What you need to get a Florida learner's permit in 2018
To get a Florida learner's permit in 2018, you must be at least 15 years old, pass a written knowledge test at your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office, and provide proof of identity and Social Security number. Florida does not require a separate learner's permit process form — you take the test and pay the fee at the DMV, and if you pass, you receive your permit the same day.
The written test covers Florida traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can study using the official Florida Driver License Handbook, which the DMV provides free online and in print at any DMV office. The test has 50 questions, and you must answer at least 40 correctly to pass.
The permit fee in 2018 is $6.25. This is a temporary license that allows you to practice driving with a licensed adult at least 21 years old in the front passenger seat.
Key Takeaways
- You must be at least 15 years old and pass a written knowledge test at your DMV office to receive a learner's permit.
- The test covers 50 questions about Florida traffic laws and road signs, and you need to answer at least 40 correctly to pass.
- Bring a valid ID, proof of Social Security number, and $6.25 to your DMV visit — you receive your permit the same day if you pass.
- With a learner's permit, you can only drive with a licensed adult at least 21 years old sitting in the front passenger seat.
- The official Florida Driver License Handbook is free and available online or at any DMV office to help you study for the test.
Documents to bring to the DMV
Bring an original or certified copy of one document that proves your identity and date of birth. Acceptable documents include a birth certificate, passport, visa, or state ID card. If you bring a birth certificate, it must be an official certified copy with a raised seal — a photocopy will not work.
You also need proof of your Social Security number. You can bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a pay stub that shows your full Social Security number. If you do not have any of these, you can bring a letter from the Social Security Administration.
Bring proof of your Florida residency, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or mail from a government agency addressed to you at your current Florida address. The document must show your name and address and be dated within the last 60 days.
How to study for the knowledge test
The Florida Driver License Handbook is the official study guide for the learner's permit test. You can read it free from the Florida DMV website or pick up a printed copy at any DMV office. The handbook covers all the topics on the test, including traffic signs, right-of-way rules, speed limits, and safe driving practices.
Read through the entire handbook at least once before you take the test. Pay special attention to sections on traffic signs, since the test includes several questions about what different signs mean. Practice tests are available online through the Florida DMV website, and taking a few practice tests will help you understand the format and types of questions you will see.
Most people need to study for one to two weeks before they are ready to take the test. If you do not pass on your first try, you can retake the test the same day or return to the DMV another day at no extra charge.
Restrictions that come with a learner's permit
A Florida learner's permit is not a full driver's license. While you hold a permit, you can only drive when a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old is sitting in the front passenger seat next to you. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive with only younger passengers in the car.
You must follow all traffic laws and speed limits while driving with your permit. If you are pulled over and the supervising adult is not present or is not a valid licensed driver, you can be cited for violating permit restrictions.
A learner's permit is valid for six years from the date it is issued. You can hold a permit for as long as you need before you take the road test for a full driver's license. There is no minimum time you must hold a permit, but many new drivers benefit from several months of supervised practice before taking the road test.
When and where to visit the DMV
Visit any Florida DMV office to take the knowledge test. DMV offices are located in every county, and you do not have to go to the office in your home county — you can visit any office in the state. Check the Florida DMV website to find the office nearest you and see its hours of operation.
DMV offices are typically busiest in the morning and on Fridays. If you want to avoid a long wait, visit early in the week or in the afternoon. Some offices offer online scheduling, which allows you to reserve a time slot in advance. Check your local office's website to see if scheduling is available.
Bring all required documents and arrive with enough time to complete the test. The test itself takes about 10 to 15 minutes, but you should plan for 30 to 45 minutes total to account for check-in and waiting time.
What happens after you pass the test
If you pass the knowledge test, the DMV will issue your learner's permit on the spot. Your permit will have your photo, name, date of birth, and permit number. Keep your permit with you whenever you drive — Florida law requires you to have it in your possession.
Your permit is valid for six years. You can use it to practice driving for as long as you need before you take the road test for a full driver's license. When you are ready to take the road test, you will schedule an appointment at a DMV office and bring your learner's permit, proof of identity, and proof of residency again.
If you lose your permit, you can replace it at any DMV office for a small fee. Bring your ID and proof of residency, and the DMV will issue a replacement permit the same day.
Retaking the test if you do not pass
If you do not pass the knowledge test on your first try, you can retake it when ready at the same DMV office at no extra charge. Many people retake the test the same day after reviewing the handbook or taking another practice test online.
There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test. Take time to study the areas where you struggled, and try again when you feel ready. Most people pass on their second or third attempt.
If you fail the test multiple times, consider asking a parent, teacher, or friend to quiz you on the handbook material. Sometimes talking through the concepts out loud helps the information stick better than reading alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a learner's permit before I can take the road test for a full license?
No. In Florida, you can take the road test without holding a learner's permit first if you are at least 16 years old. However, most new drivers benefit from practicing with a permit for several months before taking the road test, since the road test includes both driving skills and knowledge of traffic laws.
Can I drive to school with a learner's permit?
Only if a licensed adult at least 21 years old is in the front passenger seat with you. You cannot drive to school alone or with only other students in the car, even if you have a learner's permit.
What if I fail the knowledge test three times?
You can retake the test as many times as you need. There is no limit on attempts. If you keep failing, spend more time studying the handbook and take practice tests online. You may also want to ask someone to help you study the material you find most difficult.
How long does a learner's permit last?
A Florida learner's permit is valid for six years from the date it is issued. You can hold it for as long as you need while you practice driving before taking the road test for a full license.
Can I renew my learner's permit if it expires?
Yes. If your permit expires before you take the road test, you can renew it at any DMV office. Bring your expired permit, proof of identity, and proof of residency, and pay the renewal fee to receive a new permit valid for another six years.