DPS Competes in 31st Annual Texas Challenge

“I cannot overstate the importance of having CVE Troopers on our highways,” said DPS Director Steven McCraw. “Their specialized training in commercial vehicle enforcement plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of our roads, the efficiency of our transportation systems and the security of our communities.” 

In 1927, increasing truck traffic on small Texas roads became a major issue resulting in damage to highways and bridges. With the advent of trucking as a major industry, and the roads at the time generally being very narrow, the Texas Legislature found it necessary to create an organization to enforce existing regulations.

Today, there are 655 DPS Troopers certified to enforce federal motor carrier safety regulations, stationed across the state. These men and women play a vital role in ensuring Texas highways are safe for all travelers.

Fifteen DPS Troopers attended the three-day Texas Challenge in Corpus Christi, as well as five DPS Inspectors, one DPS compliance review officer and nine Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program individuals.

The troopers were required to inspect multiple types of commercial vehicles, as well as take a written exam testing their knowledge on rules, regulations and operational procedures. These events were judged by industry personnel and retired DPS CVE Troopers. 

After three days of intense competition, CVE personnel and their families gathered for an award ceremony where several individuals were honored for their outstanding achievements, including an overall Grand Champion of the Texas Challenge from DPS and MCSAP.

Corporal Dustin Henderson from DPS and Jared Koester (Fort Worth PD) from MCSAP were awarded Grand Champion this year and will go on to compete at the North America Inspectors Championship in August. 

Click here to see photos from the event.