Depending on your state, you may need a regular driver’s or special license to operate a limo. Obtain limos that satisfy your county’s requirements, including length. You need a separate limo license for each type of service. If you need a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to drive a limousine in Florida, you must go through a different process than obtaining a standard driver’s license. You’ll need to pass written and driving skills tests specific to commercial vehicles. Driving a limousine without one can have serious consequences.
First, let’s define a limo. A limo is a luxury vehicle that a chauffeur typically drives. Limos are often used for events like weddings, proms, and corporate transportation. Complete a chauffeur application, which allows the county to run a criminal-background check. Each driver must have a valid Florida commercial driver’s license with passenger endorsement. You’ll also need proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number and pass a medical examination. For smaller limos, designed to transport fewer than 16 passengers, you do not need a CDL.
Starting a Career as a Limo Driver
To start a career as a limo (limousine) driver, you must have a standard driver’s license and then apply for a chauffeur’s license. Get personal references and credit references to demonstrate your company’s financial trustworthiness, such as from a bank. Implement a marketing plan, and build your reputation. The written knowledge test covers topics such as defensive driving techniques and knowledge of traffic laws.
How to Get a Chauffeur’s License
In Florida, chauffeurs must get a chauffeur’s license from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). To qualify, complete chauffeur training, pass a written test, and pass a driving skills test. Becoming a chauffeur involves meeting requirements like age, experience, passing tests, and background checks. Understand your local chauffeur regulations.
In the UK, private hire or chauffeur drivers must get a licence from the Public Carriage Office (PCO). Meet their criteria to get a PCO private hire driver’s licence legally required to operate as a driver.
In Michigan, chauffeurs need a chauffeur license or commercial driver’s license (CDL) unless exempt. This is required if employed to operate a vehicle over 10,000 pounds or operate a bus or school bus.
Getting a US chauffeur license takes more work than a regular license. Meet age, experience, testing, and background check requirements which vary locally. Chauffeur licenses are mandatory for vehicles from 16,000-26,000 pounds carrying passengers.
In Florida, new residents with out-of-state licenses must get a Florida license within 30 days of establishing permanent residency. Bring your previous license when visiting the DMV to relinquish it and get the new one. Sometimes, depending on state rules, people can get a license without a road test. But exemptions from road tests are temporary in some states.
Starting a Limo Business
You need a limo license for each service in Florida. Since chauffeur licenses no longer are issued, you need a Class B license to drive over 10 people. Get financial references from a bank. Implement a marketing plan to build your reputation.
Each county issues limo licenses. You need separate ones for stretch and super-stretch vehicles. They need a commercial license with passenger endorsement. You now need a Class B license to drive over 10 people.
Costs to start a limo business range from $14,000 to $32,000. Main costs are the limo purchase, insurance, and marketing. You can save money with a used limo stored at home.
LimoFinder helps limo startups optimize their web presence by allowing travel agencies to book transportation.
Limousines make money by charging hourly fees to chauffeur clients. Enforce minimum hours rules during peak times. Offer special packages for additional fees. The industry reaches $11 billion in annual revenue. Good advertising brings weddings, graduations and corporate clients.
Essential startup costs:
- Limo rental – $500/hour
- Livery software – $1,500/year
- Marketing is critical for success.
Overall you need $150,000 for a small fleet. But a large company with many vehicles and drivers costs $500,000. The cars are the biggest expense, ranging from $50,000 to $100,000 per limo.