Yes, if the special permit applies to the worker’s job. DOT requires training on the rules for that work. That includes relevant exemptions or special permits. §172.704(a)(2)(i)
Identify the permit before building the lesson
Start with the actual permit. List the work your company does under it. This page does not decide your right to use the permit. It does not decide what the permit allows.
A person doing work covered by a special permit must follow its terms, as applicable. The offeror also has duties for its own pre-transportation work. It must meet the rules that apply to that work. §171.2(b), (c)
For a planning note, we suggest listing the permit number and version. Name the affected duty and the person who reviews it. Have that person check whether the permit applies. They should confirm your right to use it before staff follow it.
Teach the conditions that affect the job
The employer must thoroughly teach the rules for each worker’s tasks. Give the trainer the permit terms that apply. Check what the general hazmat course covers. §172.702(b)
We suggest linking each permit term to an approved work step. What must the worker spot? What must they do? When must they stop and ask a supervisor? These prompts help plan a lesson. They do not sum up a specific permit.
Include the permit work in the assessment
The employer must test staff on the required subjects by suitable means. Include the permit-related tasks assigned to the worker. §172.702(d)
The file must identify the training materials. Use a description, copy or location. It must also certify training and testing. We suggest keeping the permit reference with the lesson. That makes the source easier to trace. §172.704(d)(3), (5)
Give later changes a review path
PHMSA says a new or changed rule can trigger training. When it affects a worker’s task, follow that rule’s compliance timeline. For a revised permit, read its own terms. Have the reviewer decide which lessons need to change. This page sets no blanket deadline for permit updates. PHMSA training FAQ, Q12
Your written procedure can name who keeps permit references current. It can say who tells the training lead about changes. Confirm the scope of any permit lesson or service. Do not assume a manual includes it.
About Bill Stomp
Bill Stomp ran 87+ propane branches in 12 states and helped 200+ propane companies. He was VP of sales and marketing for a multi-state fuel company.
Put it in writing
See the Propane Policies and Procedures Manual. Discuss your permit-related procedure before ordering; the published training scope does not promise a particular permit lesson.
General information, not legal advice. Sources read October 17, 2026. This answer addresses the federal hazardous materials transportation rules; check separate state and other applicable requirements.