Do you love being behind the wheel, or are fascinated by 18-wheelers? If the answer is yes, you may be perfectly suited to become a commercial driver. However, to legally operate a large commercial vehicle like a truck or bus, you’re going to need more than a standard state-issued driver’s license.
Your driver’s license only allows you to drive non-commercial vehicles like passenger cars and pickup trucks, so instead, you need a commercial driver’s license. So, what are the requirements for a commercial driver’s license in Texas? We’ll take a look at this and more.
What is a Commercial Driver’s License
A commercial driver's license (CDL) is similar to your standard driver’s license. The two forms of identification even look similar; however, they have very different uses.
As noted earlier, your driver’s license limits you to passenger-style vehicles—you may be able to drive a commercial van, but that’s about it. If you’re itching to get behind the wheel of a city bus or big rig, you need a valid CDL.
A CDL is a type of driver’s license indicating you’re qualified to operate large commercial vehicles. This means not only can you turn the engine on and steer the large truck or bus, but you can also do so safely without being a danger to others.
Requirements for Getting a CDL in Texas
Before you sign up for CDL classes, it’s a good idea to know the requirements—but don’t worry, the requirements are pretty basic and once you have a Texas CDL, you can operate a commercial vehicle across state lines. Yes, you can even drive an 18-wheeler legally across the country as long as your Texas CDL is valid and current.
So what are the requirements you need to meet?
- You must be at least 18 years of age to operate a commercial vehicle in Texas. If you plan on crossing state lines, you need to be at least 21 years old.
- A current and valid driver’s license issued in Texas. You can’t take CDL classes in Texas with an out-of-state driver’s license.
- Pass a vision test and agree to be fingerprinted.
- Provide proof of identity in the form of a birth certificate, social security card, and/or valid Texas driver’s license. You can’t use a state-issued identification card. Remember, you must have a valid Texas driver’s license to enroll in CDL training.
Before taking the final CDL test, you must have a commercial learner’s permit, and you receive this permit after completing CDL training. Your permit must also be at least two weeks old before signing up for the final driving test. Your CDL training must be administered by a Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) approved program.
The final requirement is passing all three parts of a driving test in the type of vehicle you’re applying to drive. For example, if you’re planning on driving a passenger bus this is the type of vehicle you’ll take the test in.
Texas’s Additional Requirements for a CDL
You already know you need to provide a valid Texas driver’s license to enroll in CDL training and take the test. Your license will also help you meet a few additional requirements. A driver’s license provides proof of residency in Texas and that you’re a U.S. citizen, and you also need to provide your social security number.
A medical examiner's certificate is another requirement and this is just a fancy term for undergoing a physical. Your physical helps prove you’re physically capable of handling a large commercial vehicle and healthy enough to do so.
For example, if you’re at a higher risk of having a heart attack there’s a good chance you shouldn’t be behind the wheel of a large vehicle. You may pose a safety risk to yourself and others. Yes, you have to go through a physical exam every few years, typically when it’s time to renew your CDL.
Taking and Passing Your CDL Test
The CDL test consists of several parts; three parts are dedicated to the written exam, and the rest focuses on your ability to safely operate a large commercial vehicle. The best way to pass the CDL test is by studying and practicing.
The written exam contains around 50 general knowledge questions. There are about 25 questions on air brakes, and the final 25 questions cover combination vehicles. Spending some time reviewing your coursework is the best way to ensure you receive a passing grade on the written exam.
When it comes to the driving portion of the test, the best advice is to see if your class instructor has spare time to let you and your classmates practice in the school’s vehicle. This is usually the vehicle you’ll use for the driving portion of the exam, so spending extra time behind the wheel can help build your confidence.
Most CDL exams are held at the school where you took your classes, and this makes things a little easier for you and test administrators. Your instructor may even be the individual administering the test. Sometimes, all you need to see is a familiar face to help settle any pre-testing nerves.
How Long Does It Take to Get Your CDL License
You may be surprised at how quickly you can get a CDL license in Texas. Some students complete the training course and exam in three weeks, while others take around a month to meet all of the requirements.
Since you need to complete 160 hours of combined coursework and training before taking the exam, it depends on how long you want to drag the process out. After passing the test, you should receive your CDL license in a few days. In the meantime, you’ll have a certificate that you can use while hunting for a position with a commercial driving company.
Getting Your CDL Is Easier Than You May Think
Obtaining a CDL license in Texas is a straightforward process; you'll need to meet a few requirements, but none are overly difficult. The part that most people find stressful is the exam, but with proper preparation, you can tackle it confidently.
In just about three to four weeks, you could be well on your way to starting a new career as a commercial truck or bus driver in Texas.
