Licensing

How to get a CDL in Texas

Each line is from a Texas licensing page opened October 29, 2026. A line that says the page did not state a fee is not an estimate.

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Minimum age

The fee table prices a commercial license from age 18. The medical page says non-excepted interstate driving requires 21 or older, and an intrastate category requires at least 18.

CLP fee

Original commercial learner permit is $25 and expires 180 days after issuance. Renewal is $25. The fee page says a $1 administrative fee is included in these amounts and is not charged for a mail transaction. The permit must be held 14 days before the skills exams.

CDL fee

For ages 18 through 84, a new or renewal commercial license is $97 and expires in eight years. With a hazardous materials endorsement, new or renewal is $61 and expires in five years. At age 85 or older, new or renewal is $26 and expires in two years. The same $1 administrative fee note applies. Replacement of a CDL or CLP is $11.

Skills-test fee

Not listed as its own line on the fee page checked.

ELDT

The application page says that once you have held the commercial learner permit for at least 14 days and completed your Entry Level Driver Training requirements, you can take the driving tests. It does not state an hour minimum.

Medical card

You certify one type of commercial driving. Non-excepted interstate driving requires a medical examiner certificate on file and age 21 or older. Texas stopped accepting paper medical certificates on April 10, 2026. Results come electronically from National Registry II.

Sources

• Texas DPS: apply for a CDL or CLP
• Texas DPS: driver license fees
• Texas DPS: CDL medical certification

Questions drivers ask

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