How To Upgrade Your License Class in Texas

If you need a Class B Exempt license in Texas, upgrading is a two-step process: first, submit an application and pass a knowledge test on a computer, then take a skills (driving) test. Again, contrary to what many believe, these tests are not particularly difficult, and you don’t need to be a driver with 18-wheeler wrangling skills to pass them.

Application & Knowledge Test

You can apply for the Class B Exempt license and take the knowledge test at any Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Driver License Office in the state INCLUDING MARBLE FALLS DPS. You don’t need to take the knowledge test at the same location where you take the skills (driving) test.

When you go to take the knowledge test, bring with you: 

· Proof of U.S. citizenship (or lawful presence), identity, Social Security registration and Texas residency (use the Texas REAL ID Document Check Application to determine exactly which documents you need)

• Your current, unexpired Texas driver license 
• Corrective lenses (eyeglasses or contacts) if you use them for driving 
• $11 (cash, check or credit card) for the application fee 
• A completed Texas DPS Form DL-14A, Texas Driver License or Identification Card Application
• A completed Texas DPS Form CDL-2, Texas Class-A or -B Driver License Application, Non-CDL Exempt Vehicles. 

When you arrive at the DPS office, you’ll give the forms and your current driver license to the DPS representative. Then, you will take a test for visual acuity and colorblindness, and your new photograph will be taken. You will provide your thumbprints and pay the $11 fee. Finally, the agent will set up a computer in the testing area for you to take the knowledge test.

Everyone must take the “Texas Commercial Rules Test” knowledge test (formerly known as the “Texas CDL Special Requirements Test” or the “Texas CVO Knowledge Test”). You do not have to take the CDL General Knowledge Test, nor do you have to take the CDL Air Brakes Test, even though our trucks have air brakes.

The Texas Commercial Rules Test covers the material found in Section 14 of the Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers Handbook, Personally, though, I think every FIREFIGHTER should read Section 2 of the Handbook, plus Section 5 ABOUT air brakes. Even though these are not on the test, they contain a lot of valuable information that will help you be a safer driver.

There are 20 questions on each of the knowledge tests, and you must answer at least 14 questions correctly to pass. Although you’re given up to eight hours to complete each test, if you’ve studied, it should take you only 15 to 30 minutes. You may not have or consult any written material during the test, nor can you use your cell phone.