Sunshine State Driver: Your Complete Guide to Getting a Florida Driver's License

Earning a driver's license in the Sunshine State is a major rite of passage, unlocking the freedom to explore Florida's beautiful coastlines, vibrant cities, and scenic backroads. The journey to becoming a licensed driver involves several key steps managed by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV).

This comprehensive guide will serve as your roadmap, breaking down Florida's Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program for teens and outlining the process for adults, ensuring you arrive at the driver license office confident and prepared.

For Teen Drivers (Ages 15-17): The Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) Program

To ensure young drivers gain experience in a safe, controlled manner, Florida has a mandatory GDL program. This system is designed to gradually introduce teens to more complex driving situations as they gain skills and maturity. [1, 3]

Step 1: The Learner's License (Learner's Permit)

This is the very first stage, allowing a new driver to learn and practice on the road with a supervising adult.

Who is eligible?

• You must be at least 15 years old. [1, 2]

How to get your Learner's License:

1. Complete the TLAC/DATA Course: Before you can even apply, you must complete a state-approved Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLAC) course, also known as the Drug, Alcohol, and Traffic Awareness (DATA) course. This is a 4-hour course that can be taken online. [2, 4]
2. Prepare for the Permit Test: You must pass the Class E Knowledge Exam. This 50-question test covers Florida traffic laws, safe driving practices, and identifying traffic signs. You must get at least 40 questions right (80%) to pass. [2] This test can be taken online for applicants under 18.
3. Gather Your Documents: You will need to bring several key original documents to the DMV, including proof of completion of your TLAC course, an application form signed by a parent, proof of identity, and two proofs of residency for a REAL ID.
4. Visit a Driver License Office: You must apply in person. It's highly recommended to schedule an appointment online. At your visit, you will:
   • Submit your application and all required documents.
   • Have a parent or legal guardian present to sign a consent form.
   • Pay the required fees for the permit and tests.
   • Pass a vision and hearing test. [2]
5. Receive Your Permit: Once everything is processed and you've passed the tests, you will be issued your Learner's License.

Rules of the Road with a Learner's License:

• For the first three months, you can only drive during daylight hours.
• After three months, you may drive until 10 p.m.
• You must always be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old and occupies the front passenger seat. [1, 2]
• You must hold the permit for a minimum of 12 months (or until you turn 18, whichever comes first) without any convictions. [2, 4]
• You must log 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours at night, certified by your parent or guardian. [2, 4]

Step 2: The Intermediate License (Class E)

After holding your permit for a year and completing your practice hours, you are eligible to take your road test to get your intermediate license.

Who is eligible?

• You must be at least 16 years old. [1, 2]
• You must have held your Learner's License for at least one year without any traffic convictions.
• Your parent/guardian must certify the completion of your 50 hours of practice.

How to get your Intermediate License:

The final step is to pass the Driving Skills Test (Road Test). You must schedule an appointment for this test. Once you pass, you will be issued your Class E license with GDL restrictions.

GDL Restrictions on a Teen License:

• 16-Year-Olds: You are not permitted to drive between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. unless driving to or from work or accompanied by a licensed driver who is 21 or older. [1, 2]
• 17-Year-Olds: You are not permitted to drive between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. unless driving to or from work or accompanied by a licensed driver who is 21 or older. [1, 2]
• These restrictions are lifted when you turn 18.

For Drivers 18 and Over

If you are 18 or older and applying for your first Florida license, the process is more direct, though some requirements remain.

1. Complete the TLAC/DATA Course: This is still mandatory for all first-time drivers in Florida, regardless of age. [4]
2. Visit a Driver License Office: Make an appointment and bring your original documents proving identity, residency, etc., for a REAL ID.
3. Pass the Tests: You must pass the vision, hearing, and the Class E Knowledge Exam. You will be issued a learner's permit to practice.
4. Take the Road Test: While there is no 12-month waiting period, you must feel competent enough to pass the Driving Skills Test. You can schedule this for a later date or, if available, take it the same day.
5. Pay the Fee and Get Your License: Once all tests are passed and documents are verified, you'll pay the licensing fee and receive your full Class E license.

New to Florida? Transferring Your License

If you move to Florida and hold a valid driver's license from another U.S. state, you must obtain a Florida license within 30 days of establishing residency. The process is simple:

• Make an appointment at a driver license office.
• Surrender your out-of-state license.
• Provide full documentation for a REAL ID.
• Pass a vision and hearing test.
• The knowledge test and road test are waived if your out-of-state license is valid.

By understanding these steps and preparing for each one, you can successfully navigate the Florida DHSMV and earn the privilege of driving in the Sunshine State.