Table of Contents

2. The Florida Driver License

• 2.1. Definitions
• 2.2. Who Needs a Florida License?
• 2.3. Who Does Not Need a Florida License?
• 2.4. Florida Classified Driver Licenses
• 2.5. Identification Requirements
• 2.6. Parent's Consent for Minors
• 2.7. Traffic Law Substance Abuse Education
• 2.8. Testing
• 2.9. Physical and Mental Requirements
• 2.10. Restriction and Endorsement Codes on Florida Licenses
• 2.11. Selective Service
• 2.12. Sexual Offenders and Sexual Predators
• 2.13. Career Offender
• 2.14. Voluntary Contributions

The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles issues the following classes of licenses: Class A, B, C, and E. Class E is for drivers of non-commercial vehicles. This handbook contains information needed to obtain a Class E License.

Classes A, B, and C are for drivers of commercial motor vehicles such as large trucks and buses.

You must have a CDL to operate:

• Any single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more.
• A combination vehicle with a gross combination weight rating of 26,001 or more pounds, if the trailer(s) has a GVWR of 10,001 or more pounds.
• A vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver).
• Any size vehicle which requires hazardous material placards or is carrying material listed as a select agent or toxin in 42 CFR part 73. Federal regulations through the Department of Homeland Security require a background check and fingerprinting for the Hazardous Materials endorsement.

There is a separate manual entitled Commercial Driver License Manual for truck and bus drivers. This manual is available at any Motorist Services or Tax Collector licensing agent office that offers driver license services or on DHSMV's web page at www.flhsmv.gov. If you wish to drive a motor vehicle you must be properly tested and licensed.

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