Starting July 1, a new rule is in effect for teen drivers in Florida. The Lee County Tax Collector’s Office has announced that all new drivers between the ages of 15 and 17 must now complete specific steps to obtain a Florida learner’s permit:
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✅ Six-hour Driver Education Course
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✅ Four-hour Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) Course
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✅ Required REAL ID documents, proof of address, and parental consent
However, there’s a temporary exemption available:
Teens who complete the TLSAE course online before August 1 will not be required to take the six-hour Driver Education course. Keep in mind, teens must be at least 14 years old to take the TLSAE.
You can find a list of state-approved TLSAE course providers on the official Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles website: www.flhsmv.gov
Already have a permit?
No worries — teens who received their learner’s permit before July 1 are not affected by this new rule. Additionally, teens moving to Florida with a valid out-of-state permit or license are also exempt from the new requirements.
Want more details?
Visit the official bill page here: Senate Bill 994 – 2025
