How to Become a Truck Driver in Florida

Are you interested in becoming a truck driver in Florida? If you’ve never worked in the trucking industry before, you might be scratching your head wondering where to start.

In this post, we give you the 101 on what you need to take on truck driving jobs in Florida and embark on a lucrative career in logistics.

Do you qualify for a CDL?

The first thing you’ll want to look at is CDL qualifications in Florida. This will enable you to apply for your commercial driver’s license.

Here are the main qualifications:

• You must be 18-years-old to apply. Drivers under the age of 21 can only drive intrastate.
• You must have an Operators License.
• You must pass a vision test.

Do You Have a Conditional Learner’s Permit?

Before applying for your CDL, you’ll have to practice driving on public roads with a qualified CDL holder in the passenger’s seat. To do that, you need to obtain a Conditional Learner’s Permit (CLP).

This consists of passing a vision and medical test. You must have an Operator’s License and will be required to pass knowledge exams. Officials will also review your driving record for the past 10 years.

When Can I get My CDL after Completing My CLP Requirements?

After satisfying the requirements for your CLP and finishing a 14-day waiting period, you may proceed on to the CDL driving tests. 

This consists of:

• A road test
• Testing basic controls
• Vehicle inspection

Applying for Class A, Class B, and Class C

There are three different classes that distinguish the capacity you are allowed to haul. To qualify, you will have to undergo extra testing.

Class A

This license allows truck drivers to operate long-haul vehicles or truck combinations that weigh over 26,001 lbs, and also tow a vehicle over 10,000 lbs.

Class B

This is for operating trucks and buses that weigh more than 26,001 lbs. 

Class C

This covers the transportation of hazardous materials, vehicles that are used for transporting more than 15 people with a driver that has a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of 26,001 lbs or less.

For more information about obtaining your CDL license in Florida, check out the FLHSMV website.