Texas CMV Compliance Guide
TX DOT regulations for commercial motor vehicles
TxDMV Motor CarriersOfficial TX DOT websiteOverview
Texas has the most registered commercial vehicles of any state. The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, Texas DPS (Commercial Vehicle Enforcement), and TxDOT share regulatory and enforcement responsibilities. Texas borders Mexico with numerous international ports of entry, and the state's oil/gas, agricultural, and industrial economies drive massive freight volumes.
Inspection & Enforcement Program
Texas operates numerous weigh stations, ports of entry (international and state), and mobile enforcement units. DPS CVE officers perform a very high volume of Level I through Level III inspections. Texas has one of the largest CVE forces in the nation.
Weight Limits & Oversize/Overweight
Texas follows federal weight limits of 80,000 lbs GVW on Interstate highways. On state highways, Texas allows up to 84,000 lbs with specific permits. The state issues extensive overweight permits through TxDMV, including annual permits for energy sector hauling. Texas also has specific weight tables for different axle configurations that may differ from the federal bridge formula.
Texas-Specific Requirements
- Texas requires a state-specific annual vehicle inspection for all registered vehicles, including CMVs, through state-licensed inspection stations.
- The state issues specific overweight permits for oil field and energy industry hauling, particularly in the Permian Basin and Eagle Ford regions.
- Texas has a complex toll road network requiring TxTag, TollTag, or EZ TAG depending on the toll authority.
- The state enforces specific commercial vehicle requirements at international border crossings with Mexico.
- Texas requires carriers to register with the Texas Comptroller for state motor fuels tax purposes.
- Texas has specific requirements for cotton module and agricultural commodity hauling during harvest.
Contact
TxDMV Motor Carrier: (800) 299-1700 | DPS CVE: (512) 424-2000
Federal Requirements That Apply in Texas
In addition to Texas-specific regulations, all federal DOT and FMCSA requirements apply to commercial vehicles operating in TX. These guides cover each federal requirement in detail:
This information is provided as a general reference. State regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the Texas DOT or your compliance advisor before relying on any information presented here.