New Florida Driver’s License Guide: Requirements for Adults
Florida uses a graduated driver licensing program to help teens begin the process of getting their driver’s license at age 15. Adults (18 and over) either moving to Florida or a resident bypass the GDL program though do need to pass certain, similar requirements and paperwork.
Florida has four main interstates and eight secondary highways. The state is also one of the most dangerous for drivers, so it is imperative new drivers are serious about personal and highway safety.
Use the following step-by-step guide to get an adult driver’s license in Florida.
Get an Adult Florida Driver’s License
New adult Florida drivers do not require a learner’s permit.
Adults can apply for an FL driver’s license (non-commercial Class E) by doing the following:
- Complete the DATA (TLSAE) Exam
- Pass the 50-question Permit Test
- Pass the DMV (Behind-the-Wheel) Test
- Provide personal documentation
- Pay the appropriate DMV fees
- Get the new Florida license
New, adult drivers must pass the 4-hour Drug and Alcohol Traffic Awareness (DATA) exam. This course is available online through DMV-approved schools. The exam helps new drivers understand the rules of the road, and their legal requirements to operate motor vehicles safely.
The 50-question permit test is available online, too, and forwarded to the local DMV office.
The DMV road test verifies adult drivers can:
- Control the motor vehicle
- Obey traffic and stop signs
- Use signaling appropriately
The DMV test will include a vision/hearing exam done on location. Drivers will need a passing 20/40 vision minimum or better with or without corrective lenses.
Applicants will need to provide at least two forms of identification* like:
- Primary ID
- Social Security Number
- Proof of Address
*These documents will vary by citizenship.
Those having shown and passed driving knowledge and safety will receive their Florida’s drivers license upon paying DMV fees. The $48 DMV fee includes testing and licensing. Those needing to retake the road test can expect a $20 retake fee.
Coming from Out-of-State? Your Requirements
Those having moved to Florida may transfer their out-of-state driver’s license upon residency. Getting a new Florida resident driver’s license requires exchanging the out-of-state license. This assumes you’ve passed your state’s requirements, though some locations hold discretion.
The DMV expects you to show proof of car insurance and ownership of the vehicle title.
Find a Local DMV Location in Florida
Need help finding the nearest FLHSMV location? Use our Florida DMV directory to sort the listing by county or use our on-site search if you know the name of the location.
