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psurich's avatar
psurich
Explorer
Apr 15, 2018

Need advice on a Texas drivers license

I am looking to move to Texas and my tow vehicle is a Ford F350 dually with a GVWR oof 14000 lbs and my 5th wheel has a GVWR of 13750 total of 27750. This put me over the 26001 weight limit so do I need get a new Texas CDL? I CURRENTLY have a Kansas class B cdl. Does anyone know if my current license will be acceptedby Texas. Any help will be appreciated.

15 Replies

  • Great to hear you are moving to Texas instead of full timing! Check in with the Texas vehicle department. They will ascertain what you need for you and your rig.
  • If you are going to become a TX resident then you will need a Class B license. Period. Nothing CDL based, just a standard drivers license with a Class B "add-on". It requires a separate written test of about 20 questions from the last 10 or 20 pages of the CDL license manual but unrelated to CDL stuff. Once you pass the written test you will have to schedule a driving test whose requirements seem to vary by location. My test involved driving the coach, making some turns down neighborhood roads, stopping and backing up in a straight line for 40 feet, driving onto and off of an Interstate and returning to the DMV office. All done. Good pick up your new license.
  • No, you do not need any type of class A non CDL license. The handbook says you only need the non commercial class A, if you drive a vehicle that could be classified as a commercial vehicle. A recreational vehicle should be exempt unless you are pulling it with something like a 5th wheel semi tractor.
    The fact that you are over weight on CDL limits is not a reason to need the higher class licenses.
    However, I would call Austin directly and ask about your specific situation. Then, get the name of the person who you talk to. Personnel at the various Texas DPS drivers lic. stations are very often not very knowledgeable, and may give you incorrect info. I know from experience.
  • No reason your CDL would be turned down in TX. Just get the Class A Non-CDL attached to it.