Earn Your CDLThe Right Way.

What you need to
get your Texas CDL.

Make sure you check every box below before you start. Bring questions — we'll walk you through the paperwork.

• Age Requirements: Be at least 21 years old (or 18 if all commercial driving stays entirely within Texas lines, with no hazmat or double/triple trailers).
• Commercial Learner Permit (CLP): Pass the mandatory Texas CDL written knowledge examinations in English at a DPS office to obtain your permit.
• The 14-Day Rule: You must hold your valid Texas CLP for a minimum of 14 consecutive days before you are legally eligible to take the final skills/road test.
• DOT Medical Certification: Hold a valid DOT medical certificate issued by an FMCSA-certified medical examiner and ensure it is electronically submitted to the Texas DPS system.
• Single License Rule: Hold a driver license from only one state, which cannot be currently suspended, revoked, or canceled anywhere.
• Proof of Identity: Provide official proof of U.S. citizenship, lawful permanent residency, or a valid work permit, along with proof of Texas residency.
• State Licensing Fees: Pay the required Texas DPS fees ($25 for the CLP application and $97 for the CDL issuance — $122 total).
• English-Only Mandate: All commercial knowledge and skills tests are administered strictly in English per federal and state rules.

Four steps to your
Class A license.

1. 01

   Step

   Consultation & Written Test Prep

   Stop by first so we can walk you through the program and start registration — payment is due on sign-up and before materials are given.

2. 02

   Step

   Take the Written Tests

   For Class A, DPS tests you on Special Requirements, General Knowledge, Combinations, and Air Brakes — that's what's required to move forward. Tests are taken at any DPS location. Once you pass the required sections, you'll receive your Commercial Learner Permit (CLP) — DPS fees are $25 for the CLP and $97 for the CDL ($122 total). You must hold your CLP for at least 14 days before the skills/road test. You'll also perform an Air Brake demonstration and a Pre-Trip inspection in English — and the pre-trip isn't just naming parts, you need to know what each part does and what to look for. We'll make sure you're ready before you walk in.

3. 03

   Step

   Drive On the Road

   A Certified Class A Training Instructor rides with you every session in our professional training vehicles — you get the wheel, not a seat in a crowded cab. Automatics help new drivers focus on the road instead of the gearbox; we also run 10-speed standard trucks. Backing up and parallel parking are the hardest parts — we won't take you to DPS until you're confident. Fail your first attempt? We bring you back at no extra cost, valid for up to 3 total test attempts within a 90-day window from your official DPS application fee payment date.

4. 04

   Step

   Take the Road Test

   When you can comfortably handle safe turns, curb clearance, backing, parallel parking, freeway driving, pre-trip, air brake demo, and splitting truck and trailer — we take you to DPS in our truck and stand with you. Your success is our priority.