In a bold move to reduce accidents and improve safety across its highways, Florida has implemented a new driving law targeting teen drivers. As of August 1, 2025, the state now requires young drivers aged 15 and older to meet additional training and certification standards before and after receiving their learner’s permit.
The law, part of Statute 322.1615, was signed into effect by Governor Ron DeSantis under Senate Bill 994, which was passed unanimously by Florida lawmakers.
The main objective is to reduce teen-related crashes and fatalities, which, according to reports, have been alarmingly high in recent years.
What the New 50-Hour Driving Law Requires
Previously, Florida teen drivers were only required to complete a four-hour Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) course. Now, with the updated law, they must also fulfill the following additional requirements:
- Complete a 50-hour Driver Education/Traffic Safety classroom course, approved by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV)
- Pass vision and hearing screenings
- Obtain parental consent if under 18
- Follow strict driving restrictions after receiving a permit
Failure to comply with these steps will prevent teens from obtaining or retaining a driver’s license.
Post-Permit Driving Restrictions
Even after receiving a permit, teen drivers in Florida must continue to follow these rules:
- First 3 months: Driving is restricted to daylight hours only
- A licensed adult (21 years or older) must be in the passenger seat at all times
These restrictions are aimed at reducing risks during the early stages of driving experience.
Breakdown of Teen Driver Requirements in Florida – 2025
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age Eligibility | 15 years and older |
| Mandatory Course | 50-hour Driver Education Course (FLHSMV-approved) |
| Vision & Hearing Tests | Required before permit issuance |
| Parental Consent | Mandatory for minors |
| Permit Restrictions – First 3 Months | Daytime driving only |
| Supervision Requirement | Licensed adult (21+) must be present in the vehicle |
| TLSAE Course | 4-hour Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education still required |
Why This Change Was Needed
According to state data, over 1 million crashes involving teen drivers occurred in Florida in 2020 alone, leading to thousands of injuries and fatalities. This alarming statistic spurred lawmakers to act swiftly to implement stricter training and supervision protocols for young drivers.
The goal is simple: reduce crashes and make roads safer for everyone.
Florida’s move mirrors efforts in other states like Ohio, where all drivers under 21 will soon be required to complete a full driver’s education course, regardless of age.
What Teens and Parents Need to Do Now
To stay compliant with the law and avoid disqualification from driving:
- Enroll in the approved 50-hour driver education course early
- Ensure all required screenings (vision and hearing) are completed
- Submit necessary documents and parental consent during permit application
- Strictly follow the supervised and daytime driving rules post-permit
Florida’s Levy County schools and others have already begun including these new requirements in their curriculum, and resources like the official Florida Driver Handbook and FLHSMV portal provide valuable guidance for new drivers.
Governor’s Stand on Road Safety
Governor Ron DeSantis has been firm in advocating for more responsibility on the roads. By signing Senate Bill 994, he emphasized Florida’s commitment to drastically lowering teen crash rates and creating a culture of caution, training, and supervision among young drivers.
Similarly, Ohio’s Governor Mike DeWine has supported expanded driver education requirements for all new drivers under 21, stating that proper training makes all drivers safer—not just teens.
Florida’s new 50-hour driving law is a major step forward in teen driver safety. With stricter requirements now in effect, young drivers must take their responsibilities seriously. The risk of losing license privileges is very real for those who do not comply.
Parents, educators, and teens should work together to ensure all training hours, requirements, and restrictions are followed.
These changes may require more effort, but the long-term payoff is fewer accidents, safer roads, and more prepared drivers behind the wheel.
FAQs
Is the 50-hour course separate from the standard TLSAE course?
Yes. Teens must now complete both the 4-hour TLSAE course and an additional 50-hour Driver Education course approved by FLHSMV.
What happens if a teen does not complete the 50-hour course?
Failure to complete the course will result in disqualification from receiving or maintaining a driver’s license in Florida.
Can the 50-hour training be completed online?
Some approved programs may offer online components, but the course must be approved by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) to count.
