In this article we will explain, step by step, how to get a CDL license in Texas, the requirements you must meet and the fees you must pay. You will also find the link to download the Texas CDL manual.
To obtain a CDL license in Texas, you must:
1. Take the training courses that apply, depending on the CDL license you are going to request. This training is supervised by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and registration can be done on its own website.
2. Apply for a Commercial Driver License Permit (CLP). To process this permit you need:
- Pass a knowledge exam for the type of CDL license you are seeking, as well as any endorsements you require.
- Have a current Texas driver's license.
3. Practice driving for at least 14 days with your driving licensewithout traffic ticket or car accidents.
4. Make an appointment for a driver's license to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).
5. Attend the DPS office on the day of the appointment, with the completed CDL application and the necessary paperwork.and take the Texas CDL exam (written and driving), to demonstrate that you can reliably operate large commercial vehicles.
Requirements to obtain a commercial driver's permit in Texas
In addition to a valid driver's license, you will need to meet the following requirements to obtain the CLP in Texas:
- Proof of US citizenship or proof of legal presence in the country.
- Proof of residency in the state of Texas.
- A valid ID and social security number.
- Self-certification of medical status (forms: CDL-4, CDL-5 or CDL-10).
- Coroner's Certificate (depending on the type of medical status self-certification you have selected).
- Texas Vehicle Registration.
- Proof of car insurance.
CDL License Requirements in Texas
To obtain the CDL in Texas you must meet the following requirements:
- Have practiced driving with a Driving License for at least 14 days.
- Complete the CDL application before arriving at the driver's license office.
- Provide the application, proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence, proof of Texas residency, proof of identity (see DPS Texas approved documents), and social security number to the driver license office.
- Pay the application fee at dps.texas.gov.
- Provide your fingerprint and take a photo.
- Pass the vision exam.
- Pass all three required driving tests: vehicle inspection test, basic vehicle control test, and driving test.
CDL license price in Texas
Below, you will find the price of a CDL license in Texas depending on the type of document and the age of the applicant:
- For people between 18 and 84 years old (new or renewal) the price of the CDL license in Texas is $97 (valid for 8 years). If you have a hazardous materials endorsement it costs $61 (valid for 5 years).
- Those over 84 years of age (new or renewal) must pay $26 (due after two years).
- The Commercial Learner's Permit – CLP (new or renewal): $25. Expires 180 days after issue.
- The price of the CDL license in Texas for replacementif your driver's license was lost, damaged or stolen, it is $11 and maintains its expiration date.
- CDL Texas license for non-residents (new or renewal): $121 (Expires when legal presence period expires).
- CDL for people with legal problems registered under Chapter 62, CCP (new or renewal): $21.
- Motorcycles with CDL– $15 added to CDL fee (due when CDL expires). If it is renewed, $8 is added to the CDL fee (expires when the CDL expires). Add motorcycle to existing CDL: $16 (expires when CDL expires).
Texas CDL License Manual
The official Texas CDL manual was created so that drivers know the regulations that apply to commercial licenses in the state. Its study is essential if you want to obtain the CDL in Texas.
You can download the Texas CDL Manual in Spanish by clicking on the following button.
Download the Texas Driver's Manual
Texas CDL License Types
There are three types of CDL driver's license in Texas:
- Texas Class A License: to operate any combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of more than 26,000 pounds. The GVWR of the towed vehicle is greater than 10,000 pounds.
- Class B Business License: to drive single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The towed vehicle must not weigh more than 10,000 pounds.
- Class C Commercial License: to drive any individual vehicle or combination of vehicles that is designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, or that is used in the transportation of materials considered hazardous.
How long does it take to get a CDL in Texas?
The entire process to obtain a Texas CDL license can take a month and a half or longer. Training takes approximately 3 to 4 weeks and practice with the CLP permit takes at least 14 days.
Can I get a CDL online in Texas?
No, you must meet the requirements and go in person to a DPS office with all the necessary precautions to take the necessary exams and obtain the license. You can request an appointment online.
Can I get a CDL without going to school in Texas?
No, to obtain a CDL you must complete driver training from an FMCSA-approved program. If you are going to transport dangerous materials, you must attend training courses on this type of substances.
How many exams are there for the CDL license in Texas?
You must pass: the vision test, the knowledge test (safe driving, cargo transportation, air brakes if applicable and endorsements), the vehicle inspection test, the basic control skills test, the road driving test. road.