Ready to Get Your Florida Learner's Permit?
New teen drivers between the ages of 14 1/2 and 17 must complete a Driver Education Traffic Safety (DETS) course to get a learner's permit. Our DETS program is approved by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). It covers traffic laws, DUI prevention, defensive driving and handling emergencies. It is easy to follow, is completely online and lets you learn at your preferred pace.
Once you complete the DETS course, you'll be able to take the Class E Knowledge Exam online and apply for your instructional permit.
Learner's Permit Requirements
In Florida, 15 is the minimum age requirement to apply for a learner's permit. Individuals aged 14 1/2 to 17 years old must complete the DETS course, as required by the state. After finishing, students are eligible to take the Class E Knowledge Exam (permit test) online or in person.
Before applying for a full license, an individual must hold a learner's permit for at least 12 months or until turning 18, whichever comes first. As a permit holder, the teen must finish 50 hours of supervised behind-the-wheel driving practice with a licensed adult (aged 21 or older), including 10 hours at night, and maintain a clean driving record.
What You'll Learn in the DETS Course
This DETS program equips first-time teen drivers with the knowledge and skills needed for responsible driving. Topics covered include:
- Traffic signs and road markings
- Vehicle control and maneuvering
- Right-of-way rules
- Sharing the road
- Vulnerable road users
- Speed and highway safety laws
- Driving in varying conditions
- Hazard perception and decision-making
- DUI and substance laws
- Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL)
Why Choose Our Course?
SafeMotorist makes driver education simple. Designed by traffic safety experts, our courses help students meet licensing requirements while encouraging safe, responsible driving.
- State-approved training that satisfies licensing requirements
- 100% online access from any device, anytime
- Self-paced learning that fits busy schedules
- Engaging, easy-to-follow lessons designed for better retention
- From a trusted driver education provider with years of experience helping students get licensed
SafeMotorist provides a convenient and reliable path for you to meet state requirements, whether you're a teen earning an instructional permit or an adult obtaining a first driver's license.
What Happens After Course Completion?
Your course completion will be electronically reported to the state once you pass the final exam. However, you still need to work through a few additional steps before getting your learner's permit or license:
- Gather documentation — You'll need to offer proof of identity, Social Security number and residential address.
- Pass the vision and hearing tests — These are administered at your local licensing office.
- Schedule an appointment (if needed) — Some locations require appointments, especially for written or driving tests.
- Visit the FLHSMV — You'll submit your documents and take any required exams.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Florida DETS Course?
The Florida Driver Education and Traffic Safety course is a six-hour online educational program designed for teens seeking an instructional permit. It covers traffic laws, safe driving practices and the risks of substance use behind the wheel.
Is this program Florida-approved?
Yes. This program is approved by the FLHSMV.
How long is the course?
The DETS course takes about six hours to complete and must be finished within 90 days of registration. Students can start and stop lessons at any time. Progress is saved automatically.
Will I be tested during this course?
Yes. This program contains five quizzes (15 questions each) and a final exam (40 questions). Both are multiple-choice in format. Quizzes require a score of 70% to pass and offer unlimited attempts. Students have three attempts to pass the final exam with a score of at least 80%.
Although the final exam and quizzes are not timed, the full course must be completed within 90 days of enrollment.
Are there security measures during the course?
Yes. The lessons use security questions for identity verification. If you answer incorrectly three times, you'll be temporarily locked out for 30 minutes. You will have 90 seconds to answer each individual question.
How do I get my course completion certificate?
A digital certificate is issued upon course completion. You may download and print the certificate for your records.
Is my completion reported to the FLHSMV?
Yes. We send your completion certification to the FLHSMV electronically.
What is the TLSAE (or DATA) course, and should I take it as well?
The Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) program — also known as the Drug, Alcohol and Traffic Awareness (DATA) program — is required for first-time drivers in Florida who are 18 and older.
This program must be completed before applying for your driver's license if:
- You have never held a driver's license in any U.S. state or territory.
- You are 18 or older seeking your first license.
- You are a new resident who has never possessed a license in another state or country.
Are the TLSAE and DATA courses the same?
Yes. TLSAE stands for Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education, while DATA stands for Drug, Alcohol and Traffic Awareness. The names are used interchangeably.
