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Florida Driver's License Types and Class E Guide

Wondering where to go to get a Florida drivers license? The job belongs to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, more commonly known as the FLHSMV.

If you're considering learning to drive, you should know that there's several different licensing options in Florida, each with its own set of rules.

Most new drivers begin with a learner's permit. It's a stepping stone to a full license. Practice with a licensed adult is required before moving up to the full license to drive a regular car.

For individuals who drive for a living, such as truck drivers, bus drivers and delivery workers, a different type of license is necessary. That certification is called a commercial driver's license, or CDL.

Class E Driver's License

What is a Class E ID?

The Class E driving license is the standard driver's license for people who drive personal vehicles. It allows you to drive a noncommercial vehicle that weighs less than 26,001 pounds. These include:

  • Automobiles
  • Trucks
  • Vans that carry up to 15 people (including the driver)
  • Recreational vehicles (RVs)
  • Mopeds, scooters and other two- to three-wheeled vehicles that are not motorcycles

The Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) course is required for first-time drivers 18 and older seeking a full license. You are exempt if you previously earned a license in another state or completed a Florida Department of Education driver's ed program.

Class E Learner's License

The Class E learner's license is commonly known as a learner's permit. Drivers with a learner's permit:

  • Can only operate a vehicle that weighs less than 8,000 pounds
  • Cannot operate a motorcycle
  • Must have a licensed driver in the passenger seat who is 21 or older
  • Can drive only in the daylight during the first three months of having the permit
  • Can drive at night until 10 p.m. after the first three months

The Driver Education Traffic Safety (DETS) course is required for teens ages 15 to 17 applying for a Florida learner's permit. You can complete the six-hour DETS course online to satisfy state training requirements.

Motorcycle Endorsement

If you have a Class E driver's license, you can get a motorcycle endorsement added to your license that allows you to operate a motorcycle.

To earn your motorcycle endorsement, you must meet the following requirements:

  • Learn the basics of operating a motorcycle by completing the BasicRider Course (BRC) or the BasicRider Course updated (BRCu) from an authorized course provider.
  • Within one year of completing the course, go to a driver's license branch with proper identification and pay the fee to get your motorcycle endorsement.

For a complete list of FLHSMV locations, visit the FLHSMV Locations page.

Motorcycle-Only Driver's License

If you do not wish to drive a car, it is possible to get a motorcycle-only endorsement on your driver's license.

The requirements are as follows:

  • You must pass the standard Class E Knowledge Test.
  • If you are under 18 but at least 16 years old, you must hold a learner's permit for one year with no traffic convictions.
  • You must complete a BRC or BRCu motorcycle safety course from an authorized course provider.
  • You must visit a driver's license branch with proper identification and pay the fee to get your motorcycle-only endorsement.

Commercial Driver's Licenses

You need a CDL to drive commercial vehicles such as semi-trucks and buses.

CDLs come in three categories. Read on to determine which is best for your situation.

Class A License

A Class A license lets you drive combination vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of up to 26,001 pounds. This includes a trailer that weighs more than 10,000 pounds.

If you're hauling a bit of extra weight but still under the heavy-duty limit, this license is for you. Think utility trailers, midsize equipment haulers or similar setups.

Class B License

Class B is for single, straight vehicles that weigh 26,001 pounds or more. The rule of thumb is that if the total weight tips the scale at 26,001 pounds or more, you're in Class B territory.

Class C License

A Class C license is for vehicles that move hazardous materials. It's also for vehicles under 26,001 pounds that carry more than 15 people. Ever thought about driving a small bus? This is the license for that.

Exemptions and Endorsements

The rules aren't always cut-and-dry. Some vehicles get a pass. An emergency truck, for instance, may only need a Class E license. However, other licenses require specific endorsements, such as a passenger or school bus add-on.

Not sure what you need? The FLHSMV keeps the full list of endorsements handy.

Driver's License Restrictions

Driver's licenses can come with restrictions. These are meant to keep both the driver and others safe on the road.

Thinking of ignoring the rules? Don't. The results could be a ticket, or worse — in some cases, your license may even be revoked.

Each restriction shows up as a code on your license. For example, Code A means you must wear glasses or contacts every time you drive. Want to know the meanings of the other codes? See the Official Florida Driver License Handbook for a full list of restrictions.

A hardship license is a special license you can apply for after your driver's license is suspended or revoked. It will restrict you to driving to and from work and certain other locations for business purposes.

Ready for Your Turn Behind the Wheel?

Choosing the right license is all about where you want to go and how you want to get there.

Whether you're sticking with a Class E, aiming for a CDL or adding a motorcycle endorsement, make sure you're ready for the road ahead.

Need more guidance? Check out the official Florida Driver License Handbook or explore our FL driver education courses to get started.