Florida Trucking Regulations in 2019: A Comprehensive Overview

The Florida long-haul freight trucking sector generated a remarkable $10 billion in revenue during 2019, solidifying its role as a crucial component of the state's economy. The trucking industry serves as a vital link between consumer demand and supply, facilitating the transportation of goods ranging from fresh produce to pharmaceuticals. With its extensive operational reach, the trucking industry operates under a complex web of regulations at both state and federal levels.

All truckers are mandated to adhere to regulations set forth by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Association (FMCSA). However, specific situations might require compliance with state-specific rules when operating within that state. This article delves into the regulations governing truckers in the state of Florida.

Defining Commercial Vehicles in Florida
The Florida Department of Transportation (DOT) defines Commercial Motor Vehicles (CMV) as any vehicle or combination of vehicles not owned by the government, with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) exceeding 26,000 lbs. or comprising three or more axles, regardless of the vehicle's weight.

Becoming a Truck Driver in Florida
To operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV), one must obtain a commercial driver license (CDL). Applicants must first hold an Operator’s License before pursuing a CDL. Those new to CDLs are required to obtain a Conditional Learner’s Permit (CLP), granting them permission to practice driving commercial vehicles on public roads, under the supervision of a qualified CDL holder. Obtaining a CLP necessitates:

Possessing a Florida driver’s license.
Passing the vision test.
Passing the knowledge test.
Clearing the Division of Drivers Licenses medical assessment.
Providing proof of identity and residency.
Furnishing driving records from the past decade.
Paying the relevant fee.
After fulfilling these prerequisites, a 14-day waiting period ensues. Upon completion, the applicant proceeds to the vehicle driving skills test, encompassing a vehicle inspection test, basic controls test, and a commercial driving road test. While the minimum age for a CDL application is 18, those under 21 are limited to intrastate driving within Florida. To engage in interstate driving, applicants must be at least 21.

CDL License Classes in Florida
Florida issues three classes of CDL licenses:

CDL Class A License
Holders of a Class A CDL are authorized to operate:
Trucks or truck combinations weighing 26,001 lbs. or more.
Towing vehicles or units exceeding 10,000 lbs.
Acquiring a CDL Class A License mandates passing:

General knowledge test.
Combinations vehicle test.
Air brakes test.
Pre-trip test.
Basic skills test.
CDL road test.
Applicable exams for desired endorsements.
CDL Class B License
A Class B CDL allows operation of straight buses or trucks weighing 26,001 lbs. or more. To secure a Class B CDL, passing the following tests is essential:
General knowledge test.
Air brakes test (if applicable).
Pre-trip test.
Basic skills test.
CDL road test.
Applicable exams for desired endorsements.
CDL Class C License
Holders of a Class C CDL are authorized to drive:
Vehicles transporting placarded quantities of hazardous materials.
Vehicles designed for transporting 15+ passengers (including the driver), with a GVWR below 26,001 lbs.
Obtaining a Class C CDL involves passing:

General Knowledge test.
Air Brakes (if applicable).
Pre-trip test.
Basic skills test.
CDL road test.
Applicable exams for desired endorsements.
CDL Endorsements in Florida
Endorsements permit CDL holders to operate specific vehicle types. Florida offers endorsements for Class A, B, and C commercial licenses:

H endorsement – Placarded Hazmat: Required for transporting hazardous materials.
N endorsement – Tank Vehicles: Required for driving tank vehicles.
P endorsement – Passengers: Necessary for operating vehicles transporting over 15 individuals (including the driver).
S endorsement - School Bus: Required for transporting students to/from school-related events.
T endorsement – Double/Triple Trailers: Needed for operating double or triple tractor-trailer vehicles.
X endorsement – Issued to those qualifying for H and N endorsements.
Florida DMV Commercial Vehicle Registration
All vehicles operating in Florida must be registered with the DOT. Initial registration is carried out at local service centers. Required documents include proof of identity, proof of Florida Insurance, and a completed HSMV form 82040. The registration entails a $225 fee plus a base vehicle tax varying by vehicle type, class code, and license plate type. A metal number plate, registration certificate, and decal sticker are issued.

Transferring CDL from Canada or Other States
Valid out-of-state or Canadian CDLs are recognized by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). However, hazmat endorsement holders need to reapply for this endorsement. Military CDL Waiver for Florida Military personnel or ex-military applicants seeking CDLs based on military experience must pass required tests, present a Certification for Waiver of Skill Test for Military Personnel form, and complete the process within 120 days of separation.

Florida CDL Medical Certification
CDL holders must certify with the State’s Driver License Agency in four categories. Valid medical documentation is necessary for non-excepted interstate or intrastate commerce certification. Categories include:

Non-excepted Interstate (Category A)
Excepted Interstate (Category B)
Non-excepted Intrastate (Category C)
Excepted Intrastate (Category D)
CDL Permit Costs in Florida
Fees charged by the Division of Driver Licenses are:

Fresh CDL issuance or renewal: $75
Endorsements: $7 per endorsement
Knowledge exam re-test: $10
Skills exam re-test: $20
Enforcement and Limitations on Size and Weight
The Florida Highway Patrol Office of Commercial Vehicle Enforcement (OCVE) overseas trucking operations. Size and weight limitations include:

Maximum height of 13.6 feet for commercial trucks.
Automobile transporter semi-trailers up to 14 feet tall, including load.
Total length limit of 75 feet for trucks with two trailers.
No length restrictions for truck tractors or tractor-trailer combinations.
Usual maximum width of 8.6 feet, with potential width restrictions on certain roads.
Maximum weight of 80,000 lbs., which may vary based on axles and type.
Maximum front overhang of 3 feet, except for specific cases.
CDL Permit Requirements in Florida
All permits must be acquired before entering Florida, available through the FDOT. Trip and blanket permits are granted for single or multiple trips, each with distinct validity periods. These permits are essential not only for entering Florida but also for transiting through it.

Additional Regulations
Further regulations for trucks operating in Florida encompass:

Intrastate trucks' registration and valid USDOT number or Florida registration.
Trucks over 26,001 lbs. or with more than three axles needing a Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles fuel decal.
This comprehensive overview details Florida's trucking regulations, CDL classes, endorsements, medical certification, permits, and fees. For Florida drivers seeking advanced equipment like Dash Cams, Electronic Logging Devices,