Texas Requirements for Commercial Driver's License

In Texas, a commercial driver's license is required for many transportation jobs. Receiving a CDL is more complicated than getting a regular driver's license. Applicants must meet several criteria and follow the guidelines.

Age

To receive a commercial driver's license in Texas, you must be 21 years old, or 18 if you drive only in Texas and are only hauling single trailers containing no hazardous materials.

Physical Qualifications

Drivers applying for a Texas CDL license must have a valid medical examiners card prior to taking any skills tests.

Existing Licences

Obtaining a commercial driver's license in Texas requires that you not have a license from any other state. Furthermore, you cannot previously have been disqualified from receiving a CDL for any reason.

Driving Record

You cannot receive a Texas CDL license if your license has been canceled, revoked, suspended or denied.

Past Infractions

Texas CDL applicants cannot have been convicted for impaired driving of a commercial vehicle for 2 years prior to the application.