The Basic Path to a Texas CDL

A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) in Texas requires you to pass a written knowledge test, a skills test, and a medical examination — in that order. You cannot skip steps or test out of the medical exam. The process typically takes four to eight weeks from start to finish, though the timeline depends on how quickly you schedule your tests and whether you pass on your first attempt.

Texas issues CDLs through the Department of Public Safety (DPS). You will test at a DPS office, but you must first obtain a Medical Certificate from a certified medical examiner. That certificate is your entry point: without it, DPS will not let you take the written test.

The CDL comes in three classes — Class A, B, and C — based on the vehicle weight you need to drive. Most truck drivers pursue Class A. Each class has different knowledge and skills requirements, so you need to know which class you are testing for before you walk into DPS.

Key Takeaways

  • You must obtain a Medical Certificate from a FMCSA-certified medical examiner before DPS will let you test for a CDL.
  • The written knowledge test covers general CDL rules, air brakes, and combination vehicles (for Class A), and you must score at least 80 percent to pass.
  • The skills test includes a pre-trip vehicle inspection, a backing maneuver, and an on-road driving portion, all performed in the vehicle class you are testing for.
  • Texas charges a CDL issuance fee of $97 and a renewal fee of $97 every five years; medical certificates cost $50 to $150 depending on the examiner.
  • You can take a CDL training course to prepare, but it is not required by Texas law — only the medical exam and passing both tests are mandatory.

Getting Your Medical Certificate

Before you schedule anything at DPS, you need a Medical Certificate issued by a medical examiner certified by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This is a one-page form that confirms you meet federal health standards for commercial driving. The examiner will check your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and medical history. The certificate is valid for two years.

Find a certified examiner through the FMCSA National Registry at fmcsa.dot.gov. Search by your Texas county or city. Call ahead to confirm they are accepting new patients and ask about their fee — costs vary but typically range from $50 to $150. Bring your current driver's license, proof of Social Security number, and a list of any medications you take.

Once you have the certificate, keep the original. You will need to show it when you arrive at DPS to take your written test. If you fail the medical exam or are told you do not meet the standards, you can seek a second opinion from another certified examiner, but DPS will not issue a CDL without a passing medical certificate on file.

Passing the Written Knowledge Test

The written test at DPS covers the CDL Manual, which Texas provides free online at the DPS website. The test has two parts: a general knowledge section required of all CDL applicants, and an endorsement section specific to the class you are testing for. For a Class A CDL, you will also answer questions on air brakes and combination vehicles.

You must score at least 80 percent on each section to pass. The test is computer-based and takes about 60 to 90 minutes. You can take the test in English or Spanish. Bring your Medical Certificate, your current Texas driver's license, and proof of your Social Security number. DPS will not let you test without the Medical Certificate.

If you fail, you can retake the test, but DPS may require you to wait a set period before your next attempt — check with your local DPS office for their specific waiting period. Many people study the CDL Manual for two to four weeks before testing. Some take a CDL training course, which is optional but can improve your odds of passing both the written and skills tests on the first try.

Scheduling and Passing the Skills Test

After you pass the written test, DPS will schedule you for the skills test, which is performed in the actual vehicle class you are testing for. You must bring a vehicle that meets the weight and configuration requirements for your class. For a Class A, that means a tractor-trailer combination. You cannot borrow a vehicle from a friend — it must be registered, insured, and roadworthy.

The skills test has three parts: a pre-trip inspection where you walk around the vehicle and point out safety components, a backing maneuver where you reverse into a marked box, and an on-road driving portion lasting 30 to 45 minutes. A DPS examiner rides with you and scores your performance. You must pass all three parts to pass the test.

Many people attend a CDL training school before the skills test. These schools provide classroom instruction, behind-the-wheel training, and access to a test vehicle. Training programs typically last three to six weeks and cost $3,000 to $7,000. Some schools have partnerships with DPS and can schedule your test when ready after you complete their program. Training is not required by law, but it significantly increases the likelihood of passing on your first attempt.

Fees and Timeline

Texas charges a $97 fee to issue a CDL. Your Medical Certificate costs $50 to $150 depending on the examiner. If you attend a training school, expect to pay $3,000 to $7,000. The total out-of-pocket cost ranges from roughly $150 (if you study on your own and pass both tests when ready) to $7,250 (if you attend a full training program).

The timeline from Medical Certificate to CDL in hand is typically four to eight weeks. The Medical Certificate takes one to two weeks to schedule and complete. The written test can be scheduled within days of obtaining your certificate. The skills test is usually scheduled two to four weeks after you pass the written test, depending on DPS office availability and how quickly you can arrange a test vehicle. After you pass the skills test, DPS issues your CDL within one to two weeks.

Your CDL is valid for five years in Texas. You will need to renew your Medical Certificate every two years, even if your CDL has not expired. If your Medical Certificate lapses, your CDL becomes invalid until you obtain a new one.

Endorsements and Restrictions

A basic Class A CDL allows you to drive most commercial vehicles, but certain cargo and vehicle types require additional endorsements. The most common are Hazmat (hazardous materials), Tanker, and Passenger. Each endorsement requires passing an additional written test. You can add endorsements at the same time you test for your CDL or later.

Texas also issues restrictions based on your medical exam results or test performance. For example, if you fail the air brake portion of the written test, you will receive a restriction prohibiting you from driving vehicles with air brakes. Restrictions limit where you can work, so understanding them before you test is important.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a CDL if I have a DWI or traffic violation on my record?

A DWI or serious traffic violation does not automatically disqualify you, but it may delay your process or result in additional scrutiny from DPS. Contact your local DPS office to discuss your specific record before you pay for a Medical Certificate. Some violations may require a waiting period or a formal review.

Do I have to attend a CDL training school?

No. Texas law does not require formal training. You can study the CDL Manual on your own, take the written test, and schedule the skills test independently. However, most people who pass the skills test on their first attempt have attended a training school or received substantial behind-the-wheel instruction from an experienced driver.

What happens if I fail the skills test?

You can retake it, but you will need to schedule another appointment and bring a test vehicle again. DPS charges a fee for each skills test attempt. Many people attend additional training between attempts. There is no legal limit on how many times you can retake the test.

Can I renew my CDL by mail or online?

No. CDL renewals in Texas must be done in person at a DPS office. You will need to renew your Medical Certificate at the same time. Plan to visit DPS every two years for the Medical Certificate renewal and every five years for the CDL renewal.

What is the difference between a Class A, B, and C CDL?

Class A covers vehicles over 26,001 pounds with a trailer over 10,000 pounds — the standard for truck drivers. Class B covers single vehicles over 26,001 pounds, like large buses or dump trucks. Class C covers smaller commercial vehicles and is rarely used. Most CDL holders pursue Class A because it opens the most job opportunities.