Have you ever been nervous driving around large commercial trucks on Tampa interstates? If so, you’re not alone — and your concerns are valid. In many truck accidents, it’s the occupants of passenger vehicles who suffer the most severe injuries or even death.
To help reduce these risks and promote safer roads, Florida, including Tampa, requires commercial truck drivers to hold specific types of Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs), depending on the type and size of vehicle they operate.
These licenses aim to ensure drivers are properly trained and qualified to handle large vehicles that can cause significant damage in a collision.
What Are the Types of Commercial Driver’s Licenses in Tampa?
There are three types of commercial driver's licenses in Florida. However, you are not required to obtain all three types of CDLs. You may apply for the type required for the truck you wish to operate.
All truck drivers must pass specific requirements regardless of the type of CDL they desire. The general requirements for a CDL in Tampa include:
- Must have a valid Operator's License
- Pass vision tests
- Pass the skills and knowledge tests
- Must be at least 18 years old (drivers under 21 are restricted to operating only within Florida)
- Proof of residency in Florida
In addition to the above general requirements, drivers must also meet the requirements for the specific Class of commercial driver’s license:
Class A CDLs
A Class A CDL permits a driver to operate a motor vehicle that weighs over 26,001 pounds, towing a trailer or unit weighing more than 10,000 pounds. You are required to pass the following tests for a Class A CDL:
- General knowledge test
- Combination vehicles examination
- Air brake examination, if applicable
- Pre-trip inspection examination
- On-road test
- Basic vehicle control exam
Depending on the materials you haul or the vehicle you drive, you might be required to obtain one or more endorsements. Endorsements may have specific exams and other requirements you must pass to obtain the endorsement.
Class B CDLs
Class B CDLs are like Class A's. Drivers must pass the same knowledge and skills test that a Class A driver must pass. However, a Class B CDL permits the driver to operate a bus or straight truck weighing more than 26,001 pounds.
Class C CDLs
Class C CDLs do not permit drivers to operate the largest trucks. Instead, they can operate a bus or truck that weighs less than 26,001 pounds. The vehicle may carry hazardous waste or 16 or more people, including the driver.
A Class C driver must pass the same skills and knowledge tests required for a Class A or B CDL.
CDL Endorsements in Tampa
The FMCSA has several endorsements that define the number of people a vehicle may transport, the types of materials it may transport, or the configuration of the commercial vehicle.
Commercial truck endorsements include:
- S – School Bus: Required to operate a school bus in Florida.
- P – Passengers: Required to transport 15 or more people on a bus.
- H – Hazmat Placarded: Required to transport certain hazardous or dangerous materials.
- N – Tank Vehicles: Required to operate a tank vehicle transporting liquid gases and other liquids.
- X – Combination H & N Endorsement: Required to transport hazardous materials in a tank truck.
- T – Double/Triple Trailers: Required to operate a commercial truck towing two or three trailers. Florida does not permit triple trailers.
Transporting dangerous materials or operating specific configurations of vehicles requires additional training. Requiring drivers to obtain endorsements ensures they receive the additional training necessary to understand the rules and safety measures that protect others on the road.
What Should I Do After a Truck Accident in Tampa, FL?
Traffic accidents involving commercial trucks can be devastating. Roads may be blocked for hours as law enforcement, emergency medical services, and other first responders investigate the scene and assist victims.
In many accidents, multiple vehicles are involved, making it more challenging to determine fault. There are many reasons for truck accidents, and knowing how to respond is critical.
If a commercial truck causes your accident:
- Call 911 immediately and inform the operator that a commercial truck is involved.
- Mention if multiple vehicles are involved in the accident.
- Document the accident scene by taking photos and videos, but only if it is safe and won’t worsen your injuries.
- Ask eyewitnesses for their names and contact information.
- Write down the names and titles of everyone who talks to you about the accident.
- Seek medical attention promptly, especially if you have a head injury or feel unable to concentrate.
- Avoid answering questions until after you have received medical care.
Truck crashes have a high risk of causing traumatic injuries. Always prioritize your safety and health before taking any other steps at the scene.
Get Help With a Truck Accident Claim in Tampa, FL
As soon as possible, contact a Tampa truck accident lawyer for a free consultation. Truck accident cases are among the most complicated types of personal injury cases. Teams of legal professionals work to protect the insurance company, the truck driver, and the trucking company from fault.
This means you need a team on your side to even the playing field. For experienced help, reach out to Apex Law Firm, PLLC today.
We proudly serve Hillsborough County, Pinellas County, Pasco County, Polk County, and its surrounding areas in Florida:
Apex Law Firm - Tampa Office
412 E Madison St Suite 1206, Tampa, FL 33602
(813) 444-5212
