Florida Learners Permit

Teens in Florida can get their Learner Permit at age 15. There are 2 steps that must be completed first — Take the Driver Education Traffic Safety (DETS) course and pass the Florida Permit Test. Both requirements can be completed online.

Shortcuts to Approved Courses:

State of Florida Authorized Driver's Ed Course and Permit Test:

DETS Course

Curso DETS en español

State of Florida Authorized Permit Test

Examen de Permiso de Florida en español

Related Pages - Resources:

• Florida Permit Test
• Florida Permit Requirements
• Learner Permit Restrictions and Penalties
• Parental Consent Form

Florida Learner Permit Course Requirements

To obtain a Learner's Permit in the state of Florida, you must complete:

1. A state-approved driver's ed course (DETS)
2. The Florida Permit Test, which covers road signs and traffic laws

Additionally, you will need to pass a vision and hearing test and provide the required proof of identity, Social Security number and Florida residency when you apply at a FLHSMV office.

For applicants under 18, a parental consent form is also required. Once all requirements are met, you can receive your learner's permit and begin supervised driving.

Learners Permit Overview

Starting at the age of 14 ½, you are eligible to take the DETS course. Once you turn 15, you can take the Florida Permit Exam. Both are available online for teens. Applicants ages 18 or older must take the Florida Permit Exam in person at a DMV office.

At age 15 or older and after you've completed the DETS Course and Permit Test, you are then eligible to obtain a Florida Learner's Permit. Under the age of 18, you must have a Learner's Permit for 12 months (1 year) before you are eligible for a Driver's License.

• Step 1: Complete the DETS course, also known as Driver Education Traffic Safety.
• Step 2: Study for the Florida Permit Exam on Road Signs and Traffic Laws by reading the Florida Drivers Handbook.
• Step 3: Complete the Florida Permit Exam on Road Signs and Traffic Laws. American Safety Council is authorized by the State of Florida to offer this exam online for ages 15 to 17. Age 18 or older must take at a DMV office.
• Step 4: At age 15 or older you are now eligible to get your Learners Permit from your local DMV office. Be sure to take required documentation and a parent or legal guardian if under age 18.

Driver Education Traffic Safety (DETS) Course

As of August 1, 2025, the Driver Education Traffic Safety course is mandatory for Florida teens ages 15 to 17 who are applying for their first learner's permit.

This course replaces the previous Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) requirement for this age group and is designed to provide a comprehensive foundation in safe and responsible driving.

How It Works

The DETS course is available as a self-paced online program or as a semester-long classroom course for high school students. The online version requires a minimum of six hours to complete, ensuring that all essential topics are thoroughly covered. The course includes interactive lessons and assessments to engage new drivers and reinforce learning.