CDL Requirements in Texas
Everything you need to know about CDL requirements, documents, exams, and training — all in one place with Smart CDL Academy.
CDL Requirements in Texas – What You Need to Know
Getting your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Texas opens the door to a high-demand, high-reward career in the trucking and transportation industry. But before you hit the road, you’ll need to meet a few key state and federal requirements.
At Smart CDL Academy, we help future drivers like you understand every step of the licensing process — from eligibility and documentation to physical exams and background checks.
Whether you’re applying for a Class A, Class B, or Class C CDL, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about meeting CDL requirements in Texas.
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Age & Residency Requirements
To qualify for a CDL in Texas, you must meet certain age and residency criteria established by both Texas DPS and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
✅ Minimum Age Requirements:
18 years old for in-state (intrastate) driving only
21 years old for interstate driving (across state lines), Hazmat endorsements, or driving passenger vehicles
If you’re under 21, you can still earn a CDL, but your driving privileges will be limited to operating within Texas.
✅ Proof of Legal Presence:
You must be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or have a valid immigration status. Non-U.S. citizens must present appropriate work authorization.
✅ Texas Residency:
You must provide proof of Texas residency with documents like:
A valid Texas driver’s license
Utility bills, lease agreements, or bank statements with your name and Texas address
Smart CDL Academy will help you verify and gather all the necessary documents before applying.
DOT Physical Exam & Drug Test
Before you can receive or even apply for a CDL learner’s permit, you must pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam and submit your Medical Examiner’s Certificate (Form MCSA-5876).
What is the DOT Physical?
The DOT physical is a medical exam to ensure you are healthy enough to safely operate a commercial motor vehicle. It must be conducted by a licensed medical examiner listed on the FMCSA National Registry.
The exam will assess:
Blood pressure & pulse rate
Vision (must be at least 20/40 in each eye with or without correction)
Hearing (able to hear a forced whisper from 5 feet)
Overall physical condition
Medical history (diabetes, seizures, etc.)
Once you pass, you’ll be issued a medical card valid for up to 24 months (or less if you have a medical condition under observation).
Drug Testing Requirements
All CDL applicants must also pass a DOT-regulated urine drug screen. This test checks for controlled substances such as:
Marijuana
Cocaine
Opiates
Amphetamines
PCP
Drug tests are mandatory before beginning any behind-the-wheel training, and random testing is required for all CDL holders employed by carriers.
Smart CDL Academy coordinates affordable DOT physicals and drug tests with certified providers near our campuses in Dallas, Arlington, and Irving.
Documents You’ll Need to Apply
To apply for a Texas CDL, you’ll need to gather specific documents to prove your identity, residency, and eligibility. Here’s what you’ll need when visiting the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office:
Required Documents:
Proof of identity (e.g., birth certificate, valid passport)
Proof of Social Security Number (e.g., SS card, W-2 form)
Proof of Texas residency (as mentioned above)
Texas driver’s license (non-commercial)
Proof of lawful presence (for non-U.S. citizens)
Medical certificate (DOT physical) — more on this below
Make sure all documents are originals or certified copies — photocopies are typically not accepted.
At Smart CDL Academy, we offer enrollment support that includes helping you prep your documents before your DPS appointment.
Top-Rated Training + Job Placement Support
Background Check Information
Your driving record and criminal history will be reviewed as part of the CDL licensing process, especially if you’re seeking endorsements like Hazardous Materials (H) or Passenger (P).
✅ General Background Review
The DPS will check:
Your current Texas driver’s license status
Past traffic violations or suspensions
DUI/DWI history
Any disqualifying criminal offenses
While a criminal record doesn’t automatically disqualify you from earning a CDL, certain felony convictions — especially involving drugs, human trafficking, or use of a vehicle in a crime — can affect eligibility.
✅ TSA Background Check for Hazmat
If you’re applying for a Hazardous Materials (H) endorsement, you must undergo a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) threat assessment, including:
FBI fingerprinting
Criminal background review
Immigration status verification
Smart CDL Academy can assist with the TSA application process and guide you through eligibility checks before enrollment.
Smart CDL Academy’s Support Through the Process
At Smart CDL Academy, we know the CDL process can feel overwhelming. That’s why we provide end-to-end support to make it simple and stress-free.
Here’s how we help:
✔ Pre-Enrollment Guidance
We walk you through every requirement and help you determine which CDL class and endorsements match your career goals.
✔ Documentation Checklist
We provide a detailed checklist and help you gather all required documents before your DPS visit — no missed paperwork or wasted trips.
✔ DOT Physical Coordination
Our staff will connect you with certified medical examiners and clinics offering DOT physicals and drug tests at a discounted rate.
✔ DPS Application Help
We’ll assist you in scheduling appointments, filling out paperwork, and even offer transportation advice if you need help getting to your DPS location.
✔ ELDT-Compliant Training
Once you’re ready, we’ll enroll you in a FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) program that meets all federal and state regulations.
Ready to Start Your CDL Career?
Contact our admissions team today at 972-989-6450 to schedule your program consultation. Discover how Smart CDL Academy can help you launch a rewarding career in the transportation industry with industry-leading training and support.