TL;DR

Texas offers several types of driver’s licenses including Class C (standard), Class A, B, and Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDLs).
Each license has different eligibility requirements and vehicle allowances.
New drivers typically begin with a Class C license, while professional drivers may require CDL endorsements.
Taking Get Drivers Ed helps you prepare for your specific licensing journey.
Knowing the correct license type is essential for legal, safe, and confident driving in Texas.

Thinking about getting your Texas driver's license? You're not alone! With a booming population and plenty of open roads, Texans rely on a wide variety of vehicles every day. But did you know that not all driver’s licenses are the same? In fact, Texas issues several classes of licenses depending on what kind of vehicle you drive and why you're driving it.

Whether you're a teenager starting out or an adult switching to a commercial driving career, Get Drivers Ed is here to walk you through everything you need to know about Texas license types.

Class C License: The Standard Driver's License

What Is a Class C License?

This is the most common type of driver’s license in Texas. It allows you to operate personal vehicles like sedans, SUVs, and pickup trucks.

What You Can Drive:

Vehicles under 26,001 lbs (not transporting hazardous materials)
Passenger cars, minivans, and light trucks

Who Needs It:

Most everyday drivers, especially new drivers

Want to start your journey the right way? Take a Get Drivers Ed online course designed to help you earn your Class C license.

Class A and B Licenses: Heavy-Duty Driving

Class A License

This license is for operating large combination vehicles like semi-trucks.

What You Can Drive:

Any combination of vehicles with a combined gross weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 lbs or more, where the towed vehicle is over 10,000 lbs

Learn more about the difference in vehicle weights with this helpful guide from the FMCSA.

Class B License

Used for single vehicles that are heavy but not towing anything over 10,000 lbs.

What You Can Drive:

Straight trucks
Large buses (city or school)

Preparing for one of these licenses? You may need a specialized CDL training program like the ones supported by Get Drivers Ed for defensive knowledge and safety protocols.

Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDLs)

What Is a CDL?

A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is required to operate large or heavy vehicles for commercial use. CDLs come in Class A, B, and C categories depending on vehicle size and use.

Endorsements and Restrictions

Certain commercial driving roles require special endorsements:

H: Hazardous materials
P: Passenger vehicles
S: School buses

Explore federal endorsement guidelines from the U.S. Department of Transportation to understand what you need for your job.

Drivers operating commercial vehicles should also be trained in safe night driving. See our night driving safety tips for added guidance.

Learner License (Instruction Permit)

What Is It?

This is the first step for new teen drivers. It allows learners to practice with a licensed adult before taking the driving test.

Requirements:

Be at least 15 years old
Complete a driver education course

Get Drivers Ed offers a TEA-approved course perfect for Texas teens starting with a learner license.

For tips on safe holiday travel with your learner's permit, check out our guide on essential tips for holiday night driving.

Provisional License

Designed for Drivers Under 18

Once you complete your learner's phase and pass your driving test, you'll be issued a provisional license.

Restrictions May Include:

No driving between midnight and 5 a.m.
Limited number of passengers under 21 (non-family)

For teen drivers hitting the road at night, we recommend reading safe night driving tips to increase your awareness.

Motorcycle License

Class M License

Motorcyclists need a specific Class M license to operate legally in Texas.

Requirements:

Pass a motorcycle safety course
Complete written and riding tests

Learn about licensing for motorcycles through the Texas Department of Public Safety Motorcycle Handbook.

Final Thoughts: Which Texas License Do You Need?

Whether you want to cruise your car, hop on a motorcycle, or start a career as a professional driver, Texas has a license that fits your goals. The key is knowing which one you need, what it allows you to drive, and how to prepare for it.

Here’s a Quick Recap:

Class C = personal vehicles
Class A = big rigs and combo vehicles
Class B = heavy, single vehicles like buses
CDL = commercial driving, with endorsements
Learner & Provisional = for young/new drivers
Class M = motorcycles

No matter your path, Get Drivers Ed offers expert guidance, practice tests, and support to help you earn your license with confidence.