Victor Waite | July 11, 2025 | Truck Accidents Near Delray Beach, FL
If you’re considering a job that involves driving large vehicles in Florida, you’ll need to understand the types of commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) available. Each CDL class allows drivers to operate specific types of vehicles and is regulated under both federal and Florida law. In Delray Beach, commercial drivers must meet state requirements to stay compliant and legally operate on public roads.
Knowing the different types of commercial driver’s licenses in Delray Beach, FL can help you choose the right path if you’re entering the trucking, delivery, or passenger transport industry.
What Is a Commercial Driver’s License?
A commercial driver’s license is required to operate heavy or specialized vehicles, such as semi-trucks, buses, and certain types of trailers. The state of Florida follows federal CDL guidelines set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). To get a CDL, drivers must pass knowledge and skills tests and meet medical and background standards. Proper training and licensing are also critical for public safety, as unqualified drivers can contribute to serious truck accidents on Florida roads.
There are three main classes of CDLs in Florida: Class A, Class B, and Class C. To learn more, visit the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles CDL page or check out FMCSA regulations.
Class A CDL
A Class A CDL is the most versatile license. It allows drivers to operate any combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, as long as the vehicle being towed weighs more than 10,000 pounds.
Drivers with a Class A CDL can operate:
- Tractor-trailers (18-wheelers)
- Tanker trucks
- Flatbeds
- Livestock carriers
This license also allows you to operate Class B and C vehicles, depending on the endorsements you add.
Class B CDL
A Class B CDL is for drivers of single vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, or vehicles towing a trailer that weighs less than 10,000 pounds.
Common vehicles for Class B drivers include:
- Straight trucks
- Large buses (school buses, city buses, tourist coaches)
- Dump trucks with small trailers
- Box trucks and delivery vehicles
This license does not cover the operation of combination vehicles like tractor-trailers.
Class C CDL
A Class C CDL is for operating vehicles designed to carry 16 or more passengers, including the driver, or vehicles used to transport hazardous materials that require placards.
Examples of vehicles that require a Class C CDL include:
- Small passenger vans
- Hazmat vehicles
- Certain school or shuttle buses that are not covered by Class B
Drivers must obtain additional endorsements to carry passengers or hazardous materials legally.
CDL Endorsements and Restrictions
Depending on the type of vehicle or cargo, commercial drivers may need special endorsements added to their CDL, which require additional testing.
Common endorsements include:
- H: Hazardous materials
- N: Tank vehicles
- P: Passenger transport
- S: School bus
- T: Double/triple trailers
Florida also issues license restrictions if drivers test in automatic vehicles or fail to meet certain vision or medical standards.
How To Get a CDL in Delray Beach
To get a commercial driver’s license in Delray Beach, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old for intrastate driving (21 for interstate)
- Have a valid Florida driver’s license
- Pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical exam
- Apply for and hold a commercial learner’s permit (CLP)
- Pass a knowledge test and a road skills test
- Pay the required fees
Training from a certified CDL school is strongly recommended and may be required for certain endorsements.
Contact the Delray Beach Truck Accident Lawyers at The Injury Law Firm, PA for Help Today
There are several types of commercial driver’s licenses in Delray Beach, FL, each tailored to the kind of vehicle and cargo you plan to handle. Whether you’re driving passengers, hauling freight, or transporting hazardous materials, you’ll need the right CDL and endorsements to do it legally and safely.
If you’ve been injured by someone else’s negligence, we’re here to help. Contact our Delray Beach truck accident lawyers at The Injury Law Firm, PA for a free consultation today.
The Injury Law Firm, PA.
301 W. Atlantic Ave, Suite O-1
Delray Beach, FL 33444
(561) 800-4357
