How to Get Your Florida Driver’s License in 2021: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re eagerly looking to start driving, you’re in luck! Obtaining your Florida driver’s license is a simple process if you know what to do.

Below is a step-by-step guide on how to successfully get your driver’s license in Florida. If you follow it correctly, you’ll be on your way to receiving full privileges to drive legally!

1. Complete a TLSAE or DATA course
2. Apply for your Florida learner’s license
3. Pass the learner’s permit exam
4. Prepare for the road test
5. Take and pass the road test
6. Get your Florida driver’s license

Complete a TLSAE or DATA Course  

Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education and Drugs Alcohol Traffic Awareness courses are offered in most Florida public schools, as well as from several third-party providers throughout the state. 

Once you have completed a TLSAE or DATA course, you will need to pay a visit to your local DHSMV center.

Apply for Your Florida Learner’s License 

As part of your application process for a permit, you will be required to pass a vision and written test administered by the DHSMV. You can take this test at your local DHSMV or simply register online with one of the official exam providers.

Read our in-depth guide about the learner’s license and permit exam here.

Restrictions if You’re Under 18

If you are under the age of 18, the following restrictions apply: 

• Hold learner’s permit for twelve consecutive months, or until you turn 18 (whichever comes first)
• No traffic violations within the twelve months you hold your learner’s permit.
• You must accumulate a total of 50 hours worth of driving experience, including 10 hours of nighttime driving.

Pass the Knowledge Exam

The knowledge exam is designed to test your understanding of road rules and best practices. You can study using the Florida driver’s handbook – it contains everything you’ll need to know.

Prepare for the Road Test

You will be required to drive with your permit for a year with no traffic convictions before being allowed to sit for the road test. This time is perfect for practicing maneuvers and general road safety in real-life situations. 

Be sure to start practicing early and often to ensure you’re fully prepared for the road test when the time comes. Practicing with a licensed driver of at least five years will help you master core driving concepts and touch upon areas that may need improvement. 

Take and Pass the Road Test 

When you feel comfortable, you will need to schedule, take, and pass the road test. This test can be nerve-wracking for many students, but if you have accumulated your 50 hours of supervised driving, you should do just fine. Below are some of the maneuvers you’ll be tested on during the exam.

• Staying within the proper lane
• Keeping a safe following distance
• Stopping quickly
• Reversing your vehicle
• Signaling and turning
• Approaching a crosswalk
• Following at a safe distance
• Performing a three-point turn

Read our complete Florida road test guide here.

Get Your Florida Driver’s License

Congratulations, you’ve passed your exams! Your road test administrator will direct you back into the service center to provide additional documentation, as well as pay the necessary fees associated with receiving your driver’s license. You will need: 

• Proof of identity
• Proof of address (two forms)
• Proof of social security number
• $48 driver’s license fee 

Additionally, if you are under the age of 18, you will need to provide:

• Parental Consent Form
• Parent Proctoring Form
• Certification of Minor Driving Experience Form

After verifying all of your documentation, your DHSMV staff member will proceed to print you a temporary paper copy of your driver’s license. Your permanent physical copy will arrive in your mailbox within five to ten business days.

That’s it! You now have a Florida driver’s license. This will allow you to get a new job, go to school, or visit friends and family without using public transportation or having to hitch a ride.

However, you truly never stop learning as a driver, and there are some rules you’ll always seem to forget. Be sure to reference the Zutobi Florida Driver’s Ed Course and practice tests to brush up on your driving skills as time progresses.