CDL Renewal & Expired License

How to renew your Florida CDL, what happens if it expires over 1 year, retesting rules, and how to avoid losing endorsements.

CDL Renewal & Expired License in Florida

Keeping your CDL current is simpler than getting it the first time—unless you wait too long. Here’s how renewal works, and what happens if your license expires.

Standard CDL Renewal

Florida CDLs are typically renewed every 8 years (expiration date is on the license). The process:

• 1. Check your expiration date – renewal notices are mailed, but you’re responsible.

• 2. Medical certification – If you have a current DOT medical card, ensure it’s on file with the DMV. You may need to submit a new one.

• 3. Visit a driver license office – Bring your current CDL, proof of residency, and medical certificate (if applicable).

• 4. Pay the renewal fee – Approx. $75 (may vary with endorsements).

• 5. Vision test – Typically required at renewal.

Note: No written or skills tests are required for a regular renewal.

What If My CDL Has Expired?

• Expired less than 1 year: You can still renew without retesting. Some late fees may apply.

• Expired 1 year or more: Florida law requires you to retake all CDL knowledge and skills tests—just like a brand‑new applicant. You’ll effectively start over as an “Original” CDL applicant.

Important: If you let your CDL expire for a year, you lose all endorsements and must retest for those as well, including any necessary TSA background checks for hazmat..

How to Avoid Losing Your CDL

• Keep your medical card current – if your DOT medical certificate expires and you don’t submit a new one, your CDL will be downgraded to a regular driver license. To get it back, you may need to retest.

• Update your address promptly – missing a renewal notice is a common cause of accidental expiration.

• Mark your calendar – set a reminder 3 months before expiration date.

Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) Renewal

A CLP is valid for only 1 year and cannot be renewed in most cases. You may be able to apply for a new CLP, but you’ll need to retake the knowledge tests if it expires. Avoid the headache—schedule your skills test well before your CLP runs out.

Lost or Stolen CDL

Report it immediately (file a police report) and apply for a replacement at a driver license office. There’s a fee (around $25) and in many cases its waved if you bring your police report. If you need a duplicate, you probably won’t need retesting unless your CDL license has expired.

[Keep your CDL active—check medical requirements →](#)