PHMSA Registration Requirements for Hazmat Carriers and Shippers

Everything carriers and shippers must know about federal hazmat transport rules.

What is PHMSA Registration?

PHMSA Registration is a yearly federal requirement for companies that transport or handle hazardous materials (hazmat). It ensures compliance with U.S. safety regulations and is overseen by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration.

You are required to register with PHMSA if your business does any of the following:

Transports placardable hazardous materials
Offers hazmat for transportation
Operates cargo tanks or tank cars
Transports hazardous waste
Acts as a freight forwarder or hazmat broker

Who Must Register:

Registration is required if you’re a trucking company hauling gasoline, propane, or acids; a shipper of explosives, lithium batteries, or radioactive materials; or if you’re involved in hazardous waste transportation.

Not Required to Register:

You don’t need to register if you transport a limited quantity of hazmat that doesn’t require placards, or if you’re a private individual moving personal or household items.

PHMSA registration follows an annual cycle, covering the period from July 1 to June 30 of the following year. To stay compliant, you must renew your registration by June 30 each year. Failing to register or renew on time may lead to civil penalties and even suspension of your operating authority.

PHMSA registration is legally required for hazmat transport. Failure to register can result in fines over $89,000 per violation, per day. It also proves your compliance during FMCSA audits, DOT inspections, and when applying for permits or insurance. Staying registered keeps your business legal, safe, and ready for inspections.

Registration verifies that your business complies with key federal safety and preparedness requirements:

Compliance Area	Description
Hazmat Employee Training	Must comply with 49 CFR Part 172, Subpart H
Emergency Preparedness Fee	Supports national hazmat emergency response programs
Insurance Confirmation	Confirms minimum liability coverage for hazmat transport
DOT Authority Validation	Cross-checked during audits and roadside inspections

Step 1: Determine Applicability

Check if you transport or offer hazmat that requires placarding under 49 CFR guidelines.

Step 2: Submit Registration

You can register online or by mail:

Step 3: Pay the Fee

Based on business size:

The annual PHMSA registration fee depends on your business size. Small businesses and nonprofits pay $275 plus a $25 processing fee, while large entities are required to pay $2,575 plus the same $25 processing fee.

Step 4: Carry Certificate

Your PHMSA registration certificate must be printed and kept in all business locations and available in all vehicles used for hazmat transport.

PHMSA registration must be renewed annually by June 30. Failing to renew can result in civil penalties of up to $89,678 per day, per violation, and may even lead to the suspension of your DOT operating authority.