East USA Trucking School
CDL Testing Center

CDL A Requirements in Florida

A CDL license allows you to drive large commercial trucks. The CDL Class A license is the highest class and permits drivers to operate trucks weighing more than 26,001 pounds or towing a unit weighing over 10,000 pounds.

To earn your CDL A license in Florida, you’ll need to meet the following requirements:

1. Be at least 18 years of age (21 to operate out of the state)

2. Pass the vision requirement

3. Have a current driver’s license

4. Pass knowledge tests covering general knowledge, combination vehicles, and air brakes

5. Obtain a CDL medical certification card after a DOT physical

After meeting these requirements, you can obtain a six-month learner’s permit, which allows you to practice driving under the supervision of a licensed CDL holder. If you’re not already in a program, you’ll want to enroll in CDL training to learn how to drive a commercial truck. Once you’ve completed training, you may take a skills test covering vehicle inspections, basic control, and on-road skills.

Note that the permit is good for up to six months, but you cannot take the skills test until at least 14 days have passed. Once you meet all these requirements, you’ll pay the fee to obtain your CDL license. Government employees, such as those working for schools, may receive a discount on CDL fees.

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What Disqualifies You From Getting a CDL in Florida?

You may be disqualified from getting a CDL license if you don’t yet meet Florida’s CDL requirements or if you’re convicted of serious traffic violations, such as driving under the influence.

CDL holders must maintain a clean driving record and adhere to state traffic laws to operate large trucks safely. However, if you’ve been convicted of a felony or other driving-related offense, you may be disqualified from getting a CDL.

Other traffic violations may disqualify you from holding or obtaining a CDL license in Florida. For example, if you’re convicted of two of the following offenses within three years, you are no longer eligible for a CDL:

1. Violating a motor traffic law that results in a death

2. Reckless driving, including going more than 15 miles over the speed limit or improper lane changes

3. Driving a commercial vehicle without a valid commercial driver’s license

4. Texting or using a mobile phone while driving

Serious offenses, such as driving under the influence, leaving the scene of a crash, using a vehicle to commit a felony, or causing a fatality due to negligence, can also result in the revocation of your CDL if you already hold one—sometimes for a lifetime.

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CDL Training Classes in Florida

A good CLD training course will cover all the skills and knowledge you need to pass the CDL skills and knowledge tests and operate a tractor-trailer safely.

The exact courses and curriculum may vary by school or course, but generally cover:

1. Highway and city driving

2. Turning the truck in various situations

3. Operating air brakes

4. Truck safety inspections

5. Weight and height limits

6. How to safely balance a load

7. Federal regulations on breaks and driving time

8. Record keeping

If you choose a company-sponsored CDL training program, you might also learn company-specific policies, such as how to fill out their paperwork or operate their equipment.

In February 2022, the Entry-Level Driver Training requirements go into effect, which means all CDL A applicants must obtain training from a provider listed on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s Training Provider Registry. If you’re planning to obtain your CDL on or after February 7, ensure your course provider is on the list before beginning classes or paying tuition.

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How Much Does CDL Training Cost in Our School?

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