Florida's Trucking Regulations: Navigating the Road Ahead

In 2019, Florida's long-haul freight trucking industry contributed a staggering $10 billion to the state's economy, underscoring its pivotal role within the nation's economic framework. Trucks are the lifeblood of commerce, connecting consumer demand to the supply chain. Whether hauling fresh produce or vital pharmaceuticals, these heavy-duty vehicles ensure everyone's needs are met. Given their extensive reach, it's essential to understand the complex web of regulations that govern trucking at both state and federal levels. This article delves into the specifics of trucking regulations applicable to the Sunshine State, Florida.

The Florida DOT's Definition of Commercial Motor Vehicles (CMVs)

The Florida Department of Transportation (DOT) classifies Commercial Motor Vehicles (CMVs) as any non-government-owned vehicle or vehicle combination with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) exceeding 26,000 lbs. or featuring three or more axles, regardless of weight.

Becoming a Truck Driver in Florida

To embark on a career as a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operator in Florida, one must obtain a Commercial Driver License (CDL). This necessitates holding an Operator's License before applying for a CDL.

New CDL applicants must initially obtain a Conditional Learner's Permit (CLP). With a CLP, applicants can practice driving commercial vehicles on public roads, but they must be accompanied by a qualified CDL holder during each practice session.

To acquire a CLP, applicants must meet several requirements, including:

Holding a Florida driver's license.
Passing an eyesight test.
Successfully completing a knowledge test.
Passing a medical test administered by the Division of Drivers Licenses.
Providing proof of identity and residency.
Submitting driving records for the past 10 years.
Paying the required fees.
After fulfilling these prerequisites, applicants must wait for 14 days before proceeding to the vehicle driving skills test, which comprises a vehicle inspection test, basic controls test, and a commercial driving road test. A list of test sites can be found here: Link.

It's important to note that while the minimum age for obtaining a CDL is 18, 18-year-old applicants are restricted to intrastate driving within Florida's borders. To drive interstate, one must be at least 21 years old.

CDL knowledge tests are available in various languages, and, with the exception of the hazardous materials test, can be taken orally in either English or Spanish. However, interpreters may not be permitted during test administration.

CDL License Classes in Florida

Florida issues three classes of CDL licenses:

Class A CDL: Authorizes holders to operate trucks or truck combinations weighing 26,001 lbs. or more and towing vehicles or units weighing over 10,000 lbs.

Class B CDL: Allows holders to operate straight buses or trucks weighing 26,001 lbs. or more.

Class C CDL: Permits drivers to operate vehicles transporting placarded quantities of hazardous materials or designed to carry 15 or more passengers (including the driver) with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) under 26,001 lbs.

Each class requires passing specific tests, including general knowledge, air brakes (if applicable), pre-trip, basic skills, CDL road test, and relevant endorsement exams.

CDL Endorsements in Florida

Endorsements authorize drivers to operate specific types of vehicles. Florida offers several endorsements for Class A, B, or C commercial licenses:

H endorsement – Placarded Hazmat: Required for transporting placarded hazardous materials.

N endorsement – Tank Vehicles: Necessary for driving tank vehicles.

P endorsement – Passengers: Required for driving vehicles designed to transport more than 15 persons (including the driver).

S endorsement - School Bus: Needed for transporting school students to and from home and school-sponsored events (excluding common carrier buses).

T endorsement – Double/Triple Trailers: Required for driving double or triple tractor-trailer vehicles (Note: Triple trailers are not allowed on Florida roads).

X endorsement: Issued to those who qualify for both H and N endorsements.

Florida DMV Commercial Vehicle Registration

All vehicles operating in Florida must be registered with the DOT. Initial registration can occur at local service centers, requiring submission of identity proof, proof of Florida Insurance, and a completed HSMV form 82040 (Application for Certificate of Title With/Without Registration). An initial registration fee of $225, plus a base vehicle tax dependent on vehicle type, must be paid. Registration fees are determined by class code, license plate type, and registration use. Upon completion, owners receive a metal number plate, registration certificate, and a decal sticker placed on the upper right corner of the license plate.

CDL Holders Transferring from Canada or Other States

Florida's Department of Transportation reciprocates valid out-of-state or Canadian Commercial Driver Licenses (CDLs). However, applicants holding hazmat endorsements must reapply, including taking relevant tests and paying fees. Background checks are also conducted.

Military CDL Waiver for Florida

Military members or veterans seeking a CDL based on military experience must pass necessary knowledge and endorsement tests. They must also present a Certification for Waiver of Skill Test for Military Personnel form completed by their commanding officer during active duty or within 90 days of separation. The CDL issuance must occur within 120 days of service separation, with military personnel exempt from skills tests.

Florida CDL Medical Certification

Federal regulations require all CDL holders to certify their medical status with the state's Driver License Agency in four categories. Non-compliance can lead to license denial or disqualification.

Non-excepted Interstate (Category A): Requires maintaining federal medical certification.

Excepted Interstate (Category B): For those in interstate commerce exempt from federal medical certification.

Non-excepted Intrastate (Category C): For intrastate drivers, complying with Florida's medical certification requirements.

Excepted Intrastate (Category D): For intrastate drivers engaged in operations exempt from Florida's medical certification requirements.

Drivers can no longer claim medical certification exemption if they switch to a non-exempt operation category. Failure to maintain certification requires downgrading to a non-commercial license.

CDL License Costs in Florida

The Division of Driver Licenses charges the following fees:

Fresh CDL issuance or renewal: $75
Endorsements: $7 per endorsement
Knowledge exam re-test: $10
Skills exam re-test: $20
All trucking operations in Florida are regulated by the Florida Highway Patrol Office of Commercial Vehicle Enforcement (OCVE).

Size and Weight Limitations

Florida imposes specific size and weight restrictions on commercial trucks, including:

Maximum height of 13.6 feet for commercial trucks.
A maximum height of 14 feet for automobile transporter semi-trailers, including the load.
A total length limit of 75 feet for trucks towing two trailers. Length restrictions apply only to trailers, not truck tractors or tractor-trailer combinations.
Maximum width of 8.6 feet on roads with 12-foot or wider traffic lanes. Some roads may have an 8-foot