Skip to: Navigation | Content | Footer

Transporting dangerous or hazardous goods

Updated: 21 June 2010

Generally, if you're transporting dangerous or hazardous goods, you need a dangerous goods (D) endorsement on your driver licence. Dangerous goods include substances and articles that have explosive, flammable, toxic, infectious or corrosive properties. They also include containers that have held dangerous goods.

When dangerous goods endorsement requirements apply

A lot depends on what you're transporting, how much, and under what circumstances.

You need a D endorsement if you're transporting dangerous goods:

You don’t need a D endorsement if you’re transporting dangerous goods:

Getting a D endorsement

If you are required to hold a D endorsement to transport dangerous or hazardous goods:

  • You must hold a current New Zealand licence for the vehicle you're using to transport the dangerous or hazardous goods.
  • You must successfully complete an approved course teaching the knowledge and skills relating to the transport of dangerous goods.

As part of the D endorsement application process, you'll need to prove that your eyesight meets the required standard. Find out more about other requirements of the D endorsement application process.

Generally, we issue D endorsements for 5 years, after which you’ll have to reapply. Before you reapply you will need to undertake an approved course and obtain a certificate to say you have successfully completed the course.

Transporting dangerous goods for domestic or recreational use?

See the requirements you need to meet.

Transporting dangerous goods as tools-of-trade?

See the requirements you need to meet.

top