New Learner License Requirements for Teens Starting August 1, 2025

June 30, 2025

New Learner License Requirements for Teens Starting August 1, 2025

A new Florida law impacting first-time learner license holders under the age of 18 goes into effect this summer. While the law is effective July 1, Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) has advised that the new requirements will not be enforced until August 1, 2025.

Beginning August 1, the changes will require all first-time learner license applicants under the age of 18 to complete a new 6-hour Driver Education Traffic Safety (DETS) course before they can be issued a learner license. In addition to the DETS course, applicants are still required to pass the Class E general knowledge written exam.

The DETS course replaces the 4-hour Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) course previously required for applicants under 18 years old.

Exceptions to the New Requirement
Applicants under 18 who complete the 4-hour TLSAE course prior to August 1, 2025 will qualify for an exception to the DETS course requirement - if a learner license is obtained within one year of the TLSAE course completion date.

Approved TLSAE course providers can be found on the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) website.

Applicants Age 18 and Older
Individuals who are 18 years of age or older on the date of application can choose to complete either the 4-hour TLSAE course or the new 6-hour DETS course, in addition to passing the written knowledge exam, to qualify for a first-time learner license.

Learn More
More information and resources for learner licenses and transactions provided by the Manatee County Tax Collector are available on taxcollector.com.