CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — The Department of Public Safety offices are just one of the many governmental offices closed because of the COVID-19 pandemic, but DPS has other opportunities for people to get a new, renewed, replacement or different license.
DPS Sgt. Nathan Brandley said people do not need to be go into their offices for things such as a learner's permit, driver's license or a commercial driver's license:Almost everything can done online.
Those whose licenses expired after March 13 have a grace period of 60 days to get it renewed, Brandley said.
If you need a learner's license and are looking to get a provisional license, there are certain requirements for different age groups.
For people looking to get a commercial driver's license, or CDL, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is allowing Third-Party Skills Test (TPST) providers to conduct knowledge tests for applicants. This change is effective until June 30.
Del Mar College is considered a TPST, and offers knowledge and skills tests in its Truck Driver Training Program.
Del Mar College Director of Transportation Training Services John Rojas said the job market for getting a CDL through its program is booming. He says they are getting calls every week for people inquiring about the truck driving profession.
Rojas said the program has job fairs every week to help current students get into the workforce. He also said that appointments for knowledge tests need to be made through the DPS since Del Mar campuses still are currently closed.
