CDL Requirements in Texas
Everything you need to know about getting your Commercial Driver's License in Texas — costs, tests, training programs, and how to apply at the TX DMV.
Total Estimated Cost
$233 - $280
Minimum Age
18+ years
Renewal Period
5 years
Passing Score
80%
Texas CDL Cost Breakdown
Fees charged by the Texas DMV for CDL testing and issuance (training program costs are separate).
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application / Permit Fee | $61 |
| Knowledge Test Fee | $11 |
| Skills Test Fee | $100 |
| CDL Issuance Fee | $61 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $233 - $280 |
* Fees do not include DOT physical ($50-$150), training program tuition, or endorsement test fees. Third-party skills test providers may charge additional fees.
Texas CDL Requirements Checklist
You must meet all of the following requirements to obtain a CDL in Texas.
Minimum Age: 18 years old
Age 18 for intrastate (within Texas) driving. Must be 21 for interstate (crossing state lines).
Residency Requirement
Must be a Texas resident. Texas driver license and SSN required. Two proofs of residency.
DOT Medical Card
Must pass a DOT physical exam by an FMCSA-certified medical examiner. The medical card is valid for up to 24 months. Cost: $50-$150.
ELDT Training Required
Since February 2022, all first-time CDL applicants must complete Entry-Level Driver Training from an FMCSA-registered training provider. Both classroom theory and behind-the-wheel training are required.
Background Check
Your driving record is checked through CDLIS and the National Driver Register. Hazmat endorsements require a separate TSA background check (~$125).
Valid TX Driver License
You must hold a valid Texas driver license before applying for a CDL. Out-of-state licenses must be transferred first.
Written Knowledge Tests
You must pass the following written tests at a Texas DMV office to obtain your Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP). The passing score in Texas is 80%.
General Knowledge
Air Brakes
Combination Vehicles
CDL Skills Test Components
After holding your CLP for at least 14 days and completing ELDT training, you can schedule the CDL skills test in Texas.
Pre-Trip Inspection
Walk-around inspection demonstrating knowledge of vehicle components, engine compartment, brakes, lights, tires, and coupling devices.
Basic Controls
Performed in a controlled area. Includes straight-line backing, offset backing (left/right), and parallel parking. Scored on pull-ups and final position.
Road Test
On-road driving test evaluating turns, lane changes, intersections, railroad crossings, highway driving, and general safe driving behaviors.
Available CDL Endorsements in Texas
Additional written tests are required for each endorsement. Endorsements expand the types of freight and vehicles you can legally operate.
Top CDL Schools in Texas
ELDT-registered training programs in Texas. Verify any school is listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry before enrolling.
| School | City | Tuition | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| C1 Truck Driver Training | Dallas | $5,500 | 4 weeks |
| Del Mar College CDL Program | Corpus Christi | $3,800 | 6 weeks |
| Houston Community College | Houston | $3,500 | 8 weeks |
| Lone Star College CDL Program | Houston | $3,600 | 7 weeks |
| TSTC CDL Program | Waco | $3,200 | 8 weeks |
* Tuition amounts are approximate and may vary. Contact each school directly for current pricing and financial aid options.
Texas-Specific CDL Notes
Texas DPS requires CDL testing at a driver license office. Texas is the largest CDL market in the U.S. with more CDL holders than any other state. The state has extensive third-party CDL testing through approved providers. An ELDT certificate is required. Texas has no state income tax, and its massive oil/gas, agriculture, and cross-border freight sectors create diverse CDL opportunities.
CDL FAQ for Texas
How much does it cost to get a CDL in Texas?
Texas CDL fees total approximately $233-$280, including a $61 application fee, $11 knowledge test fee, $100 skills test fee, and $61 CDL issuance fee. However, Texas has many affordable training options starting at $3,200 at state technical colleges.
Is Texas the biggest CDL market in the U.S.?
Yes. Texas has more CDL holders than any other state, driven by its massive size, oil and gas industry, cross-border trade with Mexico, agricultural sector, and rapidly growing urban distribution markets in Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio, and Austin.
Does Texas have state income tax?
No. Texas has no state income tax, which effectively increases CDL driver take-home pay. Combined with a relatively low cost of living outside major metros, Texas offers strong purchasing power for truck drivers.
Where do I take the CDL test in Texas?
CDL tests are available at Texas DPS driver license offices statewide. Third-party CDL testing is extensively available through approved providers. Major testing areas include DFW, Houston, San Antonio, Austin, and El Paso.
What CDL specialties are in demand in Texas?
Tanker/Hazmat drivers are in high demand for the Permian Basin and Gulf Coast petrochemical industry. Flatbed drivers are needed for oil field equipment and construction. Reefer drivers haul produce from the Rio Grande Valley. Cross-border drivers work the Laredo-Dallas corridor, the busiest international freight lane in the Americas.
CDL Requirements in Other States
CDL Training Guide
Classes, programs, costs, and step-by-step guide.
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