How to get your Florida learner's permit

In Florida, your learner's license (often called a learner's permit) is the first step to a driver license. You can apply once you turn 15. Here is the whole process from start to finish.

Step 1: Complete the required course

Every first-time driver must finish a state-approved course before applying:

• Under 18: the 6-hour Driver Education and Traffic Safety (DETS) course. As of August 1, 2025, all new teen applicants under 18 must complete this course.
• 18 and older: the 4-hour Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) course, also known as the Drug and Alcohol course.

The provider reports your completion to the state electronically. Learn more about the TLSAE and DETS course.

Step 2: Study and pass the Class E Knowledge Exam

The Class E Knowledge Exam has 50 multiple-choice questions. You must answer 40 correctly (80%) to pass. It covers traffic laws, road signs, safe driving and Florida-specific rules.

Step 3: Gather your documents

Bring original documents that prove who you are. Most applicants need:

• Proof of identity (for example, a certified U.S. birth certificate or valid passport)
• Proof of your Social Security number
• Two proofs of Florida residential address
• If under 18: a Parental Consent Form (HSMV 71018), signed in front of an examiner or notarized

See the full requirements and document checklist.

Step 4: Visit a service center or Tax Collector office

Go to your local FLHSMV office or county Tax Collector office. There you will:

• Pass a vision test (20/40 in each eye, with or without glasses) and a hearing check
• Have your photo taken
• Pay the permit fee

Applicants under 18 may also be able to take the knowledge exam online ahead of time through an approved provider, using a notarized parent proctoring form.

Step 5: Get your permit and start driving

Once everything checks out, you receive your learner's permit. Remember the learner's permit driving rules: you must have a licensed driver 21 or older in the front seat, and there are time-of-day limits during your first months.

What comes next

You must hold your permit for 12 months (or until you turn 18) before taking the driving skills (road) test for your full Class E license. Use that year to practice driving and to keep your knowledge sharp.