Texas Heavy Truck Driver (CDL) License Cost
Every fee the state charges, what training adds on top, and what the same licence costs in other states.
The fees, itemised
These are the state's own charges. Training is the big variable and is listed separately where the state sets a requirement.
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application fee | $25 | |
| License / certification fee | $97 | |
| Renewal fee | $97 | |
| Total | $122 | before exam retakes |
The state fees are fixed. Training is the part that moves: community college, private trade school and employer-sponsored apprenticeship can differ by thousands of dollars for the same licence.
Renewal
Renewal costs $97 every 8 years. Over ten years that is about $121 in renewals alone.
Cost in other states
| State | State fees | Time | Median pay |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | $146 | — | $58,270 |
| Florida | $75 | — | $52,760 |
| Texas | $122 | — | $54,550 |
Cheapest route we found: Florida at $75. Highest median pay: California at $58,270 — the two are rarely the same state, which is the whole decision.
Sources
- https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/driver-license-fees“Age 18 to 84: new | $97 | Expires in eight years”
- https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/driver-license-fees“Original | $25 | Expires 180 days from issuance”
- https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/driver-license-fees“Age 18 to 84: renewal | $97 | Expires eight years after previous expiration date”
- https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/how-do-i-apply-commercial-driver-license“You will be required to obtain and hold a CLP for at least 14 days.”
- https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/how-do-i-apply-commercial-driver-license“Effective June 1, 2026 , the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) will exclusively administer all Commercial Driver License (CDL) knowledge examinations in English .”
- https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/entry-level-driver-training-edlt“The FMCSA Training Provider Registry (dot.gov ) provides a comprehensive list of qualified instructors and training programs across the country.”