Commercial Driver License (CDL)

Requirements for All Applicants
NOTE: If your driver license is currently suspended, cancelled, or revoked in Texas or any other state, you are not eligible for a commercial driver license.

All first time applicants for a Texas commercial driver license must:

  1. Apply in person at a Texas Driver License office.
  2. Present documents that verify your Identity. Different documents are required if you are a U.S. citizen or have Lawful Presence. This may require you to present one or more documents at the driver license office. All information on each document you present must match. Additional documentation may be required to verify conflicting information, incomplete names and date of birth.
  3. Present proof of Social Security Number. If you do not have a social security number, a CDL cannot be issued to you.
  4. Meet the non-resident requirements if you are not a Texas resident.
  5. Present proof of Texas vehicle registration and liability insurance on all vehicles you own.
  6. Complete the application (PDF). 
  7. Consent to be photographed, fingerprinted, and provide your signature at the time of application. 
  8. Pass the vision exam.
  9. Pass the required written test for type of license you desire, including endorsements, A & B rules test (written), and skill tests in the appropriate vehicle (driving).
  10. Complete the Hazardous Material Endorsement Procedures.
  11. Pay the required fee with a credit card, cash, money order, or a non-temporary check.
  12. Provide a commercial motor vehicle for the driving exam, and present current liability insurance, Texas vehicle registration, and inspection for the vehicle.

Read additional information regarding school bus requirements.

Out-of-State
A new resident moving into Texas, who is at least 18 years or older and has a valid commercial driver license from another state, has 30 days after entry into the state to secure a Texas Driver License.  You must:

  1. Complete the requirements for an original CDL applicant. (see Requirements above) .
  2. Surrender your VALID out-of-state CDL at the driver license office. The written and driving examinations will be waived, but you must still pass a vision exam. 
    OR
    Surrender your EXPIRED CDL at the driver license office. You will be required to pass the written, driving and vision exams.

Previously Held a CDL
If you previously held a Texas Commercial Driver License (CDL), and want to get the CDL back, you must re-qualify as an original CDL applicant.

Vision and Limb Waiver
If you cannot meet the physical requirements for a CDL, you may obtain a vision or limb waiver packet at any Texas Driver License office or download the Texas Intrastate Vision Waiver Application (PDF) or Texas Intrastate Limb Waiver Application (PDF). Note: Only original vision or limb waiver documents are accepted. Application packet must be original and completed in full then returned to the Texas Department of Public Safety within 45 days of the physical examination date.