Kim Kat
Florida is making it more challenging for teens to get a driver’s license starting July 1, 2025, under Senate Bill 994.
The aim is safer roads, but new requirements for in-person classroom driver’s education, paperwork, and testing present fresh hurdles—especially for teens in rural or low‑income families. Here’s a full breakdown of what’s changing, why it matters, and how families can adapt.
What’s Changing for Teen Drivers in Florida
Under the updated rules:
- Teens aged 15–17 must complete a state-approved classroom driver’s education course.
- The Class E Knowledge Exam remains, but now requires 80% or higher on 50 questions.
- Teens must pass vision and hearing screenings, plus provide required identity documentation.
- Existing requirement of 50 supervised driving hours remains, with 10 at night.
- A minimum 12‑month learner’s permit period still applies.
Comparison: Before vs. After July 1, 2025
| Requirement | Before July 1 | After July 1 |
|---|---|---|
| Driver’s Ed Course | TLSAE online | FLHSMV-approved in-person classroom lessons |
| Knowledge Test | Yes (50 questions, 80%) | Yes (same pass rate) |
| Vision & Hearing Test | Yes | Yes |
| Supervised Driving | 50 hours (10 at night) | Same |
| Parental Consent | Yes | Yes |
| Permit Period | 1 year | 1 year |
Why the Law Was Enacted
- Sen. Jay Collins, who sponsored the bill, argues classroom training addresses real‑world hazards more effectively than online instruction alone.
- National data suggests in-person, interactive learning fosters safer driving behavior among teens.
- The state also passed “Super Speeder” laws, adding steep penalties for extreme speeding—together, these indicate a push toward safer, more responsible teen drivers.
Challenges for Teens and Families
New barriers include:
- Limited classroom access in rural areas
- Higher costs compared to online courses
- Potential capacity shortages leading to longer wait times
- Additional time and planning required, especially families juggling work and transportation needs
Though officials aim for widespread access, disparities in availability may disadvantage some families.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a License Under New Rules
- Age 15: Enroll in FLHSMV-approved in-person driver’s ed course.
- Pass Knowledge Exam: Achieve at least 80% on the 50-question test.
- Screenings: Complete vision and hearing tests.
- Submit Documentation:
- Social Security Number
- Proof of identity and Florida residency
- Parental consent form
- Receive Learner’s Permit and complete 50 hours supervised driving, including 10 hours at night.
- Wait: Maintain permit for 12 months with no moving violations.
- Apply for Class E License once age 16+ and criteria met.
How Families Should Prepare
- Contact local driver’s ed providers or school districts for course options and schedules.
- Budget accordingly as in-person courses typically cost more.
- Begin early to avoid back-to-school rush or availability issues.
- Stay updated with FLHSMV announcements for approved providers and scheduling info.
Related Safety Measures: Super Speeder Laws
Florida’s stricter approach expands beyond licensing:
- Hefty fines and possible jail for excessive speeding
- Indicates legislative intent to improve overall road safety
Families must be ready for both licensing hurdles and tougher traffic penalties.
With Senate Bill 994 in effect from July 1, 2025, Florida teen drivers face a more structured and demanding path to licensure. Classroom-based driver’s ed, stricter exams, and additional requirements aim to reduce accidents and increase readiness—but also raise costs and logistical challenges for families.
To succeed, start early: research approved courses, budget for fees, and prepare required forms and documentation. With proper planning, teens can meet the new standards and emerge better prepared for safe, responsible driving.
FAQs
Is online driver’s ed still allowed?
No. Teens must complete a state-approved in-person classroom course—online TLSAE alone is no longer sufficient.
Do rural teens need to travel far for driver’s ed?
Potentially. Until more providers open, some students may need to travel longer distances or wait longer for available classes.
Will these new rules make roads safer?
Research supports that interactive, classroom-based instruction provides better training on hazards and decision-making than online learning alone.