Texas CDL Renewal: Everything You Need To Know

Texas CDL renewal is not as complicated as many drivers think. The process is quite simple, and you have two options: renew your CDL in person at a DPS office or complete the renewal online. So, what are the exact steps for each option? In this guide, Easy Prep will provide a detailed, step-by-step walkthrough for both options to help you complete your Texas CDL renewal quickly and smoothly. Let’s dive in!

When do you need a Texas CDL renewal?

When do you need a Texas CDL renewal?

In Texas, you are required to renew your CDL every five years, and the renewal must be completed before the license expires. You can renew your CDL up to one year before the expiration date. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) typically sends a renewal notice about six months prior to your CDL’s expiration. For drivers who are 75 years or older, the renewal cycle is shorter. You must renew your CDL every two years instead of five.

Suppose your commercial driver’s license (CDL) does not include a hazardous materials (HAZMAT) endorsement and you are 78 years of age or younger. In that case, you may be eligible to renew your CDL online through texas.gov. However, if your CDL includes a HAZMAT endorsement or if you are 79 years or older, you will be required to complete the renewal in person at a DPS office.

How to renew a CDL in Texas?

How to renew a CDL in Texas?

There are two main ways you can renew a CDL in Texas: either by visiting a Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person or by completing the process online through the official DPS website. Below, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process to renew your CDL in Texas directly at the DPS office.

In-person renewal

Step 1: Get an appointment for renewal at the DPS

The first step in the Texas CDL renewal process is scheduling an appointment at the Department of Public Safety (DPS). It can be challenging to find a same-day appointment, but there’s a useful trick: check the DPS website between 7:00 and 8:00 a.m. and start searching for a slot. Initially, it might be difficult to find one, but keep trying, and you’ll likely secure an appointment for the same day. If not, you’ll get an appointment for an upcoming day.

Step 2: Prepare the application form

After scheduling an appointment, download the application form from the DPS website, fill it out, and have it ready. This will help you avoid any last-minute confusion when you reach the DPS office.

Step 3: Gather required documents

Check the list of documents required for renewal on the DPS website. The four mandatory documents are:

• Application for renewal
• Proof of Citizenship or updated evidence of lawful presence
• Proof of Identity
• Social Security Number (SSN)

You can visit the website for the specific documents applicable to you. For example, you might need a foreign passport with a valid visa, a lease agreement, an SSN, etc. Don’t forget to carry your current or expired CDL as well.

Step 4: Attend your appointment

On the day of your appointment, try to arrive 30 minutes early. There will be an eye test, after which you’ll be called according to your token number. Go to the counter, submit all the documents, and pay the renewal fees (usually $97). They will issue a slip with your new renewal details. Within two weeks, you’ll receive your original driver’s license at your postal address.

Online renewal

If you have a busy schedule and don’t have the time to visit a DPS office in person, you can conveniently complete the process online. By following the step-by-step instructions below, you’ll be able to renew your license from the comfort of your home without the need to wait in long lines or adjust your work hours:

Step 1: Log in to the Texas DPS website

You need to go to the official Texas DPS website and select “Driver’s license or ID renewal.” After that, you click “Start renewal.”

Step 2: Enter your information

You enter your DD audit number (located at the bottom of your Texas driver’s license). Then, you continue through the Real ID screen.

Step 3: Update address

The system asks whether you want to update your address. You select ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ depending on your situation.

Step 4: Review license details and fees

You confirm your name, driver’s license number, and class. The system displays the renewal fee (usually $97). 

Step 5: Fill in emergency contacts

You need to fill in your current emergency contacts. If necessary, you update the information before moving to the next step.

Step 6: Review and pay the fees

You enter your credit card details on the payment page. After reviewing your information, you click Submit. You can choose whether or not to save your card details for future use.

Step 7: Confirm

Once your payment is submitted, you see the “Thanks for submitting” confirmation screen. At the bottom of the page, you can print the receipt or return to the dashboard. When you go back to the dashboard, you will see “Driver’s License Renewal” listed, confirming that your renewal is complete.

FAQs

1. Can I renew a CDL online in Texas?

Yes. You can renew a CDL in Texas online through the official DPS website if you meet the eligibility requirements. This option is convenient for drivers who don’t have time to visit a DPS office in person.

2. How much does it cost to renew your CDL in Texas?

The renewal fee for a CDL in Texas typically starts at $97 for applicants between the ages of 18 and 84. Additional fees may apply if you need endorsements or special classifications.

3. Do you have to retest if your CDL expires in Texas?

If your CDL has expired for more than two years, you will be required to retake both the knowledge test and the skills test. To prepare, you can try our Texas CDL practice test to refresh your knowledge before heading to the DPS.

4. What do I need to bring to renew my CDL license in Texas?

When you renew a CDL in Texas in person at a DPS office, you need to bring a completed CDL renewal application form, proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence, proof of identity, your Social Security Number (SSN), and your current or expired CDL.

Final thoughts

Texas CDL renewal doesn’t have to be complicated once you know the exact steps. By knowing both the in-person and online renewal options, you can easily choose the option that works best with your schedule. We hope this Easy Prep guide helps you complete your Texas CDL renewal smoothly and without any unnecessary difficulties.