sailwing2003 Posted July 22, 2016 Report Share Posted July 22, 2016 Have now heard from two different friends that have just taken the driving test in Texas. Both were upgrading their driver licenses to drive RV's over 26,001#. Both had the simple C, and were upgrading to a B, non CDL. Both were told it was a good thing they were doing it now, due the changes coming in maybe Oct. The present driving test is an hour, the new test will be 2 hours. Not sure what is going to take more time, or what is going to be asked. But if you are not legal, to drive what you have, it might be time to upgrade. Quote Dave and Dolly CobbArlington TX1998 Foretravel, U-295 36', rare mid-door2001 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited, as a toad Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TXiceman Posted July 22, 2016 Report Share Posted July 22, 2016 A 1 or 2 hour driving test....wow. When we got our class A Exempt, the driving test was maybe 20 minutes. What will they do, run you around the same area a dozen times? Ken Quote Amateur radio operator, 2023 Cougar 22MLS, 2022 F150 Lariat 4x4 Off Road, Sport trim <br />Travel with 1 miniature schnauzer, 1 standard schnauzer and one African Gray parrot Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JC and Angie Posted July 22, 2016 Report Share Posted July 22, 2016 My driving test took all of 20 to 30 minutes total. Add in 15 minutes for him to do the bleed test and parallel parking. Glad I'm done with that now. JC Quote 2009 Volvo 780. D-16 500hp 1850 torque with a Herrin hauler bed. 2015 Continental Coach 2008 650cc Suzuki Bergman 2013 Mustang GT 500 convertible 2014 Smartcar convertible WWW.Hollyfab.com. (Metal Fabrication Company) Jamesc@hollyfab.com (preferred contact method) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
GlennWest Posted July 22, 2016 Report Share Posted July 22, 2016 Just in the last few weeks took my Class A. 20 minutes maybe. Not long. Had to chock wheels, put out "flares". Drive around block. Back up. Return to station. No mention of change. Quote 2003 Teton Grand Freedom towed with 2006 Freightliner Century 120 across the beautiful USA welding pipe.https://photos.app.goo.gl/O32ZjgzSzgK7LAyt1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Barbaraok Posted July 23, 2016 Report Share Posted July 23, 2016 Where did these friends take their test? Sounds like the time required for the CDL test. Most testing places don't have the foggiest about what is required for RVs. My driving test was 20 minutes, including dodging the compressed gas cylinder that flew off of a truck as it passed me. Barb Quote Barb & Dave O'Keeffe 2002 Alpine 36 MDDS (Figment II), 2018 Ford C-Max HYBRID Blog: http://www.barbanddave.net SPK# 90761 FMCA #F337834 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
B&G Mulford Posted July 24, 2016 Report Share Posted July 24, 2016 Wonder if the new regs are for CDL versions rather than regular operator's class upgrade due to ever-increasing CDL stuff. Have had CDL A forever, wife took class A operators upgrade last year--15 minutes, no flares, backed up 50 feet! My CDL renewal took almost an hour even without having to drive! Texas resident (Escapees) had to show passport, handgun license, voter registration, medical certificate. DW showed old license! (Course she is better looking than me.) Quote 06 Carri-Lite 386KIQ 11 GMC 3500 D/A "One day I will leave this world and dream myself to reality" -Crazy Horse, 1874 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sailwing2003 Posted July 25, 2016 Author Report Share Posted July 25, 2016 To answer Barb, First test was taken in Terrell, east of Dallas. The second test was at the Ft. Worth sort of downtown location. Both friends were told good thing you got it done, as things are changing soon. My test in 2013, took maybe 20 minutes as well, in Cleburne TX. Quote Dave and Dolly CobbArlington TX1998 Foretravel, U-295 36', rare mid-door2001 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited, as a toad Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Barbaraok Posted July 25, 2016 Report Share Posted July 25, 2016 If it were me, I'd call Livingston and ask. Quote Barb & Dave O'Keeffe 2002 Alpine 36 MDDS (Figment II), 2018 Ford C-Max HYBRID Blog: http://www.barbanddave.net SPK# 90761 FMCA #F337834 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
RickW Posted July 26, 2016 Report Share Posted July 26, 2016 When I took my "A" in 2010, I was told the driving part of the test for the "A" and "CDL-A" are different. The tester told me for a "CDL-A" the number of miles driven for the test was twice as long and included a few more scenarios that the "A" does not. In addition some things that would fail you on a "CDL-A" are acceptable for the "A". We did not get into the specifics. Sounds like Texas might be making the CDL and non-CDL test a little bit more in sync with each other. As for Oct 1 that is the beginning of the states fiscal year so it is not unusual to see changes take affect then. Quote 2017 Entegra Anthem 44A SOLD - 2004 Volvo 780. 465hp and 10sp Auto Shift (from 2010~2017) SOLD - 2009 Montana 3400RL Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Big5er Posted July 27, 2016 Report Share Posted July 27, 2016 (edited) From the DPS webpage...notice it refers to "CDL" Notice: Effective July 1, 2016 all CDL skills tests will be administered at 25 designated locations within Texas. Beginning October 2016, new federal regulations will impact the Texas CDL Program. A Commercial Learner Permit (CLP) will be issued to drivers who are applying to drive a commercial vehicle. A CLP must be held for a minimum of 14 days prior to being allowed to take a CDL skills test. This applies to original applicants, modifications in grade and adding endorsements which require a skills test. Sequence of administered exams: The pre-trip and basic skills test must be completed prior to the execution of a road skills test. Skills tests are now in three phases and applicants must pass the previous phase prior to moving to the next phase. Pre-trip walk around Backing skills maneuvers Road test Pre-trip skills test: The current pre-trip written test will convert to a randomized pre-trip walk around test. Revised scoring criteria: The scoring of the basic maneuvers and road-test will change. Points will be deducted for encroachments and excessive pull-ups during the execution of the basic skills test. Basic skills testing area: The basic skills testing maneuver area must be marked utilizing cones to properly score the basic skills exam. Additional basic skills test maneuver: In addition to the current straight-line backing and parallel parking maneuvers, an off-set backing maneuver is added. Road Test change: Increase in the number of maneuvers performed during the road test. More info available here. Edited July 27, 2016 by Big5er Quote MY PEOPLE SKILLS ARE JUST FINE.~It's my tolerance to idiots that needs work.~ 2005 Volvo 780 VED12 465hp / Freedomline transmission singled mid position / Bed by Larry Herrin2018 customed Mobile Suites 40KSSB3 2014 smart Fortwo Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TXiceman Posted July 27, 2016 Report Share Posted July 27, 2016 Big5er, Your post specifically addresses CDL license. The Class A Exempt is not a CDL, so how exactly is it impacted by the CDL changes? Ken Quote Amateur radio operator, 2023 Cougar 22MLS, 2022 F150 Lariat 4x4 Off Road, Sport trim <br />Travel with 1 miniature schnauzer, 1 standard schnauzer and one African Gray parrot Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Big5er Posted July 27, 2016 Report Share Posted July 27, 2016 (edited) Big5er, Your post specifically addresses CDL license. Yes Ken, that is exactly what I said The Class A Exempt is not a CDL,I thought everyone knew that also Ken. so how exactly is it impacted by the CDL changes? Well I originally assumed that the OP had info that had been confused between the exempt and the CDL tests. I didn't think it was that hard to understand. But a quick call to DPS in Austin says that ALL driving tests for anything other than a Class C will be done only at the 25 designated sites. I won't believe that 100% until I see it but thanks for asking. I'm sorry I wasn't clear enough for you to understand. I will try to type slower in the future. If you would like to verify that, feel free to call their info line. Got a pencil? The number is 512-424-2600. I'll be calling some friends at DPS tomorrow to see if they can confirm or deny this. Edited July 27, 2016 by Big5er Quote MY PEOPLE SKILLS ARE JUST FINE.~It's my tolerance to idiots that needs work.~ 2005 Volvo 780 VED12 465hp / Freedomline transmission singled mid position / Bed by Larry Herrin2018 customed Mobile Suites 40KSSB3 2014 smart Fortwo Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TXiceman Posted July 28, 2016 Report Share Posted July 28, 2016 Big5er, You post was clear and it read only for the CDL and the class A and B. Since you have some insight to these issues, I was wondering if there was more to it than what was posted. But it sounds like in typical government fashion, they have not thought it out and there will be confusion. By the way, my wife and I both have the class A Exempt and it is amazing at the number of people I have talked to in Texas with rigs over the 26,001 limit that know nothing about the law. All they can say is that the RV dealer never said anything to them. Usually it results in them saying that it is too much trouble and they are not going to get the proper class license. We had one heck of a time getting the right test in Houston. All they wanted to do was give us the full CDL test, even when I showed them that the CDL handbook specifically stated that RVs were exempt. Took three tries and after a call to Austin they finally figured it our. We took the driving portion in Livingston and no hassle there. Thanks for the input. Quote Amateur radio operator, 2023 Cougar 22MLS, 2022 F150 Lariat 4x4 Off Road, Sport trim <br />Travel with 1 miniature schnauzer, 1 standard schnauzer and one African Gray parrot Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Big5er Posted July 28, 2016 Report Share Posted July 28, 2016 (edited) The information that I am getting from my contacts with DPS in Austin say that after October 2016, ALL Class A and B license (CDL and exempt) will be performed only at the 25 testing stations listed in the PDF I linked to in my previous post. I have been unable to learn if the driving test will be standardized between the two but government logic leans heavily to the exam being the same for all vehicles. According to that PDF and the changes in the CDL test, I am glad I already have my Class A. Edited July 28, 2016 by Big5er Quote MY PEOPLE SKILLS ARE JUST FINE.~It's my tolerance to idiots that needs work.~ 2005 Volvo 780 VED12 465hp / Freedomline transmission singled mid position / Bed by Larry Herrin2018 customed Mobile Suites 40KSSB3 2014 smart Fortwo Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
peety3 Posted July 28, 2016 Report Share Posted July 28, 2016 If I were "you", I'd assume that I'd be taking my A/B/CDL-A/CDL-B test at one of those 25 sites, and I'd study anything you see in the <whatever-you-want-to-call-it> manual. You're going to get a lot farther in your big RV if you're ready to demonstrate safe driving that you will if you just stand up and proclaim "Ima good Driver, my belt buckle says so". Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Blues Posted July 30, 2016 Report Share Posted July 30, 2016 As for Oct 1 that is the beginning of the states fiscal year so it is not unusual to see changes take affect then. Texas's fiscal year begins on September 1. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
twodips Posted July 31, 2016 Report Share Posted July 31, 2016 (edited) So, it this license just a TX thing? I've not heard of it in MT, CA, AZ,NC or GA when I lived there. Also, is this for vehicles in combo or does it include class A's? Edited July 31, 2016 by twodips Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Alie&Jim's Carrilite Posted July 31, 2016 Report Share Posted July 31, 2016 So, it this license just a TX thing? I've not heard of it in MT, CA, AZ,NC or GA when I lived there. Also, is this for vehicles in combo or does it include class A's? Yes, this is for Texas residents only. Each state sets its own licensing requirements, but most follow a general class by weight, passenger, etc. Quote Alie & Jim + 8 paws 2017 DRV Memphis BART- 1998 Volvo 610 Lil'ole 6cyl Cummins Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rschwarzr Posted February 21, 2017 Report Share Posted February 21, 2017 Took my driving test to upgrade my class C to a class B exempt on Feb 2017 in Austin, TX. It took 25 minutes in total to do the air brake test, safety inspection and drive. I have more details on another post. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Barbaraok Posted February 22, 2017 Report Share Posted February 22, 2017 Yes, this is for Texas residents only. Each state sets its own licensing requirements, but most follow a general class by weight, passenger, etc. Actually California does have a testing requirement, but it is based upon length (ie over 40') not by weight. And there are other states (Nevada for instance) that also have testing requirements. Most people don't look that closely at the requirements for different types of licenses in their own states. Quote Barb & Dave O'Keeffe 2002 Alpine 36 MDDS (Figment II), 2018 Ford C-Max HYBRID Blog: http://www.barbanddave.net SPK# 90761 FMCA #F337834 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
packnrat Posted January 2, 2018 Report Share Posted January 2, 2018 what if one already has a commercial class A? just paperwork to change it to a non commercial? 8 years and counting. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kirk W Posted January 2, 2018 Report Share Posted January 2, 2018 7 hours ago, packnrat said: what if one already has a commercial class A? If you plan to keep your commercial, it exceeds the requirement. Quote Good travelin !...............KirkFull-time 11+ years...... Now seasonal travelers.Kirk & Pam's Great RV Adventure Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
packnrat Posted January 2, 2018 Report Share Posted January 2, 2018 no as it expires the commercial will not be renewed. but will keep the class A as non. but will be changing states. been driving class A for 35 years, am tired, need to get out of commiefourna. thinking sd. maybe texas? not sure if other states are "friendly" to retirees. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
chirakawa Posted January 2, 2018 Report Share Posted January 2, 2018 1 hour ago, packnrat said: no as it expires the commercial will not be renewed. but will keep the class A as non. but will be changing states. been driving class A for 35 years, am tired, need to get out of commiefourna. thinking sd. maybe texas? not sure if other states are "friendly" to retirees. Don't know about South Dakota, but take your Class A CDL to Texas and sign the exempt form and have your new Class A Exempt license. Quote Everybody wanna hear the truth, but everybody tell a lie. Everybody wanna go to Heaven, but nobody want to die. Albert King Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
packnrat Posted January 4, 2019 Report Share Posted January 4, 2019 (edited) seeing as i have now less than 8 years to go, might have to renew twice buy then,. then no more driving for pay. sure driving a heavy truck, looks good to some. sure has plenty of giddy up and woe down. but after 41 + years of driving for a living, i never want to get back into one of the "big rigs". i have driven some truly trash trucks. (as in should be hauled away as), to some great condo cabs. Edited January 4, 2019 by packnrat Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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