A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is required in Texas to operate commercial motor vehicles over 26,000 lbs GVWR, buses carrying 16 or more passengers, or vehicles placarded for hazardous materials. Texas CDL fees start at $97 for a 8-year license. Three CDL classes are available: Class A for tractor-trailer combinations, Class B for single large vehicles, and Class C for passenger and HazMat vehicles. First-time applicants must complete Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) through an FMCSA-registered provider before taking the skills test. All interstate CDL holders must maintain a valid DOT Medical Certificate. Test your knowledge with the Texas CDL knowledge test, then pass the skills test — pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and road driving — to earn your license.
Any combination of vehicles with a GCWR of 26,001 lbs or more, provided the GVWR of the towed vehicle exceeds 10,000 lbs.
Any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 lbs or more, or any such vehicle towing a vehicle with a GVWR not exceeding 10,000 lbs.
Any single vehicle or combination not covered by Class A or B, designed to transport 16 or more passengers including the driver, or required to be placarded for hazardous materials.
TSA background check and fingerprinting required. Valid 5 years, must renew before expiration.
Required for operating tank vehicles carrying liquids or gases in bulk.
Required for buses carrying 16 or more passengers including the driver.
Requires P endorsement. Background check and additional training required in Texas.
Required for pulling double or triple trailers. Class A CDL required.
Combination of H and N endorsements; TSA background check applies.
Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) is required by federal regulation (49 CFR Part 380, effective Feb 7, 2022) for first-time Class A or B CDL applicants, and for adding H, P, or S endorsements. Training must be completed through an FMCSA-registered provider listed in the Training Provider Registry (TPR) at tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov.
Find a registered ELDT provider in Texas →Interstate CDL holders must hold a valid DOT Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) issued by an FMCSA-certified medical examiner. The MEC is valid for up to 24 months (shorter for drivers with certain conditions). Self-certify as 'non-excepted interstate' and submit the MEC copy to Texas DPS.
Find an FMCSA-certified medical examiner →Apply at a Texas DPS driver license office with proof of identity, Texas residency, and Social Security Number. Pass the knowledge tests, complete ELDT through an FMCSA-registered provider, then schedule and pass the skills test. The CDL original fee is approximately $97.
Texas CDLs are valid for 8 years. Your DOT Medical Certificate is separate — most interstate drivers must renew it every 24 months or more frequently if required by your medical examiner.
A Texas Class A CDL at age 18 allows intrastate (within Texas) driving only. Interstate CDL operation — crossing state lines in a qualifying CMV — requires the driver to be at least 21 under federal FMCSA regulations.
A Class A CDL is required for tractor-trailer combinations. Flatbed work typically doesn't require endorsements unless you're hauling HazMat (H endorsement) or oversize loads. Check specific job requirements with your carrier.
The Texas DPS administers CDL skills tests at designated driver license offices statewide. Third-party testing sites may also be available in your area. Check dps.texas.gov for locations and scheduling.
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Fees are approximate and subject to change. Verify current amounts at dps.texas.gov. Skills test fees vary if using a third-party testing provider. Commercial Driver's License Medical Certification must be renewed separately every 1–2 years.
Disclaimer
The information on this page is compiled from publicly available government sources and is provided for general informational purposes only. TruckRadar is an independent search engine — we are not affiliated with any government agency and this content does not constitute legal or compliance advice. Regulations change frequently; always verify current requirements directly with the official source before making compliance decisions.
Official source: Texas TX Official DMVLast reviewed: April 8, 2026