Driver's Ed Is Now Required for Teens Seeking a FL Permit
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Learner's Permit for FL

Learners permit

To get your initial driving credentials in Florida, you must meet the following requirements:

  • Be at least 15 years old
  • Complete the Driver Education Traffic Safety (DETS) program
  • Provide parental consent form if under 18
  • Bring required documents for proof of identity
  • Complete your written exam
  • Pass a vision and hearing exam

FirstTimeDriver.com allows you to complete your DETS course, exam preparation and written exam entirely online.

About the DETS Course

The online DETS course offered through FirstTimeDriver.com is approved by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) and is designed to help you meet the state's learner license requirements.

  • Length: Six hours
  • Approval: FLHSMV-approved
  • Expiration: Must be completed within 90 days of registration
  • Certificate: Digital certificate issued upon completion
  • Reporting: Completion is reported to the state

The program contains interactive modules that cover driving topics such as traffic laws, road signs and more. Throughout the course, students complete five quizzes, each containing 15 multiple-choice questions. These quizzes allow unlimited attempts, and a minimum score of 70% is required to pass.

At the end of the course, students must complete a final exam consisting of 40 multiple-choice questions. To pass, a score of at least 80% is required. Students have up to three attempts to pass the final exam. If all three attempts are unsuccessful, the course must be retaken in full.

You'll periodically be asked security questions to verify your identity during training. You will have 90 seconds to respond. If you fail three security checks, you will be temporarily blocked from training for 30 minutes.

After passing, follow the on-screen directions for next steps.

How to Prepare for the Learner License Exam

Before you can hit the road with a learner license, you'll need to pass the Florida Class E Knowledge Exam. The test includes 50 multiple-choice questions that cover topics like road signs, traffic laws and safe driving practices.

One of the best ways to prepare is by studying the state driver license handbook, which is available for free online through the FLHSMV. In addition, we include helpful tools like exam prep, practice quizzes and sample questions that mirror what you'll see on the actual exam.

Here are some tips to help you get ready:

  • Take practice tests to get familiar with the exam format and question types
  • Study a little each day instead of cramming
  • Focus on areas where you miss the most questions
  • Review road signs, right-of-way rules and speed limits carefully

What Are the Rules?

Getting a learner license in Florida means you have driving privileges, but they are restricted. Once you've obtained your learner license, you are required to do the following when operating a motor vehicle:

  • A licensed driver seated in the front passenger seat must always accompany you. This driver must be 21 years of age or older.
  • You can only drive during daylight hours for the first three months after the date you received your learner license.
  • You may drive between the hours of 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. after the first three months.

Tips for Parents and Guardians

Parents and guardians play a big role in helping teens become safe and confident behind the wheel. In addition to signing the parental consent form, they must also confirm that the teen completes 50 hours of driving practice, including 10 hours at night, before applying for a full license.

Here are more ways you can support your teen driver:

  • Log driving hours consistently and keep records
  • Start in low-traffic areas and gradually add more complexity
  • Stay calm and provide clear feedback during practice
  • Talk about real-life driving decisions and safety scenarios
  • Model safe habits — like wearing a seat belt and avoiding distractions

Your guidance can help your teen stay safe!

What's Next — Driver's License!

If you are under the age of 18, you must meet the following requirements to get a regular Class E driver's license:

  • You haven't received any moving traffic citations within 12 months since your learner license was issued (unless adjudication was withheld, meaning you were found responsible for the offense but weren't convicted).
  • During the first three months of obtaining your permit, you're only allowed to drive during daylight hours.
  • A parent, legal guardian or a responsible adult 21 years or older must confirm you've completed at least 50 hours of driving practice, including 10 hours at night.
  • You must pass a behind-the-wheel exam.