Starting August 1, 2025, Florida has new rules for teens who want to get their learner’s permit. If you’re between the ages of 15 and 17, you must now complete a six-hour, instructor-led Driver Education course before applying for your permit. This new requirement is part of a statewide effort to reduce accidents involving teen drivers.
📘 What’s Changed?
In the past, teens only had to complete a four-hour TLSAE course (Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education). That course is no longer enough. As of August 1, 2025, teens must complete a state-approved six-hour Driver Education course that includes live instruction — either in person or virtually.
⏳ What if I Already Took the TLSAE Course?
If you completed the TLSAE course before July 31, 2025, it may still count. However, any TLSAE course taken on or after August 1, 2025, will no longer meet the requirement for getting your learner’s permit. It must be the new six-hour version.
✅ Other Requirements That Still Apply
– Along with the new education requirement, teens still must:
– Be at least 15 years old
– Pass a vision and hearing test
– Take and pass the Class E Knowledge Exam, which includes 50 multiple-choice questions (you must get at least 40 correct to pass)
– Have a parent or guardian complete and notarize the Parental Consent Form if you’re under 18
👨👩👧 Tips for Parents and Guardians
– Don’t delay! Plan ahead to register your teen for a certified six-hour driver’s ed course.
– Talk to your teen about safe driving habits early.
– Help your teen gather the correct documents before going to the DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles).
🛑 Why This Change Matters
According to Florida safety officials, increasing the required training from four hours to six hours — with live instruction — gives young drivers more time to learn important traffic laws, safety strategies, and real-life scenarios that may help save lives on the road.
📅 Key Deadline
Make sure your teen completes the correct course before applying for their learner’s permit. If they finish the old four-hour TLSAE course after July 31, 2025, they will still be required to take the new six-hour driver education course.
For questions about approved courses or assistance registering, visit Florida Training Academy’s Driver Education Page or call us at (904) 551-0918.
You can also visit the Florida’s DMV for more information on the Requirements for Teens Obtaining a Florida Learner’s License
