Do You Need a CDL to Drive a Tow Truck Florida?

Towing services are essential in Florida. People who are moving, are in need of roadside assistance, or need to transport large items turn to tow truck drivers every day.

But do you need a CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) to drive a tow truck in the state of Florida? To answer this question, we must look at the state regulations and industry standards.

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles requires that all drivers with a commercial vehicle over 26,001 pounds must have a CDL license. This is whether or not the vehicle is being used for commercial purposes.

This also applies to any vehicle that is transporting hazardous materials. The good news is that most tow trucks do not even come close to this weight requirement.

It is important to note that there are exceptions to the rule. For example, if the driver is operating a tow truck for hire, they may be required to have a CDL depending on the size of their vehicle and other factors. Additionally, if you are operating any type of large vehicle such as an RV or trailer, you may be required to obtain a CDL even if your tow truck does not exceed 26,001 pounds.

Conclusion

In conclusion, most drivers in Florida do not need a CDL to operate a tow truck as long as their vehicle does not exceed 26,001 pounds and they are not operating it for hire purposes. However, there are exceptions so it is always best practice for individuals who plan on driving larger vehicles such as RVs or trailers to check with their local DMV before getting behind the wheel.

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Stephen Dunn