Browsers that can not handle javascript will not be able to access some features of this site.
Skip Navigation
Department of State
Search our Services
Notary Public
License Plate Renewals
Become an Organ Donor
Michigan Voter Information Center
Michigan.gov
Michigan.gov HomeSOS Home | Site Map | FAQ | Online Services | Forms | Contact SOS
Printer Friendly Version Printer Friendly   Text Only Version Text Version  Share this page.
Law tightens 'hazmat' endorsement requirements

Contact:  (Media Contact) Kelly Chesney 517-373-2520
Agency: Secretary of State


Image of truck on highway JANUARY 31, 2005

Starting today, commercial drivers applying to haul hazardous materials must first undergo fingerprint and federal background record checks as required under the USA PATRIOT Act, announced Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land.

The fingerprint and background checks also will apply to hazardous materials endorsement renewals beginning May 31, 2005.

The new requirements apply to all states and are part of a move to strengthen homeland security and protect against terrorist threats.

"These changes are crucial to strengthening homeland security and defending against terrorist threats," Land said. "The world has changed since 9-11, and we need to take these precautions in order to protect the citizens of this great state and country. We will work with applicants to make sure that they understand the new process."

The federal Transportation Security Administration (TSA) oversees the implementation of the new requirements. The TSA has selected Integrated Biometric Technologies to assist states in identifying local companies to process fingerprint and federal background checks.

(Editor's note: Locations of the fingerprint offices have changed since this news release was posted in 2005. Where can I go to get a fingerprint check completed? )

In Michigan, Integrated Biometric Technologies has chosen Examination Management Services Inc., 27260 Haggerty Road, Suite A21, Farmington Hills. Additional companies will be added to the list in the near future.

To begin the process, drivers must preregister by submitting an application by Internet or telephone. The online application is available on the TSA Hazmat Web site. Telephone applications can be submitted by calling a toll-free driver help desk at (877) 429-7746. Drivers may also pay the $89.25 processing fee with a credit card or an electronic check when they preregister.

Once the application is submitted, drivers must appear in person at one of the companies authorized to collect fingerprints, present a valid driver's license or other document certifying their driver qualifications, have their fingerprints taken, provide any other information required and pay the $89.25 fee if they have not already done so. Only a money order made payable to Integrated Biometric Technology, LLC will be accepted.

Drivers appearing at a company for fingerprinting who have failed to preregister will be asked to call in their application information to the toll-free driver help desk before any further action is taken.

The TSA estimates that most background checks will be completed within 30 days. However, the process could take as long as 45-60 days. The TSA will notify all drivers in writing with the results. Drivers must bring the written TSA approval to a Secretary of State office before a hazardous materials endorsement can be issued.

The Department of State issues about 250 new and 1,200 renewed hazardous materials endorsements each month. A hazardous materials endorsement allows drivers to haul products, such as flammable solids, liquids and gases, explosives, poisons or radioactive materials, which pose a risk to health, safety and property during transportation.

More information about the USA PATRIOT Act hazardous materials endorsement requirements is available through the department's Web site at www.Michigan.gov/sos -- click on "Driver License and State ID."

RELATED LINKS
USA PATRIOT Act - HAZMAT Requirements
USA PATRIOT Act - HAZMAT Requirements - Frequently Asked Questions

 

Related Content
 •  Don't let watercraft registration lapse
 •  Secretary of State Mobile Branch Office schedules St. Clair County visit March 10
 •  Committees will pay over $225,000 for campaign finance law violations
 •  Enhanced driver's license to be featured at Secretary of State's Outdoorama booth
 •  Land's customer service drive continues
 •  Remember to vote on Feb. 24
 •  Office to offer voter registration opportunity for new citizens
 •  Office to offer voter registration opportunity for new citizens
 •  Visitors to GR Boat Show can learn more about upcoming enhanced driver's license
 •  Secretary of State makes port call at Detroit Boat Show
 •  Secretary Land creates medical advisory board
 •  Land honored by women's business group
 •  Secretary Land to spearhead discussion on voter participation
 •  Offices to be closed for Presidents Day
 •  Enhanced driver's license highlighted at GR auto show
 •  Secretary Land awards $9,362 to assist Lansing with polling place improvements
 •  Voter registration deadline nears for Feb. 24 election
 •  Voter registration offered to new citizens
 •  Secretary of State pilots ticket-pay ability at Ann Arbor Self-Service Station
 •  Department of State Offices to close for Martin Luther King holiday

Michigan.gov Home | SOS Home | Site Map | FAQ | Online Services | Forms | Contact SOS | State Web Sites
Privacy Policy | Link Policy | Accessibility Policy | Security Policy | Michigan News | Michigan.gov Survey

Copyright © 2001-2009 State of Michigan