What you need to do to get your first Florida driver's license
To get your first Florida driver's license, you must pass a written test on traffic laws, pass a driving test with an examiner, and provide documents proving your identity and Florida residency. The process takes place at your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office, though you can study for the written test online before you go. Most people complete the written test and schedule a driving test on the same visit, then return for the driving test a few days or weeks later.
You cannot skip the written test by taking a driver education course, but completing an approved course can lower your insurance rates and, if you are under 18, reduce the restrictions on your license. The whole process from your first visit to receiving your license in the mail typically takes three to six weeks.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring a valid photo ID, proof of your Social Security number, and two documents showing your Florida address to your DMV visit.
- The written test covers Florida traffic laws and road signs and is offered in multiple languages; you can study using the official Florida Driver Handbook available free online.
- You must pass the written test before you can schedule a driving test, and you need to bring your own vehicle or use one provided by a testing service for the driving exam.
- If you are under 18, you must hold a learner's permit for a set period and log supervised driving hours before you can take the driving test.
- Your license arrives by mail within one to two weeks after you pass the driving test; you receive a temporary paper license at the DMV to use until it arrives.
Documents you must bring to the DMV
Bring one valid photo ID — a passport, passport card, military ID, or out-of-state driver's license all work. You also need proof of your Social Security number, which can be your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a tax return, or a 1099 form. Do not bring a printed copy of your Social Security number from a website; the DMV will not accept it.
You must also prove you live in Florida. Bring two documents with your current name and address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, insurance policy, or government mail. The documents must show your address and be dated within the last 60 days. If you recently moved and do not have two documents yet, call your local DMV office to ask what they will accept — some offices make exceptions for recent movers.
If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the document that shows the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Bring the original or a certified copy.
The written test: what it covers and how to study
The written test has 50 multiple-choice questions about Florida traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 40 questions correctly to pass. The test is offered in English, Spanish, Creole, and several other languages — ask at the DMV which languages are available at your location.
Study using the official Florida Driver Handbook, which is free and available on the Florida DMV website. The handbook covers everything on the test. You can read it online, read it as a PDF, or request a printed copy at the DMV. Many people study the handbook for a few hours over several days before their test. The DMV also offers practice tests online at no cost.
You can retake the written test if you do not pass, but you must wait one day between attempts. Each attempt costs the same fee as your initial test. Most people pass on their first try if they study the handbook.
How the driving test works and what examiners look for
The driving test lasts about 20 to 30 minutes. An examiner sits in the passenger seat while you drive on public roads. The examiner watches how you handle the vehicle, obey traffic laws, and respond to other drivers and road conditions. You must demonstrate that you can start the car, steer smoothly, brake safely, turn correctly, park, and follow traffic signs and signals.
You can bring your own vehicle or use one provided by a third-party testing service. If you bring your own car, it must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition — the examiner will check the brakes, lights, windshield wipers, and horn before the test begins. If the vehicle fails this safety check, you cannot take the test that day.
Common reasons people fail the driving test include running a red light or stop sign, improper lane changes, hitting a curb while parking, speeding, or failing to use turn signals. If you do not pass, you can retake the test after waiting one day. You must pay the test fee again.
Special rules if you are under 18
If you are under 18, you must first obtain a learner's permit by passing the written test. You then must hold the permit for a minimum of three months and log at least 50 hours of supervised driving, with at least 10 hours at night. A parent, guardian, or licensed driver at least 21 years old must be in the car with you during this time.
After you meet the three-month requirement and the 50-hour requirement, you can schedule your driving test. Some driving schools offer programs that combine instruction with the supervised hours, which can help you meet the requirement faster. The school will provide documentation of your hours to bring to the DMV.
Once you pass the driving test, your license will have restrictions: you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. for the first three months, and you cannot have passengers under 20 unless a parent or guardian is in the car. These restrictions lift after three months of holding the license without violations.
What happens after you pass the driving test
After you pass the driving test, the examiner will give you a temporary paper license valid for 30 days. Your permanent license will be mailed to the address you provided at the DMV within one to two weeks. The temporary license works as your official license until the permanent one arrives, so you can drive when ready.
If your permanent license does not arrive within three weeks, contact your local DMV office. Bring your temporary license and ask them to check the status. Occasionally licenses are delayed in the mail, and the DMV can issue a replacement.
Fees and where to find your local DMV office
The fee for a first-time driver's license in Florida is $48 for an eight-year license. If you are under 21, the license costs $25 and expires when you turn 21. The written test and driving test each have separate fees as well — check your local DMV office's website for the exact amounts, as they vary slightly by location.
Find your local DMV office on the Florida DMV website by entering your county or zip code. Many offices allow you to schedule an appointment online, which can reduce wait times. Some offices are busier than others; calling ahead to ask about typical wait times can help you choose the best time to visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the written test online from home?
No, you must take the written test in person at a DMV office. However, you can study the material online using the free Florida Driver Handbook and practice tests on the DMV website before you go.
What if I fail the driving test — how soon can I retake it?
You can retake the driving test after waiting one day. You must pay the test fee again. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it, so keep trying until you pass.
Do I need to take a driver education course to get my license?
No, a driver education course is not required for adults. However, if you are under 18, completing an approved course can help you meet the supervised driving hours faster and may lower your car insurance rates.
What if I move to a different county before I get my license?
You can take your written test and driving test at any DMV office in Florida, regardless of which county you live in. Just bring your documents showing your current address.
Can I use my learner's permit to drive alone?
No, a learner's permit requires a licensed driver at least 21 years old to be in the car with you at all times. You cannot drive alone until you pass the driving test and receive your full driver's license.