Commercial vehicles are a familiar sight on Texas highways, from 18-wheelers to school buses. To legally operate one in Dallas or anywhere else in the state, a driver must hold the appropriate Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). The type of CDL required depends on the size of the vehicle, the cargo being transported, and the number of passengers involved.
This article takes a closer look at the types of CDLs issued in Texas, how they differ, and what drivers need to do to qualify for them.
Class A CDL
A Class A CDL is the most versatile type of commercial license. It allows a driver to operate a combination of vehicles, including 18-wheelers that have a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) reaching a minimum of 26,001 pounds if the vehicle being towed weighs more than 10,000 pounds.
Common uses for a Class A CDL include:
- Long-haul trucking
- Livestock transportation
- Heavy equipment hauling
This license is required for operating large tractor-trailers, tanker trucks, and flatbeds. Drivers with a Class A CDL may also operate vehicles covered under Class B and Class C licenses.
Class B CDL
A Class B CDL is needed to operate a single vehicle with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more or to tow vehicles weighing less than 10,000 pounds.
Examples of vehicles requiring a Class B CDL:
- School buses
- Garbage trucks
- Cement mixers
This license is typically used for city buses, delivery trucks, and dump trucks.
Class C CDL
A Class C CDL is used for vehicles that do not fall under Class A or B categories but are designed to carry 16 to 23 passengers or transport hazardous materials requiring a placard under federal law.
A Class C CDL may be required for:
- Airport shuttles
- Medical transport vehicles
- Hazardous materials carriers
This includes smaller passenger vans and vehicles carrying flammable or toxic substances.
CDL Endorsements
Endorsements are required for drivers who plan to operate specialized commercial vehicles or transport certain types of cargo. These designations are added to the CDL after passing additional written and/or skills tests.
Common CDL endorsements include:
- H (Hazardous Materials): Needed for dangerous goods
- N (Tank Vehicles): Required for bulk liquids or gases
- P (Passenger): Needed for transporting 16 or more passengers
- S (School Bus): For driving school buses
- T (Double/Triple Trailers): When driving multiple trailers simultaneously
There are specific federal requirements for each type of endorsement that may require background checks or specialized training.
Eligibility Requirements for a CDL in Texas
To qualify for any CDL in Texas, applicants must meet several state and federal criteria, including:
- Be 18 years of age (21 for interstate driving)
- Have a valid Texas driver’s license
- Pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam
- Submit a Medical Examiner’s Certificate
- Pass tests for vision and road skills/knowledge
- Have proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, all new CDL applicants must first obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) for a minimum of 14 days before they take the CDL skills test.
CDL Limitations and Safety Considerations
Holding a CDL also means adhering to higher safety and legal standards.
CDL holders can lose their license for certain violations, including:
- Driving under the influence (even with a lower blood alcohol content than non-commercial drivers)
- Fleeing the scene of an accident
- Operating a commercial vehicle without proper endorsements
Violations can affect a driver’s ability to work and may result in disqualification or suspension. Drivers must also comply with federal hours of service rules and routi
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