Florida CDL License Guide: FLHSMV Official Requirements
Getting your Commercial Driver's License in the Sunshine State means following the specific rules set by the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). This guide walks you through every step — from earning your Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) to passing the third-party CDL skills test.
Florida CDL Application Process
Submit Your Identity Verification & Medical Self-Certification
Visit a FLHSMV office to verify your identity and Florida residency, and submit your DOT physical exam report on file.
Pass the Knowledge Tests to Get Your CLP (Permit)
Pass the CDL General Knowledge Test and any applicable endorsement knowledge tests at your local DMV on a computer terminal.
Complete Federal ELDT Compliance Training
Complete both theory and behind-the-wheel training at an FMCSA-registered provider, and ensure your records are entered into the federal Training Provider Registry (TPR).
Pass the FL CDL Skills Test
After holding your CLP for at least 14 days (Florida's minimum requirement), schedule your three-part CDL skills test at an FLHSMV-authorized third-party testing location.
💳 Florida CDL & Permit Fees
| Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) Application Fee | $10.00 |
| Original CDL License Issuance Fee | $75.00 |
| Endorsement Knowledge Test Fee (each) | $7.00 /each |
| Failed Knowledge Test Retake Fee | $10.00 |
🩺 Florida CDL Medical Certification Requirements
All Florida CDL applicants must identify their driving category. The most common category is Non-Excepted Interstate, which covers most commercial truck drivers operating across state lines.
Key Step: You must undergo a full DOT physical exam performed by a physician listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners and obtain a DOT Medical Certificate (Form MCSA-5876).
※ Applicants are strongly advised to submit their DOT Medical Certificate to FLHSMV promptly after receiving it to avoid any downgrade to their CDL eligibility status.
⚠️ Federal ELDT Training Compliance — Florida Enforcement Details
Under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) rule, Florida continues to strictly enforce ELDT compliance in 2026.
If you are applying for a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time, upgrading from a Class B to a Class A, or applying for a Passenger (P), School Bus (S), or Hazmat (H) endorsement for the first time, your training records must already be entered into the federal Training Provider Registry (TPR) by your school before you can schedule a skills test. Without a verified ELDT status, the FLHSMV system will block your ability to book a skills test appointment.
Florida CDL Skills Test — What to Expect
In Florida, the CDL skills test is typically not available at every DMV office. Most tests are conducted by FLHSMV-authorized Third-Party Testers who are officially licensed and connected to the state system. The skills test consists of three required components — failing any one of them ends the test immediately:
You must verbally explain and physically demonstrate to the examiner that the vehicle's air brakes, engine compartment, tires, suspension, and exterior lights are all in safe operating condition.
Includes straight-line backing, offset backing, and conventional parallel parking — all designed to test your precision and vehicle control at low speeds.
You'll drive on actual Florida public roads, with the examiner evaluating left and right turns, intersections, railroad crossings, and overall handling of real-world traffic conditions.
Florida CDL DMV Locations & Appointments
Most FLHSMV offices recommend scheduling an appointment in advance. Some locations may accept walk-ins for certain services — check with your local office first. Below are the major offices handling the highest volume of CDL transactions in Florida's largest metro areas:
※ Important: Book your appointment through the official FLHSMV appointment portal. Walk-in visits are generally not accepted for CDL applicants needing the full new-applicant testing process.
Ace the Florida FLHSMV CDL knowledge tests with our full library of free 2026 CDL practice test questions:
Based in another state, or looking to transfer your CDL? Check out our high-authority guides for other top states: