Florida Commercial Motor Vehicle Insurance: Quick Guide for Registrations

Florida will suspend a commercial motor vehicle’s registration if the required insurance is cancelled and proof isn’t on file. Here’s a concise, RS-33–aligned checklist you can use before issuing or renewing tags.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or insurance advice. Requirements may change. Verify current rules with FLHSMV or a licensed professional.

Who is a “commercial motor vehicle” in Florida?

• Non-government vehicles using motor or special fuel on public highways.
• GVW 26,001 lbs or more, three or more axles regardless of weight, or a combination whose combined GVW exceeds 26,001 lbs.

Minimum liability limits

• 26,000–34,999 lbs: $50,000 per occurrence.
• 35,000–43,999 lbs: $100,000 per occurrence.
• 44,000+ lbs: $300,000 per occurrence.
• For-hire interstate or hazmat carriers (≥10,000 lbs): $750,000 CSL under 49 CFR Part 387.
• Nonpublic buses (for-hire interstate passengers): $1,500,000 for seating ≤15; $5,000,000 for seating ≥16 (driver included).
• PIP: $10,000 required on every policy, regardless of weight.

Proof that passes (and fails)

• Valid: COI/ACORD with PIP, policy declarations, binder, self-insurance certificates (Exhibits B–D), Form E filings, FMCSA self-insurance, surety bond or bond+policy meeting limits.
• Invalid: Insurance affidavit HSMV 83330 for CMV insurance.
• Scheduled Autos: VINs must be listed; if missing, the proof is not valid.
• Apportioned (IRP) tags: List certificate holder as FLHSMV-BCVDS, 2900 Apalachee Parkway, MS 62, Tallahassee, FL 32399-0626.

Fast compliance checklist

1. Confirm GVW and pick the correct minimum (state vs. federal vs. bus).
2. Verify PIP $10,000 is on the proof.
3. Check limits: CSL meets minimum or each split limit meets/exceeds the combined requirement.
4. For leases: attach evidence tying the vehicle to the lessee’s policy.
5. For scheduled-auto policies: ensure VINs are listed.
6. Capture expiration date; warn that cancellation triggers suspension.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Relying on an HSMV 83330 affidavit for CMV insurance (not acceptable).
• Missing VINs on a scheduled-auto ACORD.
• Forgetting the FLHSMV certificate holder line on apportioned plates.
• Assuming PIP isn’t needed on heavy vehicles—it’s always required.

Bottom line

Meet the right limit, show valid proof with PIP, and keep VIN and certificate-holder details tight. That prevents suspension notices and keeps commercial registrations active.