This page tells you about the driver licence requirements for transporting dangerous goods.
Dangerous goods and the general requirements for transporting them
If you drive a vehicle or vehicle combination to transport dangerous goods, you may be required to hold a current D endorsement on your driver licence.
The below table summarises when a D endorsement is required. If you’re not sure whether you need a D endorsement, or you require further information around the requirements for transporting dangerous goods, call our contact centre on 0800 822 422.
| Dangerous goods transport scenario | Amount transported | Do you need a D endorsement? | |
| NOT for hire or direct reward | For domestic or recreational purposes | Any | No |
| As tools-of-trade for agricultural or commercial purposes | Under the limits in schedule 1 of the rule | No | |
| Over the limits in schedule 1 of the rule |
Yes* *Exceptions are listed in clause 9.2 of Land Transport Rule: Dangerous Goods 2005. D-endorsement is not required when any of the following exceptions apply:
|
||
|
For hire or direct reward (includes all licensed transport service operators) |
Any |
Yes* *Exceptions are listed in clause 9.2 of Land Transport Rule: Dangerous Goods 2005. D-endorsement is not required when the dangerous goods being transported are as per exceptions stated in 2) to 6) above. |
|
If you're not sure whether you need a D endorsement, call our contact centre on 0800 822 422.
To ensure you have the necessary knowledge and skills for transporting dangerous goods, you need to complete an approved course.
Find an approved course provider in your area
Please note you can’t drive on the road just because you’ve got the course certificate. The endorsement must be on your driver licence.
You can apply for a D endorsement at your nearest driver licensing agent.
You need to:
Find a driver licensing agent in your area
Land Transport Rule: Dangerous Goods 2005
Transporting dangerous goods for domestic or recreational purposes
Transporting dangerous goods as tools-of-trade for agricultural use or for a commercial purpose
Transporting dangerous goods as a licensed transport service operator or for direct reward
Download D endorsements for carrying dangerous goods (Factsheet 37) [PDF, 370 KB]
