CDL Test Locations in Florida — Complete 2026 Guide
📅 Updated July 2026📌 Source: FLHSMV⏱ 10 min read
Florida splits CDL testing into two completely separate systems: the state runs your knowledge test, but skills testing is handled entirely by private, FLHSMV-certified third-party companies — a structure genuinely different from states like New York or Texas, where the state administers both. Here's exactly how each system works, the real time limits you'll face, and a regulatory change Florida is actively pursuing that could affect your retest experience.
This is the single most important thing to understand about Florida CDL testing: the knowledge test and skills test happen at entirely different types of locations, run by entirely different entities, with entirely different booking systems. Confusing the two is the most common mistake Florida CDL applicants make.
Test
Where
Who Runs It
Knowledge test
County tax collector office or FLHSMV service center
State of Florida (FLHSMV)
Skills test
FLHSMV-certified third-party testing site
Private company, state-certified and overseen
Knowledge Test — Tax Collector Offices
Your CDL knowledge tests — General Knowledge, Air Brakes, Combination Vehicles — are administered directly by the state at a county tax collector office or FLHSMV service center. As of February 6, 2026, all Florida CDL knowledge tests are administered in English only.
Skills Test — Third-Party Sites Only
Florida does not administer CDL skills tests at any government office. The entire skills testing system runs through private companies certified by FLHSMV as third-party testers. FLHSMV maintains an official statewide list of contracted CMV skill test sites, organized alphabetically by city, covering both major metro areas and smaller cities and rural regions statewide.
Real named third-party testers operate across the state, including National Training Inc., Truck Driver Institute (with a Sanford, FL location serving the greater Orlando area), and multiple independently certified sites in Central Florida and elsewhere. Each sets its own appointment system, scheduling availability, and cancellation policy — always confirm directly with your chosen site.
Exact Time Limits for Each Segment
Segment
Time Limit
Short-form vehicle inspection
Up to 60 minutes
Full-form vehicle inspection
Up to 90 minutes
Basic vehicle control skills test
Up to 45 minutes
Failing to complete a segment within its time limit can fail that segment outright — pacing matters as much as accuracy. Practice your pre-trip inspection narration out loud with a timer before test day.
The Pending FMCSA Waiver Florida Is Seeking
Florida's FLHSMV has petitioned the FMCSA for an exemption from the federal rule requiring the three-part skills test to be completed in strict order — pre-trip inspection, then basic vehicle control, then on-road driving — with a full retest required if any segment is failed.
What Florida wants changed: Currently, failing the pre-trip inspection or basic vehicle control segment means the tester cannot proceed to the next segment, and the applicant must retest everything on a new appointment. FLHSMV has identified pre-trip inspection as the most commonly failed segment and is seeking authority for certified testers to continue with the remaining segments at their discretion, letting the applicant return later to retake only the failed portion. As of this guide's publication, this waiver remains under federal review — check FLHSMV's site for the current status before assuming it's in effect.
State Random Retest — What It Means
FLHSMV Compliance Officers oversee third-party testers through a State Random Retest program. If you're selected, your original test results may not be authorized for license issuance, and a new three-part test may be required — sometimes the same day if possible, or within 7 days of your original test.
This isn't a reflection on your performance. Random retest selection is a quality-assurance mechanism for overseeing third-party testers statewide, not an indication you did anything wrong on your original test.
Booking Strategy by Region
South Florida (Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach)
Highest-demand region for both knowledge and skills test scheduling. Third-party skills test slots commonly book 2-4 weeks out. Book immediately upon receiving your CLP.
Central Florida (Orlando, Tampa)
Moderate-to-high demand, with multiple named third-party testers including Truck Driver Institute's Sanford location and additional independently certified Central Florida sites.
North Florida & Panhandle
Generally lower demand with more third-party testing availability, though fewer total sites means some applicants travel further to reach one.
Southwest Florida
Independently certified third-party sites serve this region; availability varies, so check FLHSMV's official contracted site list for current options near you.
Ready to Practice for Your Florida CDL Tests?
Free practice tests covering all three knowledge modules — no signup required.
Where do I take the CDL knowledge test in Florida?
At a county tax collector office or FLHSMV service center, administered directly by the state.
Where do I take the CDL skills test in Florida?
Exclusively at an FLHSMV-certified third-party testing site — never at a government office. FLHSMV maintains an official statewide contracted site list.
How long does each part of the skills test take?
Up to 60 minutes (short-form inspection), 90 minutes (full-form inspection), and 45 minutes (basic vehicle control).
What happens if I fail one segment of the skills test?
Currently, you must retest all segments on a new appointment. Florida has petitioned FMCSA for a waiver to allow retaking only the failed segment — still under federal review as of publication.
What is a State Random Retest?
A quality-assurance selection by FLHSMV Compliance Officers that may require a new three-part test, sometimes same-day or within 7 days — not a reflection of your performance.
Can I get a refund if I cancel my skills test appointment?
Policies vary by third-party site. One example offers a full refund 3+ business days before the test, with a $65 fee for later cancellations. Confirm with your specific site.
Sources: Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (flhsmv.gov); Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Last verified July 2026.