How to get a CDL in Texas and start a career as a commercial driver is probably a question at this point. Come to our guide which breaks down the entire process, from meeting the requirements to passing the necessary tests. Whether it's a Class A, B, or any endorsement, this complete explanation will walk you through each phase of the process to make sure that you are completely prepared to obtain your Commercial Driver's License in Texas. Let’s dive into the details below!
What are the requirements for CDL in Texas?
Listed below are some basic requirements you need to obtain a CDL in Texas, followed by the Texas Department of Public Safety:- You must be at least 18 to drive within Texas.
- You must be at least 21 to drive across state lines or throughout the country.
- Have a valid Texas driver's license.
- Pass the written test to possess a CLP at least 14 days prior to taking the CDL skill test.
- Complete Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) from an FMCSA-approved program. ACE Driving Academy is registered with the FMCSA to provide ELDT.
- A current DOT Medical Examiner's Certificate and medical examination.
- Pass a three-part driving skills test on the type of commercial motor vehicle you will be driving.
- Provide proof of identity of Texas residency.
- Be fingerprinted.
- Pass a vision test.
How do you get a CDL license in Texas?
Getting a Texas Driver’s License involves several steps, each of which comprises two types of tests: written and skills tests.Take the CDL written knowledge test
The first step you'll need to do to get a Texas CDL is to take a written knowledge test. The number of the tests you have to ace is up to your goals on CDL class and the endorsement.- General Knowledge Test: This is a required test and covers the very basic field of issues such as vehicle operations, driving safety, and state regulations. Anyone applying for a CDL is forced to take this test, which will cover the basics of driving commercially. There are 50 multiple-choice questions and the correct 80% is a passing condition.
- Endorsement tests (if applicable): Operating special types of vehicles, such as transporting hazardous materials or carrying passengers by bus, also requires additional testing for licensure. These tests will tell if you have learned the special rules and skills for operating these types of vehicles. The common endorsements include:
| Endorsement test | Total Questions | Passing score |
| Hazardous Materials | 30 | 24 |
| Passenger Transport | 20 | 16 |
| Doubles/Triples | 20 | 16 |
| School Bus | 20 | 16 |
| Tank Vehicle | 20 | 16 |
- Air brakes test (if applicable): The air brakes test will measure your knowledge about air brake systems and the associated safety concerns, essential to operating certain commercial vehicles safely. The test is 25 multiple-choice questions in design; questions range over major areas including components of the braking system, the best way to conduct a proper inspection, and recognition of warning signals. You'll be expected to answer questions about safe uses, inspections, and troubleshooting of air brakes. It provides a minimum passing mark of 80%, which is considered competent in operating air-braked vehicles safely on the road.
- Combination vehicles test (if applicable): The combination written test covers your knowledge of safely driving combination vehicles, such as trucks with trailers. This is a 20 multiple-choice test that will be based on essential areas including coupling and uncoupling techniques, rollover hazards, and managing the trailers in different road situations. You will also be required to show a proper method of inspecting and troubleshooting combination vehicle problems. You must have an 80% passing score to identify that you are competent in operating the vehicle safely.
Take the Texas CDL practice test now!
Take the CDL skills tests
After completing the written part successfully, the next challenge is the CDL skills test. It is a practical test of competency to safely drive a commercial vehicle. This practical skills test comprises three major components:Pre-trip inspection
The pre-trip inspection is a very important part of the skills test in which you have to go through your vehicle in great detail. You will be required to:- Look for key components such as brakes, lights, tires, engine systems, mirrors, and windshield wipers.
- Identify and describe each component's function in relationship to vehicle safety and operation.
- Make sure that nothing is broken and/or does not work before hitting the road.
Basic vehicle control
Section two, basic vehicle control, describes your control over the vehicle in a restricted or enclosed operating space. You will be required to perform during this test that you can:- Back the vehicle safely and smoothly in a straight line or at an angle.
- Execute sharp turns without the cones or barriers being touched; demonstrate control of the size of the vehicle.
- Position the vehicle within a marked space, either parallel or dock parking, for a simulation of commercial driving as it would actually occur.
On-road driving
The final and most complete element is driving on the road, where you will take the vehicle onto public roads under the supervision of the examiner. You will be assessed on how well you can:- Join traffic smoothly, continuing with the relevant speed and making the appropriate signal.
- Make tight and wide turns through intersections without crossing over lane lines or curbs.
- Follow the traffic signs and signals; show a distinct understanding of the road laws.
- Keep a safe following distance, keep frequently checking mirrors, and drive through intersections, highways, and local roads.