Florida Tightens Commercial Driver Tests, Making Some Conduct a Criminal Offense

Florida has tightened the rules for obtaining commercial driver’s licenses, introducing criminal penalties for unauthorized help during parts of the examination.

The reform, known as CS/CS/CS/SB 290, aims to prevent fraud in written and road tests for people seeking permission to operate trucks and buses. The state says stricter checks will help ensure that commercial drivers meet the required standards and improve road safety.

Governor Ron DeSantis approved the measure, which took effect on July 1, 2026. It applies to the issuance of commercial driving credentials in every Florida county. The House of Representatives approved the initiative by 94 votes, while the state Senate passed it unanimously, with 38 votes in favor.

Under the law, an applicant who receives unauthorized assistance during the relevant parts of the CDL test commits a second-degree misdemeanor. The person who provides answers or otherwise helps facilitate the fraud can receive the same classification, with possible prison and financial penalties under state criminal law.

The legislation also gives the state forestry agency authority to pay initial examination fees and renewal charges for qualified Florida Forest Service employees whose jobs require them to operate equipment covered by a commercial license.