Florida is one of the best states to earn your Commercial Driver License. The state has no income tax, year-round driving weather, a massive logistics and distribution network anchored by Port Miami, Port Everglades, and the Port of Tampa, and some of the busiest highway corridors in the Southeast. CDL truck drivers in Florida earn $55,000-$95,000/yr depending on specialty and company. Here is everything you need to know about CDL training in Florida.
Top CDL Training Schools in Florida
- Roadmaster Drivers School (multiple FL locations): Large national CDL school with Florida campuses in Tampa, Jacksonville, and Orlando. 4-week Class A CDL program.
- Atlantic Technical College (Coconut Creek): Public technical college offering CDL training as part of workforce development.
- Florida CDL Training Schools (various): Many private CDL schools operate across South, Central, and North Florida.
- Carrier-sponsored training: Werner Enterprises, Swift Transportation, and CR England have tuition-sponsored CDL programs with Florida operations. Pay tuition through driving agreement.
- Keiser University: Offers truck driving training at select Florida campuses.
CDL Training Cost in Florida
- Private CDL school (Class A): $4,000-$8,500
- Carrier-sponsored program: $0 upfront; repaid through 1-year driving agreement
- Community college CDL programs: $2,500-$4,500
- WIOA-funded CDL training: Free or reduced cost for eligible Florida workers
Florida CDL Driver Salary
- OTR long-haul driver (Florida-based): $55,000-$80,000/yr
- Regional driver (Southeast circuits): $58,000-$82,000/yr
- Local/delivery driver (Miami, Tampa, Orlando): $52,000-$72,000/yr
- Hazmat driver (Class A with H endorsement): $65,000-$95,000/yr
- Port drayage driver (Port Miami, Port Everglades): $65,000-$95,000/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does CDL training take in Florida?
Most private CDL schools in Florida offer 3-5 week intensive Class A CDL programs. Community college programs may take 6-10 weeks. Carrier-sponsored programs vary but typically include several weeks of formal training followed by time with a trainer on the road.
Can I get free CDL training in Florida?
Yes. WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) funding through Florida CareerSource centers can cover CDL training for eligible workers. Carrier-sponsored programs from Werner, Swift, and CR England eliminate upfront costs in exchange for a 1-year driving commitment. Check with your local CareerSource Florida office for WIOA eligibility.
What is port drayage in Florida?
Port drayage involves hauling shipping containers short distances between ports and nearby warehouses or rail yards. Port Miami, Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale), and Port Tampa are three of the busiest ports on the East Coast. Port drayage drivers earn $65,000-$95,000/yr because the work is specialized, demanding, and in high demand.
What CDL endorsements are most valuable in Florida?
Hazmat (H), Tanker (N), and Combination (X = H+N) are the most valuable endorsements in Florida given the state's chemical, petroleum, and port logistics industries. School bus (S) and passenger (P) endorsements are in demand in South Florida.
Is there a truck driver shortage in Florida?
Yes. Florida is one of the states with the most acute CDL driver shortages nationally. Population growth, e-commerce demand, and port traffic all contribute to demand. Florida CDL drivers are being recruited aggressively by national carriers with signing bonuses of $5,000-$15,000.
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