Texas (TX) CDL Practice Tests

South Carolina (SC) CDL applicants can use this 5-question practice set to sharpen key concepts before taking the Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) knowledge exam.

Texas CDL Practice Tests: General Knowledge, Combination Vehicle & Air Brakes

Drivers preparing for a Texas Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) should focus on three core CDL practice tests. These align with the written knowledge exams required by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).

• General Knowledge CDL Practice Test
• Combination Vehicle CDL Practice Test
• Air Brakes CDL Practice Test

Using CDL practice tests along with the official Texas CDL manual will help you prepare more confidently for the written knowledge exams.

Preparing for the Texas CDL Exam

Commercial driver licensing standards are set at the federal level by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Each state administers its own CDL testing and licensing processes.

In Texas, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) oversees CDL licensing and testing. The official Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Driver’s Handbook provides the foundation for knowledge and skills testing:

• Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Driver’s Handbook (PDF)

The Texas CDL manual applies to all commercial license classes, including:

• Class A CDL
• Class B CDL
• Class C CDL

Texas CDL Eligibility Requirements

Age Requirements:
You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a CDL for intrastate (Texas-only) driving.
You must be at least 21 years old to operate interstate or transport hazardous materials (H). ([dps.texas.gov](https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/commercial-driver-license-cdl))

Valid Texas Driver’s License

You must hold a valid Texas non-commercial driver’s license or identification before applying for a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) or CDL. ([dps.texas.gov](https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/commercial-driver-license-cdl))

Medical Certification

All Texas CDL applicants must meet DOT medical requirements, which include passing a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam conducted by a certified medical examiner listed on the FMCSA National Registry.

FMCSA Medical Certification Requirements

Required Documentation

To apply for a CDL in Texas, you must provide proof of identity, Social Security number, Texas residency, and lawful U.S. presence. Consult the Texas DPS CDL documentation checklist to ensure all requirements are met. ([dps.texas.gov](https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/commercial-driver-license-cdl))

CDL Knowledge Tests and Endorsements

Applicants must pass written knowledge tests covering general CDL topics, air brakes (if applicable), combination vehicles, and endorsements they plan to add.

Common CDL endorsements include:

• Hazardous Materials (H)
• Tanker (N)
• Passenger (P)
• School Bus (S)

Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)

Federal Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) standards apply to many CDL applicants in Texas. ELDT includes classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction with a registered FMCSA training provider before taking the CDL skills test.

FMCSA Training Provider Registry

Background Checks

Certain endorsements, such as Hazardous Materials (H), require additional federal background checks and fingerprinting. Applicants must also prove identity, state residency, and lawful presence.

Texas CDL Application Process

To obtain a CDL in Texas, applicants must:

• Pass the CDL knowledge tests to obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP).
• Hold the CLP for at least 14 days (per federal rules).
• Complete ELDT if required.
• Pass the CDL skills test including vehicle inspection, basic skills, and road driving.
• Submit all documentation and fees at a Texas DPS Driver License Office. ([dps.texas.gov](https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/commercial-driver-license-cdl))

Texas Commercial Driver License (CDL) official information

Texas CDL Fees

Texas CDL fees are published by the Texas DPS and vary by the type of credential and duration chosen. The amounts below reflect the typical fees assessed at a Texas DPS office at the time of application.

• Class A CDL Driver License: $61.00 (for a 2-year license)
• Class B or C CDL Driver License: $51.00 (for a 2-year license)
• Commercial Learner Permit (CLP): $11.00

Additional fees may apply for:

• Separate endorsement knowledge tests
• Skills testing (vehicle inspection, basic skills, road test)
• Hazardous Materials background check fees (federal)
• Third-party testing facility fees

Because Texas CDL fees can change, applicants should confirm the current amounts with the Texas DPS before applying.

View the official Texas DPS CDL & Driver License fees