South · Learner’s License
How to get your learner’s permit in Florida
Florida issues a learner’s license at 15 after the TLSAE drug and alcohol course and a knowledge exam. Teens must hold it 12 months — one of the longer holding periods in the country.
Florida permit requirements at a glance
| Minimum age | 15 |
|---|---|
| Official name | Learner’s License |
| Supervised practice | 50 hours, including 10 at night |
| Minimum holding period | 12 months (or until age 18, whichever comes first) |
| Issuing agency | Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) (official source ↗) |
How easy is it to get licensed in Florida?
Our Ease Score weighs starting age, practice hours, and waiting time. See how it works & the full 50-state ranking →
- Starting age
- 15
- Practice hours
- 50 hours
- Waiting time
- 12 months
Longer bars = easier. Overall: 26/100. Easiest in the South: Arkansas (#1) . Nationally, Arkansas is #1 and Maryland is #50.
Did you know? New Hampshire is the only state with no learner’s permit — teens practice at 15½ with a licensed adult, no paperwork first. See for yourself →
⏳ Count down to your Florida permit date · ⚔️ Compare Florida with another state · 📝 Track your practice hours
Steps to get your permit in Florida
- Confirm you’re eligible. You must be at least 15 . If you’re under 18, a parent or legal guardian will need to sign your application.
- Study the official Florida driver manual. The knowledge test is based on it — download it free from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) site. Focus on road signs, right-of-way, and Florida’s specific teen-driving (GDL) restrictions.
- Gather your documents. Plan on proof of identity (certified birth certificate or valid passport), your Social Security number, two proofs of Florida residency, and — in many states — proof of school enrollment. The exact list is on the official Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) page.
- Apply, pass the vision screening, and take the knowledge test. Most offices recommend or require an appointment, and a fee applies at application — check current fees on the official site, as they change periodically.
- Practice with a qualifying supervising driver. Florida requires 50 hours, including 10 at night. Keep a signed log — you'll certify it later.
- Hold your permit for the required period. In Florida, that's 12 months (or until age 18, whichever comes first). Then schedule your road test for the next license stage.
Good to know in Florida
- For the first 3 months, driving is allowed only during daylight hours; after that, until 10 p.m.
Florida learner’s permit FAQ
How old do you have to be to get a learner's permit in Florida?
The minimum age is 15. Florida calls this credential the Learner’s License.
How many supervised driving hours does Florida require?
Florida requires 50 hours, including 10 at night. A parent, guardian, or qualifying licensed adult must certify the hours.
How long do you have to hold a learner's permit in Florida?
The minimum holding period is 12 months (or until age 18, whichever comes first) before you can move to the next license stage.
Can you drive alone with a learner's permit in Florida?
No. In every US state, a permit holder must be supervised by a qualifying licensed adult seated in the front passenger seat. Driving alone on a permit can lead to citations and can delay your license.
Is Florida an easy state to get licensed in?
Florida ranks #47 of 50 on our Ease Score (26/100), which weighs starting age, required practice hours, and the permit waiting period. Arkansas is the easiest state in the nation and Maryland is the toughest.