What You Need to Get a Florida Learner's Permit
A Florida learner's permit lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car before you take the road test for your full license. To get one in 2017, you need to be at least 15 years old, pass a written knowledge test at your local Department of Motor Vehicles office, and pay the permit fee. You do not need a Social Security number, but you do need proof of identity and proof of your Florida residency.
The written test covers Florida traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can study using the official Florida Driver License Handbook, which the DMV provides free online or in print at any office. Most people study for a few days to a week before taking the test. You get one attempt per visit to the DMV, though you can return on another day if you do not pass.
Key Takeaways
- You must be at least 15 years old and bring proof of identity and Florida residency to the DMV to get your learner's permit.
- The written knowledge test covers Florida traffic laws and road signs; you can study using the free Florida Driver License Handbook.
- The permit fee in 2017 is $6.25, and you pay this only after you pass the written test.
- Once you have your permit, you can drive only with a licensed adult age 21 or older in the front passenger seat.
- Your learner's permit is valid for three years from the date you receive it.
Documents to Bring to the DMV
Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate to prove your identity and age. A passport, state ID, or school ID can also work for identity, but the birth certificate is the most straightforward proof of age. You will also need to show proof that you live in Florida — a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement with your name and current address works for this.
If your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued, bring the legal document that shows the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order. Bring your Social Security card if you have one, though it is not required. The DMV staff will tell you when ready if any document is missing or unacceptable, so you can get it and return the same day if you are nearby.
How the Written Test Works
The test has 50 multiple-choice questions about Florida traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving. You need to answer at least 40 questions correctly to pass — that is 80 percent. The test takes most people 20 to 30 minutes. You sit at a computer terminal at the DMV office, and the system tells you when ready whether you passed or failed.
The questions come from the Florida Driver License Handbook, so studying that handbook is the most direct way to prepare. You can read it online at the Florida DMV website or pick up a printed copy at any DMV office. Many people also use practice tests available online through the DMV website, which show you the kinds of questions you will see. If you fail, you can schedule another test appointment for a later date.
Restrictions on Your Learner's Permit
With a learner's permit, you can drive only when a licensed driver age 21 or older is sitting in the front passenger seat next to you. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive with only teenage passengers. You must obey all traffic laws, including speed limits and traffic signals, just as a licensed driver would.
You cannot use a cell phone while driving, even with a hands-free device, unless it is a true hands-free system built into the car. You must wear your seatbelt at all times. If you are stopped by police, you must show your learner's permit and the supervising driver's license. Violating these rules can result in fines and may delay your path to a full license.
How Long Your Permit Lasts and What Comes Next
Your learner's permit is valid for three years from the date you receive it. During this time, you practice driving with your supervising adult and build experience before taking the road test for your full license. There is no minimum amount of time you must hold the permit — you can take the road test as soon as you feel ready, even a few weeks after getting it.
When you are ready to take the road test, you return to the DMV with your learner's permit, proof of identity, and proof of residency again. You will drive a short route with a DMV examiner who watches your driving and scores you on safety, control, and following traffic laws. If you pass, you receive your full driver's license. If you do not pass, you can schedule another road test for a later date and keep practicing with your permit.
DMV Office Locations and Hours
Florida has DMV offices in every county. You can find the office nearest you and its hours on the Florida DMV website. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, though some have limited Saturday hours. Call ahead or check online before you go, because wait times vary by location and time of day.
Bring all your documents in one visit so you do not have to return. If you are under 18, you may need a parent or guardian to sign paperwork, so check with your local office about their specific requirements. Some offices allow you to make an appointment online, which can shorten your wait time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get my learner's permit if I am 14?
No. Florida requires you to be at least 15 years old to get a learner's permit. Once you turn 15, you can go to the DMV and take the written test.
What if I fail the written test?
You can take the test again on another day. There is no waiting period between attempts in 2017. Study the Florida Driver License Handbook more thoroughly before your next visit, and consider taking practice tests online to identify which topics you need to review.
Do I need a parent with me to get my learner's permit?
You should bring a parent or guardian if you are under 18, because they may need to sign consent forms. Call your local DMV office to confirm their requirements before you go. Even if a parent is not required to be present, they will need to sign your permit process.
Can I drive on the highway with my learner's permit?
Yes, you can drive on the highway with your learner's permit as long as a licensed adult age 21 or older is in the front passenger seat. You must follow all traffic laws and speed limits just as you would on any other road.
What happens if my learner's permit expires?
Your permit is valid for three years. If it expires before you get your full license, you can renew it at the DMV by paying the renewal fee and passing the written test again. You do not have to wait until it expires — you can renew it at any time during its validity period.