Looking to expand your career and earnings? Get your Texas CDL! You’ll have unparalleled freedom to drive a commercial vehicle across the state or even the country.
Texas State CDL Requirements
The first step to getting your CDL license is to know what is needed to get a CDL in Texas. We’ve prepared an easy-to-understand summary of the Texas CDL requirements here. If you want to dive further into the details, visit the Texas department of public safety website. In the meantime, getting a CDL in Texas has the following requirements:
- Be at least 18 years of age to drive intrastate (within Texas) and 21 years old to drive interstate (across state lines).
- Have a valid Texas driver’s license.
- Have a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) 14 days prior to taking the CDL test.
- Complete Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) from an FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) approved program. ACE Driving Academy is an FMCSA registered provider.
- Pass a three-part driving test in the commercial vehicle for which you’re applying to drive.
- Provide documentation of identity.
- Be fingerprinted.
- Pass a vision test.
Get Your Texas CDL Permit
Before you can take the test to get your Texas CDL, you must have a commercial learner’s permit for a minimum of 14 days. It’s valid for 180 days or when your Texas driver’s license expires, whichever comes first. But it can be renewed once (up to 30 days prior to expiring) without having to retake the written knowledge test. And just like the CDL itself, there are a few requirements to apply for your permit.
- U.S. citizenship or proof of lawful presence
- Proof of Texas residency
- Proof of Identity
- Social Security Number
- Medical Examiner’s Certificate / Department of Transportation (DOT) physical
- Pass the knowledge exam
The medical certification, in the form of a DOT physical, is a requirement to ensure you are medically safe and capable to drive the commercial vehicle or have an exemption or waiver. Medical certifications must be renewed. This keeps both you and fellow motorists safe. If you meet these qualifications, it’s time to find a training program.
Enroll In Texas CDL Training
Get ELDT CDL training from a trusted source with experienced instructors. Click learn more to take the next step toward your new career!
How to Pass the Texas Commercial Drivers License Permit Test
The key to passing any test is preparation. In order to help students prepare we’ve created a series of free CDL permit practice test. The written CDL permit exam is broken into three parts. We recommend taking each test multiple times.
- General Knowledge – approximately 50 questions. Take the test!
- Air Brakes – approximately 25 questions. Take the test!
- Combination Vehicles – approximately 25 questions. Take the test!
Where to Take CDL Classes in Texas
The other requirement that must be met before you can apply for your Texas CDL and start your new career is to attend CDL classes at an approved ELDT training provider. ELDT is a mandatory step in the process of obtaining or upgrading a CDL.
Fortunately, your local ACE Driving Academy in Waco, TX is a registered and approved program by the FMCSA. The next question most people have is how much does CDL training in Texas cost and do you offer free CDL training? The cost of CDL training depends on the individual and which tuition assistance programs they are eligible for. Learn more about how to pay for CDL training and if free CDL training is available.
When you’re ready to embark on a new career and explore the amazing state of Texas or the whole of the country, reach out to your local Texas CDL school near you. We will walk you through all you need to know and do to make your driving career dreams come true.
How Long Does It Take to Get a CDL in Texas?
It takes approximately 3-4 weeks to get a CDL in Texas. This includes training and testing. Our Texas CDL training course is 160 hours and includes classroom and behind-the-wheel training. When attending full time it takes three to four weeks to complete CDL training. Once you complete ELDT you are ready to take the CDL skills test.
Pass the CDL Skills Test
After you finish your CDL training, your school will help schedule your CDL skills test. This test is taken in the type of vehicle you plan to drive and has three parts:
- Pre-trip inspection – You’ll need to show that you can inspect your vehicle and explain why each step is important.
- Basic controls test – You’ll perform a series of maneuvers to show that you can handle the vehicle safely in a closed course.
- Road test – You’ll drive on public roads to show that you can safely operate the vehicle in real traffic.
Passing this test is the final step to earning your CDL and starting your driving career!
Can I get my CDL in Texas without going to school?
Many people ask, can I get my CDL in Texas without going to school? The short answer is no. Federal guidelines mandate that all new class B CDL and class A CDL holders must attend and show proficiency in ELDT before they are eligible to get a CDL and become a Texas driver.
Texas CDL Requirement FAQs
How long does it take to get a CDL in Texas?
Our ELDT CDL training program is 160 hours. It takes approximately 3 to 4 weeks to complete CDL training. Read more on how long it takes to get your CDL.
How much does it cost to get a CDL in Texas?
The cost of CDL training can vary by individual based on the financial assistance and grants you may qualify for. We also partner with several of the industry’s top trucking companies, many of which will help you pay for CDL schooling. We have numerous options and find it best to discuss with each individual. You can read more about how to pay for CDL training here.
CDL License Fee: $97
Commercial Learner’s Permit Fee: $25