How to Start a Career as a Truck Driver in Texas

Truck driving is a highly sought-after and gratifying profession in Texas, as trucking is a crucial component of the state’s economy. Texas is a transportation hub with a huge network of highways, making it a perfect place to begin a career as a truck driver. However, to become a truck driver in Texas, there are certain requirements you must meet and adhere to.

This article will walk you through the steps of becoming a truck driver in Texas, including the prerequisites, qualifications, and resources available to assist you. Let’s get started!

Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Truck Driver in Texas

Truck driving is a terrific career option in Texas, but it’s not as simple as just getting behind the wheel. Learn about CDL requirements, TXDOT standards, truck driving schools, and more.

Meet Medical Requirements

First things first, you’ll need to schedule a physical exam and meet the necessary medical requirements set forth by the FMCSA. These will evaluate your overall health and fitness for operating a CMV.

Consider Truck Driving Schools

Attending a truck driving school in Texas is a fantastic way to receive the training you need to start your career. These schools provide training courses that will prepare you to pass the CDL knowledge and skills exams. Also, you’ll receive hands-on experience operating a truck.

Obtain a CDL

A CDL is a particular license necessary to operate commercial motor vehicles in the state of Texas. To obtain your CDL, you must pass both a knowledge and a skills test. Traffic laws, safety requirements, and vehicle operation will be covered in the knowledge test. The skills test will assess your abilities to operate a CMV safely.

Get Insurance

Once you’ve obtained your CDL, it’s time to acquire the necessary insurance to legally operate in Texas. You’ll need liability insurance to cover property damage and injuries that you may cause while operating your CMV. Also, you’ll need adequate cargo insurance to protect your goods. Oftentimes shippers will require a certain amount of coverage before they release a load to truckers.

Meet Texas DOT Requirements

In addition to obtaining the necessary insurance, you’ll also need to meet the requirements set forth by the Texas DOT. Among these are completing a physical exam, passing a drug and alcohol test, and maintaining a pristine driving record.

Bottom Line

In Texas, becoming a truck driver is an excellent way to begin a fulfilling career in the transportation sector. However, it’s essential to comply with the state and federal government’s requirements for operating a CMV.

For additional inquiries, give us a call at (678) 271-3449. Our team of truck insurance agents can help you acquire the necessary coverage to safeguard your trucking operation.