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All about permit practice tests and CDL driver's licence in Texas

If you’re looking to get a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) in Texas, the process is straightforward but requires several steps to ensure you're ready for the road. Here’s a friendly breakdown of everything you need to know to obtain your CDL in Texas.

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

Before you dive into the process, make sure you meet the following basic criteria:

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old to drive commercially within Texas (intrastate) or 21 years old if you plan to drive across state lines (interstate), transport hazardous materials, or operate vehicles carrying 16 or more passengers.
• Residency: You’ll need to be a Texas resident and provide proof, such as a utility bill or lease agreement.
• Legal Presence: You must be a U.S. citizen or provide proof of legal presence, such as a green card or work authorization.

Step 2: Get a Texas Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP)

The first official step towards getting your CDL is obtaining a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP). Here’s how:

• Study the CDL Handbook: Before applying for the CLP, you’ll want to study the Texas CDL Handbook, which covers all the essential information, such as traffic laws, commercial driving safety, and how to handle different types of vehicles.
• Pass Knowledge Tests: You’ll need to pass a few written exams related to the type of CDL you’re applying for. There are several classes of CDL (Class A, B, and C), and each has its own set of knowledge tests:
  • General Knowledge Test: Required for all CDL applicants.
  • Air Brakes Test: Required if you’ll be driving a vehicle with air brakes.
  • Endorsement Tests: These include tests for special endorsements like Hazardous Materials (HazMat), Passenger, Tanker, Doubles/Triples, etc.
  You can prepare for these tests by using the CDL handbook and practice tests online.
• Get Your CLP: Once you’ve passed the written tests, you’ll receive your CLP. With this permit, you can start driving commercial vehicles, but only under the supervision of a licensed CDL holder. You must hold the CLP for at least 14 days before you can take the skills test for your full CDL.

Step 3: Take a CDL Training Course (Optional, but Highly Recommended)

Although Texas doesn’t require formal training for CDL applicants, it’s highly recommended to enroll in a CDL training program. These programs give you hands-on experience driving commercial vehicles and help you prepare for the road skills test. Many trucking companies also offer training for future drivers, which can be a great way to get both training and a job lined up.

Step 4: Pass the CDL Skills Test

Once you’ve had your CLP for at least 14 days and feel confident behind the wheel, it’s time to schedule your CDL Skills Test. This test has three parts:

1. Pre-trip Inspection: You’ll need to demonstrate that you know how to inspect your vehicle for safety before hitting the road.
2. Basic Vehicle Control: You’ll be tested on your ability to maneuver the vehicle, including backing up, parking, and turning.
3. On-road Driving Test: This part tests your skills in real-world driving conditions, including navigating intersections, making turns, and handling various traffic situations.

You can schedule the test at a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) location or an approved third-party testing center.

Step 5: Submit Your Paperwork and Pay the Fees

Once you’ve passed the skills test, you’ll return to the DPS with all the required documents:

• Proof of Identity and Residency: Such as your Texas driver’s license, Social Security card, and proof of legal presence (if applicable).
• Medical Examiner’s Certificate: You must pass a DOT physical exam to prove you're medically fit to drive a commercial vehicle. This certificate must be provided by a certified medical examiner.
• Proof of CLP: Bring your CLP along with the certificates of completion from any training programs you may have taken.

After submitting your paperwork, you’ll need to pay the CDL application fee, which is usually around $97 for a standard CDL in Texas.

Step 6: Endorsements (If Necessary)

Depending on the type of vehicles you plan to drive or the cargo you’ll carry, you may need to obtain additional endorsements on your CDL. Some common endorsements include:

• Hazardous Materials (HazMat): If you plan to transport hazardous materials, you’ll need to pass a background check and a separate knowledge test for this endorsement.
• Passenger Endorsement: Required if you’ll be driving a bus or transporting passengers.
• Tanker Endorsement: Necessary if you plan to haul liquids in large tanks.

Each endorsement requires its own written test, and some may have additional requirements like fingerprinting or background checks.

Step 7: Receive Your CDL

Once you’ve completed all the steps, passed your skills test, and paid the fees, you’ll be issued your Texas CDL. Congratulations—you’re now ready to hit the road as a commercial driver!

Special Notes:

• ELDT (Entry-Level Driver Training): Starting in February 2022, all new CDL applicants in Texas are required to complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from a registered training provider if they’re applying for a Class A or Class B CDL or adding certain endorsements (like HazMat).
• Medical Requirements: Make sure to renew your DOT medical certificate as required to keep your CDL valid. Depending on your situation, you might need to renew it every two years.

Getting a CDL in Texas can open the door to a great career on the road. While the process requires dedication and practice, the steps are clear, and resources are available to help you succeed. Whether you’re looking to drive across the country or stay within Texas, obtaining your CDL is your ticket to the trucking industry! Good luck!