Texas CDL Requirements

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) issues CDLs in three classes. Class A covers combination vehicles over 26,001 lbs GVWR towing a trailer over 10,000 lbs — required for most tractor-trailer operations. Class B covers single vehicles over 26,001 lbs. Class C covers vehicles transporting hazmat or 16+ passengers. Applicants must be at least 18 for intrastate CDL or 21 for interstate operation. Texas requires a valid Texas driver license (or out-of-state equivalent), a Social Security number, and proof of US citizenship or lawful permanent residency per federal REAL ID requirements. Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements effective since February 2022 mandate completion of theory and behind-the-wheel training from an FMCSA-registered provider before taking the skills test. Texas has over 200 registered ELDT providers.

The Texas CDL process involves a written knowledge test and a three-part skills test (pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving). The CDL application fee is $97 for an 8-year license. The knowledge test costs $11 per attempt (free for first attempt at some locations). The skills test fee is $50 per attempt when taken at a DPS office, though many applicants use DPS-authorized third-party testers that charge $200-$400. Knowledge tests are available in English and Spanish at all DPS offices. Applicants must pass the general knowledge test plus any endorsement-specific tests before scheduling the skills test. Texas allows up to three skills test attempts before requiring a waiting period. The Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) is valid for 180 days and costs $24.

Texas offers several CDL endorsements: H (Hazmat) requires a TSA background check ($86.50) and separate knowledge test, taking 45-60 days for clearance. T (Double/Triple Trailers) adds authority to pull double or triple trailer combinations. N (Tank Vehicle) is needed for liquid bulk transport. P (Passenger) covers buses and passenger vehicles. S (School Bus) requires additional driving test. X (Combined Hazmat and Tank) is popular for fuel haulers. The most in-demand endorsements in the Texas freight market are H and T, given the state's heavy petroleum, chemical, and intermodal industries. Adding an endorsement costs $11 for the knowledge test. The Hazmat endorsement must be renewed every 5 years with a new TSA check, while other endorsements renew with your CDL.

Texas has one of the largest CDL training markets in the country. Major programs include SAGE Truck Driving Schools (multiple TX locations), C1 Truck Driver Training (Dallas/Fort Worth), and Del Mar College CDL Program (Corpus Christi). Private CDL school costs range from $3,000-$8,000 for a 3-6 week Class A program. Community college programs tend to be cheaper ($2,000-$5,000) and may qualify for WIOA workforce funding or Pell Grant assistance through eligible institutions. Texas Workforce Solutions offices can provide up to $5,000 in training assistance for eligible applicants through the Skills Development Fund. Many Texas mega-carriers — Werner, Swift, KLLM — offer company-sponsored training with a service commitment of 12-18 months. Veterans can use GI Bill benefits at approved schools. The Texas Workforce Commission maintains a list of approved CDL training providers.