Operation Laws

Florida law requires that commercial vehicles be operated by drivers with valid commercial driver's licenses. A commercial driver's license is different from a standard Florida vehicle license. There are three classes of commercial vehicle operation in Florida, each requiring a different commercial license.

The first type is Class A. This classification of vehicle includes any tractor and trailer combination that has a weight of 26,001 lbs. or more. The second vehicle type is Class B. Commercial vehicles in this class also weigh 26,001 lbs. or more, but are single vehicles as opposed to tractor-trailer combinations. The final Florida commercial vehicle type is Class C. These vehicles have a weight that is less than 26,001 lbs. but transport passengers or hazardous cargo.

Commercial drivers in Florida must pass written and practical exams to operate each class of vehicle. Operating a commercial vehicle without holding the appropriate class of license is a serious offense.

Size Regulations

Florida regulations limit the size of vehicles allowed to operate in the state. The maximum width of a commercial vehicle in Florida is 102 inches, or 8.5 feet. Several types of vehicles, such as emergency response equipment and farm implements, are exempt from this width regulation. The state issues special extended width permits for these unique vehicles on a case-by-case basis.

The length of commercial vehicles is also regulated in Florida. The limit for standard semi-trucks is 576 inches, or 48 feet. This regulation is expanded to 600 inches or 50 feet for commercial buses and automobile carriers. The maximum height of any commercial vehicle in Florida is set at 162 inches, the equivalent of 13.5 feet.

Registration Regulations

Florida requires commercial vehicles to be registered with the Florida Department of Transportation (DOT). This department issues a DOT number for each commercial vehicle.

Once the DOT registration number is assigned, it must be attached on both sides of the vehicle and must be readable from 50 feet away. The penalty for failing to properly register a commercial vehicle in Florida is a $500 fine.

Inspection Laws

All commercial vehicles in Florida must be periodically inspected for safety. These inspections are conducted at roadside weigh stations. During each inspection, the qualifications of the driver and the safety equipment of the vehicle are checked. Equipment such as brakes, fire extinguishers and signals must be in proper working order.

Additional inspections occur at the business locations of commercial vehicle carriers. Vehicle operators are required to hold driving and maintenance records. If these records are not complete, or if a maintenance issue is found with a commercial vehicle, Florida may impose a fine of up to $2,750.