What disqualifies you from getting a CDL in Texas? 6 factors

What disqualifies you from getting a CDL in Texas? That’s a question many commercial drivers ask before starting their training journey. There are 6 major disqualifying factors that could prevent you from obtaining your CDL in Texas. In this guide, Easy Prep will walk you through each of these key disqualifiers and help you understand exactly what to avoid to stay eligible for a CDL in Texas.

What disqualifies you from getting a CDL in Texas?

There are 6 key factors that can make you ineligible to get a CDL in Texas. Before applying for a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Texas, it’s important to know that your eligibility will be carefully reviewed. The state follows strict federal and state-level regulations to ensure that only qualified, responsible individuals are allowed to operate commercial vehicles.

Individuals with a criminal record

Individuals with a criminal record

Offenses such as vehicular manslaughter, hit-and-run resulting in injury or death, or using a vehicle to commit a felony will automatically disqualify you from obtaining a CDL.

Furthermore, even if your conviction is not related to a motor vehicle, certain serious offenses may still greatly reduce your chances of being approved for a CDL in Texas, including:

• Arson
• Treason
• Kidnapping
• Assault with intent to commit murder
• Bribery and/or extortion
• An outstanding warrant for a pending felony charge
• Financial crimes such as embezzlement or fraud
• Voluntary manslaughter
• Reckless, negligent, or improper operation of a motor vehicle
• First- or second-degree vehicular manslaughter

Drug and alcohol violations

Drug and alcohol violations

Drug and alcohol use are strictly prohibited when operating any motor vehicle, as they pose a serious danger to others. For this reason, the commercial trucking industry treats drug- and alcohol-related convictions very seriously. Certain violations involving drugs or alcohol can make you ineligible for a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), including:

• Refusing to submit to a sobriety test while operating a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV)
• Leaving the scene of an accident involving a CMV while under the influence or impaired
• Using a CMV to commit a felony involving the manufacture, distribution, or dispensing of a controlled substance
• Operating a CMV with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.04% or higher, or operating a non-CMV with a BAC of 0.08% or higher
• Operating a CMV while under the influence of alcohol within four hours prior to going on duty

Traffic violations

Traffic violations

To protect public safety, aspiring commercial drivers must maintain a clean traffic record. Serious traffic violations can impact your eligibility for a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Texas. These violations include:

• Speeding 15 mph (24 km/h) or more over the posted limit
• Reckless driving
• Improper or erratic lane changes
• Following another vehicle too closely
• Traffic law violations related to a fatal accident
• Using a handheld mobile phone while operating a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV)

Medical conditions

Medical conditions

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires all CDL holders to meet specific medical and physical qualification standards to ensure they can safely operate commercial vehicles. You will be disqualified from obtaining a CDL in Texas if you have certain medical conditions that impair your ability to drive safely, such as:

• Vision that does not meet FMCSA’s minimum standards (even with corrective lenses)
• Hearing loss that does not meet FMCSA’s requirements (even with hearing aids)
• Uncontrolled diabetes requiring insulin injections without an FMCSA exemption
• Epilepsy or other seizure disorders without proper medical clearance
• Significant cardiovascular conditions that pose a sudden risk while driving (e.g., recent heart attack)
• Untreated sleep apnea or other conditions that cause excessive daytime sleepiness
• Severe psychiatric disorders that impair judgment or reaction time

Lack of legal residency status

If you do not have legal residency status in the United States, you are not eligible to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Texas. Federal and state laws require all CDL applicants to provide proof of lawful presence before a license can be issued. This requirement ensures that only individuals who are authorized to live and work in the U.S are permitted to operate commercial motor vehicles.

Acceptable proof of legal residency may include:

• A valid U.S. passport
• A birth certificate issued by a U.S. state or territory
• A Certificate of Citizenship or Certificate of Naturalization
• A valid Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
• An unexpired Employment Authorization Document (EAD) with accompanying proof of legal status
• A valid visa with Department of Homeland Security authorization to work in the U.S.

Without proper documentation, your CDL application will be denied. Additionally, attempting to provide false information or fraudulent documents can result in serious legal consequences, including fines, disqualification, and potential criminal charges.

Lack of driving experience or training

Lack of driving experience or training

Having insufficient driving experience or inadequate training can significantly reduce your chances of obtaining a CDL in Texas. Operating a commercial vehicle is not like driving a regular car; it requires advanced knowledge, technical skills, and the ability to handle large, heavy vehicles under a variety of road and weather conditions. Therefore, you must demonstrate that you have the necessary expertise to operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) safely.

FAQs

1. How clean does your record have to be to get a CDL in Texas?

While you don’t need a perfect record, your driving and criminal history must meet specific standards. Serious violations such as DUIs, using a commercial vehicle to commit a felony, or repeated major traffic offenses can disqualify you temporarily or permanently. Minor infractions may not prevent you from getting a CDL, but they could impact your ability to get hired by certain employers. Each case is evaluated individually, so it’s best to consult with a CDL school or the Texas Department of Public Safety for guidance.

2. Can felons get a CDL in Texas?

Yes, in many cases, felons can still obtain a CDL in Texas. However, it depends on the nature of the felony. Offenses involving the use of a vehicle in the commission of a crime, human trafficking, or the distribution of controlled substances may permanently disqualify you. Other felonies may not prevent you from getting a CDL, but could affect your job opportunities, depending on employer policies. It’s recommended to speak directly with CDL schools and potential employers to understand your options.

Conclusion

What disqualifies you from getting a CDL in Texas isn’t limited to just driving violations; it extends to your legal background, physical health, and even your training history. By understanding these disqualifying factors in advance and preparing accordingly, you can avoid preventable mistakes, strengthen your application, and improve your chances of successfully obtaining a CDL in Texas.