FR44 Insurance for CDL and Commercial Drivers in Florida 2026
Commercial drivers and CDL holders face a uniquely difficult situation after a DUI conviction in Florida. FR44 insurance is required by DHSMV to reinstate your license, but a DUI also triggers automatic CDL disqualification under federal FMCSA rules. Understanding how FR44 interacts with CDL requirements is critical before taking any steps.
FR44 Requirement: Same for CDL and Non-CDL Drivers
Florida’s FR44 filing requirement applies to your personal driver’s license, not your commercial license. Whether you drive a semi, a delivery van, or a personal vehicle, DHSMV requires FR44 on your Florida driving record to reinstate your standard Class E license. Minimum coverage limits are the same for everyone: 100/300/50 liability.
CDL Disqualification Is Separate from FR44
FMCSA federal regulations (49 CFR Part 383) require a mandatory 1-year CDL disqualification for DUI conviction even for a first offense. This is a federal rule that cannot be expunged or waived. FR44 compliance gets your personal license back. It does not restore your CDL.
| Action | FR44 Required? | CDL Restored? |
|---|---|---|
| File FR44 with DHSMV | Yes, required | No, separate federal process |
| Complete CDL disqualification period (1 yr) | Independent | Required separately via FMCSA |
| Reinstate Class E personal license | FR44 + fees + course | Does not affect CDL timeline |
| Apply for CDL reinstatement | Must have valid Class E first | Then apply for CDL re-issuance |
The Correct Order of Operations for CDL Reinstatement
- Purchase FR44 insurance with 100/300/50 minimums
- Carrier files electronic FR44 certificate with DHSMV (same-day filing available)
- Pay DHSMV reinstatement fees ($150-$500 depending on offense history)
- Complete DUI school and substance abuse evaluation if required
- Obtain hardship license if eligible (CDL driving prohibited during hardship period)
- Wait out CDL disqualification period (minimum 1 year under federal rules)
- After CDL disqualification ends and valid Class E restored: apply for CDL reinstatement at DHSMV
- Maintain FR44 for full 3 years from reinstatement date
FR44 Insurance Cost for Commercial Drivers
FR44 for your personal vehicle costs $14-$35 per month added to a policy with 100/300/50 minimums, the same as any Florida driver. Your commercial vehicle is insured separately through commercial auto policies. The FR44 filing is for personal license reinstatement only.
myfloridafr44.com provides same-day electronic FR44 filing for Florida CDL holders, 15+ carrier comparison, no credit check, and immediate DHSMV-compliant certificate delivery.