Are you looking to get your CDL in Florida? Fulfilling all the CDL requirements in Florida is the first crucial step. Florida has set several requirements for aspiring CDL holders to endure their competence and responsibility when operating commercial vehicles. Some major eligibility criteria include age limit, documentation, medical status, and various training and testing. In this post, we will walk you through each requirement in detail, giving you a clear insight into what to expect when pursuing a Florida CDL. Some frequently asked questions are also included. Keep reading for more details!
What are the CDL requirements in Florida?
To obtain a CDL in Florida, you must understand and fulfill all the following requirements:
Age requirement
You must be at least 18 years old to drive a commercial vehicle inside Florida intrastate. In case you desire to drive across state borders, or carry hazardous materials you are required to be at least 21 years old.
Necessary documents
The following documents are required from the applicant:
- Proof of identity: A valid identification document, such as a passport or birth certificate.
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency: You must provide a valid U.S. citizenship or a Green card if you are not a U.S. citizen.
- Proof of Florida residency: Two documents showing your current Florida address, such as utility bills or a lease agreement.
- Social Security Number – SSN: Verifiable SSN is mandatory for obtaining a CDL.
- Driver’s license: You must possess your valid driver’s license to get a CDL.
Medical requirements
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration – FMCSA requires that all applicants for a CDL be medically fit according to standards set by the FMCSA. The basic medical requirements include:
- Self-certificate: All Florida CDL applicants have to self-certify their driving type and medical status according to the type of driving they intend to engage in, whether interstate or intrastate, non-excepted or excepted driver.
- Medical examination certificate: If you apply for non-excepted driving, you are required to obtain a Medical Card – Medical Examination Certificate (MEC). You will undergo a physical exam provided by an accepted medical provider according to the FMCSA. Some of the essential examinations include:
- Vision: A driver must have at least 20/40 vision in each eye, and at least a 70-degree field of vision in each eye.
- Hearing: You should be able to hear the whispered voice at a minimum distance of 5 feet.
- Blood pressure: Your blood pressure must be at the standard level by DOT.
Commercial Learner’s Permit
If you apply for a CDL for the first time, you are supposed to get a CLP for at least 14 days before taking the CDL skills test. Remember this permit has a validity of 180 days. Schedule your time properly to avoid expiration before taking the skills test. To obtain a CLP, you must pass one or more written tests as follows:
- General knowledge test.
- Endorsement tests (for additional endorsements).
- Air brake test (if applicable to vehicle type consisting of air brake system).
- Combination vehicles test (for a Class A CDL).
To understand the test format and increase your chance of success, it is a good idea that you practice our Florida CDL written practice tests. These tests are completely free but effective tools to help you obtain CLP with ease.
Take Florida CDL practice tests here!
Entry-Level Driver Training certificate
Floria CDL applicants for Class A and B CDL, or upgrading Class B to Class A, or addition of hazardous endorsement, must undergo the ELDT program provided by approved CDL training schools. The following are included in this program:
- Theory training: Including necessary safety and operational knowledge.
- Behind-the-wheel training: Equipping hands-on, practical skills for maneuvering a commercial vehicle over the road.
Passing skills test
If you have fulfilled all the previous requirements and have had your CLP for at least 14 days, you will become qualified to take the three-part CDL skills test:
- Vehicle inspection test: Demonstrate your ability to inspect your vehicle for safety.
- Basic controls test: Perform backing, parallel parking, and tight turns.
- Road test: Show your ability to drive in real-life traffic conditions safely, adhering to traffic laws.
Clean driving record
Your driving record will be reviewed by the FMCSA for some serious offenses which include but are not limited to:
- DUI convictions.
- Reckless driving.
- Felony conviction.
- Serious traffic violation.
- Railroad grade crossing violation.
For more offenses to consider when reviewing your driving record, you can check our post on What disqualifies you from getting a CDL in Florida.
FAQs
1. What are the qualifications for a CDL license in Florida?
To qualify for a CDL in Florida, you must satisfy the following key requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old for intrastate driving and 21 years old for interstate driving.
- Possess required documents such as identification, legal residence, driver’s license, and social security number.
- Meet medical requirements.
- Pass written tests for CDL.
- Complete ELDT training.
- Pass the skills test.
- Pay the appropriate fees.
- Have a clean driving record.
2. What are the class A CDL requirements in Florida?
Besides the above general requirements for obtaining a CDL, there are specific requirements to obtain a Class A CDL in Florida:
- Pass the mandatory written tests in general knowledge and combination vehicles.
- Complete CDL training for operating Class A vehicles.
- Pass the skills test for Class A vehicles.
Final thoughts
Acquiring a CDL in Florida opens many opportunities within both trucking and transportation, but it also involves certain requirements and responsibilities. By understanding and preparing for CDL requirements in Florida, you can be confident in your way to achieving success in a commercial driving career. If you have any questions related to Florida CDL and its requirements, do not hesitate to comment or contact us.
