New Law Change in Florida

Florida is changing the requirements to get a learner’s permit for prospective new drivers under the age of 18.  A new law which goes into effect July 1st, 2025, says that anyone age 15, 16, or 17 will now be required to complete a new six (6) hour Florida Driver Education Traffic Safety (DETS) course that is approved by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) before being able to get their learner’s permit.   This is a new course in Florida so it is important to take a state approved course since only licensed providers will be able to report completions electronically to the Florida DHSMV system.

 

Before this new law, drivers under 18 were required to complete a four (4) hour Traffic Law Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) course.  The TLSAE course still exists, but it is now only a requirement for those 18 and older.  In addition to being 2 hours longer, the new Florida driver’s ed course will include defensive driving and safety related information that many TLSAE courses did not.  

Class E

These new changes will not affect the existing requirement to successfully pass the Class E test prior to obtaining a learner’s permit.  Class E is the 50-question test covering the road signs and road rules information found in the Florida Driver’s Handbook.  This test can be completed online on our website if you are under 18.  If you are over 18, Class E must be taken in person at a DHSMV authorized location. 

Requirements

Florida educational requirements to get a learner’s permit:

Age 15-17 

1.Florida Driver Education Traffic Safety course (DETS) – 6 hours
2. Class E – 50 question test covering road signs and road rules (available online)

Florida education Requirements to get a permit or driver’s license:

Age 18 and older

1. Florida Traffic Law Substance Abuse Education course (TLSAE) – 4 hours
2. Class E – 50 question test covering road signs and road rules (in-person only)

 

Behind the Wheel Requirements

Practicing your driving and getting comfortable behind the wheel is vital to being safe on the roadways.  Practice also will help so that you are comfortable and can pass your driving test when that occurs prior to getting your driver’s license.  Florida law requires that first time drivers under the age of 18 successfully log 50 hours of time behind the wheel, 10 of which are at night, after receiving their learner’s permit and before scheduling their driving test.  This practice must be done under the supervision of a parent, legal guardian or responsible adult at least 21 years of age.  There are no behind the wheel log time requirements for those at least 18 and older, but it is highly encouraged from a safety perspective and to ensure passage of the driving test on the first attempt.  

 

For further information check out the resources available at the Florida DHSMV.