Can CDL Drivers Take the Texas Driving Safety Course (DSC)
CDL holders are not eligible to use the Texas Driving Safety Course for ticket dismissal. This applies to all Class A and Class B Commercial Driver License holders, regardless of what vehicle they were driving when cited.
Why CDL Holders Are Not Eligible
Texas law has prohibited CDL holders from using the driving safety course for ticket dismissal since 2003. The restriction applies because CDL holders are held to a higher standard of professional driving conduct. The restriction applies to the license holder — not the vehicle — so it does not matter whether you were driving your commercial vehicle or your personal car at the time of the citation.
Voluntary Enrollment Is Still Available
CDL holders can still take the Texas Driving Safety Course voluntarily. If your insurance company offers a discount for completing a TDLR-approved driving safety course, you may enroll voluntarily to qualify for that discount. Voluntary enrollment has no eligibility restrictions based on license type.
What CDL Holders Should Do for Ticket Dismissal
If you are a CDL holder seeking ticket dismissal, contact your court directly to discuss what options are available for your specific situation. Options may vary depending on the type of violation and the court's policies.
Quick Facts
Detail | Information |
CDL holders eligible for ticket dismissal | No — Class A and B CDL holders are excluded |
Does the vehicle matter | No — restriction is based on license type, not vehicle |
Law in effect since | September 1, 2003 |
Voluntary enrollment available to CDL holders | Yes — for insurance discount purposes |
Alternative for ticket dismissal | Contact your court directly |
Frequently Asked Questions
I have a Class A CDL but was driving my personal pickup truck — am I still excluded? Yes. The exclusion applies to your license type, not the vehicle you were driving. CDL holders are not eligible for the driving safety course for ticket dismissal regardless of the vehicle involved.
I have a Class C license — am I excluded? No. The CDL exclusion applies to Class A and Class B licenses only. A standard Class C driver license does not disqualify you from using the driving safety course for ticket dismissal.
Can I take the course voluntarily to get an insurance discount? Yes. The CDL exclusion only applies to ticket dismissal. Voluntary enrollment for an insurance discount is available to any licensed Texas driver, including CDL holders.
What options do I have as a CDL holder if I need my ticket dismissed? Contact your court directly. Deferred disposition and other court-specific options may be available depending on your violation and jurisdiction.