CDL holders cannot elect the Florida Basic Driver Improvement Course to prevent points on their driving record. A court may order you to complete the course in certain situations.
If you have a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), special rules apply when it comes to the Florida Basic Driver Improvement Course. Understanding your options is important, especially after receiving a traffic citation in Florida.
Florida Law on CDL Holders and the Basic Driver Improvement Course
Florida law prohibits CDL holders from choosing the Florida Basic Driver Improvement Course as an alternative to points, even if the violation happened in a personal vehicle. This rule has been in effect since July 1, 2005, under Florida Statute 318.14(9) and (10). CDL holders are subject to stricter standards than non-commercial drivers. For more details, visit the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) official website.
Court-Ordered Florida Basic Driver Improvement Course for CDL Holders
A judge or magistrate may order a CDL holder to complete the Florida Basic Driver Improvement Course as part of a court proceeding. If you are court-ordered, confirm with the court that the course you choose meets their requirements and that you know the deadline for completion. Always select the court-ordered reason when enrolling and follow any instructions from the court.
What To Do After Receiving a Citation With a CDL
If you receive a traffic citation as a CDL holder, contact the clerk of court in the county where you received the ticket. CDL holders have different requirements and fewer options than standard license holders. The court can explain your available choices and any required actions.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| CDL holder — can elect BDI for point prevention | No |
| CDL holder — can be court-ordered to take BDI | Yes, if a judge orders it |
| Restriction applies to | All CDL holders, regardless of vehicle driven at time of citation |
| In effect since | July 1, 2005 (Florida Statute 318.14(9) and (10)) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Florida Basic Driver Improvement Course restriction apply if I was driving my personal vehicle?
Yes. The restriction applies to all CDL holders, no matter which vehicle you were driving when you received the citation.
Can I give up my CDL to take the Florida Basic Driver Improvement Course?
This is a legal question. You should contact the clerk of court or an attorney familiar with Florida traffic law for guidance.
If a judge orders me to take the Florida Basic Driver Improvement Course, can I enroll?
Yes. If the court orders you to complete the course, you may enroll. Confirm with the court that the course meets their requirements and be aware of your deadline.
Why can CDL holders not take the Florida Basic Driver Improvement Course for point prevention?
Florida law and federal regulations hold CDL holders to stricter standards. The law does not allow CDL holders to use the BDI election to prevent points.
What should I do first after getting a ticket as a CDL holder?
Contact the clerk of court in the county where you received the citation to understand your options and any required steps.