Can I Take the Driver's Test Without a Permit in Florida?

Sep 10, 2025

If you're under 18, no you cannot take a driver's test without first obtaining a learner's permit. The permit is a mandatory prerequisite that legally allows you to practice driving and is required to schedule your official road exam. Your path to getting that permit depends entirely on your age: if you're 14-17, you must complete the Driver Education and Traffic Safety (DETS) course. Providers like DetsCourse.com offer these state-approved courses online to help you get started efficiently.

If you're 18 or older, you need the Drug and Alcohol Course (Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education or TLSAE course). Providers like DrugAndAlcoholCourse.com offer these state-approved courses online to help you get started efficiently.

The Permit is Your Non-Negotiable First Step

If you're under 18, you cannot schedule or take a state-administered driving skills test without first holding this permit. In Florida, for drivers under 18 must hold their learner's license for 12 months without any traffic convictions before they are eligible to take the driver's test for their full license.

How to Get Your Florida Permit: Two Paths Based on Your Age

For Ages 14-17: The DETS CourseTeens must first successfully complete a 6-hour Driver Education and Traffic Safety (DETS) course from a state-approved provider. This course covers critical topics like traffic laws and safe driving practices. After completion, you must pass the 50-question Class E Knowledge Exam, which requires a score of 80% or higher (at least 40 correct answers). A parent or guardian must be present to proctor this exam if taken online. Providers like DetsCourse.com offer these state-approved courses and the official DMV permit exam online so no trip to the DMV or waiting weeks or months for an appointment.

For Ages 18 and Over: The TLSAE CourseNew drivers who are 18 or older are required to take the 4-hour Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) course. Similar to the process for minors, this is followed by passing the same written knowledge exam to continue taking the driver's test. Providers like DrugAndAlcoholCourse.com offer this state-approved course online to help you get started efficiently. After completion, new drivers can then proceed to take the DMV written exam at a tax collectors office or DMV.df

From Permit to License: The Testing Process

Once you have your learner's permit, you can work toward scheduling your final exams. For drivers under 18, Florida mandates a 12-month holding period. During this time, you must log at least 50 hours of supervised driving practice, with 10 of those hours occurring at night. After meeting these requirements, you can schedule your driving skills test. This behind-the-wheel exam can be taken at a DMV service center or through an approved third-party tester, who will automatically submit your passing results to the FLHSMV.

  • Practical Tip: Use online practice tests to thoroughly prepare for the DMV's written knowledge exam. Being well-prepared helps you pass on your first attempt and avoid retake fees.
  1. Step 1: Complete Your Course. Enroll in and finish the state-required DETS or TLSAE course from an approved provider.
  2. Step 2: Pass the Knowledge Test. Take and pass the 50-question permit exam online (under 18) or at a DMV testing location (adults).
  3. Step 3: Practice Driving. Hold your permit for any required time period and complete all mandated practice driving hours.
  4. Step 4: Take the Driving Test. Schedule and pass your behind-the-wheel driving skills test to earn your license.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get my license at 18 without a permit?

If you are 18 or older getting your first drivers license in Florida you are not required to hold a learners permit. You can go straight to take the TLSAE course and prepare for the written Class E Knowledge Exam, followed by the driving skills test.