Whether you’re looking to retire from driving, change careers, or simply stop worrying about DOT medical cards, downgrading your Florida Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) to a regular Class E license is a simple, one-visit process.
You cannot do this online. You must surrender your CDL in person.
This guide will walk you through the correct procedure, the exact documents you’ll need, and the real cost. We will also cover the critical differences between a voluntary downgrade and an involuntary one (like for a medical or drug test failure).
How to Voluntarily Downgrade Your CDL (The In-Person Process)
This is the standard process if you are choosing to surrender your CDL. You do not need to provide a “reason” or “proof” for your decision.
Step 1: Visit any Florida Driver License Service Center. You do not need a special appointment, but booking one for a “Replacement License” can help you skip the line.
Step 2: Tell the agent you wish to “voluntarily surrender” or “downgrade” your CDL to a Class E non-commercial license.
Step 3: Surrender your current CDL card.
Step 4: Provide your REAL ID documents (if you haven’t already).
Pro-Tip: Since you are already at the counter, this is the perfect time to also complete a Florida driver’s license address change if you have recently moved.
Step 5: Pay the $31.25 replacement license fee. ($25 license fee + $6.25 service fee. Fees may vary slightly by county).
Step 6: You will receive a new, temporary Class E license. Your permanent card will be mailed to you.
Involuntary Downgrades (Medical & Drug Test)
This is a different situation. An “involuntary downgrade” is a disqualification or suspension of your CDL privileges.
- Failed DOT Drug Test: This is a major violation. Your CDL privileges will be disqualified. You will be prohibited from all commercial driving until you complete the federal Return-to-Duty (RTD) process with a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP). You may be able to get a Class E license in the meantime, but your CDL is invalid.
- Expired Medical Card (DOT Physical): If you fail to update your medical certification, the FLHSMV will automatically downgrade your CDL to “CDL Disqualified.” You will no longer be legal to drive a commercial vehicle. To fix this, you must get a new DOT physical and then pay a CDL reinstatement fee to restore your commercial privileges.
What Are The Required Documents for Your Visit
When you go to the service center to get your new Class E license, you must prove your identity. Bring your current Florida CDL and your Social Security card.
If you do not have a REAL ID (a gold star on your license), you must bring the full set of documents to get one, as it is now standard:
- 1. Proof of Identity: (e.g., U.S. Passport or Birth Certificate)
- 2. Proof of Social Security: (e.g., Social Security card, W-2 form)
- 3. Two Proofs of Residency: (e.g., Two different utility bills, bank statements, or a lease agreement)
- 4. Name Change Documents (if applicable): (e.g., Marriage certificate or court order)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No. You cannot surrender a CDL online. This is a secure credential that must be downgraded in-person at a Driver License Service Center.
You will pay the standard fee for a replacement driver’s license, which is $31.25 in most Florida counties.
A CDL disqualification for a DUI is often a full revocation of all driving privileges. You cannot get a hardship CDL, but you maybe eligible to apply for a Florida Hardship License for your Class E privileges. This would allow you to drive for essential purposes (like work) only.
No, that is false. There is no waiting period if you voluntarily downgrade. You can re-apply for a CDL one month later if you choose, but you must complete the full testing process again.
This is a “prohibited” status in the federal CDL Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse. You must find a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) and complete the entire Return-to-Duty (RTD) process. This is a federal requirement. If you also need to clear your Florida driving record, you may need to follow the Florida driver’s license reinstatement process.
Conclusion
Downgrading a Florida CDL to a Class E license is a straightforward, in-person process. For a voluntary downgrade (like for retirement), simply visit a Driver License Service Center, surrender your CDL, and pay the $31.25 replacement license fee.
Remember, you cannot do this online. If your downgrade is involuntary due to a failed drug test or expired medical card, you must follow separate federal and state procedures to clear your CDL privileges.
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