CDL Truck Driver in Texas
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for TX
How to Become a CDL Truck Driver in Texas
To become a CDL Truck Driver in Texas, individuals must obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and hold it for at least 14 days. They must complete FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) and pass a general knowledge exam and a three-part skills test, which includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and an on-road driving test. The CDL costs $97 and is valid for eight years, with a skills test fee of approximately $97. Applicants must be at least 18 for intrastate driving or 21 for interstate commerce and possess a valid DOT medical certificate.
CDL Truck Driver Requirements in Texas
| Detail | Texas |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) |
| Exam | CDL General Knowledge and Skills Test ($97) |
| Application Fee | $97 |
| Renewal | Every 8.0 years |
| Notes | Applicants must be 18+ for intrastate or 21+ for interstate commerce. A valid DOT medical certificate is required. The Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) costs $25 and must be held for a minimum of 14 days. Skills test fees are paid to third-party providers and vary, but are approximately $97. Federal Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) is required for new applicants, those upgrading their CDL, or those obtaining S, P, or H endorsements. As of September 29, 2025, Texas has suspended the issuance and renewal of non-domicile CDLs and all CDLs to non-citizens who are refugees, asylees, or DACA recipients. |
License Tiers
Texas offers multiple tiers of cdl truck driver licensing:
| Tier | Hours Required |
|---|---|
| Class A | N/A |
| Class B | N/A |
| Class C | N/A |
CDL Truck Driver Salary in Texas
The median cdl truck driver salary in Texas is $53,070 per year, which is 7.6% below the national median of $57,440.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $36,620 |
| 25th | $45,230 |
| 50th (median) | $53,070 |
| 75th | $63,910 |
| 90th (experienced) | $78,470 |
Texas employs approximately 212,700 cdl truck drivers.
CDL Truck Driver Job Outlook
AI Impact on CDL Truck Drivers
Low AI Exposure (Score: -1.15/1.00)
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
Is Becoming a CDL Truck Driver in Texas Worth It?
Factors to consider: Texas's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.