update cost money to file?

While you can file your Biennial Update yourself for no cost through FMCSA. The process can often be confusing and time-consuming. Our team can handle your filing for you, simplifying the process for you.

Do intrastate carriers need to file the update?

Yes, even if carriers stay within state lines, a biennial update is still needed for their USDOT number.

What happens if I miss my filing deadline?

  • Failure to complete biennial update to FMCSA can be subject to fines with a maximum penalty of $10,000. If your update is past due, you can still file it to restore your compliance status. Contact us today to file your form! https://dotcompliancegroup.com/bu-update/ 

What are the new FMCSA rules in 2025?

  1. Civil Penalty Amount Increases
  2. Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse Becomes Exclusive Source for checking driver history.
  3. ELD Technology Required
  4. SMS (Safety Measurement System) Modernization
  5. Crash Preventability Determination Program Expanded

When do the 2025 FMCSA regulations take effect?

The confirmed dates these regulations take effect is May 30, June 23, October 1, 2025.

How can trucking companies prepare for these changes?

Regularly reviewing your Safety Measurement System (SMS) scores and maintaining personal checklists for inspections, driver qualification files, and drug and alcohol testing helps catch issues before they affect audits. Partnering with DOT Compliance Group streamlines filings, reporting, and ongoing monitoring, taking the guesswork out of FMCSA regulations and keeping your operation audit-ready year-round.

What Triggers a DOT Compliance Review?

A DOT compliance review is triggered when FMCSA wants to ensure a carrier is following safety regulations. Common triggers include high SMS safety scores, a history of crashes or violations, and previous noncompliance. Staying proactive with accurate records, driver files, and regular internal audits helps reduce the likelihood of a review.

Where can I get help with FMCSA filings?

DOT Compliance Group can assist with any help or questions you may have about FMCSA filings. Call 972-476-9962.

How long are violations kept on record?

According to the Clearinghouse rules, drug and alcohol violations remain in the FMCSA Clearinghouse for five years, provided all requirements (such as completing the return‑to‑duty process) have been met before that period ends.

What if an employer makes a mistake in reporting?

In practice, correcting an employer reporting error typically involves identifying the mistake in the database and then submitting a request for correction through the Clearinghouse portal or FMCSA procedures, so the record reflects accurate information. 

What are the penalties for non-compliance?

FMCSA rules allow civil penalties for non‑compliance, and separate authorities note that employers who fail to meet Clearinghouse requirements may face civil fines or criminal penalties under federal regulations.

Do trucking companies check the Clearinghouse?

Yes — trucking companies check the Clearinghouse as part of their hiring and compliance process. The FMCSA Clearinghouse is designed so employers can search a driver’s drug and alcohol violation records before permitting them to operate a commercial vehicle. Employers are required to conduct these queries for both prospective and current drivers as part of compliance.

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