What Is the Legal Driving Age In Florida?

Bill Allen | August 28, 2024 | Florida Law

Safe and responsible driving practices must begin the moment a driver gets behind the wheel of a car. Many states, including Florida, have adopted graduated licensing programs to help new drivers learn and develop their skills in a way that accounts for common problems and protects them and others on the road.

According to the 2023 Florida Teen Driver Fact Sheet, Florida had over 800,000 registered drivers between the ages of 15 and 19 as of 2021. This age group was involved in over 84,000 car accidents in the state, resulting in nearly 2,000 injuries and over 360 fatalities.

Such statistics could be linked to the fact that teen drivers are nearly three times as likely as other age groups to engage in risky behavior, such as speeding, distracted driving, and so on.

Of course, the real issue is that new drivers lack the experience to know better. Although teens can obtain a learner’s license at 15, it doesn’t mean they’re ready to take on the challenges and responsibilities of unrestricted driving. That’s why a graduated licensing program is so important.

Requirements for a Learner’s License

Florida teens aged 15 and older are eligible to apply for a learner’s license, but a parent or legal guardian must sign a Parental Consent Form for drivers under 18. If you’re a new driver, you must meet several requirements before you can obtain a learner’s permit.

First, you must complete a Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) course. You’ll also need to provide documents proving identity (such as a birth certificate or passport), Social Security number (Social Security card or W-2), and residential address (two proofs, such as utility bills).

Next, you’re required to pass vision and hearing tests. These exams may be conducted at a driver’s license or motor vehicle service center.

Finally, you must pass the Class E Knowledge Exam, which consists of 50 multiple-choice questions related to traffic laws and signs. A score of 40 correct answers or more (80%) is needed to pass. You can study for the exam using the Official Florida Driver License Handbook.

With a learner’s license, you’ll be restricted to driving during daylight hours for the first three months, after which you may only drive until 10 p.m. Moreover, you must be accompanied by a licensed driver over the age of 21 at all times.

Requirements for a Driver’s License

Once you’ve held your learner’s license for 12 months or you reach the age of 18 (whichever comes first), you may apply for a Florida driver’s license.

To apply, you must be at least 16 and have completed 50 hours of supervised driving, with at least 10 hours at night. A parent, legal guardian, or licensed driver over 21 must complete a Certification of Minor Driving Experience Form as proof of your completed hours.

From there, you must pass the Class E Driving Skills Test, which requires a vehicle with valid registration and proof of insurance.

Once you have your driver’s license, you may only drive between the hours of 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. unless you’re with a licensed driver over 21 or you’re commuting to and from work. At age 17, the allowance extends to the hours of 5 a.m. to 1 a.m. All restrictions are lifted at age 18.

Safe and Responsible Driving Habits Are Critical

Due to inexperience, new drivers are at higher risk of everything from rear-end crashes to hitting parked cars. A graduated licensing program helps ease new and teen drivers into the responsibilities of driving with restrictions that allow them to learn safely, thereby protecting them and other road users.

Contact Our Gainesville Car Accident Law Firm in North Central Florida

If you need legal assistance, contact the Gainesville car accident lawyers at Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers at your nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.

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