There are dozens of jobs that require a person to apply for a CDL or Commercial Driver's License in Texas, and the obvious reason is for operating an 18 Wheeler tractor and trailer combination for local or long haul trips.
You must first already posses a Class A drivers license, and this what is issued most of the time in order to operate regular size cars, pickup trucks, and SUV's. Where the rules change is when large amounts of weight are involved in operating trucks or tractors, and there is a process that every person must undertake to be approved for such a license.
A Texas commercial driver's license is necessary for any vehicle having a gross weight from the maker of more than twenty-six thousand pounds, also for a vehicle towing a trailer that weighs in at more than ten thousand pounds. In addition, when passengers on say a bus total more than sixteen people, or when hazardous materials are being moved from one point to another. The regulations were set by the federal government back in 1986 for all fifty states to adhere to in the interest of public safety.
You must be 21 when obtaining a commercial vehicle license, although there is an exception to the rule as a person over eighteen can be granted a CDL, as long as they do not travel outside of the state of Texas. Otherwise, being granted a commercial license allows the operator to drive in all fifty states of the USA.
Just like when trying to acquire a pilot's license, commercial drivers are required to undergo a physical examination by a physician before they can be awarded the privilege of a commercial endorsement.
There are several certified driving schools in each major city, that can help an individual in learning all the material required to take the written exam. The school or academy will also have training areas, that a student driver can take instruction from a teacher, and practice tasks, like hooking up to a trailer, backing up long distances to loading docks, and other needed skills.
Besides the medical exam, there will an additional vision test, several applications depending on what type of endorsements will be needed to complete the upcoming job a person is trying to land. After passing the written exam, an appointment for the physical skills test will have to be set, so a certified DOT officer can make sure the driver's skill level is meeting the minimum requirements.
Greg Baumgartner is a Texas 18 wheeler accident lawyer and the founder of the Baumgartner law firm, which is dedicated to helping personal injury victims seek civil justice. If you would like to speak with a Houston truck accident lawyer call the Baumgartner firm.
