When you’re traveling down the highway at 65 mph next to a monstrous semi-truck, there’s a lot of things that can run through your mind. Will the truck hit me? Does the driver see me? What type of training does the trucker have?
These are natural questions to ask yourself, especially considering the fact that catastrophic injuries and fatalities are a common consequence of big truck accidents. Below, we break down the specific requirements needed for truckers to get behind the wheel of a big truck.
Requirements for Obtaining a CDL
Earning a commercial driver’s license (CDL) is an essential part of becoming an employed commercial truck driver. A CDL is a professional license that allows an individual to operate large trucks on public roads in the state and across the U.S. In order to obtain a CDL or even a commercial learner’s permit (CLP) in Texas, the minimum requirements must be met:
- Possess a valid non-commercial driver’s license
- Be at least 18 years of age to drive intrastate (within the state)
- Be at least 21 years of age to drive interstate (outside of the state)
- Proof of citizenship or lawful permanent residency
- Speak and read fluent English
- Provide a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical card, which requires a physical exam
In Texas, applicants must undergo commercial driver license training at locations regulated by the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC). Such programs are heavily regulated and include strict compliance guidelines that promote quality services and training materials.
Once all requirements and training have been completed, applicants must pass various written, knowledge, and road skills tests. The specific tests they will be required to take will depend on the classification of CDL that they are working towards.
What To Do if You’re Injured Because of Truck Driver Negligence
Despite what, on paper, seems to be a myriad of stringent requirements for truckers, commercial truck crashes caused by truck driver negligence remain one of the leading causes of these devastating accidents.
Additionally, while many trucking schools abide by all the state and federal requirements as needed, others may allow unqualified truck drivers to pass through without receiving the right training. If you’re injured in a big truck accident due to a negligent truck driver, you should not hesitate to pursue legal action against all negligent parties.
Our Waco truck accident attorneys will fight hard to determine how your accident occurred and what your legal options are pursuing maximum compensation for your losses.
Contact the Law Offices of Vic Feazell at to speak with our legal team for free today.