Important Changes for Teen Drivers Ages 15-17
Florida has implemented new requirements for teen drivers seeking their Learner’s Permit. These changes affect teens ages 15-17 and their parents who need to navigate the updated licensing process.
Effective August 1, 2025
Beginning August 1, 2025, all teen drivers ages 15-17 must complete the following requirements to obtain their Learner’s Permit:
- New 6-Hour Driver Education Traffic Safety (DETS) Course: This comprehensive course replaces the previous 4-hour TLSAE course for teen drivers
- Documentation Requirements: Real ID-compliant documents, proof of address, and parental consent
- Course Change: The 4-hour TLSAE course will no longer be accepted for teen drivers
Click here to view full details, including exemptions and the transition period.
Intermediate License (16 and 17 year old)
To earn an operator license, you must be at least 16 years old and have held a learner license for at least one year without any traffic convictions.
To obtain an Intermediate License, you must provide:
- A Florida Learner License or a license from another jurisdiction.
- Parent or guardian certification that you have at least 50 hours of behind the wheel driving experience, of which 10 hours must be at night.
Required Test
Driving test or present a waiver from an accepted driver education course.
You are required to have a current registration and insurance on the vehicle at the driving test.
Driving Privileges
16 years old – only drive between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m., unless accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old and occupies the front passenger seat, or you are traveling to or from work.
17 years old – only drive between 5 a.m. and 1 a.m., unless accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old and occupies the front passenger seat, or you are traveling to or from work.
