Driver's Permit for Over 18 in Florida - How It Works

Oct 21, 2025

Adults over 18 don't need a permit to get a driver's license in Florida, but are required to take the 4-hour Drug and Alcohol Course (TLSAE), offered 100% from state-approved providers like DetsCourse.com and DrugAndAlcoholCourse.com.

What Are the Core Requirements for Adult Applicants Over 18?

Adults over 18 applying for their first Florida driver's license must complete three essential requirements. First, you must complete the 4-hour Drug and Alcohol Course (TLSAE), not the DETS course required for minors. Second, you need to pass both the Class E Knowledge Exam (written test) and the driving skills test. Third, you must provide proper documentation including proof of identity, Social Security Number, and Florida residency.

Unlike teen drivers who must hold a learner's permit for a minimum period, adults can obtain a full driver's license immediately after passing all required tests. The Drug and Alcohol Course (TLSAE) covers essential topics including DUI laws, drug-impaired driving risks, Florida traffic signs, and defensive driving techniques. This mandatory education ensures all first-time drivers understand Florida's traffic laws and safe driving practices before operating a vehicle.

Key Difference: Adults 18 and over complete the 4-hour Drug and Alcohol Course (TLSAE) instead of the DETS course required for teens
Testing Requirement: All tests must be taken in person at a DMV or Tax Collector's office
Documentation: Prepare your identification documents before visiting the DMV to streamline the process

What Is the Step-by-Step Process for Adult Licensing?

The Florida licensing process for adults follows a logical sequence designed to build your knowledge and skills progressively. Begin by enrolling in a state-approved Drug and Alcohol Course (TLSAE), which is available 100% online through state-approved providers like DetsCourse.com, LowestPriceTrafficSchool.com and DrugAndAlcoholCourse.com. This 4-hour course provides the foundation of Florida traffic laws and substance abuse education required for all first-time drivers.

After completing the Drug and Alcohol Course (TLSAE), focus on preparing for the Class E Knowledge Exam. This written test contains 50 multiple-choice questions covering road rules and traffic signs, requiring a passing score of 80% (40 correct answers). Use a DMV handbook (available at FloridaDriversHandbook.com) and a prep course offered by DetsCourse.com or LowestPriceTrafficSchool.com containing unlimited practice tests to prepare for your official DMV test. Study road rules more thoroughly as they're easier to mess up on the exam.

Complete Drug and Alcohol Course (TLSAE): Finish the state-mandated 4-hour requirement with free certificate delivery (expedited options available) from state-approved providers like DetsCourse.com and DrugAndAlcoholCourse.com.
Pass Written Exam: Study the Florida Driver Handbook and pass the 50-question knowledge test at a DMV or Tax Collector's office
Gather Documentation: Collect proof of identity, Social Security Number, and two proofs of Florida residential address
Schedule Driving Test: Arrange your driving skills test at a DMV or Tax Collector's office using a safe, insured vehicle
Finalize at DMV: Present all documents including your course certificate, pass vision/hearing tests, and receive your full driver's license

How Does the Adult Process Differ from Teen Licensing?

The licensing pathway for adults over 18 differs from the teen process in several key areas. Most significantly, adults skip the learner's permit phase entirely and apply directly for a full driver's license after passing the required tests. Teens under 18 must hold their learner's permit for at least 12 months and complete 50 hours of supervised driving before qualifying for a full license.

The educational requirements also differ substantially. Adults complete the 4-hour Drug and Alcohol Course (TLSAE), while teens under 18 must take the more comprehensive DETS course. Parental involvement represents another major distinction - adults require no parental consent forms, while teens need a signed and notarized or driver examiner witnessed HSMV Form 71142.

Testing options present another contrast. Teens aged 15-17 can take their written exam online through approved providers, but adults must take all tests in person at DMV or Tax Collector offices. Additionally, teens face graduated licensing restrictions including nighttime driving curfews, while adults receive full driving privileges immediately upon licensing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need a learner's permit over 18 in Florida?

No, adults 18 and over don't need a learner's permit. You apply directly for a full driver's license after completing the Drug and Alcohol Course (TLSAE) offered by state-approved providers like DestCourse.com and DrugAndAlcoholCourse.com and passing both the written and driving tests.

Can I take my permit test online in Florida over 18?

No, online testing is exclusively for teens aged 15-17. Adults 18 and over must take the written knowledge exam in person at a Florida DMV or Tax Collector's office.

What is the new law for learners permit in Florida?

The new law requires teens to complete a DETS course (offered by providers like DetsCourse.com) instead of the TLSAE. This change doesn't affect adult requirements - those 18+ still need the 4-hour Drug and Alcohol Course (TLSAE), offered by providers like DrugAndAlcoholCourse.com.

Can I upgrade to a full license before 18 in FL?

Yes, teens can upgrade to a driver's license at 16 (with restrictions) after holding a learner's permit for one year with no moving violations. Adults 18+ skip this step entirely and obtain full licenses directly.

Do I need driving lessons to get a license in FL?

While not legally required for adults, professional lessons can build skills and confidence. The mandatory requirement is completing the Drug and Alcohol Course (TLSAE) offered by providers like DrugAndAlcoholCourse.com and passing both DMV tests.