Florida HSMV Form 77074S – Commercial Driving School License – If you plan to open or renew a commercial driving school in Florida that provides behind-the-wheel instruction for non-commercial vehicles (cars, small trucks, SUVs, and vans), you must use Florida HSMV Form 77074S. This official form, issued by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), is required under Chapter 488, Florida Statutes, and Rule 15A-11 of the Florida Administrative Code.
What Is Florida HSMV Form 77074S?
Form HSMV 77074S (also written as 77074S) is the official License Application for Commercial Driving School. It is used for both original (new) and renewal applications. The form allows individuals, associations, corporations, or partnerships to apply for approval to operate a Commercial Driving School (CDS) that offers motor vehicle driving instruction.
The current version is marked “HSMV 77074S – CDS APPLICATION (REV. 09/10)” and references Florida Administrative Code rules 15A-11.002, 15A-11.003, 15A-11.004, and 15A-11.012.
You can download the official form directly from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles:
Download Florida HSMV Form 77074S (PDF)
Who Needs to File Form 77074S?
Any person or entity that wants to engage in the business of operating a commercial driving school for non-commercial vehicles in Florida must obtain a license from FLHSMV. This includes:
- Individuals opening a new driving school
- Corporations, partnerships, or associations
- Existing school owners renewing their license
- New owners after a change of ownership (the license is not transferable)
Note: Commercial truck driving schools (CTDS) are licensed separately by the Commission for Independent Education (CIE) under Chapter 1005, Florida Statutes. However, instructors, agents, and vehicles for those schools still fall under FLHSMV rules.
For full statutory authority, review Chapter 488, Florida Statutes.
Requirements to Open a Commercial Driving School in Florida
According to the official FLHSMV page “How Do I Start a Commercial Driving School?”, applicants must submit the following with Form 77074S:
- Completed original commercial driving school application (Form 77074S) – type the form, print it, and keep a copy.
- Certified fictitious name registration (issued within the last five years) or Certificate of Incorporation (filed within the last year) with the Florida Secretary of State.
- A copy of the student contract used between the school and students.
- A copy of the training curriculum for classroom instruction.
- A valid certificate of insurance for each vehicle used for instruction. FLHSMV must be listed as the certificate holder.
- One set of fingerprints for a fingerprint-based criminal background check for every owner, officer, or partner. Do not mail a fingerprint card. Use a live-scan provider for electronic submission. Results are emailed to FLHSMV and remain valid for two years.
- Documentation for each certified instructor (see separate instructor requirements).
- A printed copy of Rule 15A-11 – Driver Training School for your records.
- Required fees (detailed below).
Each branch office location requires a separate license application. The license is valid only at the address listed on it.
Official source: FLHSMV – How Do I Start a Commercial Driving School?
Fees for Form 77074S
All fees are due at submission and must be made payable to the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. Accepted payment methods typically include money order, certified check, or company check (personal checks are accepted for renewals in some cases).
| Fee Type | Amount | Application Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Application Fee | $50.00 | Original (O) | Non-refundable (F.S. 488.03) |
| Original License Fee | $200.00 | Original (O) | Required after approval |
| License Renewal Fee | $100.00 | Renewal (R) | Annual |
| Original Vehicle Registration | $15.00 | Original (O) | Non-refundable per vehicle (F.S. 488.05) |
| Renewal Vehicle Registration | $10.00 | Renewal (R) | Per vehicle |
Total for a new school (without vehicles): $250 ($50 application + $200 license). Add $15 for each vehicle registered.
Source: Form 77074S and Florida Statutes §488.03.
How to Complete and Submit Form 77074S?
1. Download the official PDF: https://www.flhsmv.gov/pdf/forms/77074s.pdf
2. Fill out the form completely. Indicate whether it is an Original (O), Renewal (R), or Both (B) application where required.
3. Attach all supporting documents listed in the requirements section.
4. Include the correct fees.
5. Mail the complete package to:
Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Bureau of Motorist Compliance
Neil Kirkman Building, Mail Stop 39
2900 Apalachee Parkway
Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0570
The application must be complete with all required documents and fees attached before submission. Incomplete applications will not be processed.
Renewal Process for Commercial Driving School License
Licenses are valid for one year from the date of issuance. To renew:
- Submit Form 77074S at least 45 days before the expiration date.
- Pay the $100 renewal fee.
- Include any required vehicle registration renewals and updated documents.
If the renewal is received less than 45 days before expiration, it will not be accepted. The school must then submit a new original application and pay original fees. Operating with an expired license is prohibited.
Source: Rule 15A-11.003, Florida Administrative Code.
Additional Important Rules
- The license is not transferable. A change of ownership requires a new application, surrender of the old license, and all instructor certificates.
- Notify FLHSMV in writing within 10 days of any change in school owner’s name, address, school name, principal place of business, or telephone number.
- A duplicate license or vehicle registration costs $2 and requires Form 77074S plus an affidavit explaining the loss or destruction.
- Every vehicle used for instruction must be properly registered using Form 77071S (Vehicle Registration Application for Commercial Driving School) and must have dual controls (dual brake).
- Instructors must hold a separate instructor certificate (Form 77073S).
Related forms available on the official FLHSMV forms page: FLHSMV Forms.
Where to Find Official Rules and Statutes?
- Rule 15A-11 – Driver Training School (PDF)
- Chapter 488, Florida Statutes – Commercial Driving Schools
- FLHSMV Official Guidance – Starting a Commercial Driving School
Conclusion
Florida HSMV Form 77074S is the essential first step for anyone seeking to open or renew a commercial driving school license in the state. By carefully completing the form, gathering the required supporting documents, paying the correct fees, and submitting everything to the Bureau of Motorist Compliance in Tallahassee, applicants can ensure compliance with Chapter 488 and Rule 15A-11.