2026 Texas CDL (Commercial Driver’s License)

To secure your 2026 Texas CDL (Commercial Driver’s License), you must pass the General Knowledge test, which consists of 50 multiple-choice questions. In Texas, you must score at least 80% (40 correct answers).

Notably, Texas repealed its Point System (the Driver Responsibility Program) a few years back. Instead, Texas now uses a conviction-based system where "Serious Traffic Violations" directly impact your CDL eligibility.

🚛 Texas CDL 2026: Top 50 Questions & Answers
General Knowledge & Safety
Q: What is the most important reason for vehicle inspection?

A: Safety—for yourself and other road users.

Q: What is the minimum tread depth for front tires?

A: 4/32 inch. (All other tires require 2/32 inch).

Q: How many red reflective triangles are required for emergencies?

A: Three.

Q: Where do you place triangles on a two-lane undivided road?

A: One within 10 feet of the front or rear, and one 100 feet ahead and 100 feet behind.

Q: How far ahead should you look while driving?

A: 12 to 15 seconds (about a quarter-mile on highways).

Q: When should you check your tires in extremely hot weather?

A: Every 2 hours or every 100 miles.

Q: What should you do if your vehicle catches fire?

A: Park in an open area, away from buildings or other vehicles. Do not open the hood if the fire is in the engine.

Q: What fire extinguisher is best for a gasoline fire?

A: B-C type (Carbon Dioxide or Dry Chemical). Never use water on gasoline or electrical fires.

Q: What is "Retarder" braking?

A: A system that helps slow the vehicle. Turn it off on wet, icy, or snow-covered roads to avoid skidding.

Q: How do you test for hydraulic leaks?

A: Pump the brake pedal 3 times, then hold for 5 seconds. The pedal should not move.

Texas-Specific Laws & Penalties (2026)
Q: What is the BAC limit for a CDL holder in a CMV?

A: 0.04%.

Q: How long is a first-time DWI disqualification for a CDL holder?

A: At least 1 year (3 years if carrying Hazardous Materials).

Q: What happens after two "Serious Traffic Violations" in 3 years?

A: 60-day CDL disqualification.

Q: What is the penalty for a third "Serious Violation" in 3 years?

A: 120-day disqualification.

Q: Is hands-free cell phone use allowed for CMVs in Texas?

A: Hands-free is technically legal but highly discouraged due to cognitive distraction; handheld use is strictly prohibited.

Q: How long must you hold a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) before the skills test?

A: At least 14 days.

Q: What is the "Move Over" law in Texas?

A: You must move over a lane or slow down to 20 mph below the speed limit for emergency/utility vehicles with flashing lights.

Q: Are CDL holders eligible for "Driver Safety" (Defensive Driving) courses to dismiss tickets?

A: No. CDL holders are ineligible for ticket dismissal via safety courses.

Q: What is the maximum fine for passing a stopped school bus in Texas?

A: Up to $1,250 for a first offense.

Q: Do all CMVs have to stop at railroad crossings in Texas?

A: No; only those carrying passengers or hazardous materials (unless marked "Exempt").

Air Brakes (Standard for Class A/B)
Q: At what PSI should the low air pressure warning activate?

A: Before pressure falls below 60 PSI.

Q: When do spring brakes (emergency brakes) automatically engage?

A: When air pressure drops to 20–45 PSI.

Q: What is the purpose of the Air Storage Tanks?

A: To hold compressed air so the brakes can work if the engine or compressor fails.

Q: Why should you drain your air tanks daily?

A: To remove water and oil that can freeze or cause brake failure.

Q: What is "Brake Lag"?

A: The time it takes for air to flow through the lines to the brakes (adds about 32 feet to stopping distance at 55 mph).

Q: How do you test the air leakage rate (Static)?

A: With the engine off and brakes released; it should not lose more than 2 PSI per minute (Single) or 3 PSI (Combination).

Q: What does the "Governor" do?

A: It controls when the compressor pumps air into the tanks (Cut-out ~125 PSI; Cut-in ~100 PSI).

Q: What is "Stab Braking"?

A: Applying brakes hard, releasing when wheels lock, then reapplying when they roll again (Only for non-ABS vehicles).

Q: What is the Slack Adjuster?

A: The link between the brake chamber and the camshaft that ensures the brake shoes hit the drum correctly.

Q: If the low air warning light comes on, what should you do?

A: Stop and safely park immediately.

Shifting, Mountains, & Curves
Q: When should you downshift?

A: Before starting down a hill and before entering a curve.

Q: What is "Double Clutching"?

A: Using the clutch twice for every shift (once to neutral, once to the next gear).

Q: How do you choose a safe speed for a long downgrade?

A: Use the same gear you would use to climb the hill.

Q: What is the "Snubbing" braking technique?

A: Applying brakes until 5 mph below your safe speed, then releasing until you reach your safe speed again.

Q: Why should you avoid using the parking brake in freezing weather?

A: The brakes can freeze to the drums. Use wheel chocks instead.

Cargo & Inspections
Q: Who is responsible for securing cargo?

A: The driver.

Q: How often must you check your cargo?

A: Within the first 50 miles, then every 150 miles or every 3 hours.

Q: What is the "Bridge Formula"?

A: A weight-to-length ratio law to prevent bridge damage.

Q: What must you check on the landing gear?

A: That it is fully raised and the crank handle is secured.

Q: What is "Blocking and Bracing"?

A: Using materials to keep cargo from sliding or falling.

Advanced Safety & Road Scenarios
Q: If you are forced off the road, what is the best way to return?

A: Slow down to 20 mph or less before steering back onto the pavement.

Q: What is "Hydroplaning"?

A: When tires lose contact with the road and "float" on water. Release the gas; do not brake.

Q: How should you adjust your following distance in heavy rain?

A: Double it.

Q: What do you do if your steering fails?

A: Stop as quickly and safely as possible; do not try to "steer" it back.

Q: What is the "No-Zone"?

A: Blind spots behind, in front, and to the sides of a CMV.

Q: If a traffic light is out of order, how do you treat the intersection?

A: Treat it as a four-way stop.

Q: When should you use your high beams?

A: Whenever possible, but dim them within 500 feet of an oncoming vehicle.

Q: What is the "Jake Brake" (Engine Brake) used for?

A: To help slow the vehicle without using the service brakes.

Q: What do you do if you miss your exit?

A: Continue to the next exit; never back up on a highway.

Q: What is the most important thing to remember in windy conditions?

A: Keep both hands on the wheel; wind can "push" a large trailer out of its lane.

Strategy for Success
In 2026, the Texas DPS uses the Modernized CDL Skills Test. While the written part remains theory-heavy, the Pre-Trip Inspection (Vehicle Inspection) now requires more verbal explanation than ever before.