At least once every three years. A plan change can start an earlier clock. If you revise a required security plan, in-depth security training is due within 90 days. A three-year reminder alone will miss that.
Reviewed October 17, 2026
Put the rule behind the reminder
Section 172.704(c)(2) sets recurrent hazmat training at no less often than once every three years. §172.704(c)(2)
If you revise a required security plan during that cycle, the required in-depth training must happen within 90 days after the revised plan takes effect. §172.704(c)(2)
On your calendar, record each employee's last completion date, the next planned course and any open training from a plan change. Have the plan owner alert the training lead the day a revision takes effect. These are our suggested controls, not extra federal deadlines.
Keep the course proof with the calendar
Relevant training from a previous employer or other source may count if you get a current training record from the employee's previous employer. §172.704(c)(3)
Current training records must include the preceding three years. Keep them for as long as the person works as a hazmat employee, and for 90 days after. §172.704(d)
The hazmat employer stays responsible for following the hazardous materials regulations, whether or not the required training has been done. §172.704(c)(4)
Have your training lead check whether other rules apply to the work each person does. Keep those checks beside the DOT reminder. One date does not answer every training duty.
To find trainers, see our recommended trainers.
Questions and answers
Can we carry forward a date from someone's old employer?
Maybe. Get the actual training record and check that the training is relevant. Set your calendar from that proof, not from a remembered course date.
About Bill Stomp
Bill Stomp built Propane Safety Pro. He is a war veteran who ran over 87 propane branch offices across 12 states, and he has helped more than 200 propane companies improve their profits, sales, safety and operations.
Next step
Ready to name who owns your refresher calendar and records? Start with the Policies & Procedures manual for propane companies.
General information, not legal advice.