Transitioning from Learner's Permit to Full License in Florida
Florida follows a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system to help teens and new drivers gain valuable experience behind the wheel before obtaining a full driver’s license. This system is designed to improve road safety and build responsible driving habits.
Step 1: Holding the Learner's Permit
To begin, new drivers must first obtain a Florida learner’s permit, officially known as a Learner’s License. To qualify, the applicant must:
- Be at least 15 years old
- Complete the Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) course
- Pass the Class E Knowledge Exam
- Provide necessary documents to prove identity, residency, and Social Security number
More details on this process are available in our Florida Learner's Permit Guide.
Step 2: Permit Restrictions and Supervised Driving
While holding a learner’s permit, the driver must follow strict restrictions:
- Must always be accompanied by a licensed driver aged 21 or older in the front passenger seat
- Can drive only during daylight hours for the first three months
- After three months, can drive until 10:00 PM
- Must complete 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours at night
More on these rules can be found in Florida's Learner's Permit Restrictions.
Step 3: Advancing to an Intermediate License
At age 16, drivers who have held their learner’s permit for at least 12 months without any traffic convictions may apply for an intermediate Class E license. Requirements include:
- Logging the 50 hours of supervised driving
- Having no moving violation convictions during the permit period (one conviction is allowed with a traffic school completion)
- Passing the Class E Driving Skills Test
Teens must also adhere to curfew restrictions based on age:
- 16-year-olds: No driving between 11 PM and 6 AM unless accompanied by a licensed driver or traveling to/from work
- 17-year-olds: No driving between 1 AM and 5 AM under the same conditions
See the Florida Driver License Requirements for Teens for full eligibility rules.
Step 4: Preparing for the Road Test
Before taking the driving skills test, applicants should ensure they are familiar with safe driving practices, such as:
- Proper signaling, lane changes, and parking
- Understanding of Florida's Right Lane Law and Move Over Law
- Avoiding distractions like texting (Florida's No Texting While Driving Law)
To get ready for the exam, review the Florida Driver License Handbook Overview and practice with available resources.
Step 5: What to Bring to Your DMV Appointment
Applicants must bring:
- Proof of identity, Social Security number, and residential address
- Completed Parent Proctoring Form (if under 18)
- Certification of completed driving hours
You can check exactly what documents you need in What to Bring for Your Florida Driver License Appointment.
Step 6: Earning the Full Class E License
Once the applicant turns 18 or completes the intermediate licensing period without violations, they are eligible for a full Class E license with no curfew restrictions.
While not mandatory, taking a Florida Defensive Driving Course can further enhance safety knowledge and sometimes reduce insurance premiums.
By following these structured steps, Florida drivers move responsibly from learners to fully licensed motorists, equipped with the skills and experience to drive safely on the road.