JUST A FEW EASY STEPS!
How To Get Your Florida Learner's Permit
Many teens are eager to drive as soon as possible, but the State of Florida requires all new drivers to complete a few fairly easy steps before they can get on the road for the first time. Learn more about the steps required to get your learner's permit, then visit our Driver's License page for more information on the next step in the licensing process.
1. Complete the Florida DETS Course (Required for Ages 15 to 17)
Florida now requires all first-time drivers ages 15 to 17 to complete a state-approved Driver Education Traffic Safety (DETS) course.
Our online DETS course is approved by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) and covers a variety of essential information, including traffic laws, DUI prevention, safe driving habits and crash avoidance. You can begin this course at the age of 14 1/2 in Florida, so you'll be fully prepared to take the next step when you turn 15.
2. Take the Permit Exam Online.
Once you complete the DETS course, you can take the Florida Class E Knowledge Exam (permit test) online. No FLHSMV visit is required!
Teens between 15 and 17 can complete the test from home. Passing the test earns you your permit exam certificate, which we report for free to the FLHSMV.
You may also take the permit exam in person at the FLHSMV.
3. Make an appointment at the FLHSMV.
When you're ready to apply, make an appointment with your local FLHSMV office. When you go, remember to bring all of the necessary documents required for your application. For a full list of acceptable documents, visit the FLHSMV's What to Bring page.
The following documents are required:
- Proof of Identity (one of the following):
- Certified U.S. birth certificate
- Valid U.S. passport
- Certificate of Naturalization (Form N-550 or N-570)
- Certificate of Citizenship (Form N-560 or N-561)
- Proof of Social Security Number (one of the following):
- Social Security card
- W-2 form (not handwritten)
- Pay stub with SSN
- SSA-1099 or other 1099 (not handwritten)
- Proof of Residential Address (two documents required):
- Rental or lease agreement
- Utility bills (within the past 60 days)
- Florida vehicle or boat registration
- School transcript from current school year
- Medical, auto, or home insurance bill
- Mail from a federal, state, county or city agency
- Statement from a parent/guardian with proof of their address
Completed Parental Consent Form
A parent or legal guardian must sign a parental consent form at the FLHSMV if you're under 18.
4. Pass Vision and Hearing Tests
These are standard tests required at the FLHSMV. If you use glasses or hearing aids, you will be able to use them during your tests. If you can't pass without their assistance, you will have a designation on your license requiring you to wear them while you drive.
5. Get Your Florida Learner's Permit!
Once you've met all the requirements and passed your tests, you'll receive your official Florida learner's permit.
Now it's time to practice! You must hold your permit for at least one year (with no traffic convictions) or until you turn 18 before applying for your driver's license.