The state of Texas requires you to successfully complete certain tests to obtain your CDL before you can legally drive a commercial vehicle. These tests depend on the type of CDL and the number and type of endorsements on it. The tests that you need to clear to conform to state regulations are the written knowledge test, the Air Brake Inspection test, and the road test. Apart from these driver tests, the test vehicle also has to pass inspection of the examiner.

CLASS A CDL – This classification applies only to “combination” vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

 

 

 

 

CLASS B CDL – This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Drivers who apply for a CDL in order to drive school buses need to have an additional school bus endorsement on their CDL which should mention that they are authorized to drive 15 or more people beside themselves. The school bus endorsement requires drivers to clear a special knowledge test based on driving safety, passengers and school buses. The knowledge test must also include an air brakes section if there are air brakes on the school bus. The driver must also clear the skills test required to drive the school bus.

Texas has also adopted the U.S. Department of Transportation Hazardous Materials Regulations which involves the mandatory training and testing of commercial drivers who transport hazardous materials.

CDL ENDORSEMENTS

The following is a list of endorsements you can get help with from Class A CDL:

• Hazardous Material (Class H)
• Tank Vehicles (Class N)
• Passenger-Carrying Vehicle (Class P)
• School Bus (Class S)
• Towing a Double or Triple Trailer (Class T)