What You Need To Become a Commercial Driver in Texas

There are lots of job opportunities for people who want to drive commercial vehicles in the state of Texas. Even though this job is not easy, a lot of people want to become commercial drivers, since it's one of the best-paying jobs in America. But, before you can start driving a truck, a school bus, or some other commercial vehicle, you have to get familiar with the Texas CDL regulations, what you have to do to obtain a CDL, what sort of requirements you have to meet to be eligible for a CDL, and how you can get specific endorsements that are required to operate certain types of commercial vehicles.

The first thing you have to do is apply for a commercial driver's license. There are certain documents that you have to provide, such as a proof of identity, proof of residency, your Social Security Number, and you have to complete a CDL application form. Then, you have to pass the CDL test. The Texas CDL test consists of a general knowledge test, a skills test, a pre-trip vehicle inspection, a basic vehicle control test, and an on-road test. On top of these tests, that have to be taken by all CDL applicants, there are additional tests that you have to pass if you want to obtain an endorsement for vehicles designed to transport hazardous materials, double/triple trailers, tank vehicles, or passenger vehicles. As far as the hazardous materials endorsement is concerned, you have to agree to a background check and fingerprinting before you can obtain it. You have to be well prepared for these tests, if you want to pass them on your first take. The best way to prepare for the CDL test is by reading the Texas CDL Manual, and completing a truck driver training program can come in handy, as well.

In addition to these tests, you are also required to pass a physical exam. You have to obtain a DOT medical examiner's certificate, which proves that you are physically prepared to operate a commercial motor vehicle. This exam is taken every two years. During the physical exam, a certified examiner will check your vision, hearing, blood pressure, pulse rate, and will ask you certain questions regarding your health history.

With all these procedures and requirements, the process of getting a CDL may seem a bit complicated, but if you study hard for the CDL tests, provide the documents that are required, and you have no serious health issues, you will have no trouble becoming a commercial driver in Texas.