In Florida, first-time drivers 18 and older are required to take a Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) course. This program is also referred to as the Drug, Alcohol & Traffic Awareness (DATA) course or Drug, Alcohol & Traffic Education (DATE).
The reason for this course is simple — new drivers need to be aware of the effects of drugs and alcohol on the body and mind. It also introduces the basic traffic laws, responsibilities and consequences every Florida driver needs to know before getting behind the wheel.
So what else will you learn about? Here are some example topics in the drug and alcohol class:
- Alcohol Absorption
- Blood Alcohol Concentration
- Marijuana
- Stimulants
- Hallucinogens
- Impaired Judgment and Muscle Coordination
- Decreased Heart Rate and Vision
- Slowed Reaction Time and Drowsiness
- Long-Term Effects on The Body
- Stimulants
- Narcotics
- Hallucinogens
- Antihistamines
- Pain Relievers
- Warning Labels
- Stress
- Dealing with Stress
- Fatigue
- Appropriate Attitude
- Consequences of Distracted Driving
- The Cost of Addiction
- Alcohol Related Crashes
- Costs to Society
- Alcohol Related Crashes
- Economic Costs
- Personal Costs
- Cost of Alcohol and Drug Abuse in The Operation of a Motor Vehicle
- The Risk to Sober Drivers from Drunk Drivers
- How Impaired Driver Action Affect Others
- Family Impact
- Physical Damage
- Emotional Damage
- Preventing Drinking and Driving
- Physical Deterioration
- Effects on Family
- Effect of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse on the Driver of a Motor Vehicle
- Effects of Alcohol and Other Drugs
- Alcohol and Other Drug Absorption
- Drugs Do Not Affect All Users the Same Way
- Levels of Response
- Reduces Your Ability to Safely Operate a Motor Vehicle
- Common Misconceptions Resources
- Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse on the Motor Skills and Vision of the Driver of a Motor Vehicle
- Major Traffic Laws of Florida
- Graduated Licensing and Insurance Requirements
- Drivers at Least 15 Years of Age
- Drivers Under 17 Years of Age
- Florida License Requirements
- School Attendance Requirement
- Required Forms of Identification
- Insurance Requirements
- Minimum Insurance Coverage
- If You Do Not Have the Minimum Insurance
- Alcohol Related Driving Laws
- Safety Equipment
- Basic-Driving Laws
Remember, the TLSAE course is required for new drivers 18 and older. Without it, you won't be eligible to take the Class E Knowledge Exam or move forward in the licensing process. Be sure to complete it before scheduling your appointment with the FLHSMV.