Motor carriers traveling in Texas must comply with federal and state operating requirements. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) provides a brochure as a guide. Some helpful facts from this guide are listed below.

For more information, you can call the TxDOT at 1-800-299-1700 to assist you in connecting with agencies for specific operating requirements.

Some facts regarding Texas Commercial Vehicle Insurance and Operation:

• Operators of commercial vehicles and those transporting household goods for-hire must register with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) for operating authority. Vehicles exceeding 26,000 pounds and all household goods carriers/movers must file proof of insurance when registering. To register online or for additional information on Motor Carrier Registration, visit www.txdmv.gov or call 1-888-368-4689.
• Most commercial vehicle operators are required to have a Commercial Driver License (CDL). To determine if a driver is required to have a CDL, contact DPS, Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Service, at 1-800-299-1700 (option 6) or visit the DPS website where you can access a quick flow chart to help determine your situation.
• All commercial vehicles must be registered. When registering for intrastate movement (traveling only in Texas), visit your county tax office to obtain Combination license plates.
• Vehicles not authorized to operate on Texas highways due to lack of registration or registration reciprocity [privileges granted by one state or area to another], may be issued 72-hour or 144-hour temporary registrations. Contact your county tax assessor/collector or call the TxDOT Motor Carrier Division at 1-800-299-1700 (option 1).
• Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers Handbook
For help in obtaining Texas Commercial Truck Insurance, contact Statewide Insurance Brokers at 888-258-0272.