Omar Khawaja | February 18, 2026 | Car Accidents
Do you know what type of driver’s license you need in Texas? Texas issues driver’s licenses in classes based on the type of vehicle, its weight, and how many people it can carry. Knowing which license is required helps Houston drivers stay legal on the road, avoid tickets, and keep roads safe.
Having the correct license is also important if you are involved in a car accident in Houston.
How Texas Classifies Driver’s Licenses
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) uses specific factors to decide which class of driver’s license you need. Classification depends on the:
- Type of vehicle
- Gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or gross combination weight rating (GCWR)
- Number of passengers
A holder of a valid license can drive all vehicles in that class and lesser classes, except motorcycles.
Non-Commercial Driver’s Licenses in Texas
Class C is the most common non-commercial driver’s license issued in Texas. Classes A and B apply to heavier vehicles and may require a commercial driver’s license (CDL), depending on how the vehicle is used.
Class C Non-Commercial License: The Most Common Texas Driver’s License
For most everyday driving in Texas, a Class C license is standard. It allows the operation of:
- Any single vehicle or combination of vehicles that do not fall into Class A or B
- A vehicle towing a farm trailer when the vehicle has a GVWR under 26,001 pounds, and the trailer has a GVWR of no more than 20,000 pounds
- Autocycles
A Class C license permits operation of vehicles designed to carry 23 or fewer passengers, including the driver. Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers generally require a CDL with a Passenger (P) endorsement unless an exemption applies.
Class A and Class B Non-Commercial Licenses
Class A and Class B licenses cover vehicles that exceed the limits of a Class C license. A Class A license allows operation of combination vehicles with a GCWR of 26,001 pounds or more when the towed unit has a GVWR over 10,000 pounds.
A Class B license allows operation of:
- Single vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more
- Heavy vehicles towing another vehicle with a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or less (or a farm trailer up to 20,000 pounds)
- Buses designed to transport 24 or more passengers, including the driver
Drivers with Class A or B licenses may operate vehicles in lower classes, excluding motorcycles, unless a Class M authorization is added.
Class M Motorcycle License
If you want to ride a motorcycle in Texas, you must have a Class M motorcycle license, not just a Class A, B, or C. Texas requires applicants to complete a state-approved motorcycle safety course and meet the minimum age requirements set by DPS.
Even if a driver already has a full Class C, A, or B license, that license does not authorize motorcycle use unless the Class M designation is also on the license.
Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs) in Texas
Texas requires a commercial driver’s license (CDL) for individuals who operate large or specialized vehicles for work. DPS issues CDL Classes A, B, and C based on vehicle weight, configuration, and passenger capacity.
To obtain a CDL, drivers must pass vision, written, and skills-based driving tests. Applicants must first hold a commercial learner’s permit (CLP) for at least 14 days before taking the CDL skills test.
Depending on the vehicle and job duties, endorsements such as passenger, hazardous materials, or tanker may also be required. CDL holders are subject to stricter regulations, including lower blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limits and mandatory drug and alcohol testing.
Learner’s Permits and Provisional Licenses for Young Drivers
Texas uses a Graduated Driver License (GDL) program for young drivers. Learner’s permits are available to drivers ages 15–17 who complete an approved driver education course, pass required exams, and drive under the supervision of a qualified licensed adult.
After meeting age and experience requirements, teens may qualify for a provisional license. Provisional licenses include restrictions such as:
- No driving between midnight and 5:00 a.m., except for work, school activities, or emergencies
- No more than one passenger under age 21 who is not a family member
- No use of wireless communication devices, except in emergencies
The GDL program helps young drivers gain supervised experience before receiving full driving privileges.
Common License Restrictions in Texas
Texas DPS may add restrictions to any license based on health, driving history, or other factors. Some common ones include:
- Restriction A: Must wear corrective lenses while driving
- Restriction B: Licensed driver age 21 or older must be in the front seat
- Restriction C: Daylight driving only
- Restriction K (CDL): Intrastate driving only
Restrictions are designed to allow individuals to operate a motor vehicle safely, given various situations and circumstances.
Contact Omar Khawaja Personal Injury Lawyers To Schedule a Free Consultation With a Houston Car Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been injured in Houston or Dallas, please call Omar Khawaja Personal Injury Lawyers for a free case evaluation with a personal injury lawyer or contact us online.
We proudly serve clients throughout Texas, with offices in Houston and Dallas.
Omar Khawaja Personal Injury Lawyers – Houston Office
5177 Richmond Ave. Suite 1065, Houston, TX 77056
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