Understanding Florida Driver’s License Requirements (2026)
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Reviewed By Adam Ramirez, J.D.
Editor
Summary
- To obtain a learner’s permit in Florida, you must be at least 15
- You must pass knowledge, skill, hearing and vision tests
- You need ID, proof of residency and proof of your Social Security number
Like other states, Florida has strict licensing requirements for those who want to get behind the wheel of a car. These regulations serve to help prevent car accidents and ensure that everyone on the road is qualified to operate a vehicle. Here is what you need to know about Florida driver’s license requirements.
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Basic Requirements for a Florida Driver's License
When you visit the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to start the process of getting your license, you’ll want to ensure you’re prepared to meet the following requirements:
Age-Specific Requirements for Under-18 Drivers
In Florida, you must be at least 15 years old to obtain a learner’s permit. You will need to present a signed and notarized parental consent form and provide proof that you have completed a Driver Education Traffic Safety course.
Additionally, you must pass a vision and hearing test, as well as the Class E Knowledge Exam that tests you on Florida traffic laws.
Once you have held the learner’s permit for at least a year, you can apply for a driver’s license. Your parent or guardian must sign the Certification of Minor Driving Experience Form, and you must pass the Class E Driving Skills Test. You must also not have any moving violations or convictions for driving without a license.
Requirements for Adult Drivers (18 and Older)
For those who are 18 and older, Florida driver’s license requirements include the completion of the Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) course, along with the passing of vision and hearing tests. You’ll also have to pass the Class E Knowledge Exam, followed by the skills test.
Required Documents and Proof of Identity
One of the most basic of Florida driver’s license requirements is ensuring that you have proper identification. Florida began issuing REAL ID–compliant licenses in 2010, which means that you will have to present proof of residency.
Similarly, you will need to validate your identity, which you can do with your passport, original birth certificate, permanent resident card or certificate of naturalization or citizenship. You’ll also have to prove your Social Security number, which you can do with your Social Security Card, a 1099 or W-2 form or a Medicare or Medicaid card.
Proof of Florida Residency Requirements
Another one of the key Florida driver’s license requirements is establishing that you’re a resident of the state. You will need two documents for this. Accepted options include:
- Florida voter registration card
- Utility bill
- Florida vehicle registration or title
- Bank statements
- Homeowners insurance policy
- Mortgage statement, deed or residential lease agreement
You must bring originals to the DMV. As part of Florida driver’s license requirements, photocopies of any of these documents will not be accepted.
Vision and Hearing Test Requirements
To help prevent accidents, Florida requires every driver to undergo vision and hearing tests before they can receive their license. The vision test assesses whether you’re able to read road signs and see traffic clearly, and the hearing exam makes sure that you can hear horns and sirens.
If you need to wear hearing aids, glasses or contact lenses, you can only operate the vehicle if you have these assistive devices. This will be something that police officers will check, for example, at a traffic stop.
Written Knowledge and Driving Skills Tests
The Class E Knowledge Exam covers all manner of traffic laws, road signs and safe driving habits. You can find the information you need to prepare for this test in the Florida Driver Handbook.
The driving skills test is an exam that measures whether you understand important elements like these:
- Proper driving posture
- How to signal and turn
- Right-of-way rules
- How to park and pass
- A variety of other vital traffic laws needed to safely operate a vehicle
Keep in mind that to take the exam, you must arrive with a fully insured vehicle that has valid plates. The car will go through a quick inspection to ensure its safety, and you can then proceed with the exam.
Requirements for Out-of-State License Transfers
If you have moved to Florida from another state and need to transfer your license, you will need to go in person to an office offering driver's license services. You will likely have to undergo a vision and hearing test, but you might be exempt from other exams. You can then register your vehicle by showing valid Florida insurance and identification.
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Addressing Licensing Issues With Help From ConsumerShield
If you have run into problems obtaining a license in Florida or if your current license is under threat because of a potential conviction for a traffic violation, an experienced attorney may be able to help. At ConsumerShield, we can quickly connect you with trusted lawyers in your area. Contact our team to get started today.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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From the date you establish Florida residency, which can be done in a number of ways, you have 30 days to obtain a valid state license. You will need to find insurance coverage within 10 days of establishing residency.
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Yes. In Florida, someone who has a learner’s permit will need to have someone 21 or older with them in the front seat at all times. They are restricted to driving only during daylight hours for the first three months and after that, until 10 p.m.
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You can take the course online and complete it at your own pace. You can take it using a phone, tablet or computer.
