Texas

Texas Trucking Schools and Programs

Texas is the largest state and therefore has a number of routes and cities that can make truck driving careers very enticing. There are busy cities, deserts and a wide variety of freight to haul across all types of terrain. When you’re looking at a truck driving career in Texas, it is important to consider the industries and the laws that go into driving a truck.

In order to obtain a CDL in the state of Texas, you must complete an application at your local Texas Driver License Office in person. You are required to bring several documents that verify that you are a United States citizen and to prove your identity. Documents that are typically accepted to prove your identity include state issued identification, drivers license, birth certificate, and passports. You may need to bring more than one of these items, and they must match exactly to avoid needing to provide additional documentation. Proof of vehicle registration is required as well as liability insurance on every vehicle you own. You also must present your social security card or bring some sort of proof of your social security number. You cannot obtain a Commercial Driver License without a social security number.

Physical and Medical Requirements

There are some requirements that CDL applicants in Texas must meet. A medical certification requirement must be met, as well as physical requirements. If you are not able to meet these requirements, you may be able to obtain a limb or vision waiver packet at one of the Texas Driver License offices. They are also provided online for downloading and printing. The original document must be completely filled out and returned within 45 days of your examination date.

Written and Driving Tests

CDL applicants have to undergo a few tests that ensure the driver can see properly and has adequate knowledge of the laws and commercial vehicle operation. A vision exam must be passed as well as written tests and a driving test. Completion of Hazardous Material Endorsement Procedures is required. You must pass the Commercial Driver License test including endorsements, the A and B rules written exam, and a driving test in the commercial vehicle you will be driving or another appropriate vehicle. Keep in mind that the vehicle must be provided for inspection and must be insured and registered in the state of Texas.

Additional information

You cannot obtain a commercial driver license if your current license is suspended, revoked, or cancelled for any reason in the state of Texas, or any other state. If you are not a resident of Texas, you must meed non-resident requirements. You must consent to be fingerprinted, photographed, and sign. There is a fee that is required, which you can pay using cash, money order, credit card, or a check.

Persons wanting to obtain their CDL must meet certain requirements, like:

• • Must be 21 years or 18 years old if ALL of your driving is within Texas and you do not transport hazardous materials or drive double or triple trailer rigs

• • Possess a valid medical certificate in accordance with MCSR regulations

• • Take and pass the mandatory Texas CDL license examinations

• • Surrender your current driver license

• • Provide proof of your identification

• • Pay testing and licensing fees

There are different types of classes for your commercial license, like:

• • CLASS A: allows you to operate vehicles which tow trailers or other vehicles with a GVWR over 10,000 pounds.

• • CLASS B: allows you to operate single vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 lbs or more OR a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 lbs. or more, towing trailers/vehicles rated at 10,000 pounds GVWR or less.

• • CLASS C: allows you to operate vehicles under 26,001 lbs. GVWR, that would normally not require a CDL