Entry-Level Driver Training Requirements for CDL Applicants

The new Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) regulations require that all entry-level drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) receive training from a provider listed on FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry.

To be eligible to take required skills or knowledge tests, commercial driver’s license (CDL) applicants must have completed applicable entry-level driver training from a registered training provider.

Training must be completed before taking a CDL skills test or, the hazardous materials knowledge test (H) unless a hazardous materials endorsement (H) was obtained on a CDL prior to February 7. 2022.

Click here to find a provider on the FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry.

Document Requirements for CLP and CDL

All Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) or Commercial Driver License (CDL) applicants must present two proofs of Florida residential address in their name. Applicants must present one proof from List A and one proof from List B or two proofs from List A.

LIST A for CLP / CDL – item presented must be in the applicant’s name.

1. A recent lease or rental agreement for the residence with a term of 6 months or greater (must be dated within the last six months)
2. Current Florida voter registration card
3. Florida vehicle registration or title
4. Florida vessel registration or title
5. Current homeowner’s insurance policy or bill
6.  Current electricity or water bill (must be dated within the last 60 days)
7. Recent cellular or landline telephone bill (must be dated within the last 60 days)
8. Recent internet service provider bill
9. Latest property tax bill

LIST B for CLP / CDL – item presented must be in the applicant’s name.

1. Latest W-2 form or 1099 form (must be dated within the last six months)
2. Recent bank statement (must be dated within the last 60 days)
3. Recent credit card statement (must be dated within the last 60 days)
4. Latest military orders
5. Recent pay stub (must be dated within the last 60 days)
6. Recent official government documents

CLP or CDL applicants unable to provide a proof of residential address from list A, must provide a Declaration of Domicile filed with the Clerk of the Circuit Court AND one proof of residential address document from list B.

Important Notes:

• CLP & CDL applicants cannot use a Certification of Address (HSMV-71120) for licensure.
• CLP & CDL applicants upgrading from a Class E or ID card must resubmit acceptable proof of residential address.

In the State of Florida, anyone applying for a Commercial Driver License (CDL) is required to have an operators license and pass a knowledge and skills test and meet the vision requirements.

Commercial Driver License Type and Requirements:

• Class A license is required to operate a vehicle with a combined GVWR of 26,001 lbs or more, and towing a vehicle/unit over 10,000 lbs.
• Class B license is required to operate a single vehicle and/or  bus with a GVWR of 26,001 lbs or more. May also tow a vehicle of 10,000 lbs. or less.
• Class C license is required to operate vehicles transporting placarded amounts of hazardous materials, or vehicles designed to transport more than 16 persons including the driver with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of less than 26,001 lbs.

Many driver license and identification card transactions can be processed online through FLHSMV’s MyDMV Portal. Proof of citizenship or legal presence may be required for renewal, duplicate or replacement licenses. Please come prepared to present an identification document as proof of citizenship or legal presence.

Drivers operating a vehicle with a weight of 26,001 lbs. or more are required to have a Class A or B commercial driver license. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age. If they are under 21, they will be restricted to intrastate operation only. Knowledge exams may be taken in English or Spanish except for CDL skills test or Hazmat exams.  Be sure to study the Florida Commercial Driver License handbook. The handbook is also available in Spanish.