Texas leads the nation in trucking, with over 212,000 commercial truck drivers moving millions of tons of cargo across nearly 700,000 miles of roads daily. And while top drivers in the state can earn more than $76,000 a year through honest work, operating a big rig is far more demanding than it appears. It requires rigorous training, specialized qualifications, and, above all, a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
When trucking companies cut corners by prioritizing profits over safety and allowing unqualified drivers behind the wheel, the consequences aren’t just reckless — they’re often deadly. In our experience, most truck crashes are entirely preventable. Tragically, crashes caused by inadequately trained drivers — including those with questionable driving records and a history of violating state and federal safety regulations — have surged over the last decade as the commercial trucking industry struggles with a severe driver shortage.
Read on to learn about the main types of CDLs in Texas and how our undefeated Texas truck accident attorneys can fight for you if you’ve been injured by an 18-wheeler driver — especially one who lacked a CDL or was driving on a suspended license.
The Main Commercial Driver License Classes in Texas
The commercial driver’s license (CDL) system has three main levels. A Class A license is the most comprehensive, and it’s what you need to drive the massive tractor-trailers you see on highways. Class B, on the other hand, allows you to get behind the wheel of delivery trucks and buses. Finally, Class C allows you to drive smaller commercial vehicles.
Each license level requires mastering specific skills. A Class A driver needs to understand complex transmission systems and trailer dynamics. A Class B driver focuses on precise urban maneuvering. Class C drivers often deal with specialized cargo or passenger transport.
The Benefits Of a Class A CDL
Class A licenses allow you to operate the heaviest vehicles on the road — any combination of vehicles with a gross combined weight of at least 26,001 pounds, provided the vehicle being towed weighs more than 10,000 pounds. That’s the standard for those big tractor-trailers hauling freight across the country. Class A holders can also legally operate any Class B or C vehicle.
The Benefits Of a Class B CDL
Class B is for single vehicles over 26,001 pounds or towing something under 10,000 pounds. These include city buses, dump trucks, and large delivery vehicles. This class is more limited than Class A, but it’s perfect for drivers who stay within city limits.
The Benefits Of a Class C CDL
Class C is considered the starter commercial license. A Class C license allows you to handle smaller vehicles that don’t fit into A or B categories. These include cars like passenger vans or small hazmat trucks. Regardless of the smaller size of vehicles, these drivers still need special training and skills.
Driver’s License Endorsements
When it comes to CDLs in Texas, there’s a whole set of additional certifications to consider. These endorsements require specialized testing and knowledge. The following are some examples:
- H: A certification to carry hazardous materials; requires a federal background check and lets you transport dangerous goods
- N: A certification to drive tank vehicles ferrying liquids and certain gases
- P: A certification to drive buses and vehicles designed to carry large groups
- S: A certification to drive school buses
- T: A certification for operating trucks with two or three trailers
- X: A certification for hauling dangerous materials in tank vehicles
Besides passing a test, there might be extra requirements for specific endorsements. For hazmat certification, you need to pass a TSA background check. For passenger and school bus endorsements, you need to complete special training programs. Additionally, since February 2022, you need Entry Level Driver Training for most endorsements.
The Age Requirements for CDLs
The age requirements for CDLs are strict: you must be 18 years old for Class B and C licenses and 21 for Class A. However, age is just the starting point. First, you must get a commercial learner’s permit (CLP) and hold it for at least 14 days.
During this time, you complete mandatory behind-the-wheel training, learning specific skills for each vehicle class. You’ll also need a valid DOT medical certification, a clean driving record (watch out for DUIs), and passing scores on knowledge tests for your specific license type.
The Purpose of the CDL System
The CDL system encourages consistently safer and more professional driving. Given the size and weight of commercial vehicles, it’s important that these drivers are competent enough to perform reliable movement while ensuring road safety standards are met.
Undefeated Texas Truck Accident Lawyers: Call 1-888-603-3636 For a Free Consult
With decades of experience and Billions won for truck accident victims across Texas and the United States, our undefeated 18-wheeler accident Lawyers have repeatedly secured the largest verdicts and settlements in trucking industry history. With the resources, expertise, and skills needed to stand up against any trucking company in the world and recover the justice and maximum compensation our clients deserve, we don’t just win for truck accident victims and their families – we set records.
If you or a loved one were injured or tragically killed in an 18-wheeler accident, call us for a free consultation at 1-888-603-3636 or send us an email through our Contact Us form.
Our top priority is getting you all the information you need to make the best decision for you and your family.
And since we work exclusively on a contingency fee basis, you won’t owe anything unless we win your case.
Zehl & Associates Injury & Accident Lawyers – Houston
2700 Post Oak Blvd #1000, Houston, TX 77056
(888) 603-3636
29.73890263937774, -95.4612824423294
Open 24 hours
Zehl & Associates Injury & Accident Lawyers – Midland
306 W Wall St Suite 701, Midland, TX 79701
(432) 220-0000
31.99827039117601, -102.07752974593966
Open 24 hours