DETS Course
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. The DETS course 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's easy to follow, 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 learner's permit.
Train With Us
When you choose SafeMotorist, you're choosing a trusted leader in online driver education. Our courses are designed by traffic safety experts and approved by the state, ensuring you get the training you need to meet licensing requirements.
Whether you're a teen preparing for your learner's permit or a first-time adult driver, our flexible, online format lets you learn at your own pace on any device. With clear lessons and engaging content, SafeMotorist makes it easy to earn your license.
About the Learner's Permit
With a learner's permit, teens must drive with a licensed adult over 21 to gain behind-the-wheel experience and meet driving hour requirements. In Florida, 15 is the minimum age requirement to apply for a learner's permit. Those between 14 1/2 and 17 years old must complete the DETS course, as required by the FLHSMV. After finishing, they 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 driving practice, including 10 hours at night, and maintain a clean driving record.
Course Topics
This state-approved DETS course is crafted to equip 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)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Florida DETS Course?
The Florida Driver Education and Traffic Safety course is a state-approved six-hour online program designed for teens seeking a learner's permit. It covers traffic laws, safe driving practices and the risks of substance use behind the wheel.
Is this course state-approved?
Yes. The course 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%. Failing the final exam all three times requires re-registration.
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 course uses 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.
Is my course completion reported to the FLHSMV?
Yes. We send your completion certification to the FLHSMV electronically.
What happens when I finish the course?
Your course completion will be electronically reported to the FLHSMV 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 — This is where you'll submit your documents and take any required exams.
What is the TLSAE (or DATA) course, and should I take it as well?
The Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) course — also known as the Drug, Alcohol and Traffic Awareness (DATA) course — is required for first-time drivers in Florida who are 18 and older.
This course 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.
