Renewing Your CDL in Florida

After the lengthy process of obtaining an initial Florida CDL, renewing is actually quite simple in comparison. You must apply in person at your local driver license office, and bring in your expired or close-to-expiring license. Unfortunately, CDLs may not be renewed online or by phone or mail.

You'll be required to take the vision test again, and should pass with at least a 20/40 in each eye, with or without corrective lenses, to be eligible to renew. A medical exam may also be required again.

You may also need to provide two proofs of identity, proof of your residential address, and your Social Security number again. Call ahead to be sure.

Hazardous Materials Endorsement

If you have a CDL with an H or X endorsement, you'll also need to take and pass the hazardous materials knowledge test. This is a requirement each time you renew.

Finally, you'll need to undergo another background check, just like you did when you first applied. Begin at least 30 days before your license's expiration date to allow for test processing time. All licenses with HAZMAT endorsements are valid for four years, and you can renew the license up to one year before it expires.

Renewal Fees

CDL renewal costs $75, plus $7 for each added endorsement. If you're renewing a HAZMAT endorsement, a fee of $89.25 for the background check to the TSA will also be required.

New Federal Requirements

You must self-certify your type of vehicle operation with the Florida DMV by January 2014. This means you must self-certify one of the following driving categories:

• Non-Excepted Interstate
• Excepted Interstate
• Non-Excepted Intrastate
• Excepted Intrastate

If you choose Non-Excepted Interstate, you must provide the DMV with a federal medical certificate.

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