Texas CDL Requirements

Texas Commercial Driver License (CDL) Requirements

Getting a Commercial Driver License (CDL) in Texas is managed by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), not a traditional DMV. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about obtaining your Texas CDL, from age requirements to testing procedures and fees.

Age Requirements for Texas CDL

Texas follows federal minimum age requirements with specific intrastate exceptions:

• Age 18: Minimum age for Texas CDL (any class) for intrastate driving only within Texas, with no placarded hazardous materials or double/triple trailers
• Age 21: Required for interstate CDL operations, hazardous materials endorsement, or double/triple trailer combinations

Texas does not set different minimum ages by CDL class (A/B/C). The age requirement is based on whether you'll be driving intrastate versus interstate or carrying hazardous materials.

Commercial Learner Permit (CLP) Requirements

Before obtaining your CDL, you must first get a Commercial Learner Permit (CLP). To qualify for a Texas CLP, you must:

• Hold a valid Texas Class C driver license in good standing
• Provide proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence
• Provide valid identity documentation
• Provide Social Security number verification
• Complete self-certification of medical status using DPS forms CDL-4, CDL-5, or CDL-10
• Pass a vision examination
• Pass required knowledge (written) tests

Knowledge Test Requirements

You must pass knowledge tests for:

• General Knowledge: Required for all CDL classes
• Additional endorsement tests as needed:
  • Air brakes
  • Combination vehicles
  • Passenger transport
  • School bus
  • Tanker vehicles
  • Hazardous materials
  • Double/triple trailers

Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) Requirements

Federal ELDT requirements are strictly enforced in Texas. You must complete ELDT from a provider listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry before taking your CDL skills test.

ELDT is required for:

• First-time Class A or Class B CDL
• Upgrading from Class B to Class A
• First-time passenger (P), school bus (S), or hazardous materials (H) endorsements

You must hold your CLP for at least 14 days and complete all required ELDT before you're eligible to schedule your CDL skills test.

CDL Skills Test Requirements

The Texas CDL skills test consists of three parts, all conducted in the type of vehicle you plan to drive commercially:

Three-Part Skills Test

1. Vehicle Inspection (Pre-trip) Test: Demonstrate your ability to inspect your vehicle safely
2. Basic Vehicle Control Test: Show you can control the vehicle in a controlled environment
3. Road Test: Demonstrate safe driving skills in traffic

Texas DPS has implemented the AAMVA CDL Skills Test Modernization at nearly all locations, providing an updated test format. Only Del Rio and Wichita Falls locations still use the previous format.

Medical Certification Requirements

All Texas CDL holders must meet federal medical requirements:

• Complete self-certification of medical status using DPS forms CDL-4, CDL-5, or CDL-10
• Provide evidence of medical status at application
• Obtain a valid DOT medical examiner's certificate ("medical card") if operating in non-excepted interstate or intrastate commerce
• Maintain current medical status with DPS to avoid CDL downgrade

You must be physically capable of obtaining the required medical certification before taking any CDL skills test.

CDL Testing Locations

Not all DPS offices offer CDL skills testing. You must use a DPS office or authorized testing location that provides CDL examinations. To find testing locations:

• Use DPS's online appointment scheduling system
• Filter for CDL testing capabilities
• Select offices that offer both knowledge tests (for CLP and endorsements) and CDL skills tests for your specific class

The DPS website provides a comprehensive list and locator tool for driver license offices that perform CDL knowledge and skills tests.

Required Documentation

When applying for your Texas CDL, bring:

• Current valid Texas driver license
• Proof of identity (birth certificate, passport, etc.)
• Proof of Social Security number
• Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence
• Completed medical self-certification forms
• DOT medical certificate (if required)
• ELDT completion certificate
• Payment for applicable fees

CDL Classes and Endorsements

Texas offers three CDL classes:

• Class A: Combination vehicles with GVWR of 26,001+ pounds, towing vehicles over 10,000 pounds
• Class B: Large trucks, buses, and other vehicles with GVWR of 26,001+ pounds
• Class C: Vehicles designed to transport 16+ passengers or hazardous materials

Available Endorsements

• H: Hazardous Materials
• N: Tank Vehicles
• P: Passenger
• S: School Bus
• T: Double/Triple Trailers
• X: Combination Hazmat/Tank

Renewal and Maintenance

Texas CDLs must be renewed regularly, and you must maintain:

• Current medical certification status
• Clean driving record
• Compliance with federal and state regulations
• Updated contact information with DPS

Use the DPS online services to renew your CDL and update medical certification information.

Getting Started

To begin your Texas CDL journey:

1. Ensure you meet age and basic requirements
2. Study for the knowledge tests using the Texas CDL manual
3. Gather required documentation
4. Complete medical self-certification
5. Schedule and pass knowledge tests to obtain CLP
6. Complete required ELDT training
7. Practice driving with your CLP for at least 14 days
8. Schedule and pass the three-part skills test

For the most current information, fees, and to access online services, visit the Texas Department of Public Safety Commercial Driver License pages on their official website.