Florida Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) / Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Steps and Instructions

If you are reading this, you are likely looking for information on how to obtain your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) or Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in the State of Florida. To help you get started, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most common questions prospective commercial drivers ask when researching Florida CDL requirements.

Obtaining a Florida Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) / Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) in the State of Florida (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. How Old Must I Be to Obtain a CDL or CLP in the State of Florida?
   • You must be at least 18 years old to operate a commercial motor vehicle within the State of Florida (intrastate). Drivers who plan to operate commercial vehicles across state lines (interstate) must be at least 21 years of age.
2. Do I Need to Hold a Valid Passenger Driver’s License?
   • You must hold a valid Florida Class E (non-commercial) driver’s license before applying for a CLP or CDL.
     • Your license must be valid and in good standing (not suspended, revoked, or canceled) for the entire time you hold a commercial permit.
3. What Should I Study in Order to Obtain a Florida Commercial Learner’s Permit?
   • We recommend studying the official CDL Manual published by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
     • The manual can be found here: CDL Manual – Use for CLP Studying
4. What Sections Are Important to Pay Attention to When Studying for a FL CLP or CDL?
   • When preparing for Florida’s CDL knowledge exams, focus closely on the following sections:
     • Introduction
     • Driving Safely
     • Transporting Cargo Safely
     • Air Brakes
     • Combination Vehicles
5. Are Practice Tests Available?
   • Yes. Practice tests can help reinforce what you’ve studied and prepare you for the written exams:
     • FL CDL Practice Test – General Knowledge
     • FL CDL Practice Test – Combination Vehicle
     • FL CDL Practice Test – Air Brakes
6. Is There an Application I Need to Complete?
   • Yes. You must complete Florida’s Commercial Learner’s Permit application through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV).
     • You will be required to verify your identity
     • Provide proof of identity, legal presence, Florida residency, and your Social Security number
7. Does Florida Have Medical Standards for CDL Drivers?
   • Yes. All CDL applicants must meet federal and Florida medical certification requirements and provide a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate.
     • Medical standards are governed by the FMCSA and enforced by the State of Florida

If you need help while researching your CDL options, you can call our Get Your CDL teammates at 715-591-7050 extension 8, then option 2 or get started today.

Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles

Thinking about a fresh start? Do you feel drawn to life on the road? Many people consider truck driving but hesitate because of the cost of CDL school. That concern is understandable—but it shouldn’t hold you back. The trucking industry is evolving, and with a nationwide driver shortage, earning your Commercial Driver’s License has never been a more practical career move.

Here’s the difference: with Roehl's Get Your CDL Program, you don’t pay to attend CDL school. Instead, you’re paid while you learn. Roehl offers a paid CDL training program that allows you to earn income as you work toward your license—no upfront tuition required.

Why Truck Driving Is a Career Worth Considering

Compensation is one of the biggest reasons people choose truck driving. Roehl drivers are positioned to earn $70,000 or more. That’s competitive with—and often higher than—many careers that require years of schooling and significant student debt. Beyond pay, Roehl’s paid training approach offers advantages that traditional CDL schools simply don’t:

• Your CDL training is built directly into your job.
• You are hired as a Roehl employee from day one.
• You earn a paycheck while working toward your CDL.
• The paid CDL training program lasts three weeks and is offered at multiple locations.
• Lodging and most meals are provided during training.
• After licensing, you continue gaining experience through paid over-the-road training.
• Unlike CDL schools, you are not unpaid during training or responsible for tuition costs.
• Roehl is a financially stable carrier offering full benefits and long-term career investment.

This is an ideal time to move away from the traditional CDL school model and into hands-on, real-world training. As more experienced drivers retire, demand for new professional drivers will continue to rise. Getting started now allows you to earn income immediately while developing valuable skills that can support you for years to come.

Roehl supports you beyond training. Once you complete the program, you transition directly into full-time employment with benefits. There’s no need to search for a driving job after earning your CDL—you’re already employed and ready to begin your career as a long-haul driver.

What Does Roehl Ask in Return?

Paid CDL training represents a significant investment, and Roehl does have expectations. Drivers are required to commit to driving at least 120,000 solo paid miles, which typically equates to about 15 months of long-haul driving.

If this sounds like the opportunity you’ve been looking for, explore what’s possible and start earning while learning with Roehl. This program is more than CDL training—it’s a direct path to a new career and a stronger financial future.

Apply Now