Thinking of getting your CDL in Florida? Let’s break it down! 🚛
Getting your CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) opens a lot of doors — but did you know there are different types depending on what you want to drive? 🛻🚚🚛
Here’s a simple guide to help you understand the basics (without the headache)!
🚦The Three Types of CDL Licenses in Florida
- CDL Class A
- CDL Class B
- CDL Class C
Each one comes with its own rules, requirements, and best uses. Let’s dive in:
1️⃣ CDL Class A License
What it covers:
Big rigs, 18-wheelers, tractor-trailers, flatbeds, tankers — basically anything really heavy.
You can drive any combination of vehicles with a gross combined weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, as long as the vehicle being towed is over 10,000 pounds.
FMCSA CDL Classes Info
Requirements:
- Must be 18+ for intrastate (Florida only), 21+ for interstate.
- Pass a knowledge exam and a skills/road test.
- DOT Medical Card. FMCSA Medical Requirements
Pros:
✅ Most job opportunities
✅ Higher earning potential
✅ Flexibility to haul different types of loads
Cons:
❌ Longer training time
❌ Tougher road tests
❌ Higher responsibility = higher stress sometimes
👉 Good for: Owner-operators, long-haul drivers, people who want the most flexibility!
2️⃣ CDL Class B License
What it covers:
Straight trucks, box trucks, city buses, school buses, dump trucks — vehicles that weigh 26,001 pounds or more, but without towing trailers over 10,000 pounds.
FMCSA CDL Classes Info
Requirements:
- 18+ for Florida only, 21+ for interstate.
- Knowledge exam and skills test.
- DOT Medical Card.
Pros:
✅ Faster and cheaper to get than Class A
✅ Great for local driving jobs
✅ Home every night with most jobs
Cons:
❌ Limited to certain types of jobs
❌ Lower pay compared to Class A
👉 Good for: People who want a stable local job without being gone for days or weeks.
3️⃣ CDL Class C License
What it covers:
Smaller commercial vehicles like passenger vans, small hazmat trucks.
Designed for vehicles under 26,001 pounds, but carrying 16+ passengers OR transporting hazardous materials.
FMCSA CDL Classes Info
Requirements:
- 18+ intrastate, 21+ interstate.
- Special endorsements needed (HazMat, Passenger). FMCSA Endorsements Info
- Knowledge and road tests specific to vehicle type.
Pros:
✅ Easier and quicker to get
✅ Great for shuttle services, local hazmat deliveries
Cons:
❌ Very limited compared to A and B
❌ Lower pay and fewer job openings
👉 Good for: Drivers who want a specific local driving job like school bus driving or hazmat materials.
🛠️ A Few Tips Before You Start
- ✅ Always check if you need endorsements (like HazMat, Tanker, Passenger).
- ✅ Get a DOT medical exam early — it’s required no matter which CDL you get!
- ✅ Think about your lifestyle: On the road for weeks (Class A) or home daily (Class B or C)?
🛑 Important Reminder:
No matter which CDL you go for, you need serious training. Choosing a good school and getting practice is key. Florida does NOT play around when it comes to truck safety!
Learn more here: FMCSA Training Provider Registry
🌟 Final Thoughts
Whether you’re dreaming of hauling coast-to-coast or running a strong local route, there’s a CDL that fits your goals.
At SD SOLU LLC, we’re all about helping drivers stay legal, organized, and ready for success.
If you’re getting started — or need help with IRP, IFTA, or road taxes once you're rolling — we’re just an email away at [email protected]!
📲 Stay ready, stay rolling.
