Driver (CDL) - Markings

When you offer a hazardous material for transportation, or transport a hazardous material, you must mark each package and motor vehicle containing the hazardous material as required by the HMR. The term marking refers to placing the required information on the outer package containing the hazardous materials. This includes a proper shipping name, identification number with the appropriate prefix, specifications or UN markings, plus any other required information, instructions, and cautions.

Place all markings on packages so that no part of the marking or any other required marking or label is covered or obscured in any way. Place markings that relate to one another together so as not to cause confusion or limit their effectiveness. In addition, all markings should meet the following requirements:

• Durable and printed or otherwise marked on or affixed to the external surface of the package or overpack
• Readily visible and legible
• Able to withstand open weather exposure
• Written in English, in addition to the language required by the State of origin
• Printed on or affixed to the surface of the package or on a label, tag, or sign
• Displayed on a background of sharply contrasting color
• Located away from any other marking, such as advertising, that could substantially reduce the effectiveness

To learn more about CDL HAZMAT Transportation visit our DOT Driver (CDL) HAZMAT Transportation Online Training web page.