Florida CDL Information

A commercial driver’s license (CDL) is one of the first steps to a great-paying career as a commercial truck driver. However, in order to drive a commercial vehicle (CMV) in Florida, you must first obtain a Florida CDL. Drivers Legal Plan, the Nation’s Leading CDL Defense Law Firm, has summarized many of the steps and requirements for obtaining your CDL in Florida.

Please note that your state and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regularly update these CDL requirements. Please visit the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) website and the FMCSA website for the most authoritative and up-to-date information regarding CDL requirements and processes.

To apply for a commercial driver’s license (CDL) in the state of Florida, you must have a Florida driver’s license, be able to pass vision requirements, have no prior suspension, revocation, cancellation, or disqualification of your license in any state, and be at least 18 years of age. Drivers under the age of 21 who pass their CDL testing will be restricted to intrastate driving privileges only. Once the driver reaches the age of 21, driving outside of the state will be allowed.

Additionally, drivers are required to obtain a conditional learner’s permit (CLP) and practice driving on public roads with a qualified CDL driver in the vehicle with you for a minimum of 14 days. For a detailed explanation of requirements and testing knowledge needed for different types of commercial vehicles, refer to the Florida CDL Requirements page.

Remember, the most important thing to remember when you receive a ticket is that you should never just pay the ticket or the court fees without first talking to a legal representative who understands trucking laws. While you want to maintain a clean driving record, unforeseen violations can happen. When they do, you need expert legal protection. Drivers Legal Plan, the Nation's Leading CDL Defense Law Firm, is ready to defend your rights and your career.