A Commercial Driver License (CDL) is required to operate large or specialized commercial motor vehicles in Florida. Our office provides CDL issuance and related services in accordance with Florida law and Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) requirements. Whether you are applying for your first CDL, upgrading your license, or transferring an out-of-state CDL, our team is here to help guide you through the process.
IMPORTANT UPDATE: Commercial Driver’s License Changes
TEMPORARY PAUSE ON NON-IMMIGRANT CDL AND CLP ISSUANCE
Florida has temporarily suspended the issuance of non-domiciled commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) and commercial learner’s permits (CLPs), also known as non-immigrant or temporary CDLs and CLPs.
Effective September 30, 2025
This action follows new federal requirements from the U.S. Department of Transportation and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to strengthen oversight of non-domiciled commercial licensing.
What This Means:
- Non-domiciled CDL and CLP applications are temporarily paused until further notice
- Identification and Class E licenses are not affected and continue to be processed normally
- Additional information will be provided as it becomes available from federal authorities
This pause ensures Florida remains in full compliance with enhanced federal transportation safety requirements.
For questions or clarification, contact us.
Apply for a Commercial Driver License
The new Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) regulations require that all entry-level drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) receive training from a provider listed on FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry.
To be eligible to take required skills or knowledge tests, commercial driver’s license (CDL) applicants must have completed applicable entry-level driver training from a registered training provider.
Training must be completed before taking a CDL skills test or, the hazardous materials knowledge test (H) unless a hazardous materials endorsement (H) was obtained on a CDL prior to February 7. 2022.
Click here to find a provider on the FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry.
All Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) or Commercial Driver License (CDL) applicants must present two proofs of Florida residential address in their name. Applicants must present one proof from List A and one proof from List B or two proofs from List A.
LIST A for CLP / CDL – item presented must be in the applicant’s name
- A recent lease or rental agreement for the residence with a term of 6 months or greater (must be dated within the last six months)
- Current Florida voter registration card
- Florida vehicle registration or title
- Florida vessel registration or title
- Current homeowner’s insurance policy or bill
- Current electricity or water bill (must be dated within the last 60 days)
- Recent cellular or landline telephone bill (must be dated within the last 60 days)
- Recent internet service provider bill
- Latest property tax bill
LIST B for CLP / CDL – item presented must be in the applicant’s name
- Latest W-2 form or 1099 form (must be dated within the last six months)
- Recent bank statement (must be dated within the last 60 days)
- Recent credit card statement (must be dated within the last 60 days)
- Latest military orders
- Recent pay stub (must be dated within the last 60 days)
- Recent official government documents
CLP or CDL applicants unable to provide a proof of residential address from list A, must provide a Declaration of Domicile filed with the Clerk of the Circuit Court AND one proof of residential address document from list B.
All customers applying for an original CDL or Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) must present one of the documents listed below to establish Florida residency:
- A current Florida Class E Driver License or Florida Identification card held for a period of more than six (6) consecutive months.
- A lease agreement, in the customer’s name, that has been in place for a period of more than six (6) consecutive months.
- A current residential mortgage, in the customer’s name, signed more than six (6) months ago.
- A current residential deed, in the customer’s name, signed more than six (6) months ago.
- A Florida Voter Registration Card.
- A statement of domicile pursuant to section 222.17, F.S.
- A homestead tax exemption filing on property in this state.
Important Notes:
CLP & CDL applicants upgrading from a Class E, must resubmit acceptable proof of residential address.
CLP & CDL applicants cannot use a Certification of Address (HSMV-71120) for licensure.
In the State of Florida, anyone applying for a Commercial Driver License (CDL) is required to have an operators license and pass a knowledge and skills test and meet the vision requirements.
- Class A license is required to operate a vehicle with a combined GVWR of 26,001 lbs or more, and towing a vehicle/unit over 10,000 lbs.
- Class B license is required to operate a single vehicle and/or bus with a GVWR of 26,001 lbs or more. May also tow a vehicle of 10,000 lbs. or less.
- Class C license is required to operate vehicles transporting placarded amounts of hazardous materials, or vehicles designed to transport more than 16 persons including the driver with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of less than 26,001 lbs.
Proof of citizenship or legal presence may be required for renewal, duplicate or replacement licenses. Please come prepared to present an identification document as proof of citizenship or legal presence.
Drivers operating a vehicle with a weight of 26,001 lbs. or more are required to have a Class A or B commercial driver license. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age. If they are under 21, they will be restricted to intrastate operation only. All exams must be taken in English only. Be sure to study the Florida Commercial Driver License handbook. The handbook is also available in Spanish.
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require all Commercial Driver License holders to certify with the State’s Driver License Agency in one of the four categories below prior to the issuance or renewal of a CDL. Those certifying in non-excepted interstate or intrastate commerce (Category A or C) must also ensure their medical documentation is on file with the state issuing agency and that it remains current. Failure to present valid medical documentation, when required, will result in the denial of the issuance or renewal of the CDL. Failure to maintain current medical documentation on file may result in CDL disqualification.
A. Non-excepted Interstate
Commercial drivers who operate or expect to operate in interstate commerce and are required to maintain federal medical certification. (Medical Card Required)
B. Excepted Interstate
Commercial drivers who operate or expect to operate in interstate commerce but engage exclusively in operations that qualify for exception from the requirement to maintain federal medical certification.
C. Non-excepted Intrastate
Commercial drivers who operate or expect to operate only in intrastate commerce and are required to meet state of Florida medical certification requirements. (Medical Card Required)
D. Excepted Intrastate
Commercial drivers who operate or expect to operate only in intrastate commerce, but engage exclusively in operations that qualify for exception from state of Florida medical certification requirements.
Commercial drivers cannot claim exemption from medical certification requirements because they are not currently operating in non-excepted interstate or intrastate commerce. If not specifically included in category B or D above, you must maintain your medical certification or downgrade to a non-commercial license.
If you self-certify in a category exempt from medical certification requirements (Category B or D) and later change to a non-exempt type of operation (Category A or C), you must recertify in the appropriate category and provide proof of valid medical certification to avoid potential enforcement actions. CDL Medical Self-Certification
If you have recent experience driving large trucks in the military, you may be eligible to obtain a Florida Commercial Driver License (CDL) without retaking the skills tests normally required. You may do this if:
- You are still in active service in any branch of the military or within 1 year of separating from the service.
- For the past two years at least, you have driven vehicles in the military that would require a CDL to operate as a civilian. Civilian commercial motor vehicles requiring a CDL are generally large straight trucks with a manufacturer’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) over 26,000 lbs. and truck-trailer combinations where the combined GVWR is over 26,000 lbs. and the trailer itself has a GVWR over 10,000 lbs. Experience driving vehicles designed to carry more than 15 people, including the driver, may also count.
Procedures to Obtain a Florida CDL
- Download and print the Certification for Waiver of Skill Test for Military Personnel form. This form may also be obtained from any Tax Collector’s office. You and the responsible person in your military chain of command will need to complete and sign this form attesting to your driving experience. The form also provides a way for your commanding officer or transportation officer to state what types of military vehicle you were qualified to drive, in terms that translate to the comparable civilian CDL class, endorsements, and restrictions.
- Pass the required knowledge tests.
- While you are still in the service or no later than one year from separation, go to any Tax Collector’s office with your present driver license and military active duty identification card, reservist identification card, guard identification card or DD-214 (military discharge papers). You will be given the CDL knowledge tests needed for the class of license and endorsements you wish to obtain. If you pass and have brought your completed Certification for Waiver of Skill Test for Military Personnel form, you may be issued your Florida CDL in the same visit. If you pass the knowledge tests but did not bring your completed Certification for Waiver of Skill Test for Military Personnel form, you may return with it later for issuance of your CDL within one year after separation from the military.
To be issued an original license in Florida, you must appear in person at a driver license office. You will need to surrender your current license. If you have lost that license or it is expired, you can still go to the office and we will access a database that allows us to make sure your driving privilege is valid in all 50 states.
Current law requires customers to present proof of legal name, lawful presence, social security number and two forms of residential address (must show proof of six months of residency). If your name has been changed by marriage, divorce or court order, you must provide proof of any and all name changes. Presenting the primary identification will establish material compliance with REAL ID.
To find out more regarding these documents, click here.
You are required to pass a vision exam. A Department of Transportation (DOT) medical exam certification is required unless specifically exempted from holding one. The medical certification must be carried while operating a commercial motor vehicle, and is valid for two years.
The issuance of a CDL license is prohibited to anyone who is not a Florida resident, does not provide a Florida residential address or proof of their social security number.
The Patriot Act requires a federal security check and the Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) requires a fingerprint-based background check for drivers applying for a Hazmat endorsement.
If you are transferring a commercial driver license with a Hazmat endorsement, you will need to make an appointment in our LaBelle office.
For more information check here.
Our office does not administer CDL skills testing. Testing must be completed through a third party. Click below to see the list.
The new Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) regulations require that all entry-level drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) receive training from a provider listed on FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry.
To be eligible to take required skills or knowledge tests, commercial driver’s license (CDL) applicants must have completed applicable entry-level driver training from a registered training provider.
Training must be completed before taking a CDL skills test or, the hazardous materials knowledge test (H) unless a hazardous materials endorsement (H) was obtained on a CDL prior to February 7. 2022.
Click here to find a provider on the FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry.
All applicants for a Commercial Driver License are required to have an Operator License, pass the vision requirements and must be at least 18 years of age. Applicants under 21 years old will be restricted to intrastate operation only.
Oral exams, if available, may be administered in English only. Interpreters may not be used during the administration of CDL oral exams or during any portions of the CDL skill exams.
To operate trucks or truck combinations weighing 26,001 lbs or more, and towing a vehicle/unit over 10,000 lbs, then a Class A license is needed. The following tests are required:
- General Knowledge Test
- Combinations Vehicle Test
- Vision – 20/40 in each eye
- Hearing – must be able to hear a whisper
- Air Brakes (if applicable)
- Pre-Trip
- Basic Skills
- CDL Road Test Applicable exams for desired endorsements.
To operate straight trucks and buses 26,001 lbs or more, then a Class B license is needed. The following tests are required:
- General Knowledge Test
- Vision – 20/40 in each eye
- Hearing – must be able to hear a whisper
- Air Brakes (if applicable)
- Pre-Trip
- Basic Skills
- CDL Road Test.
- Applicable exams for desired endorsements
To operate vehicles transporting placarded amounts of hazardous materials, or vehicles designed to transport more than 15 persons including the driver with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of less than 26,001 lbs, then a Class C license is needed. The following tests are required:
- General Knowledge Test
- Vision – 20/40 in each eye
- Hearing – must be able to hear a whisper
- Air Brakes (if applicable)
- Pre-Trip
- Basic Skills
- CDL Road Test.
- Applicable exams for desired endorsements
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require all Commercial Driver License holders to certify with the State’s Driver License Agency in one of the four categories below prior to the issuance or renewal of a CDL. Those certifying in non-excepted interstate or intrastate commerce (Category A or C) must also ensure their medical documentation is on file with the state issuing agency and that it remains current. Failure to present valid medical documentation, when required, will result in the denial of the issuance or renewal of the CDL. Failure to maintain current medical documentation on file may result in CDL disqualification.
A. Non-excepted Interstate
Commercial drivers who operate or expect to operate in interstate commerce and are required to maintain federal medical certification. (Medical Card Required)
B. Excepted Interstate
Commercial drivers who operate or expect to operate in interstate commerce but engage exclusively in operations that qualify for exception from the requirement to maintain federal medical certification.
C. Non-excepted Intrastate
Commercial drivers who operate or expect to operate only in intrastate commerce and are required to meet state of Florida medical certification requirements. (Medical Card Required)
D. Excepted Intrastate
Commercial drivers who operate or expect to operate only in intrastate commerce, but engage exclusively in operations that qualify for exception from state of Florida medical certification requirements.
Commercial drivers cannot claim exemption from medical certification requirements because they are not currently operating in non-excepted interstate or intrastate commerce. If not specifically included in category B or D above, you must maintain your medical certification or downgrade to a non-commercial license.
If you self-certify in a category exempt from medical certification requirements (Category B or D) and later change to a non-exempt type of operation (Category A or C), you must recertify in the appropriate category and provide proof of valid medical certification to avoid potential enforcement actions. CDL Medical Self-Certification
An out-of-state or a Canadian commercial driver license can be reciprocated. However, an out-of-state applicant with a hazmat endorsement will have to reapply for a hazmat endorsement in Florida, which will include a background check, appropriate exams, and fees.
Military or prior military personnel requesting a CDL due to qualifications of experience while serving on military duty must:
- Pass all required knowledge and endorsement exams for the CDL license class and endorsements they are applying to obtain.
- Present the Certification for Waiver of Skill Test for Military Personnel form completed by their commanding officer or designee while on active duty or within 90 days of separation from service.
Military personnel are exempt from taking the skills exams. However, the process must be completed and the CDL issued within 120 days of separation from service.
Our office does not administer CDL skills testing. Testing must be completed through a third party. Click below to see the list.
NEW Entry-Level Driver Training Requirements for CDL Applicants
The new Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) regulations require that all entry-level drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) receive training from a provider listed on FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry.
To be eligible to take required skills or knowledge tests, commercial driver’s license (CDL) applicants must have completed applicable entry-level driver training from a registered training provider.
Training must be completed before taking a CDL skills test or, the hazardous materials knowledge test (H) unless a hazardous materials endorsement (H) was obtained on a CDL prior to February 7. 2022.
Click here to find a provider on the FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry.
Endorsements are special authorizations which permit a driver to drive certain types of vehicles or to transport certain types of materials or a certain number of passengers. The following endorsements can be placed on Class A, B, or C commercial driver licenses.
H. (Placarded Hazmat) – Issued to those who have passed the required written test and who will transport placarded hazardous materials. To make an appointment to obtain your hazmat endorsement, click here.
N. (Tank Vehicles) – Issued to those who have passed the required written test and will drive tank vehicles.
P. (Passengers) – Issued to those who have passed the required written and skills test and will drive passenger vehicles.
S. (School Bus) – Issued to those who have passed the required written and skills test and who will transport pre-primary, primary or secondary school students from home to school, from school to home, or to and from school-sponsored events. (Does not include a bus used as a common carrier.) The P endorsement is also required.
T. (Double/Triple Trailers) – Issued to those who have passed the required written and skills tests and who will drive double or triple tractor- trailer vehicles. Triple trailers are not allowed on Florida roads.
X. (Placarded Hazmat & Tank Vehicles) – Issued to those who qualify for the H and N endorsements.
The federal USA PATRIOT Act requires Commercial Driver License (CDL) holders to pass a national background check administered by the Department of Homeland Security, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) before their licenses may be endorsed for transport of hazardous materials. New, current or expired HAZMAT endorsement applicants must be fingerprinted, pass the required national-level background check, and present proof of residency prior to receiving the hazardous materials endorsement.
If you receive information from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) that you did not pass the background check, you may apply for an appeal, or in some cases apply for a waiver. The appeal must be made through TSA. You may contact TSA HAZMAT at (855) 347-8371 (Weekdays from 8 am to 10 pm ET).
NEW Entry-Level Driver Training Requirements for CDL Applicants
The new Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) regulations require that all entry-level drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) receive training from a provider listed on FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry.
Training must be completed before taking the hazardous materials knowledge test (H) unless a hazardous materials endorsement (H) was obtained on a CDL prior to February 7. 2022.
Click here to find a provider on the FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry.
Driver License Payment Options
Online
For online class E driver license or ID card renewals, duplicates or to change your address:
- You will need your driver license or ID card number, social security number, and date of birth.
- You will need your most recently issued driver license, ID card or motor vehicle registration.
- Your existing name, date of birth, sex, and any restrictions must be correct.
- You must have an existing digital image on record.
- You must use a Visa, MasterCard, American Express or Discover card.
Note: Some people may not qualify to use online services, such as CDL renewals. (ie. those who do not have a digital image on file and non-U.S. Citizens)
This service is offered in conjunction with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. When you click on the button below to start the transaction, you will be directed to their website.
Any questions related to the online renewal options should be directed to the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles at 850-617-2000.
Once a transaction has been processed through the Internet neither this office nor the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles can cancel the transaction.
Important Information
- You may renew your driver license up to 18 months prior to expiration.
- You may renew your ID card up to 12 months prior to expiration.
- You may renew your CDL license up to 12 months prior to expiration.
- Click here to see if you are eligible to renew online.
Driver License Fees
Operator License
Fee
Operator License
Fee
Original
$54.25
Renewal
$54.25
Replacement
$31.25
Endorsements (fee applies to each endorsement)
$7.00
Commercial License (CDL)
Fee
Commercial License (CDL)
Fee
Original
$81.25
Renewal
$81.25
Original School Bus Driver (w/proof of employment)
$54.25*
Renewal School Bus Driver (w/proof of employment)
$54.25*
Replacement
$31.25
Endorsements (fee applies to each endorsement)
$7.00
Identification Card
Fee
Identification Card
Fee
Original
$31.25
Renewal
$31.25
Replacement
$31.25
Additional Fees
Fee
Additional Fees
Fee
Address Change
$31.25
Delinquent Renewal
$69.25
Stolen (w/police report and no other changes to license/ID)
$6.25
Written Exam Retake
$16.25
Drivers Transcript/Driving Record
$16.25
Failed Vehicle Inspection for Skills Test
$6.25
Skills Test Retake
$26.25
1st Written Test
$6.25
1st Skills Test
$6.25
Sanctions (Reinstatements)
Fee
Sanctions (Reinstatements)
Fee
$51.25
FR Suspension – Liability
$21.25
FR Suspension – PIP First Offense
$156.25
FR Suspension – PIP 2nd Offense within 3 years
$256.25
FR Suspension – PIP 3rd Offense within 3 years
$506.25
CDL Disqualifications
$81.25
Administrative Fee for Drug & Alcohol Offenses
$136.25
Revocation
$81.25
D6
$66.25
Court Ordered Child Support Suspension
$66.25
Department of Revenue Child Support Suspension
$51.25
Worthless Check
$61.25
FAQs
A CDL is a special driver license required to operate certain commercial motor vehicles (CMVs), including large trucks, buses, and vehicles transporting hazardous materials, as defined by Florida and federal law.
You must have a CDL if you operate:
- A vehicle with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more
- A combination vehicle with a trailer over 10,000 pounds
- A vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers
- A vehicle transporting hazardous materials requiring placards
- Class A: Combination vehicles over 26,001 lbs (tractor-trailers)
- Class B: Single vehicles over 26,001 lbs (dump trucks, buses)
- Class C: Vehicles carrying passengers or hazardous materials that do not meet Class A or B thresholds
Common CDL endorsements include:
- H – Hazardous Materials (Hazmat)
- N – Tank Vehicles
- P – Passenger
- S – School Bus
- T – Double/Triple Trailers
Additional testing and documentation are required for endorsements. Hazmat endorsements require an appointment.
Yes. Most CDL holders must have a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate (DOT medical card).
📌 Important: Paper medical cards are no longer accepted. Medical certificates must be submitted electronically by your medical examiner.
CDL holders must declare how they operate a commercial vehicle by choosing one of four self-certification categories:
- Interstate – Non-Excepted
- Interstate – Excepted
- Intrastate – Non-Excepted
- Intrastate – Excepted
Your certification determines whether a medical certificate is required.
Yes. Florida allows most out-of-state CDLs to be transferred if:
- Your CDL is valid and not expired
- You meet Florida identification and residency requirements
- All required tests and medical certifications are current
- An out-of-state applicant with a hazmat endorsement will have to reapply for a hazmat endorsement in Florida, which will include a background check, appropriate exams, and fees.
Yes. CDL applicants may be required to pass:
- Knowledge (written) exams
- Skills (road) tests
- Endorsement-specific exams
Testing requirements depend on the license class and endorsements requested.
A Florida CDL is generally valid for eight (8) years, unless a shorter period is required due to immigration status or medical certification limitations.
No, In-person visits are required for CDL transactions.
Appointments are not required for CDL original, replacement, or renewal license. Appointments are required for hazmat endorsements.
If your medical certification expires:
- Your CDL may be downgraded
- You may lose commercial driving privileges until updated documentation is received
No. You must have a valid CDL in your possession and be fully compliant with medical and self-certification requirements to operate a commercial motor vehicle.
CDL services are available at Hendry County Tax Collector offices in LaBelle and Clewiston. Hazmat is only available in our LaBelle office. Availability may vary by transaction type.
Ready to Get Started?
Our team is here to help make your visit as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Visit one of our convenient Hendry County Tax Collector locations in LaBelle or Clewiston to complete your transaction, or contact us if you have questions about what to bring.
