Types of Florida Commercial Driver’s Licenses
Many professional drivers in Florida are required to have a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to operate certain types of vehicles.
There are three types of CDLs in Florida. These are:
- Class A
- Class B
- Class C
Each class of commercial license is based on the type of vehicle being driven. The weight of the vehicle is also an important factor.
Class A CDL
A Class A CDL is needed to operate any combination of vehicles with a total weight of 26,001 pounds or more as long as the vehicle towed weighs over 10,000 pounds.
This type of license is required for those who operate the following vehicles:
- Tractor-trailers
- Flatbed trucks
- Tanker trucks
To obtain a Class A CDL, drivers must pass a written test and a skills test.
Class B CDL
These commercial licenses are necessary to operate single vehicles with a weight of 26,001 pounds or more. Class B CDLs are also needed to operate any vehicle that is towing a trailer with a weight of fewer than 10,000 pounds.
This type of license is mandatory for drivers controlling the following vehicles:
- Delivery trucks
- Dump trucks
- Garbage trucks
Those hoping to secure this type of commercial driver’s license in Florida must pass a skills exam and a written test.
Class C CDL
To operate vehicles made to hold 16 or more people, including the motorist, Class C CDLs are required. This class of commercial license is also needed to operate vehicles that are used to transport hazardous materials.
To operate the following commercial vehicles, drivers must hold a Class C CDL in Florida:
- Passenger buses
- School buses
- Vans
- Shuttles and limousines
Drivers of Class C vehicles are subject to the same medical requirements and regulations as drivers of Class A and Class B vehicles. They must also pass a written test and a skills test. Applicants must meet certain medical requirements and pass a background check.
Additional Endorsements To Operate Certain Vehicles
Beyond the three basic CDL classes, drivers may also need to secure additional endorsements to operate certain vehicles. Other certifications may be necessary to transport certain types of materials. Additional endorsements include:
Passenger Endorsement
This endorsement is required for drivers who transport 16 or more passengers. The number of passengers in vehicles in Florida includes the driver.
School Bus Endorsement
This endorsement is a requirement for those drivers who operate school buses. There are specific training programs for those who wish to operate school buses.
Hazardous Materials Endorsement
This endorsement is required for drivers who transport hazardous materials. A tanker endorsement is needed for drivers who transport liquids or gasses in bulk.
Doubles/Triples Endorsement
Driving a vehicle that carries two or three trailers at once also requires additional certification.
Obtaining a commercial driver’s license in Florida requires more than just passing a written test and a skills test. Applicants must also meet certain medical requirements and pass a background check.
Also, professional commercial drivers are subject to more stringent regulations than other drivers. These regulations include restrictions on driving hours and mandatory drug and alcohol testing.
The type of CDL drivers need depends on the weight of the vehicle and the type of vehicle being driven. Drivers may also need to obtain additional endorsements to transport certain materials or to operate certain vehicles.
Know What’s Required as a Commercial Driver in Florida
If you are considering a career as a commercial driver, it is important to understand the requirements and regulations associated with CDLs in Florida.
For questions regarding the CDL application or certification process, speaking with a Florida truck accident attorney is helpful. You should also speak with a professional if you have been involved in an accident with a commercial vehicle.
Contact the Jacksonville Truck Accident Law Firm of Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers Today For Help
For more information, please contact the Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra truck accident law firm of Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers at the nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.
We serve Duval County, St. Johns County, and its surrounding areas:
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Jacksonville
9471 Baymeadows Rd #105,
Jacksonville, FL 32256
(904) 396-1100
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Downtown Jacksonville
121 W. Forsyth St. #170
Jacksonville, FL 32202
(904) 822-4225
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Ponte Vedra
480 Town Plaza Ave #130,
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081
(904) 675-1167