In Florida, as with all other states, obtaining and maintaining a valid driver’s license means staying in compliance with various rules and regulations. This may include taking one or more Florida driver’s ed courses. Whether you’re a teenager who wants to get behind the wheel for the first time or an adult seeking to improve your driving record, driver’s ed can be very helpful—and in some circumstances, it’s required by State of Florida law.
Recognizing the need for accessible driver’s education, Ticket School offers a range of classes tailored to Florida residents. These courses not only meet the state’s legal requirements but also equip drivers with the knowledge necessary for safe driving practices.
When Do You Need Driver’s Ed in Florida?
There are several circumstances in which a driver or prospective driver may be required by law to take a driver’s education course in Florida.
Teenage Learners
Florida mandates driver’s education for all young drivers between 15 and 17 years old seeking to obtain a learner’s permit. This requirement is aimed at equipping novice drivers with essential knowledge and skills for safe driving.
The requirements for a Florida learner’s license include:
- Age Requirement – Teens must be at least 15 years old to apply for a learner’s permit in Florida.
- Education – They must successfully complete the Florida Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) course. (This course can be taken as early as age 14.)
- Parental Consent – If under 18 years old, a signed and notarized Parental Consent Form must be provided. Step-parents can sign only if the minor has been legally adopted.
- Testing – Applicants must successfully complete a vision and hearing test, as well as the Class E Knowledge Exam, which consists of multiple-choice questions relating to traffic laws and signs. This is available online for those under 18. Once over 18, you must take the Knowledge Exam at a driver license or tax collector’s office.
First-Time Drivers
Beyond teenagers, all first-time drivers in Florida are required to complete the TLSAE course and pass the Class E Knowledge Exam. This ensures that new drivers, regardless of age, understand the risks associated with substance abuse and traffic laws before they begin driving.
Drivers Improving Records
Individuals who have accumulated traffic violations may be ordered by a court to attend a driver improvement school to take a Basic Driver Improvement (BDI) course for non-criminal moving violations, an 8 hour driver improvement course, or a 12 hour Advanced Driver Improvement (ADI) course for points, severe infractions, or to reinstate a suspended Florida driver’s license.
Driver’s Ed at Ticket School
We offer a variety of courses tailored to meet the needs of Florida drivers, whether they are new drivers aiming for their learner’s permit or those looking to improve their driving record. Here’s a look at the different classes available:
- Drug and Alcohol Course (TLSAE) – Mandatory for all first-time drivers in Florida, this course covers crucial topics related to traffic laws, the effects of substance abuse on driving, and the responsibilities of driving. Completing the TLSAE course is the first step for teens to obtain their learner’s permit, and for adults entering the driving world for the first time.
- Florida Learner’s Permit Test (Class E Knowledge Exam) – After completing the TLSAE course, the next step is to pass the Class E Knowledge Exam. Ticket School offers this exam online for those under the age of 18, which is a requirement to move forward in obtaining a Florida learner’s license. This test assesses knowledge of road rules and traffic signs.
- Basic Driver Improvement Course (BDI) – Ideal for drivers who have received a non-criminal moving violation and wish to avoid points on their driving record. Electing to take this course can also help in preventing insurance premium increases due to a traffic citation. It’s a proactive step toward maintaining a clean driving record. This course can also be mandated by the Florida DHSMV for certain offenses.
- Intermediate Driver Improvement Course (IDI) – This 8 hour course is designed for drivers looking for more comprehensive training beyond the basic level, the IDI course offers deeper insights into safe driving practices to reduce the likelihood of future violations. It can be required by a court if you have already taken the BDI course for a previous ticket or get certain infractions such as aggressive driving.
- Advanced Driver Improvement (ADI) – This course is for drivers who are trying to avoid license suspension, have had their license suspended already due to points accumulation or as mandated by a court. Completing an ADI course is a key step in the process of license reinstatement for drivers looking to get back on the road legally. This can also be a requirement for many drivers to get a hardship license.
Each of the Florida courses provided by Ticket School is crafted with the goal of enabling drivers to fulfill legal requirements and also enhance driving skills. By offering these courses online, Ticket School ensures that Florida residents have convenient and flexible access to the educational resources necessary for responsible driving.