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December 2, 2023 by Greg Baumgartner
A CDL, or Commercial Driver’s License, is a specialized type of driver’s license that permits you to operate large, heavy vehicles, such as semi-trucks, buses, and other commercial vehicles. It is essential to understand the various types of Commercial Driver’s Licenses in Texas to ensure you possess the correct credentials.
The Department of Transportation sets federal standards for the minimum safety rules for commercial driver’s licenses, drivers, and motor carriers. Texas has largely adopted the federal regulation of truck drivers.
In Texas, there are three types of CDLs: Class A, Class B, and Class C. Each class has its requirements and allows you to operate different types of vehicles. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of commercial driver’s licenses in Texas and what you need to do to obtain them.
A Class A CDL is the most common commercial driver’s license type in Texas. With a Class A CDL, you can operate any combination of vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more if the towed vehicle weighs more than 10,000 pounds.
To obtain a Class A CDL in Texas, you must meet the following requirements:
The CDL skills test is divided into pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. During the pre-trip inspection, you’ll be tested on your ability to inspect your vehicle for safety and mechanical issues. The basic vehicle control portion of the test will assess your ability to control the vehicle in various situations, such as backing up and turning. Finally, the on-road driving portion will assess your ability to operate the vehicle safely on public roads.
A Class B CDL allows you to operate single vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more and any vehicle towing a trailer with a GVWR of less than 10,000 pounds. This class is typically for drivers who operate buses, dump trucks, and other heavy-duty vehicles that do not require a trailer.
To obtain a Class B CDL in Texas, you must meet the following requirements:
The CDL skills test for a Class B CDL is like the test for a Class A CDL, but it does not include the pre-trip inspection portion. Instead, you’ll be tested on your ability to control the vehicle and drive safely on public roads.
A Class C CDL is the most basic commercial driver’s license type in Texas. With a Class C CDL, you can operate any vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or hazardous materials.
To obtain a Class C CDL in Texas, you must meet the following requirements:
The CDL skills test for a Class C CDL is like that for a Class B CDL. Still, it may also include additional endorsements for hazardous materials or passenger transportation.
In addition to the three main classes of CDLs, there are also various endorsements that you can obtain to expand your driving capabilities. These endorsements allow you to operate specialized vehicles or transport specific types of cargo.
Some common endorsements include:
You must pass a written knowledge and, sometimes, a skills test to obtain an endorsement.
Truck drivers need license endorsements to operate specific types of vehicles or transport certain types of cargo legally.
Endorsements provide additional qualifications and training to ensure the safety and expertise of the driver in specialized areas. For example, it allows drivers to transport hazardous materials, while the Tank Vehicles endorsement is required to operate vehicles carrying liquids or gases in bulk containers.
Similarly, the Passenger endorsement is necessary for transporting passengers in vehicles designed for 16 or more people, and the school Bus endorsement is required to operate a school bus. The Double/Triple Trailers endorsement permits drivers to tow multiple trailers simultaneously.
Each endorsement has specific requirements, such as additional knowledge tests, background checks, and sometimes driving tests. These endorsements ensure drivers have the necessary skills and knowledge to handle the vehicle or cargo they are responsible for. Truck drivers need to obtain the required endorsements to comply with regulations and ensure the safety of themselves and others on the road.
After an accident, a trucking accident attorney will likely scrutinize the driver’s training and qualifications.
To obtain a CDL in Texas, you must complete a training program at a certified CDL school. These programs typically last 4-8 weeks, including classroom instruction, hands-on training, and practice driving. You can also attend a private training program or receive on-the-job training from a trucking company.
Contact a truck accident lawyer at Baumgartner Law Firm in Houston or reach out to us online to discuss an accident involving a big rig, semi-truck, or other commercial vehicle. (281) 587-1111.
6711 Cypress Creek Pkwy, Houston, TX, 77069
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Since establishing Baumgartner Law Firm in 1985, Greg Baumgartner has built a reputation as one of Houston’s leading personal injury attorneys, dedicated to representing severely injured victims and families who have lost loved ones due to negligence.
Greg holds two law degrees, a distinction earned by less than 1% of all attorneys, demonstrating his exceptional legal expertise. He is also a prestigious Trial Lawyers College graduate, further enhancing his skills in trial advocacy and litigation.
His relentless commitment to legal excellence and client advocacy has earned him recognition from prestigious organizations, including Super Lawyers, the Top 100 Trial Lawyers, and many others.
With decades of experience, Greg has consistently received top peer reviews. He holds a preeminent rating, a testament to his unwavering dedication to securing justice and maximum compensation for his clients.
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