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Florida CDL Requirements
Florida law requires all CDL drivers to have a valid DOT medical card, unless the type of commerce you drive qualifies as ‘Excepted’.
- Non-Excepted Interstate (Category A)
You must meet the Federal DOT medical certificate requirements. - Non-Excepted Intrastate (Category C)
You must meet state of Florida medical certification requirements.
CDL holders can no longer claim exemption from medical certification requirements because they are not currently operating in non-excepted interstate or intrastate commerce.
If not specifically included in ‘Excepted’ categories, you must maintain your medical certification or downgrade to a non-commercial license. If you self-certify in a category exempt from medical certification requirements (Category B or D) and later change to a non-exempt type of operation (Category A or C), you must recertify in the appropriate category and provide proof of valid medical certification to avoid potential enforcement actions.
If you downgrade to a non-commercial license and later need to upgrade back to a commercial license, you may do so without additional testing.
CDL Self-Certification
Florida’s CDL Self-Certification System allows Commercial Driver License holders to meet the new federal requirements for self-certification without needing to go to a driver license office.
Online:
Go to FLORIDA Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Website
You may use the online process only if you have a valid Florida Commercial Driver License.
In Person:
At any Florida Driver License Issuance Office.
Medical Certificate Update
Drivers certifying in non-excepted interstate or intrastate commerce (Category A or C) must ensure their medical documentation is on file with the state issuing agency and that it remains current. Failure to maintain current medical documentation on file may result in CDL disqualification.
Online:
Go to FLORIDA Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Website
You may use the online process only if you have a valid Florida Commercial Driver License.
Other Contact Information:
Website: Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Medical Certification Requirements FAQ
Special Information Updates Pertaining To ALL STATES
June 23, 2025: FMCSA electronic reporting requirements for DOT Medical Certificates will be fully enforced.
See detailed information at FMCSA Medical Examiner Certificate Reporting Requirements for CDL Drivers
CDL Drivers
The good news:
• You no longer have to go through the hassles of updating your medical card with your SDLA.
• You no longer have to carry your medical card with you.
Is there ‘not so good’ news?
Safeguard your CDL! How does the new DOT Medical Certificate reporting process affect your CDL?
Non-CDL Drivers
The electronic reporting requirements do not affect non-CDL drivers.
• The medical examiner must give you a physical MEC Form MCSA-5876.
• You should keep your medical certificate available at all times whilst driving a CMV.
• You will still need to provide a copy of the MEC to the companies you work for.
Your Feedback Is Welcome
Dealing with Federal DOT Regulations across the board is tough enough!
But when it comes to State Regulations — There are 50 different sets of rules. Someone could move the goal posts at any time…
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I’m going on vacation the date my med card expires would that be a problem. If I got to the doctor 3 days later after expired . How long do I have to register with them after expired .
@ Jose
Most states are running a few days behind on getting information into their data base. Get your medical examination done ASAP and get a copy to your local drivers license department on the same day. You should be OK, or get it done before you go and be on the safe side.
i was a texas cdl holder since 1976m came to florida, and the time came to renew in texas, it was past my birthday, now im fl resident, what is needed to renew my status, i have my medical certificate. problem is my air brake truck is in tx, i need to go get it.??
@ marc r
Are you renewing in TX. or have you shifted to a Fla. license? If TX., then get a copy of your medical certificate to TX DLD. If Fla. then check with your local DLD for guidance.
What is the difference between a federal DOT physical and the State of Florida DOT physical
@ Gordo
Federal standards are more strict and are for class A cdl holders traveling interstate, long haul (OTR). State standards are less strict for lesser class cdl holders. Best to confirm with your local DLD.
In Florida, how long before my CDL medical certificate expires can I renew the medical certificate (not the license). Thank you.
@ Elise
Anytime that works for you, no limitations.
My med card expired on the 16th and I got a new one on the 18th. Is there a grace period? Am I able to update my med card or am I going to lose my class A ?
@ Richard R
Nearly all states are running behind, at least a few days. So it is not a given grace period, just a running behind period. You should be fine, just get your copy to your local authorities ASAP.
can a motor carrier require their non CDL driver to obtain a physical card if the motor carrier only has intrastate authority?
@ Mike M
Most states require a medical card for any (even non cdl) driver who is operating any type of commercial (making money) vehicle. Best to confirm with your local DLD.
Thanks! I know FL doesn’t require basically any regs for intra state 26,000 and under.
I had rotator cuff surgery and my medical certification for my cdl expires before I am able to return to driving. Can I still get a physical and renew my medical certification in Florida? Thank you.
@ Belinda M
For a class A cdl, you will need to be fully released before you would qualify for the DOT/FMCSA medical certification examination. Lesser class cdl is under the states regulations. Best to be fully released before going for medical exam. Florida has a short grace period, like so many others, before they would require more than a new medical card.
i’m a florida resident with a florida license with a massachusetts business,can i get a medical exam in massachusetts?
@ Ken W
Yes, medical cards are good nationwide.