What you need to get a CDL in Texas

A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) in Texas requires you to hold a valid regular driver's license first, pass a written knowledge test specific to the type of vehicle you'll drive, and pass a skills test that includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control, and an on-road driving portion. You must be at least 18 years old to drive commercial vehicles within Texas, or 21 to drive across state lines. The entire process typically takes several weeks from start to finish.

Texas issues CDLs through the Department of Public Safety (DPS). You cannot get a CDL by mail or online — you must test in person at a DPS office or an approved third-party testing facility. The state recognizes three classes of commercial licenses (Class A, B, and C), each tied to the vehicle's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and what you're hauling.

Key Takeaways

  • You must hold a valid Texas driver's license before you can test for a CDL, and you must be at least 18 years old (21 to drive interstate).
  • The written test covers general knowledge, air brakes, and endorsement-specific topics, and you must score at least 80 percent to pass.
  • The skills test includes a pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic control maneuvers in a closed course, and a 40-minute on-road drive with an examiner.
  • You will need to provide proof of identity, residency, Social Security number, and medical certification (CDLIS Medical Examiner's Certificate) before testing.
  • Third-party testing sites can administer both the written and skills tests, often with shorter wait times than DPS offices.

Step 1: Get or renew your regular Texas driver's license

Before you can test for a CDL, you must have a valid Class C driver's license (the standard license for non-commercial driving). If your license is expired or you don't have one, you'll need to obtain it first through DPS. This is a separate process from the CDL and can take one to two weeks depending on whether you're renewing or explore new.

If you already hold a valid Texas driver's license, you can move directly to the next step. Your regular license does not automatically convert to a CDL — you must test separately and the CDL will be issued as a replacement document.

Step 2: Get a medical examination and CDLIS certificate

Texas and the federal government require all CDL holders to pass a medical examination performed by a CDLIS Medical Examiner — a doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician's assistant certified by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This exam checks your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and general health to confirm you can safely operate a commercial vehicle. The exam costs between $50 and $150 depending on the provider.

After the exam, the medical examiner will issue you a CDLIS Medical Examiner's Certificate (also called a medical card). This certificate is valid for 24 months and you must bring the original or a copy when you test for your CDL. You can find FMCSA-certified examiners through the FMCSA National Registry website or by calling your local DPS office for referrals.

Step 3: Study for the written knowledge test

The CDL written test in Texas has multiple sections. You must pass a General Knowledge test that covers traffic laws, vehicle control, and safe driving practices. Depending on the class of CDL and endorsements you're seeking, you may also test on air brakes, combination vehicles, tanker vehicles, hazardous materials, or passenger transport. Each section requires an 80 percent score to pass.

Texas DPS publishes a free CDL Study Guide online that covers all test topics. Many people also use third-party study materials, practice tests, or attend CDL training schools. Training schools are not required by Texas law, but they can speed up the process and improve your chances of passing the skills test on your first attempt. Training typically costs $3,000 to $7,000 and takes two to six weeks.

Step 4: Schedule and take the written test

You can schedule your written test through the DPS website, by phone at 1-800-252-9278, or in person at any DPS office. You can also test at a third-party testing facility — Texas has dozens of approved sites run by private companies, often with shorter wait times than DPS offices. Both DPS and third-party sites charge the same state fee: currently $20 for the written test.

Bring your valid driver's license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), your Social Security card or a document showing your number, and your CDLIS Medical Examiner's Certificate. The written test takes 30 to 60 minutes depending on how many endorsements you're testing for. You'll receive your score when ready after completing the test.

Step 5: Prepare for and take the skills test

Once you pass the written test, you can schedule the skills test, which has three parts: a pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic control maneuvers, and an on-road driving test. The entire skills test takes about two hours. You must bring the same documents you brought for the written test, plus you must provide a commercial vehicle that matches the class of CDL you're testing for — the examiner will inspect it before the test begins.

The pre-trip inspection requires you to walk around the vehicle and point out safety-critical items (lights, tires, brakes, mirrors, coupling devices) while explaining what you're checking and why. The basic control portion happens in a closed course where you'll perform backing maneuvers, alley docks, and lane changes. The on-road test lasts about 40 minutes and the examiner will direct you through city streets, highways, and various traffic conditions while observing your steering, braking, lane changes, and overall vehicle control.

You must score at least 80 percent on the skills test to pass. If you fail any section, you can retake it, though you may have to wait and pay the testing fee again. Third-party testing sites and DPS offices both administer skills tests, and you can choose where to test.

What happens after you pass both tests

Once you pass the written and skills tests, DPS will issue your CDL within one to two weeks. You can pick it up at the DPS office where you tested, or it will be mailed to your address on file. Your CDL is valid for five years in Texas and must be renewed before it expires. You'll need to renew your medical certificate every 24 months or your CDL will be suspended.

If you're testing for endorsements (hazmat, tanker, passenger, or doubles/triples), those will be added to your CDL at issuance. Some endorsements require additional background checks or fingerprinting, which can add one to two weeks to the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to attend a CDL training school?

No, Texas does not require formal training. You can study on your own using the DPS study guide and test directly. However, training schools can improve your odds of passing the skills test on your first attempt, and some employers prefer or require training school completion before hiring.

Can I test for multiple endorsements at the same time?

Yes. You can test for general knowledge plus any combination of endorsements (hazmat, tanker, passenger, doubles/triples) in a single visit. Each endorsement has its own written test section, so you'll spend more time on the written portion but only take the skills test once.

What if I fail the skills test?

You can retake the skills test after waiting a set period (usually a few days). You'll pay the testing fee again. Many people pass on the second or third attempt, especially if they get additional practice or training between attempts.

How long is a Texas CDL valid?

Your CDL is valid for five years from the date of issue. Your medical certificate is valid for 24 months, so you'll need to renew it before your CDL expires. If your medical certificate expires, your CDL becomes invalid until you renew it.

Can I get a CDL if I have a criminal record or traffic violations?

Some convictions and violations can disqualify you from holding a CDL or certain endorsements. Serious traffic offenses, DWI convictions, and felonies involving controlled substances are common disqualifiers. Contact DPS directly to discuss your specific situation before investing time and money in training.