Anderson Injury Lawyers | July 17, 2025 | Truck Accident

Do You Need a CDL To Drive a Box Truck in Dallas?

Box trucks are sometimes considered commercial motor vehicles. Therefore, many believe they need a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to drive a box truck. However, that assumption is only partially true. Generally, you do not need a CDL to drive a box truck in Dallas. There are some exceptions, so it is important to understand the CDL requirements for box trucks in Texas.

Understanding Box Trucks and Their Common Use in Dallas, TX

Box trucks, also called cube or straight trucks, have an enclosed cargo area (the box) permanently attached to a truck cab. Unlike a semi-truck, a box truck has its cab and cargo area on the same frame, making it a single unit.

Because box trucks are generally smaller (10 to 26 feet long), drivers can usually maneuver them through congested traffic and tighter spaces in and around downtown Dallas. 

Common examples or uses of box trucks you may see in Dallas include:

Many businesses use box trucks. Individuals may also rent box trucks for personal use. Box trucks can weigh up to 33,000 pounds and have up to four axles. Therefore, a box truck may fall into Class 3 or Class 7 or somewhere in between. 

What Is a CDL?

A CDL allows drivers to operate specific types of commercial motor vehicles. The FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) sets the rules for obtaining and maintaining a CDL, and each state must administer the CDL program. 

There are three types of commercial driver’s licenses:

  • A Class A CDL is required to drive a combination of vehicles (e.g., a box truck towing a car) with a GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) of more than 26,000 pounds if the vehicle or trailer being towed weighs more than 10,000 pounds.
  • A Class B CDL is required to operate a vehicle with a GVWR of more than 26,000 pounds, or if a vehicle with a GVWR of more than 26,000 pounds is towing a vehicle that weighs less than 10,000 pounds.
  • A Class C CDL is required to drive vehicles not in Class A or B that can transport 16 to 23 passengers, including the driver, and for vehicles transporting certain hazardous materials.

Texas and the FMCSA have numerous requirements for obtaining a CDL, including special driver training courses. A driver may also obtain endorsements to their CDL that allow them to operate specific vehicles or transport certain materials.

The type of CDL a person needs depends on the kind of truck they intend to operate and whether the box truck will tow anything behind it.

When Is a CDL Required to Drive a Box in Texas?

A CDL is required to drive a truck with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, according to the FMCSA and Texas requirements for commercial driver’s licenses. Most box trucks have a GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds. Those trucks would likely not require a CDL to operate.

However, there are circumstances when a CDL is required to operate a box truck, including:

  • The box truck has a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more
  • The vehicle is used to transport hazardous materials that require a placard

You should always check the GVWR of a box truck before purchasing or driving it. Most trucks have a sticker on the driver’s door panel with the GVWR. If you are unsure of a truck’s weight, use the vehicle identification number (VIN) to verify the weight with the manufacturer. Operating a box truck without the proper driver’s license could result in fines, insurance issues, and other liability.

Other Considerations for Driving a Box Truck in Dallas, TX

Depending on its weight and usage, a box truck may be classified as a commercial motor vehicle. The federal and Texas definitions of commercial motor vehicles also vary. 

If your box truck meets either of these definitions, it is crucial to understand the applicable requirements to remain compliant. For example, Section 14 of the Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers Handbook lists some of the requirements in Texas. Box trucks may also require commercial insurance and registration, depending on the truck’s characteristics and intended use.  

Contact Our Personal Injury Law Firm in Texas

Although many box trucks may not require a CDL, specialized skills and training may be necessary to operate them safely. Large trucks are more challenging to maneuver than passenger vehicles, so box trucks may be more likely to be involved in accidents.

If you have been injured in a box truck accident, consult a Dallas box truck accident lawyer.

If you’ve been injured in an accident in Fort Worth or Dallas and need legal help, contact our personal injury lawyers at Anderson Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation. We proudly serve Tarrant County, Dallas County, and throughout Texas.

Anderson Injury Lawyers – Fort Worth Office
1310 W El Paso St, Fort Worth, TX 76102
(817) 294-1900

Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 32.74621197527774, -97.33552733508391

Anderson Injury Lawyers – Fort Worth Office (Secondary)
6618 Fossil Bluff Dr # 108, Fort Worth, TX 76137
(817) 631-4113

Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 32.86241013538118, -97.30973893918065

Anderson Injury Lawyers – Dallas Office
408 W Eighth St Suite 202, Dallas, TX 75208
(214) 327-8000

Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 32.748815542196404, -96.82524302658787

Anderson Injury Lawyers – Dallas Office (Secondary)
6301 Gaston Ave suite 820, Dallas, TX 75214
(469) 457-4711

Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 32.81376715527634, -96.75182563343417