Texas CDL Requirements | 2026-27

Everything you need to get your commercial driver's license in Texas — license classes, age limits, DOT medical, endorsements, and the full step-by-step process.

Before you can haul freight, drive a bus, or go owner-operator in Texas, you need the right Commercial Driver's License (CDL). Here's exactly what's required — classes, age, medical, endorsements, and the step-by-step process to get licensed in Texas.

CDL License Classes
Class A

Combination Vehicles

Any combination of vehicles with a GVWR over 26,000 lbs, where the towed unit weighs more than 10,000 lbs. Most tractor-trailers and semi-trucks fall here.

Examples: 18-wheelers, flatbeds, tankers, livestock haulers

Class B

Single Large Vehicles

A single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 lbs or more, or towing something under 10,000 lbs. Also covers straight trucks and large buses.

Examples: dump trucks, city buses, box trucks, delivery vehicles

Class C

Smaller Commercial Vehicles

Vehicles not covered by Class A or B that carry 16+ passengers or transport hazardous materials requiring placards.

Examples: passenger vans, HazMat transport under 26,000 lbs

Note: A Class A license allows you to drive Class B and C vehicles. Class B covers Class C. Most owner-operators need a Class A.
Age Requirements
18
Intrastate Driving

Within Texas only. You can drive commercially inside state lines at 18, but you cannot cross into another state.

21
Interstate Driving

Required to cross state lines or haul hazardous materials, regardless of class or endorsement.

Basic Eligibility Requirements
  • Valid Texas Class C driver's license (no suspensions or revocations)
  • Proof of Texas residency and lawful presence
  • Social Security number for federal verification
  • Select a self-certification category with Texas DPS
  • Pass DOT medical exam (if your certification category requires it)
  • Clean enough driving record — no major disqualifying offenses
  • Complete ELDT training at an FMCSA-registered school
  • Hold your Commercial Learner's Permit for at least 14 days
2026 Update — English-Only Knowledge Tests: As of June 1, 2026, all Texas CDL knowledge tests are administered in English only. Interpreters are no longer permitted. Prepare using the official Texas CDL Handbook from Texas DPS.
The Texas CDL Process — Step by Step
  1. Confirm Your EligibilityCheck your age, driving record, and medical requirements. If you have DUIs, suspensions, or serious violations, talk to Texas DPS before investing in training.
  2. Complete ELDT TrainingFederal law requires Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from a school on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry before you can take your skills test. Verify the school at tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov before enrolling.
  3. Get Your DOT Medical CardSchedule a DOT physical with an FMCSA-certified examiner. Most applicants pass without issue — corrected vision and managed blood pressure typically don't disqualify you. Valid for up to 2 years.
  4. Pass the CDL Knowledge Tests at Texas DPSWritten tests at a DPS location. Pass to receive your Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP). Study the full Texas CDL Handbook — this test requires real prep.
  5. Hold Your CLP for at Least 14 DaysFederal rule — you cannot take your skills test until 14 days after your CLP is issued. Use this time to practice.
  6. Pass the CDL Skills TestThree-part test: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control (backing maneuvers), and on-road driving. Your ELDT school must upload your completion to the FMCSA system before you can test.
  7. Receive Your Texas CDLDPS processes your application and issues your CDL. Total timeline from starting training to licensed: typically 4–8 weeks for full-time programs.
Common Endorsements
Code Endorsement What It Covers Extra Requirement
H Hazardous Materials Transport of placarded hazardous materials TSA fingerprint background check + knowledge test
N Tanker Liquid bulk cargo in tanks of 119+ gallons Knowledge test only
X HazMat + Tanker Combined H + N — common in TX petrochemical/Permian Basin TSA background check + knowledge test
P Passenger Vehicles carrying 16+ passengers Knowledge + skills test in passenger vehicle
T Doubles/Triples Pulling double or triple trailers Knowledge test only
S School Bus Driving school buses on public routes Passenger endorsement + school bus knowledge test

Got Your CDL? Ready to Go Independent?

Going owner-operator is a different checklist entirely — authority, insurance, IFTA, ELD, and more. We put together the complete step-by-step guide so nothing slips through the cracks.

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