Florida teen permit rules
The current DETS page specifies six-hour DETS for first-time applicants under 18 from August 1, 2025, with stated exceptions. The 2023 handbook describes TLSAE, and the general knowledge-exam page still presents TLSAE without that age-specific update. Read the current age-specific requirement and its exceptions before applying.
Since August 1, 2025, first-time applicants under 18 who have never held a license in another jurisdiction need six hours of DETS. FDOE Traffic Safety Classroom 1900300 or 1900310 and approved school DELAP courses may substitute. Exceptions cover valid out-of-state license transfers, Florida learner licenses obtained before that date, and TLSAE completed before that date; grandfathered TLSAE certificates last one year after completion.
The 2023 learner-license checklist calls for TLSAE.
The general exam page still requires TLSAE for a person never licensed in any state or country, without the newer under-18 DETS distinction.
Minimum permit age
15
Requirements under 18
The teen learner checklist calls for parent or guardian consent, required education proof, vision and hearing screening, a passing knowledge exam, and identity, Social Security and address documents. A learner must always drive with a licensed adult age 21 or older; driving is limited to daylight for the first three months, then until 10 p.m. To obtain a driver license before age 18, hold the learner license for 12 months or until turning 18, have no moving-violation convictions during that year (one violation with adjudication withheld is allowed) and certify 50 hours of driving practice including 10 at night.
Only independently reviewed sections are shown. This page is not a complete application checklist.
Handbook and related study
Official Florida Driver License Handbook · rev. 08/2023 · Official handbook
Checked against reviewed sources on .
Review Florida permit test sources or check exam simulator availability by state.