Texas size, weight and load limits for the CDL

Section 14.3 of the Texas CDL handbook sets the size, weight and load limits for commercial vehicles in Texas. It is tested on the Texas Commercial Rules test.

Key facts

Part of	the Texas Commercial Rules test (80% to pass)	DL-7C p. iv
Handbook section	§14.3 Size, weight and load limits	DL-7C p. 14-10
Questions in CDL Mile's bank	11	CDL Mile, checked against DL-7C

Key rules

§ 14.3p. 14-11
Most trucks found over the legal gross weight plus 5% can be made to unload down to that level. Trucks hauling livestock, timber, pulpwood or natural farm products from where they are produced to market or first processing are exempt from unloading.
Size, weight and load limits
§ 14.3p. 14-10
Texas limits a vehicle and its load to 14 feet from the ground to the top of the load. With a 5-foot deck, 14 - 5 = 9 feet is the tallest machine you can carry.
Size, weight and load limits
§ 14.3p. 14-10
A single motor vehicle other than a truck tractor may be up to 45 feet long under the standard Texas rules.
Size, weight and load limits

Try two questions

Texas Commercial Rules · Size, weight and load limits

Without a special permit, how far may your load stick out beyond the front of your vehicle?

Tap an answer to see the explanation and the handbook page.

Texas Commercial Rules · Size, weight and load limits

Unless a permit or a listed exception applies, what is the greatest width Texas allows for a vehicle, including its load?

Tap an answer to see the explanation and the handbook page.

Sources

Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers Handbook (DL-7C), revised March 2026, Texas Department of Public Safety. Page references are to its printed page numbers. CDL Mile is independent and not affiliated with Texas DPS.

Updated for the March 2026 Texas CDL handbook (DL-7C). Last checked November 4, 2026.

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