Lino H. Ochoa | April 17, 2025 | Texas Law
Traffic accidents involving commercial trucks can result in life-altering injuries and wrongful deaths. Federal and state laws require individuals to obtain special training and skills to operate a large truck. The aim is to reduce the risk of large truck accidents by ensuring drivers have the experience they need to obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL).
What Are the Types of Commercial Driver’s Licenses in Texas?
A commercial driver’s license allows an individual to operate certain types of commercial motor vehicles. The class of the CDL dictates the type of vehicles the driver can operate and the loads they can transport. Classes are based on the vehicle’s gross vehicle weight (GVW), gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), and/or whether the vehicle is transporting passengers.
The three classes of CDLs in Texas are:
Class A Texas Commercial Driver’s License
A Class A CDL allows a person to drive a commercial motor vehicle or combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight of more than 26,000 pounds, including a towed unit with a GVWR of more than 10,000 pounds, whichever is greater.
Class B Texas Commercial Driver’s License
A Class B CDL allows a person to drive a single commercial motor vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 26,000 pounds. You also need a Class B CDL if you drive a truck towing a vehicle with a gross vehicle weight or a GVWR of less than 10,000 pounds.
Class C Texas Commercial Driver’s License
A Class C CDL allows a person to drive a vehicle that does not meet the Class A or Class B license requirements. It is also required to drive a vehicle that transports 16 or more passengers, including the driver, or transport hazardous materials.
Endorsements Available for Texas Commercial Driver’s Licenses
Drivers can apply for endorsements to their CDLs that allow them to transport specific cargo or operate special types of commercial motor vehicles. The endorsements available for a CDL in Texas include:
- S Endorsement: Required to drive a school bus
- X Endorsement: Required to drive a tank vehicle transporting hazardous materials
- H Endorsement: Required to transport hazardous materials
- N Endorsement: Required to drive a tank truck
- P Endorsement: Required to transport passengers
- T Endorsement: Required to operate a truck with double or triple trailers
You must have a valid CDL to apply for endorsements. Some endorsements require you to complete additional tests and other requirements before receiving the endorsement.
General Requirements for a Commercial Driver’s License in Texas
All individuals must obtain a commercial learner’s permit before applying for a commercial driver’s license. You must have the learner’s license for a minimum of 14 days before you can schedule a driving test for a commercial driver’s license.
The basic requirements for a CDL in Texas include:
- Have a valid Texas driver’s license
- Be a resident of Texas and a U.S. citizen
- Provide proof of Social Security Number, identity, insurance coverage, medical status, and vehicle registration for each vehicle owned
- Pass a vision test
- Complete the required training and education courses
- Provide your thumbprints
- Pay the application fee
- Pass the knowledge and driving tests
- Have your picture taken
Individuals must complete Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) as required by federal law for certain types of CDLs. Entry Level Driver Training is required for first-time applicants for Class A and Class B CDL and Endorsements S, P, and H. Applicants who want to upgrade an existing CDL to Class A or Class B CDL must also take the Entry Level Driver Training course.
There are exemptions to the ELDT requirements, including drivers with valid CDL or S, P, or H endorsements issued before February 7, 2022.
McCallen Truck Accidents Cause Severe Injuries
Training and experience do not prevent all truck accidents. Large truck crashes cause millions of dollars in damages. Accident victims may sustain traumatic injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain injury
- Amputations and loss of limb
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Nerve damage and soft tissue injuries
- Back and neck injuries
- Crushing injuries
- Broken bones
- Internal organ damage
If you are injured in a truck crash, you may be entitled to economic and non-economic damages from the parties responsible for causing the crash. However, you must establish liability in order to recover compensation. An experienced truck accident attorney has the resources and skills to gather evidence to prove your claim and fight large trucking companies and insurance providers for fair settlements.
Learn More About Truck Accidents During a Free Consultation
Truck accident claims can be challenging to pursue. Learn about your legal options and get help from an experienced lawyer today by reaching out to schedule a free consultation.
Contact Car Accident Law Firm of The Law Office of Lino H. Ochoa in McAllen, TX
For more information, contact the McAllen, TX Car Accident law firm of The Law Office of Lino H. Ochoa to schedule a free initial consultation.
We serve Hidalgo County and its surrounding areas:
The Law Office of Lino H. Ochoa
6316 N 10th St Building D, Suite 102
McAllen, Texas, 78504
(956) 815-0055
Hours: Monday to Friday,
from 8 am – 5 pm
