1. If I am applying for a commercial learner permit (CLP) for the first time must Entry Level Driving Training (ELDT) be completed before obtaining a CLP?
No, ELDT is not required to be completed prior to obtaining a CLP.
2. When is ELDT required?
Beginning February 7, 2022, License and Permit Specialists must query the Training Provider Registry to determine if ELDT requirements have been met. ELDT is a single, national standard for obtaining a commercial driver's license (CDL). ELDT regulations apply to drivers seeking to obtain a CDL for the first time, upgrading an existing CDL to a Class B or A, or obtain a new hazmat, passenger, or school bus endorsement. Each state must electronically verify that an applicant completed the required training and certification process before administering a CDL skills test or prior to taking the knowledge test for a hazmat endorsement.
3. How long am I required to hold a Commercial Learners Permit (CLP) before I am permitted to take a road test?
Texas Transportation Code Section 522.014 requires a CLP to be held for a minimum of 14 days.
4. I am a CDL holder with a requirement to have an interlock device on my vehicle, what do I do if it cannot be installed on my company vehicle?
You will be issued a license with a P39 restriction. This permits you to operate a company vehicle without an interlock device, provided that driving is essential to the job. When operating the company vehicle, you must carry a letter on company letterhead acknowledging that the employer is aware of the your P39 restriction.
NOTE: This scenario does not apply to a CDL driver who is disqualified, as an occupational driver license cannot be issued to a CDL holder.
5. How much does it cost to obtain a CDL license?
For information on driver license fees, visit our webpage Driver License Division Fees. Information regarding the cost for a CDL license may be found under Commercial Driver License (CDL) Fees.
6. Can I renew my CDL online?
Yes, you can renew your Texas Commercial Driver License (CDL) online if you meet specific eligibility requirements.
For additional information, visit the Renew Your Texas DL, CDL, Motorcycle License or ID webpage.
7. I drive a recreational vehicle; do I still need a CDL license?
You will need to obtain an exempt class A or B driver license. For further information please visit our Classes of Driver Licenses web page.
8. How do I obtain a vision waiver?
As of January 1, 2023, the Texas Vision Waiver program is no longer available due to changes in federal regulations. However, individuals who previously relied on the program to operate commercial motor vehicles (CMV) may now be eligible under the new federal alternative vision standards.
Individuals currently holding a Texas Vision Waiver must comply with the new standards by December 1, 2024 or by the medical certificate expiration date, whichever occurs first.
9. Am I able to complete my skills exam through a third party or in another state?
Yes. Authorized third party providers and out-of-state skills testing providers will transmit your exam scores electronically. Please confirm with your provider the exam scores have been submitted prior to scheduling an appointment.
10. Why does an out of state conviction show up on my driving record when I did not have a Texas CDL at the time?
In accordance to 49 Code of Federal Regulations 384.206(b), when you transfer your commercial driver license to Texas, the Department is required to transfer all of your out-of-state driver history information to your Texas commercial driver license so that you always have a single complete driver record. For more information on federal regulations governing commercial driver licenses, please visit the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's website.
11. Why did I receive a notice of suspension for an out-of-state conviction?
In accordance to 49 Code of Federal Regulations 383.51, if you are convicted for certain offenses, the Department is required by both state and federal statutes to disqualify your commercial driver license. The period of disqualification is dependent upon the type of violation you were convicted for. For more information on federal regulations governing commercial driver licenses, please visit the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's website.
12. I still cannot find the answer to my question, what do I do?
If you do not find the answer to your question, you can always contact our Customer Service Center for assistance.
National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME) and CDL Medical Examiner Certification
1. Is it necessary to fax, mail, or email my medical certificate to the CDL Help Desk?
Effective June 23, 2025, CDL drivers and Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) holders are no longer required to submit medical certificates directly to the Department of Public Safety (DPS).
2. Do I still need to present my medical certificate at a driver license office?
As of June 23, 2025, direct submission of medical certificates to DPS by CDL and CLP drivers has been discontinued.
3. How long does it take for DPS to receive my medical certification information from National Registry after my medical examination?
The NRCME transmits medical certification data to DPS within a few days, ensuring timely record updates.
4. How can I verify that my medical certification has been updated in my record?
You can confirm your medical certification status by visiting the Driver Eligibility webpage.
5. Why is direct submission of medical certification certificates to DPS no longer required?
An automated system has been implemented, eliminating the need for manual submissions. This streamlines the process and enhances efficiency for CDL drivers.
6. What should I do if there is an error on my medical certificate?
You must return to your medical provider for correction of any errors on your medical certificate.
7. My medical certificate was rejected due to self-certification issues. How do I resolve this?
You must return to your medical provider for correction. If the provider confirms the certificate is accurate, you will need to schedule an appointment at a driver license office, click here to schedule to update your certification.
8. My CLP or CDL was downgraded. How can I have it upgraded?
If your CLP or CDL was downgraded due to an expired Medical Examiner's Certificate, you must visit a local driver license office for an upgrade. A CDL downgraded to a Class C driver license solely for failure to provide a valid medical variance or Medical Examiner's Certificate may be upgraded to its previous status (including restrictions and endorsements) without retesting if the following conditions are met:
- The record status is "Eligible" (not suspended, revoked, disqualified, or canceled).
- The driver license has not been expired for more than two years.
- The CDL downgrade occurred within the last 12 months.
- Your valid medical variance or Medical Examiner's Certificate is submitted to the National Registry (NRII).
- Applicable transaction fees will apply.
9. I was downgraded to a non-commercial driver license. Do I need to retake the driving tests?
If you were downgraded solely due to an expired medical certificate, your license has not expired, and you have not completed a license transaction since the downgrade, you do not need to retake the driving tests. However, if your license was voluntarily surrendered or downgraded, you will be required to retest.
10. How long is my Medical Examiner's Certificate good for?
Medical Examiner's Certificates (MEC) are valid for a maximum of 24 months. The medical examiner may issue a certificate for a shorter duration if you have a medical condition that requires closer monitoring.
11. When a CDL license is downgraded, what is the cost to upgrade the license back to its previous CDL status?
It may cost up to $97 to upgrade your license back to a CDL.
12. Most medical certificates are issued for a period of 2 years. Why is my medical certificate only good for 1 year or less?
The medical examiner may issue a certificate for a shorter duration if you have a medical condition that requires closer monitoring.
13. I still cannot find the answer to my question, what do I do?
If you do not find the answer to your question, you can always contact our Customer Service Center for assistance.
Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse (DACH)
1. I received a downgrade letter for the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse. How do I upgrade back to my CDL?
Visit the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse (DACH) to view the violation information in our DACH record and to obtain the requirements for returning to duty.
The Department will be notified electronically from the DACH to reinstate your privileges. You will receive a reinstatement notice with additional requirements to complete the return to duty process.
2. I still cannot find the answer to my question, what do I do?
If you do not find the answer to your question, you can always contact our Customer Service Center for assistance.
Non-Domicile Commercial Driver License (CDL) and Non-Domicile Commercial Learners Permit (CLP)
1. Why was my CLP/CDL canceled/downgraded?
A review showed your CLP/CDL was not issued according to Federal Regulations that were in place prior to the September 29, 2025, new Interim Final Rule. This requires TX DPS to cancel the license and disqualify the commercial driving privilege.
2. How can I get my CLP/CDL back?
Once the issuance process of non-domiciled CLP/CDLs begin, you may be eligible to reapply if your current lawful presence status is H-2B, H-2A, or E-2. If you fall into one of these categories, you must bring the following unexpired documents to reapply:
- Unexpired Foreign Passport
- Unexpired Form I-94/I-94A with specific category codes, H-2B, H-2A or E-2
- Social Security Card (if not already provided)
- Two (2) documents proving Texas residency (if not already provided)
If your status is not H-2B, H-2A, or E-2, you will be eligible to reapply once you receive permanent residence status.
3. If my lawful presence status changes, can I get my CLP/CDL back?
Yes. If your status changes to one of the eligible category codes (H-2B, H-2A, or E-2) or you obtain a Permanent Resident Card, you can reapply for your CLP/CDL.
4. Can I get a refund for my cancelled CLP/CDL or my outstanding CDL knowledge or skills test transaction?
A refund will not be issued for any fees or transactions processed prior to the September 29, 2025, regulatory change date.
6. Do I have to retest to get my CLP/CDL back if I currently have a permanent resident card?
No, if you currently possess a permanent resident card, your CLP/CDL will be upgraded without testing.
7. If I bring in my H-2B, H-2A, or E-2 documentation can I be upgraded?
Currently DPS has halted all non-domiciled CDL issuance. Once the issuance process begins, it will be updated on our website.
8. If I have been downgraded, will I receive a new driver license in the mail?
No, you may continue to operate non-commercial vehicles (e.g. personal vehicles) using the valid card in your possession. If you wish to obtain a replacement license showing the updated non-commercial classification, or you possess Permanent Resident card and want to apply to upgrade back to a CDL, please schedule an appointment at your nearest Driver License Office on our website at https://www.txdpsscheduler.com.