Who Can You Drive With When You Have a Permit in Florida?

Oct 4, 2025

Once you have your permit, you must always be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old in the front passenger seat. Under Florida's updated driving laws, teens under 18 can now complete both the mandatory 6-hour DETS Course and take their official DMV exam entirely online at home through providers like DetsCourse.com to get their permit.

Who Can Be in the Car With a Permit Driver

Florida has clear, non-negotiable rules about supervision and passengers for learner's permit holders. These restrictions are designed to ensure your safety as you gain driving experience under proper guidance.

The most critical requirement is that a licensed driver aged 21 or older must always occupy the front passenger seat when you're driving. This supervising driver must have a valid license and be alert and capable of providing instruction and intervention if needed. They cannot be distracted or impaired in any way.

Passenger restrictions are equally important. You cannot have more passengers than available seatbelts in the vehicle, and all occupants must be properly restrained. While Florida doesn't specify age limits for additional passengers beyond the required supervisor, practical wisdom suggests limiting passengers and distractions during your learning phase.

Time restrictions also apply to permit holders. For the first three (3) months, you may not drive in the dark. After three (3) months, you may drive in the dark,but not after 10 P.M. These nighttime hours present additional challenges for inexperienced drivers, making the restriction a important safety measure.

The vehicle you drive must be properly registered, insured, and in good working condition. Your supervising driver is ultimately responsible for ensuring the vehicle is safe for you to operate.

Florida's New Permit Requirements for Under-18 Drivers

Florida's driver education requirements changed significantly in 2025. Starting August 1, 2025, all teens ages 14 to 17 must complete a state-approved 6-hour Driver Education Traffic Safety (DETS) Course before they can earn a learner's permit. This new law, Senate Bill 994, mandates that first-time drivers age 18 and older complete a different course (TLSAE), while minors have the specific DETS requirement.

The DETS Course covers Florida road laws, traffic signs, safe driving practices, and alcohol/drug awareness. At DetsCourse.com, you can complete this mandatory requirement 100% online for $29.95 plus state fees. After finishing the course, Florida teens can take the official DMV permit exam from home through the same platform, avoiding DMV lines and appointments.

To qualify for a Florida learner's permit, you must:

  • Be at least 15 years old
  • Complete the 6-hour DETS Course
  • Pass the 50-question DMV written exam (40 on road rules, 10 on signs)
  • Provide required documentation including proof of identity and social security number
  • Practical Tip: Start the DETS Course at age 14 if you want to be ready to test immediately when you turn 15.

Avoiding Common Permit Violations and Penalties

Violating Florida's learner's permit restrictions carries serious consequences that can delay your path to full licensure. Driving alone without your required 21+ licensed supervisor is one of the most common and serious violations. If caught, you face license suspension, fines, and extended permit periods.

Having unauthorized passengers-such as driving with friends without your required adult supervisor-also violates permit restrictions. These violations not only risk penalties from law enforcement but also affect your insurance rates and parental liability.

Penalties for permit violations typically include:

  • Extension of your mandatory permit holding period
  • Fines ranging from $100 to $500
  • Possible license suspension
  • Required attendance at traffic school
  • Increased insurance premiums for your family

Insurance implications are significant. Most policies require disclosure of all household drivers, and violations can lead to premium increases or policy cancellations. Parents should verify their coverage extends to permit holders and understand their liability when their teen is behind the wheel.

Practical Steps for Getting Your Florida Permit

The process for obtaining your Florida learner's permit is straightforward when you follow the proper sequence. Beginning with the DETS Course requirement sets you on the right path to legal driving.

  1. Complete the DETS Course: Enroll in the state-approved 6-hour Driver Education Traffic Safety Course through DetsCourse.com. The $29.95 course fee includes all materials and can be completed online at your own pace.
  2. Take the Official DMV Exam: Schedule your online permit test through the same platform. The 50-question exam requires an 80% passing score (40 correct answers) and covers Florida road rules and traffic signs.
  3. Prepare Documentation: Gather your birth certificate, social security card, two proofs of residential address, and parental consent forms. Having these documents ready streamlines your application process.
  4. Find a Qualified Supervisor: Identify several licensed drivers aged 21 or older who can accompany you during practice sessions. Having multiple options ensures you can practice driving regularly without scheduling conflicts.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who can you drive around with your permit?

With a Florida learner's permit, you must be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old. This licensed driver must sit in the front passenger seat.

Can my 17-year-old drive my car alone with just a permit?

No, absolutely not. A 17-year-old with only a learner's permit cannot drive alone under any circumstances. They must always be accompanied by a licensed driver aged 21 or older in the front passenger seat until they obtain their full operator's license.

What's the difference between DETS and TLSAE courses?

The DETS Course is a 6-hour requirement for teens under 18 seeking their first learner's permit, while TLSAE is for first-time drivers age 18 and older. Both cover traffic laws and substance abuse education, but DETS includes additional driver education content.