A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is required in Florida to operate commercial motor vehicles over 26,000 lbs GVWR, buses carrying 16 or more passengers, or vehicles placarded for hazardous materials. Florida CDL fees start at $75 for a 4-year license. Three CDL classes are available: Class A for tractor-trailer combinations, Class B for single large vehicles, and Class C for passenger and HazMat vehicles. First-time applicants must complete Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) through an FMCSA-registered provider before taking the skills test. All interstate CDL holders must maintain a valid DOT Medical Certificate. Test your knowledge with the Florida CDL knowledge test, then pass the skills test — pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and road driving — to earn your license.
Any combination of vehicles with a GCWR of 26,001 lbs or more, provided the GVWR of the towed vehicle exceeds 10,000 lbs.
Any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 lbs or more, or any such vehicle towing a vehicle with a GVWR not exceeding 10,000 lbs.
Any single vehicle or combination not covered by Class A or B, designed to transport 16 or more passengers including the driver, or required to be placarded for hazardous materials.
TSA security threat assessment required. H endorsement valid for 5 years.
Required for bulk liquid or gas transport in tank vehicles.
Required for buses with 16 or more passengers including the driver.
Requires P endorsement. Additional Florida school bus certification required.
Class A CDL required.
TSA background check required.
Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) required per 49 CFR Part 380 for first-time Class A or B CDL applicants and H, P, S endorsement upgrades. Must use an FMCSA-registered provider from tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov.
Find a registered ELDT provider in Florida →Interstate CDL holders must maintain a valid DOT Medical Examiner's Certificate from an FMCSA-certified medical examiner. Valid up to 24 months. Submit self-certification and MEC copy to Florida DHSMV. Florida intrastate CDL drivers may use a state-issued medical certificate under Florida Statute Chapter 322.
Find an FMCSA-certified medical examiner →Visit a Florida DHSMV office with proof of identity, Social Security Number, and Florida residency. Pass knowledge tests, complete ELDT training, and pass the skills test through a third-party tester. CDL fee is approximately $75.
Florida CDLs are valid for 4 years. Your DOT Medical Certificate must be renewed separately, typically every 24 months for most interstate drivers.
Yes. If you have a valid CDL from another state, you can transfer it to Florida when establishing residency. You must surrender your out-of-state CDL and may need to pass the Florida knowledge test if your previous CDL has been expired more than a year.
If the vehicle combination (truck plus load) has a GCWR over 26,001 lbs and the trailer GVWR exceeds 10,000 lbs, a Class A CDL is required. Oversize/overweight loads also require state permits from FDOT.
Florida uses third-party CDL skills testing. DHSMV certifies testing locations statewide. Check flhsmv.gov for a list of approved third-party testers. Call ahead to schedule and confirm current fees.
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Florida CDL fee is approximately $75 for a 4-year license. Knowledge test fee included in application. Skills test conducted through third-party testers — fees typically range $150–$250. Verify at flhsmv.gov.
Disclaimer
The information on this page is compiled from publicly available government sources and is provided for general informational purposes only. TruckRadar is an independent search engine — we are not affiliated with any government agency and this content does not constitute legal or compliance advice. Regulations change frequently; always verify current requirements directly with the official source before making compliance decisions.
Official source: Florida FL Official DMVLast reviewed: April 8, 2026